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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Holding Herbert by Kimberly Rae is a short, faith-centered children's book that gently introduces young readers to themes of fear, kindness, and spiritual growth. The story centers on a child who is initially frightened by the idea of holding a small pet rat named Herbert. Through a quiet and patient journey, the child learns not only to overcome fear but also to embrace Herbert with compassion and understanding. The story draws subtle but clear parallels between the experience of holding Herbert and holding onto faith. As the narrative unfolds, the child seeks comfort in familiar routines such as reading the Bible, reciting verses, and praying before bed. These spiritual practices are presented in a natural and reassuring way, helping the child transition from a place of anxiety to one of calmness and care. The book includes Bible verses throughout, supporting the storyline and reinforcing a message of divine love and personal growth. The inclusion of these verses also encourages young readers to explore scripture as a source of comfort and guidance.
The illustrations by the author are simple yet expressive, supporting the emotional arc of the story without overwhelming the reader. In the final pages, the book takes a theological turn, and Kimberly Rae presents a clear explanation of the gospel message and a child-appropriate view of repentance and salvation. These sections are meant to guide young readers through a basic understanding of Christian belief, making the book a teaching tool. Holding Herbert is a thoughtful and reassuring book that uses a simple story about a pet to deliver deeper messages of faith, courage, and compassion. It may be best suited for children in Christian homes or Sunday school settings, where its devotional elements can be appreciated and discussed.
