Pearl has been quite eager to begin on this next book project. After all, being the last of my backyard chickens, she is now the Editor-in-Chief and she rules the roost!

Let’s begin with a look at our working cover and a bit of an explanation from Pearl.

Pearl had strong feelings about getting this book out to people. She originally wanted to call it “Parables of Jesus for Chickens,” but she thought that it might be considered as impolite and calling people “chickens” or afraid.

“But some people become afraid, much like chickens can be when they try to read The Ancient Words, especially The Ancient Words of Jesus,” Pearl insisted.

“Pearl, I think people will enjoy whatever you have to say about the stories called parables that Jesus told. If anyone can help them hear these stories with new ears and see these stories with new eyes, then that someone is YOU!”

“Will people wonder what kind of chicken a parabolic chicken is?” she asked. “I don’t even know what a parabolic chicken is, and I am a chicken!”

“Don’t you think that will only increases their curiosity?”

“Hmm…” she mused. “Bring me some fresh red grape quarters to munch on, and I’ll give it some thought.”

Pearl spoke after a considerable amount of time and number of fruit treats. “It does sound mysterious, but I will agree only if we can have titles with ‘hen’ and ‘rooster.’ Only then, will I want my name or any chicken name associated with the book.”

Trying my best to be considerate of Pearl’s feelings, I suggested, “What if we use two hens dressed up as a farmer and his wife on the cover? People might think ‘hen and rooster’ instead of reading those words. It might be just as good!”

And so that is the story behind this cover which is based on the famous painting titled “American Gothic” by American Artist Grant Wood.

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Thanks to all of our Friends, Family, and Fans for reading, liking, and sharing! We will keep you in our prayers!

Sincerely,

John and Pearl, (with fond memories of Gracie, Bessie, Blanche, Emily, and Amelia) and our newest Little Buddy, Ernest