The Outsider

Sinclair B. Ferguson

Katy Morgan is a richly gifted storyteller. In The Outsider, she brings her gifts to bear on what has been called the most beautiful short narrative ever written as she sensitively, faithfully and imag- inatively retells the biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. Drawn into the twists and turns of their emotion-packed world, we marvel at God’s faithful care and by the end discover where their story will eventually lead. While written with young people in mind, I suspect The Outsider will be read and enjoyed by those of every age!

Carolyn Lacey

“A wonderful retelling of a beautiful story. Katy draws us into the drama and helps us feel the tension, fear, loss and despair of Ruth and Naomi—and their rising hope of a redeemer. The Lord’s kindness and sovereign care for his people shines through each chapter, fuelling the reader’s desire to know his love and protection themselves. Younger and older readers alike will be enthralled from start to finish.” 

“Relatable to children, faithful to the story, and imaginative!”

If you are looking for a book for young girls, this one is a retelling of the Bible story of Ruth. The author uses her imagination at times and takes some liberties with the story while still staying faithful to the text and story. I appreciated the notes at the end of the book for each chapter you can flip and read the notes as you read the story. In the notes, she clarifies what is imaginative and what she has taken liberties with to fill in the blanks and some of the historical background as well. There are also discussion questions at the end of the book. This book makes the story more relatable for young readers and immersive. While I have mixed thoughts on adaptions such as these to the Bible stories, I was pleasantly surprised at how well this one was done and how faithfully it was executed. I enjoyed reading this one and look forward to reading this one together with my children when they are ready. I loved how at the end, the author points readers to the greater Boaz, Jesus.

My only note of concern would be one quote that was made at the end of the book that was very theologically unclear sounding.

"Jesus was born to save people. Not just to look after them in their old age, but to look after them forever. Not just to make them apart of His family, but to make them part of God's family."

While I think I know what she meant, it could sound like she is saying Jesus isn't God from the unclear wording. I would just clarify this quote with my children to make it more clear.

“A Story We Know, Told in a Way We’ll Never Forget”

I can’t wait to dig into this one during read-aloud time with my girls. There’s something so special about taking a familiar story and seeing it with fresh eyes—and that’s exactly what this book promises.

Katy Morgan takes the timeless beauty of the book of Ruth and brings it to life in a way that’s both tender and powerful. From what I’ve seen so far, her writing is engaging, thoughtful, and deeply respectful of the biblical text—while also helping young readers feel the emotions, the risks, and the quiet courage woven into Ruth’s story.

I’m excited to share this journey with my daughters—not just because it’s a good story, but because it holds so many layers of faith, loyalty, and redemption. I have a feeling this retelling will spark some beautiful conversations in our home.