Isaiah Johnson and the Big Game by Esau McCaulley. Illustrated by Emmanuel Boateng

In this third picture book in renowned theologian and author Esau McCaulley’s Johnson Family series—the others are Josey Johnson's Hair and the Holy Spirit and Andy Johnson and the March for Justice—children will learn what it means to offer forgiveness when feelings are hurt and disappointments cause emotional pain.

Isaiah and his baseball team, the Southside Jaguars, have a big game ahead of them against the Northside Knights. For the past three years, Isaiah’s team had lost to its opponent in the championship.

When it’s Isaiah’s turn to bat, he looks up at the stands for reassurance from his family. He sees Mom and his siblings, but where is Dad? Distraught and unable to get over the fact that Dad hasn’t shown up like he promised he would, Isaiah strikes out.

Now, he’s really upset! He might have one more opportunity to bat before the end of the game. When his turn comes, he looks at the stands again, but still no Dad. He thinks, “What’s the point of trying if Dad doesn’t care enough to come to my games? … Might as well get losing over with.”

But then Dad shows up! Isaiah is spurred on by Dad’s encouragement even though he gets a strike. But on the next pitch, he sends the ball out of the park and assures his team’s victory.

When Dad apologizes to Isaiah for staying at work instead of coming to the game right away, Isaiah asks why he should forgive him. Dad explains, “Just like plants need the sun and the rain, people need forgiveness. … I need it from you today. You may need it from your mom or your siblings tomorrow. Forgiveness is what allows love in a family to grow.” Dad also reminds Isaiah of what the Lord’s Prayer says about forgiveness, then concludes by using a baseball metaphor: “Forgiveness is like giving someone another at bat after they strike out.”

Children and parents who share this book will be reminded of God’s good gift of forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ. They will also learn that when forgiveness is practiced by parents and children, harmonious, flourishing relationships will result.

(Convergent Children's Books)