Dickens & Rumi
Cover of So Dear to My Heart

film

So Dear to My Heart

1948

The tale of Jeremiah Kincaid and his quest to raise his 'champion' lamb, Danny. Jeremiah's dream of showing Danny at the Pike County Fair must overcome the obstinate objections of his loving, yet strict, grandmother Granny. Jeremiah's confidant, Uncle Hiram, is the boy's steady ally.

Source checked

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Religious themes2/5
  • Death of a character1/5

Strongest positives

  • Good role models4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No modern brand promotion.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

No on-screen deaths occur.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Christian stories, prayer, God, and religious lessons are recurring parts of Jeremiah's moral development.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

A child and lamb go missing, the boy is out after dark, and a storm creates brief worry and peril.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild physical action: the lamb causes destructive trouble and lightly rams a judge; no sustained fighting or serious harm.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Jeremiah perseveres through financial obstacles, weather, fear, disappointment, and social embarrassment.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Inspires creative problem-solving and finding value in what one possesses.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides a gentle look at historical rural life and agrarian values.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Central theme of kindness toward animals and neighbors is a core narrative driver.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong positive themes of perseverance, patience, character growth, and the value of hard work.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Jeremiah and his family show growth, integrity, and responsibility; adults are supportive and grounding.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Which character was the best role model, and what did they do that you admired?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in So Dear to My Heart would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in So Dear to My Heart, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

Buy or rent on AmazonFind on JustWatch

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating