The Small Miracle

John Walker is a professor of Spanish studies at Queen’s University.

Paul Gallico (1897–1976), the well-known American novelist and
journalist, is best remembered for his novella The Snow Goose and, of
course, for The Small Miracle. This retelling of The Small Miracle is
the work of Ontario-based Bob Barton, founder of the Storyteller School
of Toronto.

Pepino, a little boy orphaned by war, lives in the mountain town of
Assisi, the home of Saint Francis. With no mother or father, Pepino’s
sole source of company and comfort is his beloved donkey, Violetta. When
Violetta falls ill and cannot eat or work, Pepino goes in search of a
cure. His quest begins with trips to the doctor, the parish priest, the
bishop, and the crypt of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of
animals, hoping for a miracle. After being turned away at each stop, he
goes all the way to Rome to see the Pope himself, in order to get
permission for Violetta to enter the crypt. The Pope consents, and
Pepino and Violetta return to the crypt, completing their “pilgrimage
of faith.”

Even those children and adults who already know this touching story
cannot help but be moved again by Pepino’s display of courage and
faith. Carolyn Croll’s soft watercolour illustrations are reminiscent
of a fresco, beautifully enhancing the story and successfully conveying
its spirit. In today’s world of death and destruction, the simple act
of faith of a little boy who wants to save his companion is a refreshing
change that will be appreciated by young and old alike. Highly
recommended.