Finding Jesus on Upside Down Days by Jill A. Miller

Finding Jesus on Upside Down Days is a gentle introduction to the idea of family devotions for those with young children.

Finding Jesus on Upside Down Days: Family Devotions from the Barnyard by Jill A. Miller, illustrated by Brad Woodard. New Growth Press, 2022. 122 pages.

Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8 and up

Recommended for: Ages 6 and up (as a read aloud)

When Getty the goat starts losing her fur/hair before winter is over, the obvious thing to do is cut up a human’s thermal shirt and remake it for the goat, right? After all, the Bible tells us that if we have two coats, we should give one to those in need. Another goat friend gets terribly sick and dies from one small tick bite: a sad, but poignant reminder that even one small sin can have terrible consequences. Object lessons from the barnyard abound, and Jill turns each story into a simple reminder to readers of God’s care for us.

Jill Miller invites readers to the barnyard: her next door neighbor’s farm, where all are welcome. And Jill makes sure readers know the entire cast of characters, from her own family (including her autistic daughter) to Mr. Beer (the farmer) and each of his unique animals. From there, Jill takes readers through a gentle meditation on trusting God, our magnificent Creator. The 52 chapters would work nicely as a basic weekly devotional, particularly if you are beginning the habit with young children or if you are looking for a simple way to start off each week in a primary school classroom. This devotional would also work well for those serving children with developmental delays or special needs, such as the author’s autistic daughter. Note: at least one chapter implies that animals go to heaven when they die. Since people differ on this as well as how to explain the death of a pet to children, consider this a head’s up.

Overall Rating: 4.25

• Worldview/moral value: 4.75
• Artistic/literary value: 3.75

Read more about our ratings here.                 

Related Reading at Redeemed Reader:

• Review: The New City Catechism Devotional is another tool for family devotions, particularly for those with slightly older children.
• Review: Starr Meade’s God’s Mighty Acts in Creation is another Creation-focused devotional that is more robust.
• Review: WonderFull by Marty Machowski offers a devotional walk through of the Psalms for children and their families.

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