Some books send a frisson of anticipation down your spine as the first few pages are turned. This one not only lives up to, but exceeds, its initial promise - with illustrations that make you want to stroke the page, and a story of such family warmth and country charm, you're left with a warm glow of gentle contentment. A book to return to again and again.
Links:
[1] http://booksforkeeps.co.uk/childrens-books/the-shepherd-boy
[2] http://booksforkeeps.co.uk/issue/68
[3] http://booksforkeeps.co.uk/member/judith-sharman