Barbara Williamson

EO and Stymie Barbara Williamson

This children's' book addresses and reveals in a clever way what a difference unconditional love can make in one's life. We all are born with different traits and talents, and sometimes they are more obvious to others, sooner or more clearly, than to oneself. But, with loving support, in the way of encouragement and kindness, a person can come to know and feel confident in the wonders others have sensed and seen all along. In this story, farm animals come to life in a way that helps the reader to imagine beyond the obvious in understanding everyone's value, measured by unconditional love.

Starting off, EO is a young, lonely, and sad donkey. Seemingly easy pickings for bullies. Three years go by before his sister, Stymie, is born. In helping his mother care for Stymie, he develops a new attitude of joy and happiness in sharing love, even offering forgiveness to those who have caused him past hurts.

EO and Stymie become best friends--whether working, playing, laughing, or praying. Stymie's presence affects considerable positive differences in EO's life. With the new loving confidence EO feels, he and Stymie begin to make positive changes throughout the farm and in the farm characters. The animals once so disposed to bullying begin to change their ways.

This is a feel-good, happy story with a surprise ending. Just remember, prayers up, blessings down. May you likewise be blessed by being a blessing to others.