Jessica's First Prayer (Illustrated)

I received my first copy of "Jessica's First Prayer" on Feb. 2, 1943, for my 11th birthday, inscribed with a lovely poem in Betty Brown's beautiful handwriting:I will not wish thee riches nor
the glow of greatness, but that
wherever thou go some weary
heart shall gladden at thy smile,
or shadowed life know sunshine for a while.
And so thy path shall be a track of light,
like angels' footsteps passing through the night.Since then, I know that the words are from an unknown author and are written on a church wall ini Upwaltham, England.My little copy of the book went through a house fire, but only the edges are singed. It's fragile, but still readable. Now I want to have a more durable copy, though, so I came to Amazon to seek one. I'm thrilled to have found it is still in print and I can have it!To say that the little book made a difference in my life would be an understatement. It instilled a sense of what faith should be and contrasted with what religion frequently is. Betty was a friend of my much older siblings. She became the "Texas Mother of the Year" one year before her premature death; she obviousy left a positive effect on one young life during hers.

Background: Jessica's First Prayer is a very important historical book that was released around the same time as Alice in Wonderland, and that was a best selling book, easily outselling Alice. It made a huge impact on the face of child neglect and abuse in England, and was a spark leading to a major shift in how children were treated.Story: It is a short book and in spite of having a very big impact on such a major issue in Victorian England, it is very family friendly. I read it aloud to my four girls (10 y/o and younger) and they really enjoyed it. The story is really good and will touch your heart. It also touches some issues in the Christian church as well, and hopefully it will help some people to rethink how they look at strangers in the church.Rating: I would love to give this book 5 stars, but after listening to the dramatization of the book (Jessica's Journey) done by Lamplighter Theater ( lamplighter.net ) there's a difference between this story and the potential of what it could have been through fleshing out the story and adding more depth.Ultimately though, it is an amazing story and well worth the price!

I read this book with my 9 year old and my 6 year old. We found it very touching and kindhearted. It gives a good example of helping the least among us in the spirit of true Christianity. Also, it shows how self-introspection can lead us to truth about ourselves, giving us great opportunity for change if necessary. Keep in mind, however, this book is written in a different period of time and may require some insight from parents about class/station of this period in England. Also, it was a good vocabulary booster.

This is one of my favorite books. Speaks to all ages of the most beautiful and most c meaning full story of all Americans must read. I bought it here but it does not show cup on my kindle app.

I like the length of this book and the lessons implied. I would like more of this type. I would recommend this book to parents of young children.

Reading books like this can make you a better person.

This is a beautiful story of applying the words of the Lord Jesus in practical life and finding Him faithful.

A quick read. Very insightful. What is wrong with some of our perceptions? Christ is for all who will receive Him.

This is a wonderful, thought provoking story which is as inspiring today as when it was written in Victorian times. I have an original hard back copy but was keen to have this e copy.

A moving story showing children what is important in true Christianity.

Purchased as a Christmas present for my grand-daughter and she loves it.My wife remembers reading the book when she was the same age (8) and it stayed with her all these years as a memorable read.

Read to me as as child by my mother, and enjoyed repeatedly once I was able to read myself, this book is as relevant t today as in the time it is set.A reminder of the important things in life wrapped up in a truly touching and tender tale.

A beautiful story of pure faith in Jesus.