All You Ever Need

All You Ever Need, written by Max Lucado and illustrated by Douglas Klauba, tells the story of Tobias, the owner of a deep well that provided clear, cool water to the people of the land. Water elsewhere was scarce, but Tobias, whom the villagers called the "Watermaster," gave his water freely to anyone who asked for it. The watermaster had to leave his home for a short time; he put his servant in charge of the well. He told the villagers they could still get all the water they needed while he was gone. But, the servant noticed most people did not thank him for the water, so he refused to give water to anyone who wasn't grateful for it. Then, he refused to give water to anyone who was mean to his neighbors. He kept making up reasons for not giving the water freely to the villagers. This made the villagers angry. One day, a man in disguise showed up at the well, asking for water. The servant wanted the man to prove he was worthy of a gift of free water before he would give him any. The man, who was the master's son, showed his face and said, "My Father sent me to share the water with all the people." Even though the word God is not used anywhere in the story, it's clear the story is an allegory about God's grace; It is given freely to anyone who asks, even if we don't thank him for it. The illustrations in the book are beautiful, rich, and life-like. They each cover one page of a two-page spread, with the illustration on one side and the text on the other. What I Like: Everything. What I Dislike: Nothing. Overall Rating: Excellent. Age Appeal: Even though the publisher lists 9-12 as the recommended ages, I would have to say the story should appeal to everyone. Little ones would need to have the story read to them, of course, but the illustrations, and small amount of text on each page, should keep their interest and attention. Christine M. Irvin - Christian Children's Book Review - 5 stars

I have been meditating on this verse a lot lately. Matthew 10:8. Interestingly enough, I came across this book with the above title, as the basis of the story. Tobias, the Watermaster who has endless, life-giving water for the village gives freely to all without judgment. All they had to do was ask for water. "Tobias would talk to the people about their lives. He would laugh with them and inquire about their hopes and dreams while Julian (his son) helped them draw water for their families." They had to go away and left Elzevir to give the water. Elzevir began judging as who deserved to get the water. Obviously, soon no one was good enough, and the people were greatly discouraged and would rather die of thirst than go to him because they couldn't please him. I love how Max uses symbolism in his stories to the Bible. Tobias is God, Julian is Jesus, Elzevir can be seen as the devil, the people are us, and the water is Life. I'm thankful that Jesus, I mean, Julian, (heh) came back and gave water to everyone, including Elzevir, even against the crowd's cries of "No water for Elzevir, he was cruel to us!" "I know he was. But if water were given only to good people, who could drink?" The people were silent and marveled at the grace of Jesus, I mean Julian. There is water for all. Soar!

Max Lucado has another book that shines! Wonderful parallels from scripture we all can understand and relate to. We all need to give, love, and forgive more and this story provides us with some great examples. Douglas Klauba's artwork beautifully compliments Max's latest endeavor. Our hearts are stired visually as we read along. With masterful use of composition, color, and design and characters with great emotion and expression, he leaves a lasting impression upon the reader. Looking forward to see what he illustrates next. Thank you both, for producing a vivid, thought provoking, stunningly illustrated book.

I read most of Max Lucado's books and I guess this will be as great as the others. His writings keep touching me and some of his writings keep hanging in my mind. I believe this books will bring your kids to a more simple faith to God.