Heart of a Shepherd

By: Rosanne Parry

Narrated by: Kirby Heyborne

From acclaimed author of A Wolf Called Wander, Rosanne Parry welcomes readers into the Heartland in this tender coming-of-age story.

When Brother's dad is shipped off to Iraq, along with the rest of his reserve unit, Brother must help his grandparents keep the ranch going. He’s determined to maintain it just as his father left it, in the hope that doing so will ensure his father’s safe return. The hardships Brother faces will not only change the ranch, but also reveal his true calling.©2009 Rosanne Parry

Critic reviews

Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews, December 1, 2008:
“This first novel is an unassuming, transcendent joy.”

Starred Review, Horn Book Magazine, May/June 2009:
"Brother's honest voice conveys an emotional terrain as thoughtfully developed as Parry's evocation of the Western landscape."

“Isn’t it wonderful that there are books like this—about good people, about striving, and about doing the right thing!”
—Patricia Reilly Giff, two-time recipient of the Newbery Honor

“A true evocation of modern ranch life, a life rooted in community and love, a life seldom written about with such grace and authenticity.”
—Molly Gloss, finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction

Great Story

What made the experience of listening to Heart of a Shepherd the most enjoyable?

Exciting, on the edge of your seat. couldn't wait til the next time I could listen to it.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Heart of a Shepherd?

The last chapter

What does Kirby Heyborne bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Excitement. I listen on my hour commute from work everyday.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The fire episode

Engaging and Heartwarming

Heart of a Shepherd is a stunning book. Sensitive, thoughtful, with a great 11-12 year old male voice. Boys and girls will enjoy it. Heartbreaking but empowering. Reverent and real. I’m so glad I read this book!