Reuben is an Amish boy who lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he and his five sisters travel from here to there in buggies rather than cars. He has an odd habit which amuses the girls but makes good sense to him: he names all the baby animals he comes across "shine." So the buggy horse is called "Starshine" and he plans to name eight little rabbits using the same affectionate term.

When a neighbor's barn catches fire, Reuben and his friend help rescue some puppies. Now the whole community will come together to build a new barn. After spending a day making food for all the people involved in the barnraising, the family joins the festivities. For his help, Reuben is given one of the puppies; he names him Eyeshine.

Merle Good is the author of this delightful glimpse into the life of a curious Amish boy who has a love of animals and a true sense of what it means to be part of a community where people are committed to helping one another out when they need it.

The elegant illustrations by P. Buckley Moss nicely amplify this heartfelt celebration of the rewards of caring and community among the Amish people. This children's picture book is designed for children ages 4 - 8 years. After finishing Reuben and the Fire, we felt our eyes shining!