Redeeming Rhubarb

5 Stars

Susan Sewell for Readers’ Favorite

When a catastrophic flood threatens a community of animals, they have to adjust their prejudices to survive in the compelling novel, Redeeming Rhubarb by Bob Richley. Rhubarb has hated rats since one killed his brother. When a rat, Barnabas, and his family move into their neighborhood, Rhubarb’s daughter, Strawberry, goes against his wishes and befriends them. Meanwhile, Miley is struggling to feed her kittens, and Bailey and his pack of dogs are trying to survive. All the animals look at the humans and each other with suspicion, until Strawberry, Barnabas, Bailey, and Miley are caught in deadly situations. Now they must set aside their fear and resentment and work along with a human to save their families’ lives. Can they set aside their previous opinions and live together in peace and harmony?

Based on Christian values, Redeeming Rhubarb by Bob Richley is an exciting and unforgettable adventure. Superbly written, the story addresses the social issues related to prejudices and racism. The perfect story arc flawlessly blends characters and settings to create an engaging and poignant tale. The characters exemplify unconditional love, courage, and strength of character. The illustrations are beautifully depicted and add to the enjoyment of the story. I appreciate how the author portrays the characters’ belief in God and how the way to salvation is explained in an honest and direct approach. This enhances the importance of forgiveness and understanding others’ circumstances. This book is a fantastic example of compassion and acceptance and will entertain everyone from the ages of eight to a hundred.

”[Bob] Richley does an amazing job of balancing the heartwarming with the heartbreaking….Very highly recommended.”

5 Star

Asher Syad for Reader’s Favorite

5 Star

Grant Leishman for Readers’ Favorite

Redeeming Rhubarb by Bob Richley is a delightful and thought-provoking story reminiscent of Watership Down and Animal Farm. Rhubarb, a mouse living with his family in an abandoned Colorado factory complex, harbors deep resentment toward rats after one killed his brother years earlier. So when Barnabas, a wise and compassionate rat, moves his family into the neighborhood, Rhubarb refuses to accept them. His wife and children-especially Strawberry-see things differently and welcome the newcomers. Along with Miley the cat, Bailey and his stray dog pack, and Bart, a kind-hearted veterinarian, the cast creates an engaging and uplifting adventure.

Though written for young adults with a Christian theme, the novel has broad appeal. Richley creates a rich world beneath human awareness where animals mirror human behavior and struggles. Through themes of prejudice, faith, and acceptance, the story explores how fear and bias can be passed through generations-and how courage, compassion, and understanding can overcome them. This moving allegory delivers a powerful message and is highly recommended.

Bob Richley lives in Colorado and writes stories that help children wrestle with life’s toughest questions: What do we do with the prejudice we’ve been taught? Can people really change? A father and longtime children’s ministry volunteer with a background in psychology, Bob draws on years of working with kids to create stories that spark meaningful conversations.

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