"Tommy is determined to be a pterodactyl when he grows up, despite all the naysayers he encounters"--

“The stories in Acts of God are great postcards from the world of Ellen Gilchrist. It’s a world of war and strife and surprises, and it is, yes, marvelous to behold.” —The New York Times Book Review

Celebrated short story writer Ellen Gilchrist, winner of the National Book Award for Victory Over Japan, returns with her first collection in more than eight years. In Acts of God, she

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Offers stories, scriptural principles, and advice encouraging readers to never give up on themselves or God, regardless of the setbacks or obstacles that they encounter.

When her abuelo is injured at the local landfill, second-grader Sofia is determined to transform the dangerous Mount Trashmore into a park, taking on City Hall in the process.

When Turkey Tot and his friends spot some fat, juicy blackberries hanging high above their heads, Turkey Tot tries hard to figure out a way to reach them.

A young child learns that he does not have to be the strongest, fastest, or jump the highest, but as long as he has determination and heart any goal is achievable.

A cautionary tale in which a little girl must find a way to escape an insatiable flock of pigeons after sharing some bread with one.--

"Samantha Duck convinces her friend Sebastian, a tortoise, to help her bring Christmas to the animals on their farm and around the world"--

Ten-year-old Goose is best at goofing off, but when he decides to become the goalie for their soccer team, his friend Henry sets up a practice schedule and enlists their other friends to help Goose improve his skills.

A warm, cozy lap. The toasty smell of baking bread. Tasty food served in a bright-blue bowl. These make Haven's life as an indoor pet heaven. All thanks to her beloved human and rescuer, Ma Millie. But when Ma Millie becomes too sick to care for her, the cat's cozy life is turned upside down, and Haven decides she must seek out another human for help. Anything for Ma Millie! Her vow pulls her out of her safe nest into the shadowy forest and down unfamiliar...