Hermie, a Common Catterpillar

This Max Lucado’s Hermie & Friends® best-selling story now available in easy-to-read format!

Hermie and his friend Wormie have always felt common. They don’t have stripes or dots, they aren’t very strong, and they can’t find anything special about themselves. But every time they pray, God tells them that He loves them all the time just as they are and that He isn’t finished with them yet. When Hermie becomes a beautiful butterfly, he realizes just how special God’s plan is for him!

This classic story has been revised for kids to read and enjoy on their own as a Level 2 Reader. With fresh new art and a story kids can read themselves, plus a new, low price—this classic story will find a whole new generation of kids who love Hermie and his garden friends!

My Review:
Once again Max Lucado has written an engaging, Spirit filled book with a lesson for young and old to learn.  First, though, let me explain who a level 2 reader was designed for.  These books are for children who are able to read on their own with help.  The sentences are a little longer than beginner reading books, there are a few more complex words (answered instead of said for example) and the story line is a bit more complex.  The word count is also higher (90 words in the first 2 pages).  If you have younger readers, don't stop reading yet.

While your child may not be able to read this book on his or her own, or at all for that matter, this book is still well worth adding to your library.  Every child, and even some adults, can use a lesson on self-esteem and this book has a great one.  Little Hermie and his caterpillar friend Wormie struggle with being common.  They aren't strong like their ant friend, they don't have a home to carry with them like their snail friend, or beautiful spots like their ladybug friend.  They both tend to feel like they need to be or have a little more than God has given them.  Fortunately they take the time to talk to God about it.  God tenderly and patiently reminds them that He loves them just the way they are.  Besides, He isn't finished with them yet.  Being caterpillars you can guess what happens in the end.

What a wonderful way to remind us that God created each of us differently and for a different purpose.  We are uniquely and wonderfully made.  God's love is unconditionally and this book reinforces that with Him reminding Hermie and Wormie repeatedly that He loves them (and us) just the way we are:  big, little, strong, weak, beautiful, common.  And the special message for little ones who are so eager to be everything, God isn't done with them.  He has a special plan and purpose for each of us.  We don't always know what it is and can't see where our path leads, but God has a plan. 

The illustrations are beautiful, reminding me of watercolors or perhaps oil pastels.  The message is encouraging and Biblical, but most important - my daughter loved it.  After all, if your child won't listen to or read the story then it really isn't worth it.  Interested?  You can purchase Hermie, a Common Caterpillar (Max Lucado's Hermie & Friends) on Amazon.