Jane G. Meyer

Sometimes as a parent, you wonder how much of what your child is hearing at church and at home is really sinking in and being absorbed - and then you are gifted with one of those moments when your child reveals a treasure from his heart, a nugget of wisdom, a selfless act of kindness, or a different way of seeing - real fruit - and you can't help but smile inside and out. Reading The Suitcase was like that for me.

It seems to me that Thomas is the kind of boy that, once you get to know him, you imagine a complex system of gears turning inside his head. You realize there is a lot more going on in there than one might guess from the outside, a rich inner world that you only see glimpses of. One Sunday before dinner, one of those revealing moments takes place. Thomas has been listening, and those gears have been turning. He has been making a packing list for a special journey, and he finally has it all planned out. But as he shows his family the contents of his suitcase, what he has packed are not the typical items a boy might pack for a journey, nor are his reasons predictable. Thomas has a pure heart and determination, and he has something to give. His simple faith and willingness to act on it motivate his family to set aside their own dinner to help serve dinner to others in need.

Children young and old will enjoy the gentle text and illustrations of this story, over and over again. There is also a "Resource for Grown-Ups" page with inspiring tips to encourage a child's desire to love and serve others. Your heartstrings can't help but be tugged! The Suitcase reminds us that every child, no matter the age or ability, is capable of experiencing grace and is welcome in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Disclaimer: I received a reading copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.… (mer)