The Sun, the Rain, and the Apple Seed: A Novel of Johnny Appleseed's Life

The Sun, The Rain, And The Apple Seed Lynda Durrant John Nathaniel Chapman, also known as Johnny Appleseed was looking for his mission from God. Growing up in a poor family with a drunken father, Johnny loved to play in the woods with the wild animals. As he grew older he knew that he would have to earn a living doing something, but he wasn't sure what he was supposed to do. He prayed constantly to God, that God would tell him what his life's mission was. Eventually, God gave him a sign through apple seeds, and Johnny began his journey up and down the Ohio River planting apple trees, so that every family would have enough food to eat for a whole winter. Throughout the book, Johnny quotes scripture verses from the Bible to himself and others, to remind him that all the suffering that he is going through is worth it, because it is what God wants him to do. The book is full of references to Christianity, and not being self-centered. It is a very good book for children to read to learn about sharing and other essentials for life; such as, loving, caring, helping and encouraging others. BIBLIO: 2003, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, Ages 9-12, $15.00. REVIEWER: Clifford Craig FORMAT: Middle Reader ISBN: 0-618-23487-X