The Giant, the Slingshot, and the Future King

A delightful new romp of a Bible story expands the childhood of King David. Embroidering on the exciting account in I Samuel, the author imagines young David’s lonely days herding sheep as preparation for his adult success. She combines boring and brave in a refreshing tale that never flags. Illustrations and text are humorous and full of pep. When the sheep do not laugh at his jokes or play games, David learns to play a harp, to sing, to write songs, all to occupy his boring days which are suddenly interrupted by a lamb stealing lion. David throws a rock to stop the predator: In vain! His father explains he needs more; he gives him a slingshot. Now the empty days are full of practice; he perfects his skills. When the lion returns David routs him with his sling stones; he understands he can be a protector. Time passes; the story book now follows the Bible. Israel, ruled by King Saul, is at war with the Philistines whose secret weapon is Goliath the giant. This giant dares any man to fight him; frightened, all refuse. David steps up. His brothers say he should not. Saul exclaims David is just a boy he cannot; David says he can. Saul gives David his armor; he rejects it. He meets the giant with only his slingshot. A stone hits the giant in his forehead; it kills him. Unlike the Bible, here David does not behead Goliath. The story ends with hero David’s career with Jonathan and Saul; he follows Saul as king. Becoming a strong king takes practice, once again David does. He reigns successfully founding a new city, dreaming of a new Temple. A short end note explains David’s historical footprint. The book’s last word is about practicing. Despite the shape of the traditional Little Golden Books, the vocabulary is strong, and text is longer. This volume is recommended for synagogue and religious school libraries. --Association of Jewish Libraries