Shepherds Abiding, including Esther's Gift and the Mitford Snowmen

By: Jan Karon

Narrated by: John McDonnaugh

Since he was a boy growing up in Missisippi, Father Tim has lived what he calls “the life of the mind.” Except for cooking and gardening and washing his dog, he never learned to savor the work of his hands. And then he finds a derelict nativity scene—twenty figures, including a flock of sheep, that have suffered the indignities of time and neglect.Could he give the small company new life? Restore the camel’s ear, repaint every piece, replace a missing nose on a wise man? “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks!” he reminds himself. It’s when he imagines the excitement in Cynthia’s eyes that he steps up to the plate—and begins a small journey of faith that touches everyone around him.The eighth novel in the bestselling Mitford Years series is a meditation on the best of all presents—the gift of one’s heart. Lovingly written and beautifully illustrated, it seeks to restore the true Christmas spirit and give everyone a seat at Mitford’s holiday table.©2001, 2002, 2003 Jan Karon; (P)2003 Penguin Audiobooks and Recorded Books, LLC

Heartwarming

I just love this story. There's no great intrigue or action- just a nice Christmas story about people I have come to care about. I listen to it every year as part of my Christmas traditions.

She did it again!

What made the experience of listening to Shepherds Abiding the most enjoyable?

I love hearing about all of the events in this little town of Mitford.

Have you listened to any of John McDonough’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes, I love all of them!

After the biblical story of Christmas, this is my favorite book to hear each year.

I have listened to these tender Christmas stories the last few years. I plan on listening to it each year. They tell the true story of Christmas and also of giving of one’s self unselfishly.
I love the narrator. He gives such warmth to each story.

takes me back!

I've loved every Mitford audible.. I'm now headed to book 9. no spoiler alerts from me. you'll love this good old fashioned book about Christmas! Merry Christina to all the folks in Mitford .. Feb 2024

A great book

Well our book club selected this book to read in December. I never would have imagined unknowingly, how wonderful this Christmas story this would be and so timely to the season. A true blessing.