The Swamp Fox of the Revolution

by Stewart H. Holbrook
Available from Amazon
*****
Forget about history being boring. This book brings Francis Marion and his campaigns to life like an adventure story. We start off in his camp on Snow Island, and see his men carry out their guerilla type missions from there. We meet the men he fought with, and learn about the men he fought against. We travel to all the places where Marion was involved in the South Carolina campaigns, and see the scenery. Most of all, we follow Francis Marion, and see the brilliant daring and heart of kindness that makes a hero.

The author combined his history and descriptions to make this nothing more than true history, but to make the people, places and events memorable. A great book by itself, a good biography, and a wonderful history tool.

This is number 90 in the Landmark Series, designed to teach important history to children. Children will certainly enjoy the reading, but adults wanting to learn a little more about different areas of history will find Landmarks easy to breeze through. Not in depth studies, but with more information than the average person knows about the subjects, including Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox of the Revolution.

Against the Tide: The Valor of Margaret Wilson

by Hope Irvin Marston
Available from Amazon
****
When I saw the title of this book, I knew I needed it. I recognized the heroine as one of the two Margarets martyred together on the Solway Firth. I enjoyed the book very much. The author brought the period to life, and showed the fear and courage of the “killing times”, when one’s life was not much safer at home than abroad.

The book begins when Margaret was very young, and tells of the few years of maturing she had before her betrayal and martyrdom. Knowing the tragic but glorious end makes each part of Margaret’s life more poignant.

There is a little romance between Margaret and a close neighbor, with three mentions of “innocent kisses.” Fergus eventually asks Margaret to marry him and flee to Ireland, but Margaret believed she should stay single, though she loved him very much. I don’t know whether this is actual history, but it fits nicely in the book.

One thing that did trouble me was the portrayal of Margaret’s disobedience to her father, and her arguing with him in front of the family. I do understand that her conscience dictated that she not go to the church meeting with her family, but rather meet secretly with true believers. Also Margaret’s father is shown as not being able to choose between his cattle and his Saviour, when he was trying to protect his family. Even though they were not being fed at the state church, he went to protect his family, and he did teach them the Scriptures at home. I’m not saying his decision was the best one or not; it’s hard to tell what someone should or should not do when you’ve never been in their shoes. Also, Margaret’s determination to separate from her father’s authority caused her two younger siblings to follow her example, which was a good example except in the way she treated her father. And I do realize that this is historically accurate. I just wish Margaret might have been portrayed showing her father more respect.

Altogether, I would recommend this book, and will keep it on my shelf and read it again. I really appreciate the author’s work, and am happy that a book has been written for young girls about Margaret Wilson.

A Child Is Born

by Lennart Nilsson
Available from Amazon
****

I really enjoyed reading through this book, which is the 1977 edition (I have not seen the later editions). The photos on nearly every page are great enhancements to the information, from conception to fetal development, parental adjustment and preparation, birth, and immediately postpartum. The photos of the unborn growing child at different stages were particularly spectacular! Many things about the pregnancy from the biology to how the mama can expect to feel are discussed in an easy reading style. There is nudity in some of the pictures, obviously in the context of childbirth, and some evolutionary propaganda is included in the beginning. Even so, I would highly recommend this book to expectant parents.

Hunted and Harried

by R. M. Ballantyne
Available through Vision Forum and Amazon
*****

Young Will Wallace (not to be confused with the Scottish hero William Wallace) is first seen as the book opens as a dragoon under the command of Claverhouse. Appalled by the atrocities he has seen, he feels very uncomfortable with their mission to find and persecute the Covenanters. Will, however, considers that this wanton cruelty is done by the wish of evil men, and that surely the commanders would also be horrified. He is soon enlightened. On a mission to locate one of the Covenanting preachers, he attacks his companion when the man attempts to insult one of the Christian girls they meet. After realizing the way his commanders would view this act, Will deserts the king’s employ.

While Will is considering his next course of action, as an unemployed and soon-to-be wanted man, he captured as a spy by the very man he had been hunting. His defense of the man’s daughter is soon made known, and he joins the Covenanters.

Over the next few years, we live alongside Will, as he believes in Christ, attends meetings, aids in the escape of others, and witnesses the martyrdom of his friends. We are given a picture of the Covenanters’ lives, perpetually hunted from place to place, not knowing whom to trust, and seeing their dear ones killed. For what? For the lordship of Christ. For declaring that He alone, and not the king, is the head of the church.

This is learning history the easy way, through an engaging story. We are drawn in the very lives of these people who suffered so long ago. This book makes a great story by itself, but for studying Scotland and the Covenanters, it should be on every educator’s history shelf.

The Mystery of the Indian Carvings

by Gloria Repp
Available from Amazon
****
Julie knew she wasn’t wanted at home. At least, her stepmother didn’t want her there. She was sent to Uncle Nate on Canadian Bartlett Island; maybe he would let her stay for the summer. Julie hoped so: it was either that or some camp.

When she arrived, no one was there to meet her, and when a friendly islander did take her to her uncle’s pier, a frosty welcome from her aunt and cousin Karin only increased her nervousness. Karin obviously disliked Julie from the beginning, and did her best to get her into trouble. Julie does make friends, and learns something of her uncle’s work and research. Her uncle trusts her enough to tell her of his secret tutoring of a young Indian boy, Robert. Uncle Nate told Julie that her aunt and cousin wouldn’t be happy if they heard of it, so she kept her information to herself. Her aunt didn’t ask too many questions anyway. She seemed very anxious, and with her sullen daughter, the home wasn’t a happy place for Julie to spend time. She stayed away from the nosy “reporter” that arrived at the same time she did. There seemed to be something fishy about her.

When Julie came to Bartlett Island, she was a brand new Christian. She used to have a fiery temper, but her Bible told her that God was not pleased with her anger. She turned to Jesus Christ in her uncomfortable and sometimes frightening situations, and He gave her comfort, peace and direction. Julie prayed for a love for her cousin, and the Lord even gave her that, as difficult as it was.

In the midst of the tangled relationships, Julie becomes involved in a confused adventure. In the end, everything is made plain; the mystery is solved, Uncle Nate realizes he has neglected his daughter, his wife and daughter understand his love for them, and Julie is accepted into the family for the summer.

Tales of Persia

by William McElwee Miller
Available from Amazon
****

Mr. Miller spent forty-three years as a missionary of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Islamic people of Iran. He shares these tales of people he met or heard of in his time there. Some lived many years ago, and some he was privileged to lead to Christ himself. He tells his stories simply, as a grandfather or Sunday School teacher to young children.

Here is a typical paragraph at the end of a chapter. “All this happened because a Christian man [not referring to the author], whose heart was full of the Spirit of God, made a missionary journey to Damghan. There he had so much love for a proud Muslim mulla that he wept over his lost condition. It is love like this that God uses to bring people to Himself.”

These stories give a picture of rural life in Iran and missionaries who went there. We meet all kinds of people in these pages, ones who came to know the Lord Jesus in different ways and how that affected their lives. This would be a great book for reading aloud to the family.

Twelve Youthful Martyrs

by Esther E. Enock
Available from Keepers of the Faith and Amazon
****

I read this book aloud to my husband in the car, and we both marveled at the constancy which these martyrs held to the Lord Jesus. Most of the characters were under 20, and the sweet simplicity with which they refused to deny their Lord touched our hearts and made us wonder if we would be as faithful. We have the same wonderful Savior, and we may one day be called to suffer for His sake. These held Him precious, and as He had saved them and given them new life, they could not turn from Him, whatever the consequences. Their witness proclaimed that they knew Someone worth more than life, and that their lives would be far richer with Him than on this earth. The eternal glow of their lives and deaths puts so many things of this world into their proper perspectives.

This book was well researched, and the author gives detailed names, places and dates in these short accounts. Each story is just a couple pages, and the whole book only numbers 63 pages. Although this was obviously written for children, adults will also be glad to read the testimonies of these young martyrs who “loved not their lives unto death."

Tirzah

by Lucille Travis
Available from Amazon
***

Tirzah is a fictional young girl, an Israelite in Egyptian bondage. We follow her out of the hated Egypt, and see what the trek through the wilderness might have been to a young girl. She witnessed the plagues of Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea, feared during the creation and rebellion of the golden calf and the giving of the law, and wondered what would happen when there was nothing to drink. She gathered manna, worried over the sickness from the many quail, and speculated – like a typical teen – about who the matchmakers would think to put together. Tirzah’s relations are involved in the common rebellions, and she hears their reasonings and justifications for their positions. The theme of racial prejudice is brought up concerning another young girl, an Egyptian maiden who turned to Yahweh and journeyed with the children of Israel. The final scenes of the book occur when the twelve spies have returned from Canaan. Because of the Israelites’ unbelief in Yahweh, they are cursed to wander 40 years in the wilderness until those who did not believe were dead. Tirzah struggles with fear and rebellion throughout the book, but by the end she comes to understand a little of the ways of Yahweh, and learns to hope in Him.

Obviously written to appeal to teens, I thought the characters could have displayed a little more maturity. Other than that, Travis has an easy reading style. This won’t be anyone’s favorite book of the year, but you might check it out for a perspective on what it might have been like for the Israelite children. It's interesting to read about the places and events in Exodus in a work of fiction, and many details from the Scriptures are woven throughout it.

Sir Cumference and the Isle of Immeter

by Cindy Neuschwander, Illustrated by Wayne Geehan
Available from Amazon
*****

Back in the days of Camelot, people knew geometry, but they learned it in adventures instead of textbooks. Per of Ameter played a game created by the Countess Areana in which they figured the outside edges and inner pieces of shapes made with the same size squares. Their skill at this game allowed them to solve several mysteries on the Isle of Immeter through a few escapes, as the island was protected by a sea dragon. Finally Per solved all the puzzles, and the sea dragon delivered a locked from the Countess Areana giving Per ownership of the island. When the two children returned from their adventure, Sir Cumference named the measurement of the outside edge of any flat, straight sided shape perimeter, after Per, who now was the Lady of Immeter. The inside of the shapes was called Area, after the Countess Areana who designed all the puzzles they solved. And so, as you will know if you have read this book, this is a cute, abbreviated account of the true way geometry really evolved.

A handy chart on the last page explains in mathematical terms the formulas described in the book.

Daughter of Liberty, A True Story of The American Revolution

by Robert Quackenbush
Available from Amazon
****

Wyn Mabie was a young wife, and lived with her aunt and her family. Her husband was away in the Continental Army, and Wyn often took horseback rides at night to work out some of her tension. One evening as she was returning from a ride, she met General Washington. As they spoke, he mentioned his concern for some strategic papers still hidden in his previous headquarters, now occupied by the British. Wyn volunteers to ride through the British lines, somehow make her way into the building, retrieve the papers, and return them to the general, a mission on which Nathan Hale had failed and lost his life. After prayer with her family, this courageous young woman sets out. The rest of the book follows her journey, and details some of her narrow escapes and painful determination, finally seeing her safely back with the papers.

This is the true account of a Dutch woman who made a dangerous journey to help General Washington and the Continental Army. Written for 3^rd graders, the 55 page book is easy to read and understand. The author, Robert Quackenbush, is proud to present this story, as it is part of his own family heritage.

Winning His Spurs, A Tale of the Crusades

Also published as The Boy Knight
by G. A. Henty
Available from Amazon and Vision Forum
*****

When this adventure begins, Cuthbert is a boy of fifteen living at home with his mother in Norman England. He hears information and is able to warn the outlaws living in the forest, among whom he has relatives, of an impending attack by the Earl of Evesham, who resents their killing his deer without permission. The forest men are reconciled to the Earl, however, when Cuthbert summons their help to rescue the Earl’s daughter from a kidnapping by a nearby vindictive Norman nobleman. After Cuthbert participates in the victorious siege of the latter’s castle, the Earl of Evesham, who is himself a distant relative of Cuthbert, promises to take him with him when he next rides off to battle.

Neither had any idea that they would be going off to battle so soon. King Richard the Lionhearted was gathering troops to set off on another crusade, and Cuthbert gets to go along, and be a party to major historic events. He witnesses the French and British rivalry, rescues a princess, wins a duel, fights the Moorish pirates, is knighted for saving King Richard’s life in a battle, escapes Saracen captivity, visits with a Dead Sea hermit, and returns to Europe with King Richard.

When the Earl of Evesham was mortally wounded, he begged the king that his estates, title and daughter would be granted to Cuthbert. After Cuthbert and his faithful men make their dangerous journey across the snowy Alps and hostile European cities with many narrow escapes, they find themselves rather unwelcome in England. There he leads a Robin Hood style life, and with Robin Hood, no less! They finally see that Cuthbert’s mother and fiancée are in safety, and Cuthbert goes with Blondel to discover the place of King Richard’s imprisonment, and arrange for his ransom.

This is one of the more exciting Henty adventures, and any lover of Robin Hood will certainly enjoy this tale. Cuthbert’s presence of mind and common sense, his loyalty, honesty, valor, and quick wits are all characteristics that make us and his authorities in the book admire and respect him. If it were a movie, you would find yourself holding your breath, but by the time you’re halfway through the book, you will be confident that Cuthbert can extricate himself and his friends from any kind of sticky situation. Plus, there is plenty of history and background included, from geography and the baron wars of England, to rivalries on the Crusades, to lifestyles of the Middle East. Find a comfortable seat and enjoy!

Alone in London

by Hesba Stretton
Available from Amazon
*****

Alone in London follows the lives of two people, and a third is intertwined with them. Mr. Oliver is an old man whose hasty words years ago had driven away his only surviving child. His health and faculties are deteriorating, but when he finds a precious little girl abandoned outside his shop, he is more than willing to take her in. When he finds the note in her pocket identifying her as his granddaughter, he is anxious to do what he can for her, and is delighted at the thought of being reconciled with his daughter.

Tony is an orphan who has been living wherever he can, and was captivated by Dolly, Mr. Oliver’s granddaughter, when he saw her outside the shop. Even though he had nothing of his own, he volunteered to take care of her if Mr. Oliver should refuse to take her. Mr. Oliver gave him a place to sleep under a counter in his tiny shop, and Tony came every day to see little Dolly. He noticed that Mr. Oliver’s eyesight and memory was failing, and he began to help him get his shop going in the morning, and remind him of necessary things. He especially liked to hear Mr. Oliver tell of his Master, the Lord Jesus. Tony had never heard of such a wonderful employer, and wondered if he could work for him sometime. When Mr. Oliver’s sister came to visit, she was appalled that her grandniece was associating with a barefoot beggar, and sent Tony away, and he was alone in London again. We follow his fortunes, and see the workings of his heart, all in the care of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The reader will be touched by the poignancy of the love these characters share for each other, and inspired by the simple devotion of Mr. Oliver to his Master. Hesba Stretton has written of similar situations and conditions to those of Charles Dickens, but while his works are dark and depressing, hers are serious, yet bright with hope. When Mr. Oliver takes his dying Dolly to the charity children’s hospital, and is told there is no room for her, he cries, “Dear Lord, there’s room for only seventy-five of Thy little lambs that are pining and wasting away in every dark street and alley like mine. Whatever can Thy people be thinking about? They’ve got their own dear little children, who are ill sometimes, spite of all their care. They can send for the doctor, and do all that’s possible, never looking at the money it costs. But when they are well again they never think of the poor little ones who are sick and dying, with nobody to help them or care for them as I care for this little one. Oh, Lord, Lord! Let my little love live! Yet Thou knows what is best, and Thou’lt do what is best. Thou loves her more than I do.”

A book for young and old, this will touch the reader’s heart, and may change his life.

Sir Cumference and the First Round Table

by Cindy Neuschwander
Illustrated by Wayne Geehan
Available from Amazon
****

This 32 page children’s book tells how Sir Cumference, his wife the Lady Di of Ameter, and their son Radius solve the problems of the king’s table. King Arthur and his knights needed to have a council, but there was a problem with the table around which they met. It began as too long; after that was fixed, the table had too few sides, and other tables produced more objections. Geo of Metry makes tables in several shapes before a round table solves all the problems. The illustrations are great, with medieval pageantry and geometric explanations. A few other characters from Camelot appear, such as Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain.

This is a great book to introduce geometry to the young, making it fun and easy. Shapes and measurements are explained in the quest for the perfect council table for the king and his knights. When the round table is finally found to be the perfect shape, the king names certain measurements after Sir Cumference, Radius, and the Lady Di from Ameter. Very cute!

Little Faith, The Child of the Toy Stall

by Mrs. O. F. Walton
Available from Amazon
*****

Little Faith lived and worked with a man she called her father. His wife had taken her in when her own mother died, and she had lived with them and helped their family until John Robinson’s wife died. Then his drunken mother in law, Mrs. Gubbins, came to “care” for the children, and she resented John’s providing for one who was not even his child, especially in their poor circumstances. But Mr. Robinson said that he and his wife had loved little Faith, and he was not going to turn her out. After Mrs. Gubbins complained again to him one night about Faith, she decided to leave; Mrs. Gubbins would be happier, and so would her dear father, for he would not have to be vexed by hearing complaints about her. She left that night, and tried to find someone who needed a servant, but there seemed to be nothing for her. She stepped into a church building to peer at her father through a window unseen. She was sad, lonely, cold and hungry, and she despaired of the Lord seeing to her needs or helping her in any way. Listening to the message afterwards, she fell asleep, but was startled awake by the words, “Little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” She thought Jesus and told the minister about her, and spoke to him afterwards, promising never to doubt Him again. She found that he had only been reading the words of Scripture, but he said that the Lord must have wanted to use that to get her attention. From there, little Faith’s world began to look brighter. She believed in God’s promises, and although everything did not immediately turn out, she trusted in His care.

This was such a sweet, tender little story, perfect for children and adults.

Venture and Valour

A collection of stories by different authors
Available from Lamplighter Publishing
*****

This book contains four very different stories by separate authors. Each story features individuals who display great courage to do what is right. There is a Scripture passage at the conclusion of each tale articulating the message the reader has just perused. The variety of the stories helps to illustrate the valor of the characters. Originally of British publication, some of the spellings, such as “valour” will be spelled the English way.

The first story is of an ordinary American railroad man who performs a heroic rescue.

The second is a legend of a princess in a far away country of which nothing but this record remains, as is often the case in legends. She was noble, and lived for her people after her father the king was killed. Although her father’s hateful murderer assumes the kingship and demands her marriage to him, the princess Sylvia surrenders her way of life and happiness by choosing not to escape his clutches. She understood it was right to live, and to find ways to strengthen her people. I cried at the happy ending.

The third tale is more of a mystery, told by a rather selfish man. This man witnesses the self-denial and vigilance of two people. These people had given up their own lives for one of much more difficulty and danger because of their love and respect.

The last account is of a chemist. His assistant had accidentally switched two people’s prescriptions, which was a matter of life and death. The poor chemist battles human indolence, a fierce storm on the sea, and his own limitations to set the matter right, and to save a life. He accomplishes this but only by giving the ultimate sacrifice.

These four stories of people whose lives demonstrate heroic bravery and sacrifice make this book an excellent little collection. The reading level is for teens and adults, although younger children would enjoy hearing it read aloud.

Rowland Bingham: Into Africa's Interior

by Janet & Geoffrey Benge
Available from Amazon
****

I was so inspired to read this biography! This man was the founder of the Sudan Interior Mission, and countless other projects. His life was devoted to serving the Lord and the Lord’s people, and reaching the lost for Christ. When he was burdened with a need, he didn’t bewail the fact that there was no group anywhere paying attention that he could associate with. He was a man of action, and when faced with a need, he found something to do about it. Living in comfort was not a priority to him, and change did not terrify him. His life was also characterized by determination, daring, sacrifice, and love for and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

I think his life can be summarized in a paragraph from this biography. He was concerned for the countless men heading into World War II, and wanted a way to reach the unsaved soldiers and encourage the believing ones. The authors state: “The fact that it was yet another ministry that had no ongoing financial backing did not worry either of them [Rowland or his wife]. Rowland often told people that he did not have a great deal of faith, but that he had a little faith in a great God, and that great God would not let His causes fail.”

God is still the same God today. If He has place a burden in a particular area, and there is no existing solution visible, He can work through us to accomplish His purposes. I was so inspired by the life of Rowland Bingham to look around, and put my life to work where the Lord shows me I should, doubting nothing.

I encourage you to read this biography, and see the power of God in a man’s life.

Morgan the Jersey Spy

by James Otis
Available from Amazon and A Beka Book
****

In 1781, fourteen year old cousins Guy Peyton and Louis Poindexter wish they could be serving in the Continental Army with their fathers, but they were instructed to stay home with their mothers. Their fathers did say that they could participate in helping the Patriot cause if something came up that they could do, but only with their mothers’ permission. Both fathers and sons thought this could hardly occur, and all were surprised.

Guy and Louis were living outside Yorktown, and were having fun at the river when a man in a British red uniform accosted them. Morgan was an American spy for the Patriot cause, having enlisted in the British army to gain information. He asked them to carry a message to their fathers concerning the plans of the British. After receiving permission from their mothers, the boys began on their adventure, which takes them right into the British lines in Yorktown. Their courage and character is tested in the danger that follows.

I was pleased to read that although the boys were anxious to be involved in the war, respect and obedience to their parents ranked a higher authority. Many children’s adventures involve escapades carried out in spite of not having their parents knowledge, approval or permission. This adventure is in no way less exciting because the boys honored their parents and their parents’ wishes.

Written for teens, this book provides an adventure along with plenty of information about both armies in Yorktown. More interesting and memorable than a simple history lesson, the story gives material that will stick with the reader. Some children younger than teens may enjoy the story if it is read aloud, and older ones will enjoy breezing through it. Those who read the works of G. A. Henty will find this an easier though not simplistic read, in the same vein as Henty’s.

Add this one to your history adventure shelf!

The King's Book

by Louise A. Vernon
Available from Amazon
***

Nat Culver is the son of one of the translators King James has appointed, working on a Bible to replace the Geneva Bible. As we follow Nat during the period of the translation, we read some of the discussions this work provoked. Nat’s personal drama brings up the persecution of Catholics in England at the time, and his friend from the court brings us up to date on little tidbits of period history. Being well educated, as one might expect from the son of one of the translators, Nat became the tutor to a son of one of the other translators. As the men who worked on the King James Bible were not paid, Nat was also unpaid for his tutoring, but he was glad to receive food and a place in the family of his employer. As we read along with Nat and his adventures, we learn along with him much about the Bible as it was held in that time, interpretation, and views on the translation work. Even though King James commissioned this Bible, Nat finally declares that it “is not the king’s book” but “the King of Kings’ Book.”

I thought this a well researched book, and great for children. They will easily learn some of the period history, as well as the origins of the King James Version.

Hostage Lands

by Douglas Bond
Available from Amazon
*****

Fifteen-year-old Neil Perkins lived a reasonably good life. He lived on Hostage Heath, a farm near Hadrian’s Wall in northern England, and his parents let him go where he please on his four-wheeler, as long as he accomplished his chores. Yes, he had a good life, except for his Latin classes with the ridiculous Miss Klitsa. Perhaps she would have been better off teaching a drama class.

After wrecking his four-wheeler near the Wall, Neil finds a spearhead and packet of tablets in the hole he made in landing. The tablets were all written upon, and in Latin, no less! He took them to Miss Klitsa and asked what they said, but she was too much of a teacher to tell him.

All of this merely serves as the introduction to the tale which Neil laboriously translated. The epic tale of Celts and Romans scheming, spying, fighting and dying around Hadrian’s Wall is reminiscent of the tales spun by Rosemary Sutcliff. We follow the centurion Rusticus, who must decide where his loyalties lay. The story is well told, and readers will hold their breath, instead of easily guessing the way everything will resolve itself. To make this drama even better than Sutcliff’s, one of these characters, Calum, is a Christian, although he does not proclaim it to everyone he meets. When the Celts sit around the fire at night, and call on him for a story, he tells them, “My tale is of a great King,” and gives the whole gospel. Calum’s service to the Prince of Peace does not however, make him any less valiant a soldier.

The book concludes with Rusticas telling a story of “a great King.” Neil wonders if the whole story is true, and asks questions. Will Neil, will the reader believe the story? What about the tale of “a great King”?

I have always loved Sutcliff’s books, but Hostage Lands ranks even higher on my list. I wish I could give it more stars, and highly recommend it to those 13 and up. Travel back to the misty, dangerous Britain of the Celts, when Romans built their wall, and flaunted their standards. You will learn to think like a Celt, and step quietly behind a tree when you hear footsteps. And maybe you finish this book, and read it again, and give it a place with your favorite Celtic books.

The Strange Intruder

by Arthur Catherall
Available from Amazon
****
The island of Mykines is the smallest of the Faroe Islands. The farthest to the northwest, it is closer to Iceland than Scotland. The climate is harsh, and the people are hardy, and when whales are sighted, all the able-bodied men left on the island set out to hunt them. All except sixteen-year-old Sven. He had been hunting sea birds with his uncle and six other men, and could not make it to the landing before the other men took off in the boats. This turned out to be well, as Sven would be needed on the island.

Sven’s father had been on the crew of a cod schooner, the Faroes Seeker. They had been out six months and were on their way to sell their catch and return home to their families. Just before the whale hunt the Faroes Seeker was damaged by floating wreckage and a man badly injured, and they radioed for help. Since the other men had left the island, they could not come to their rescue. A terrific storm blew up, and the ship was in imminent danger of being smashed against the rocky coast. The older men and the women on the island were ready to help the drifting men in the boat in any way, but it would need someone with more physical strength and endurance to aid the men if they were shipwrecked on the rocks.

To further complicate matters, the strange intruder showed up, and was very dangerous. Sven feels the responsibility to protect the people on the island, but he knows the men on the boat are depending on his help. His desperate dilemma is how to do both. He seems never to stop running almost from the beginning of the book, and eventually puts his own life on the line to protect those around him.

Although people live in the Faroes Islands, you probably haven’t read too many books that are set there. I was interested to read about a little about life in these islands. Arthur Catherall has woven an exciting adventure of a young man who needs the courage and strength to do what is right. A great book for a rainy day!

The Invisible Friend

by Lois Walfrid Johnson
Available from Amazon
*****
In the third book of the Viking Quest series, 13-year-old Brianna O’Toole has come to the Aurland Fjord in Norway. Captured from her home in Ireland, she is now a slave. Her captor, Mikkel, is only a year older than her, but he has the power go on raids and enslave captives. Of course, Bree finds that his father is not pleased with his son’s lawlessness. Mikkel spends the book searching his soul for truth and honor, coming to decide he wants to be trusted. He knows he can trust the word of his Christian Irish prisoners, and he realizes that he has a respect for people he thought he despised. Mikkel learns that to be trusted, he must prove himself to worthy of trust.

Bree becomes a slave to Mikkel’s mother and soon learns the ways of the Norwegians, all the while resenting her slavery. She, who was a chieftain’s daughter! One of her jobs is to tend Mikkel’s grandmother, who wakes every night with terrifying nightmares. Bree convinces Mikkel to let her take the Scriptures which were stolen from the Irish monastery during the raid, and to read them to his grandmother. The gospel makes a difference in the lives of each of the Norwegians, and also to Bree. When she pondered Jesus’ words, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,” and “If the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed,” she understood that her physical slavery did not affect her spiritual freedom. She was not a slave, but a daughter of the King of Kings! And she was not alone. Jesus had promised to be with His own, and He was with her: her “invisible Friend”.

Bree became sure that she had seen her long lost sister Keely, but she could not manage to find her. Was she hiding from her own sister? Stones on the ground seem to leave a message for Bree, but can she follow them? Is Keely even the one leaving the messages? If Bree could find her, the sisters could be friends in this foreign world.

Devin reappears, and it seems that a homeward journey is almost in sight for Bree. However, everything takes an unexpected turn, and Bree and Devin face a renewed battle with fear and hatred. They are both willing to sacrifice much for the other, and in the end a heartbreaking sacrifice shocks the readers. The children are able to survive because of the peace in their souls, peace that only Christ can give.

The author has been to the Aurland Fjord, and her glowing descriptions of the scenery are firsthand.

This is another great adventure into the Viking times, and the Christian perspective makes it so much better.

Joseph Haydn, The Merry Little Peasant

by Opal Wheeler and Sybil Deucher
Available from Amazon and The Book Peddler
*****

This is such a sweet little book for children, and adults will enjoy reading through it as well. The way Haydn’s childhood and early years are portrayed is delightfully entertaining, as well as educational. If this had been a little tale invented to amuse children instead of a factual biography, it could hardly be more enchanting. Readers will find it easy to remember these interesting details of Haydn’s life because they will be in sympathy with him in his escapades, disappointments, and successes. In addition to describing the life of this composer, the authors also attempt an introduction to his music. Several musical pieces are included for the reader to play on the piano to see for themselves how charming Haydn’s music is. Musical terms are also explained, such as, “A sonata, you know, is music written for solo instruments with an accompaniment”, or “A symphony is music written for an orchestra and is divided into several parts.”

I heartily recommend this excellent book, especially for children who may be learning Haydn's music in their lessons. The authors have done an outstanding job, and I will be looking for their other works.

Kingdom's Dawn

by Chuck Black
Available from Amazon
****

The tale of the Bible translated into a medieval Celtic kingdom is the basis for the Kingdom Series. Kingdom’s Dawn, the first in the series, follows Leinad, a young man who typifies many of the early Old Testament characters. Sometimes the allegory seems a little too strained, and Chuck Black does not have the most flowing style, but he certainly has come up with a captivating allegory. Leinad uses his sword, representing the Word, to fight for the King. At one point his people are enslaved in a land, and the allegory is very obvious, as the king who finally lets them go is named “Lord Fairos”. There are other like situations that are made very plain in case anyone might have forgotten what the series really is about. As in Bunyan’s Holy War – which is the best Biblical allegory I have ever read – the same people represent more than one Biblical character or image, so as to have a cohesive story that does not expand over thousands of years. This book correlates to the Biblical account from Creation, through the flood, and into the Egyptian captivity, although often couched in quite different (but very apparent) symbols, all while our hero Leinad is still in his youth. All in all, I enjoyed this book and all the fantastic imagery that reminds one of the Scriptures and their power, and our King.

Mystery of the Silver Coins

by Lois Walfrid Johnson
Available from Amazon
*****
Spoiler alert! This book continues the Viking Quest saga, which is full of adventure and lessons in faith. Bree and Devin learn about forgiveness and to realize the fact that God’s will is sometimes different than our own. At one point the gospel is presented, but the author never preaches to the reader. It’s a great series, but only read on if you’re interested in knowing more of the working out of the plot.

In this, the second of the Viking Quest series, Bree has escaped from her Viking captors, along with a Lil, an eight year old girl. Bree works out a disguise to protect her as she fishes for the food they need, and she is careful to hide her tracks to the girls’ hiding place. As they trek across the mountains, they are confidant of escaping from the island, and back home to Ireland.

Bree discovered that Mikkel, her captor, was not only interested in recovering the two girls for their value as slaves, but he also believed that she had stolen a bag of silver coins. The penalty for this theft was death, although it seemed perfectly fine to the Vikings to have stolen the coins from the Irish (We find later in the book that the coins were actually stolen from a Norseman living in Ireland).

Meanwhile, Bree’s brother Devin is also heading home, from the other side of Ireland where he was left by the Vikings. He nurses his hate for the Vikings, making a bitter enemy of one who had followed him. On his journey he comes to Dublin, and meets a Viking who was a friend of his own father. Devin comes to understand that he must surrender his hate, and learn to forgive.

Forgiveness was not a lesson Bree had yet learned, however. Lil became very sick on the mountains, and they stopped their journey over the island to wait for her recovery. She told Bree she was not afraid to die, and explained why she was lonely for heaven, giving the plan of salvation. Just after Lil’s fever broke, however, the girls were discovered by Mikkel. He had decided to search for them himself, fearing that his guards might harm them if they found the girls first. Bitterness and anger filled Bree, especially when she heard that Mikkel had prayed, not only to Thor, but to the Christian God, her God, for help in finding the girls. How could God help him? Didn’t God want them to escape? How could she be a light to the nations in captivity?

To clear her name, as well as to save her life, Bree set her mind to identify the real thief of the silver coins. Hints were dropped through the book, but you may be surprised to find out who he really was! His resentment at being detected turns into anger toward Bree.

The book concludes with Devin back home with his family, and Bree’s arrival at Mikkel's home, where she is to be his mother’s new slave. She thinks she has seen her long lost sister, but that, as well as all the other unfinished threads, is left for other books.

I Dared to Call Him Father: The Miraculous Story of a Muslim Woman's Encounter With God

by Bilquis Sheikh with Richard H. Schneider
Available from Amazon
****

Bilquis Sheikh describes her journey, beginning with her initial interest in spirituality. She tells of her search for the truth, studying her Koran and the Bible she had requested, and struggling to know which book was God’s. She humbled herself to visit a missionary to ask questions. She knew how to pray; prayer had been a ritual performed five times a day. However, she was startled by the new thought of praying to God as a father. In which of the two holy books was God a father? She decided to accept the Bible. She studied it, and began to spend time with the missionaries. She listened to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and became convicted about so many things: baptism, her temper, her responses to other people. Christ gave her the strength to defy her family when they insisted she have nothing to do with Christians, as well as the courage to live calmly when her life was threatened. It was such a hard decision, even after she knew in her heart that she believed, and had become a Christian. Her family was close, and she enjoyed so many tender relationships cut off by her choice to follow Jesus. Her family, who had shared such love with her, even tried to kill her for rejecting Islam.

In this book, she chronicles this process. It is precious to see the Lord at work in hard places, like South Asia. We see that He is not limited, only we are. She also gives us insights into her own culture, and values of family and community which are remote from the individualism of the West. It is enlightening to glimpse into a Muslim family, and how she continued to live among her relatives after her conversion. Most of all, it is encouraging to read of another sister’s journey to live before God in communion with Him as He has called us all to do. It brings reflection on our own lives, and the depth and closeness of our own relationship with our heavenly Father.

At the end of the book, there is an epilogue of Bilquis’ life after the conclusion of the book. Then another perspective is added by Synnove Mitchell, the missionary to whom Bilquis first spoke about the Lord.

Written in an easy manner, this book can be read in an afternoon. Bilquis was open and honest about matters of the heart, and I did not find her to by dry at all. Who should read it? Those interested in this kind of conversion and culture, those wanting to know how God can be a Father, and Christians who want to understand this sister and those like her, and Christians who want to deepen their own relationship with our heavenly Father.

Mr. Pipes and Psalms and Hymns of the Reformation

by Douglas Bond
Available from Amazon
*****
This story begins in the book “Mr. Pipes and the British Hymnmakers”. In that book, Annie and Drew meet Mr. Pipes during a summer in England, and through him, they come to know about many hymn writers. They learn the hymns and discuss poetry, the meaning of the words, and the lives of the writers. Annie and Drew believe on the Lord Jesus, and then returned to the States with their mother at the end of the summer.

In this book, it is the next summer. Mr. Pipes has invited the children to tour Europe with him, and they are delighted to go. There are more hymn stories, of course, and the hymns with music are included at the end of each chapter. As the title states, the hymns are from the Reformation era, and they contain signs of the spiritual upheaval of the time. Mr. Pipes also points out interesting facts about the places they visit, which adds the interest of culture and European landmarks. Their trip takes them to from England to France, Germany and Switzerland, although most of the book occurs in Germany. Annie and Drew were impressed with the character of the German hymns: martial with gentleness and tenderness. Mr. Pipes told them of some of the persecutions the people endured, and they could see it reflected in the hymns. From battling their tempers to outwitting a spy, the children learn character, history and doctrine from Mr. Pipes with plenty of apt humor thrown in. Annie and Drew return to the States knowing more history, and with a deeper love for and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

I enjoyed this book so much. I think every Christian family should have this series, as the history of the hymns and hymn writers will draw the reader closer to Christ. Especially in this book, the hymns speak much of the preciousness of the person of the Lord. These books would also make great gifts for children from non-Christian families. Mr. Pipes is not preachy, and never pushes his strong beliefs on the children, although he never misses an opportunity to explain anything they ask about! Own this set of books!

Raiders from the Sea

by Lois Walfrid Johnson
Available from Amazon
*****
This is the first of the three “Viking Quest” series, which is continued in the “Raiders from the Sea” series. Bree is a young Irish girl who is captured during a Viking raid. Her brother is also captured, but effects an escape, thanks to his sister. The story begins with the first suspicion of a raid, and is concluded with the launch of Bree’s escape from the Vikings. Through the story, Bree battles her fear, anger, and resentment toward her young captor, constantly turning to the Lord for strength and courage. The Christianity did not seem at all forced or contrived, but flowed naturally, as it would in the life of a Christian.

I was pulled into the story, especially as I enjoy this time period. It was written for children, but adults will enjoy a nice quick read. The plot is not simplistic, and moved right along. It is Christian and clean, but not preachy.

I’m going to have to get the other books in the series! This book is followed by “The Mystery of the Silver Coins.”

Raoul Wallenberg: The Man Who Stopped Death

by Sharon Linnea
Available from Amazon
*****
Raoul Wallenberg had a mission for his life from his youngest days. He was impressed with the story of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and wanted to save people in a similar manner. During World War II, Raoul worked at the Swedish embassy in Poland, giving Swedish citizenship to thousands of Jews. These “new” Swedes were protected by Sweden, since the Nazis were not at war with Sweden, and had no wish to be. Raoul helped them out of the country, and gave others work there in his department. He provided ration cards to the starving Jews. Secretly employed by the United States government, he hired a photographer to document the activities in which he lived. Some of those photographs are in this book. Raoul fought with Adolph Eichmann with everything he had: money, wits, subtlety, threats and power, and he had plenty to work with. He escaped several attempts on his life, but in the end, fell into the hands of the Russians, who he had supposed would be friendly to him. No one really knows, or has made public, what happened to him after that. The Russian government claimed that he died, but many people reported sharing a cell with him after that.

This book was easy to read: a real page turner, but not simplistic. Linnea pulls her readers into the world of Raoul Wallenberg, and makes them care about his life. Certainly not a dry biography, it reads like a novel following an undercover agent. Even young children would be interested in his story. Read this biography, and learn of a daring and courageous man who defied the powers and authorities to save life.

Saved at Sea

by Mrs. O. F. Walton
Available from Lamplighter Publishing and Amazon
*****
Alick Fergusson lived with his grandfather on a small island off the coast of Scotland. His grandfather was the keeper of the lighthouse, and Jem Millar, his assistant, and his family were the Fergusson’s only neighbors. They lived their life on the island, tending their gardens, keeping the light going, and rescuing shipwrecked people whenever they could. Only once a month were they allowed to leave the island to go shop and take care of affairs in the village, and Jem and Sandy Fergusson took turns. They did have a “general store” boat that came out once a week to sell provisions.

In a powerful storm one night, the men from the island were trying to rescue passengers who were shipwrecked on Ainslie Crag. They were unable to get close, and the violence of the waves finally destroyed the boat right in front of them, but not before a little girl had been thrown to them through the storm. They looked for survivors, but there were none to be found. They assumed that the little girl’s family had drowned with the others there, and the Fergussons made her a part of their family. She soon won their hearts, and they hated to think of parting with her. When they again went to the mainland, they notified the officials there that only one survivor had been rescued from the wreck, and gave the name found on the hem of her dress.

Later two men came to the island, whom Alick and his grandfather feared had found relatives of the girl, and were going to take her away. However, one was the owner of the ship, and had come to meet them and the little girl. He asked them if they were founded on the Rock. Sandy assured him that if they were not, the lighthouse and other buildings would never last the first storm that blew over; they were not buildings were not on the sand seen by the shore, but on the solid rock of the island. When the man left, he sent back a piece of paper with the words, “On Christ the solid Rock I stand: all other ground is sinking sand.”

Puzzled, they talked it over with Jem Millar, and he said he thought he understood. He was heading to the mainland soon, but before he left, he told Alick that he knew he was on the Rock. It was well for him, because he never returned, having missed his step on the dock in the fog.

In the course of the rest of the book, a new man with links to the Fergussons’ past comes to take Jem’s place. Sandy is asked, “If your house was built on the sand down by the shore, what would you do?” He responded that he would tear it down, piece by piece, and rebuild it on the rock. He came to see that the good works he was counting on to get him into heaven were a sandy foundation, and he chose to rebuild his life on Christ. Alick also believed in Him.

After a while, it was discovered that the little girl’s parents were not with her on the ship, after all. They came to claim her, and although the Fergussons hated to part with her, they were happy to see her with her parents again. Alick, after all, did not have to part with her. Grateful for the islanders’ kindness, the girl’s parents took him with them, and sent him to school. He left the island, knowing on Whom to build his life.

A sweet, touching story.

Through the Fray

by G. A. Henty
Available from Amazon
****
This book deviates from the most frequent pattern of G. A. Henty’s books. Usually his heroes are in the midst of a historical time, are well acquainted with some of the leading figures of the day, emerge victorious from their conflicts, and come to be known and admired due to their courage, honesty, and wholesome character. This book is set in the Luddite Riots at the beginning of the industrial revolution in the early 1800s. However, even though Ned Sankey behaves with distinction in these affairs, the main battle of the book is with his own temper.

Left to the care of his ayahs in India during his early childhood, Ned was wont to give way to his passionate temper to get his way. He learned to control it under his father’s hand after the family relocated to England, but he still gave way under severe provocation. From the beginning of the book, Ned has the reader’s sympathies as he struggles to do what is right, and take his schoolmaster’s abuse quietly. We approve of his valor in a fair fight against an older boy, as well as his kindness to him afterwards. Ned’s anger erupts in a few incidents, one of which leads his mother, the town and the authorities to believe him guilty of a heinous crime, although he was entirely innocent. He was acquitted at his trial, but most believed it was only because there was not enough evidence to convict. In the end, the true criminal is exposed and Ned’s character is redeemed. Through this all, Ned learned the disastrous results of an uncontrolled temper, and we are told that he was always the master of himself ever after. I only wish that his father and counselors, when encouraging him to do right, had shown him the strength available in Christ, rather than appealing to his manhood.

I really enjoyed this book, certainly more than others by Henty, probably because the enemy to be conquered was not a foreign foe, but self, the enemy we are born to battle. Henty's skill in weaving a story is almost more apparent in this book, as he gives so much information on the Luddites and their conditions, information I'd never heard. He blends this so well - better than in some of his other works, in my opinion - with the drama in Ned's personal life. Perhaps because of this, there is never a dull moment in the book. I found no areas that seemed easier to skim, and there are no long passages of pure history dropped into the story. The history is always enjoyable, but in this book, it is blended so well, that the historical facts will be picked up effortlessly while enjoying the tale. Recommended!

Little King Davie

by Nellie Hellis
Available from Lamplighter Publishing and Amazon
*****
Eleven year old Davie Scott swept the London street crossings to help support his twice-widowed mother and twin siblings. Music has always thrilled his young soul, and he took every opportunity to listen outside churches and cathedrals to the beautiful singing inside. One day he was listening to the singing outside, and decided to wait until the musical preacher’s voice finished, so he could listen to the closing hymn. A man noticed him and invited him inside to be able to hear the preacher’s words. Davie had always thought that religion was for the rich people. Their wealth must help them to understand it. But this night, the preacher spoke very plainly, and Davie found his heart burning to know how he could be a king and priest to God.

After the sermon and closing hymn, Davie wanted to speak to the minister and ask about his words, but he was swept away by the crowd. He was walking down the sidewalk when he saw the preacher walking away, and crossed the street to speak to him. He was so focused on his mission that he failed to pay attention to the traffic and was run over by a carriage.

In the hospital, Davie was not recovering quickly, although his doctor gave him the most tender care. The doctor asked Davie one day if there was anything he would like, and Davie told him of his desire to speak to the preacher he heard that night, and ask him how to be a king and priest to God. His doctor found that the preacher was not from London, but a nurse who knew him told Mr. Kilmarnock of Davie’s request. He came at once, and spoke to Davie about the Lord on the critical night when Davie was expected to die. Davie understood that “it was for him, then, that Christ had died.

The story continues through Davie’s recovery, during which his clear singing and testimony cause him to be nicknamed “King Davie”. He returned home, which was more comfortable than before thanks to the help of the lady whose carriage had run over poor Davie. Through her influence, Davie was delighted to become a chorister, and was actually paid to sing! In the end, Davie’s trust in God became the means of his mother’s coming to know Christ, and Him crucified.

It's a sweet little story: great for children and refreshing for adults.

City: A Story of Roman Planning and Construction

by David Macauley
Available from Amazon
*****
In this book, David Macaulay expertly describes and illustrates the construction of the imaginary Roman city of Verbonia. It is based hundreds of real Roman cities built between 300 B.C. and A.D. 150. I was amazed at the planning that went into the city, and the systematic and precise manner that everything was managed. I was fascinated to learn how they built the aqueducts for the city's water supply, even going through hills, and the sewer system underground to keep the city sanitary. The architecture of the forum and baths was so intriguing. Of course, this might be expected from the author of "The Way Things Work"! His detailed drawings are fabulous. This a terrific book for learning about Roman cities in this time period and for studying the way the cities were put together to provide for all the needs of the inhabitants.

The Rose Round

by Meriol Trevor
Available from Amazon
****

This book is narrated by Matthew, the brother of a central character. His sister Caro, has become the cook at an impressive estate in England, called Woodhall. The mistress of Woodhall is a bitter woman, her favorite child, a daughter, having died. She is resentful against her gentle son who has a physical deformity, but a heart to help those in need. Her granddaughter Alix befriends Matthew under her grandmother’s disapproval, and sets the catalyst for the entire book of healing and forgiveness.

In some ways, the story is reminiscent of Burnett’s The Secret Garden, but there is more intrigue to the plot, no magic, and plenty of Catholic overtones. I enjoyed the story, which never faltered for interest. The themes of compassion and forgiveness add a moral depth to make the reader look into his own heart. I recommend this book with the caveat for non-Catholics that Catholicism is promoted.

The Way Home: A Princess Story

by Max Lucado
Available from Amazon
****
Princess Anna had not always been a princess. She had been abandoned when a baby, and the King had found her in the great forest, and brought her up as his daughter. When she grew older, she became discontent at home in the castle. She had to work at her studies. It had been a good life, until she heard about the Lowlanders, who never had to work, and played all day. She knew her father the King loved her, but she began to think it wasn't too much fun to be a princess. She was warned that the Lowlanders were enemies, but Anna thought longingly of the fun they had, and reflected on how hard her life as a princess was.

One day she is lured into the dark forest, and when she turns back, the way had grown up, and she could not return. The Lowlanders were the minions of Olbaid, and did not, after all, spend their days in fun. Olbaid desired to have the princess under his control to spite the King, and under his power, she began to wilt, becoming like a Lowlander herself.

The King's love for his daughter caused Him to go to Olbaid for her. He offered Himself, which was what Olbaid really wanted, as a ransom for Anna. He seemed to die, but He told Anna that they could never kill Him. Anna was unhappy under the dominion of Olbaid, but she could not see a way out before, and she knew, everyone knew, that she herself had chosen to enter the dark forest. After the King conquered death and Olbaid and his Lowlanders had fled, the King told Anna He would take her home. In her hopelessness, she said she did not know the way anymore. The King told her that was why He had come for her. He had made a way for her return home, to be His daughter, His princess. He was the Way.

I cried when I read this beautiful allegory. Truly we have each chosen to go our own ways, literally despising what God has given us. But He has made a Way for us. John 14:6

The Black Pearl

by Scott O'Dell
Available from Amazon
***

Some of Scott O’Dell’s works are great, some are standard, and some are not worth the time. I was disappointed in this one. The plot is okay I guess, but it seems to lack anything very substantial, and is full of superstition. It tells the story of a son who goes into the pearl business with his father in La Paz, California. Nettled by the boasts of an employee, a pearl diver, he believes if he can find a pearl of gigantic proportions, he will be a man. In his father’s absence, Ramon abandons his responsibilities, and convinces an Indian man who has sold them pearls to teach him to dive for them. He learns to search for pearls, but the Indian warns him away from a certain cave, where he believes the Manta Diabla resides. He tells Ramon that the pearls in that cave are the Manta Diabla’s, and if anyone takes them, the Manta will pursue him until the pearl is returned. The Manta has spies all around who report to him the happenings when he is away. Ramon hunts in the cave anyway, believing the tale to be merely an old Indian legend. He finds an enormous black pearl, the size of a grapefruit, which has only a slight flaw, easily removed. The Indian counsels Ramon to return the pearl to the Manta Diabla, but scorning the tale, Ramon takes the pearl home. His father wanted to sell the pearl to one of the other pearl dealers in the town, but they were not willing to give him the sum he required, so he presented it to the virgin Mary image. Trusting in her to protect them after such a fine gift, Ramon’s father sailed into the teeth of a violent storm, and his entire fleet was lost, with the exception of the Sevillano, the young man whose boasts had prompted Ramon’s pearl discovery. The Indian insists that the storm was brought on by the Manta Diabla who wants his pearl back, and Ramon now believes him. He steals the pearl back with the intent to return it to the manta, but the Sevillano, armed with a knife, comes to steal it from him, intending to make his own fortune. Ramon is compelled at knife point to paddle the boat to the city where the Sevillano will sell the pearl, but the manta follows them, to recover his pearl, as Ramon is convinced. The Sevillano laughs at his fears, and tells him why his father’s fleet was lost. The manta does attack them, and the Sevillano harpoons it, and ends accidentally strapped to the manta when he dives his last. Ramon stays in the area for a while to see if the Sevillano, who was known for his long dives, would reappear. When he does not, Ramon returns to the city and gives the pearl back to the Mary image, believing that she has protected him from the Sevillano and the Manta Diabla. He feels content that he has finally become a man.

Me? Obey Him?

by Elizabeth Rice Handford
Available from John R. Rice and Amazon
*****

This is a discussion of the obedience of the Christian wife. The first chapter explores the reasons God commanded it, and then the book goes on to cover the Scriptures that direct wives to submit, and what they mean. Biblical examples are given, and questions about rights and tyrannical authority are answered. Basically, the author shows that God expects the wife to always obey her husband. She understands that sometimes husbands request or require things contrary to the Word of God, and in that case, disobedience is necessary. However, she says that she has never seen a husband being abusive or insisting that the wife sin when the wife has been in submission with a sweet spirit. Just because she has never seen it, of course, doesn’t mean it doesn’t occur, but she says that usually the spirit of a truly submissive wife will provoke tenderness in her husband. After all, Handford’s audience is not primarily those in arranged marriages, but those who entered marriage voluntarily, as did their husbands. She shows from Biblical directives and examples that no matter the husband’s character, we are to respect and submit to him. If it is not his virtues (as most are sinners), we are at least to honor his position as husband and head of the home. But then on the other hand, this should not be too hard, as most of us at least entered marriage with love for our husbands.

My mother gave me this book a few months before I was married, and I thought it was very helpful. I already wanted to bless and honor my husband, but this book reinforced the Scriptures, and I think it was good for me to remember to keep the right attitude toward the Lord and my husband. I would definitely recommend the book to engaged women, new wives, or wives unsure of their position, or wives who simply want to review what God says about submission to their husbands.

Helen Lester

by Isabella Alden
Available from Keepers of the Faith
*****
Helen Lester was a young girl who was rather upset that her older brother was coming home after some years abroad. She remembered that he used to tease her for going to Sunday School, and wanting to be a Christian. When he arrived, she was surprised to find him changed: he was now a gentle, loving older brother who encouraged her in her relationship with God. Helen learns what it means to be a true Christian, and everyone is surprised at the change in her. One by one, through Cleveland’s example and witness, the other members of the family decide they must follow Jesus. Their changed lives affect those around them, who at first mock, but then joined them in their walk. By the time Cleveland leaves again, the whole family has asked Jesus to help them love God more.

This story was the first Mrs. Alden wrote, and that while yet in her teens, and it won the contest for the best story explaining salvation to children. Sometimes it seems almost too simple, almost stressing the works of the Christian. Only almost. However, Cleveland admonished Helen that on her own, she would keep failing as she had so many times before. If she wants to live the Christian life, and conquer her temper, and show patience to her family, and love God Whom she had never seen, she must ask Christ to help her. I would recommend this story to young children, as it does explain salvation, and I think it expresses the loveliness of Jesus so well. Who wouldn’t be drawn to Him? It is also great for those of us who want to share things simply with children. This story especially inspired me as an older sibling, to see the influence for good a caring sibling can have on the others. Cleveland did not spend his time preaching at his family, but they were drawn to Christ by his gentle example. And as far as preaching goes, Mrs. Alden’s stories never seem preachy. They do present plain truths, but they come in naturally, and the books always have an interesting plot and flow smoothly.

Black Star, Bright Dawn

by Scott O'Dell
Available from Amazon
*
The father of the Bright Dawn, the heroine of this story, is stranded on an ice floe while seal hunting. The sea becomes a terror to him, and they move from the Alaskan coast. He is asked to represent their new village in the Iditarod, and trains for it until an accident prevents his racing. Then Bright Dawn takes his place, with Black Star, her favorite dog, as her leader. No one from their town had ever finished the race. Bright Dawn runs into many hardships and dangers, but races well. She was the first to enter Iditarod, and also wins an award for taking care of other racers in trouble, even though it slowed her down. When she and her dogs are stranded on an ice floe, her father comes to the rescue. She finishes the race, becoming the first one from her village to do so.

Bright Star and her family are traditional Eskimos. There is plenty of Eskimo mythology and superstition throughout the book; Bright Dawn is portrayed as being true to her people when she relinquishes her skepticism (created by English influences) and decides to trust the old Eskimo gods, traditions, and talismans.

I thought the book was not one of O'Dell's better works. I was disappointed in the way he presented the Eskimos' beliefs, although I admire the way he portrayed their resourcefulness. I also thought the storyline was rather boring.

George Mueller: A Father to the Fatherless

by Rebecca Davis
Available from Amazon
*****
This biography is designed for 7 to 9 year olds, but younger children would enjoy hearing it read aloud. Each chapter can be read aloud or by a newer reader in less than fifteen minutes.

The book begins with the well-known incident of George Mueller’s father catching him with stolen tax money in his shoes, and goes on to tell of his years of thieving and living life for himself. We read of how he met the Lord at a Bible study while at school. What is really ironic is that he was studying for the Lutheran ministry, and others in his classes were just as unregenerate as he was. Next the book tells of his marriage, and his conviction that God would provide their needs, even though they committed to receiving no salary, and to tell their needs only to God. Further chapters show George’s burden for the orphans, and the development of the orphan homes. It is exciting to read of how George believed God would answer his prayers, and then to see Him do it, time after time. As the book progresses, we read of different children who came into the orphanages, their experiences there and how they changed their lives, how they knew George Mueller, and what happened when they left the homes. When his first wife died, George wrote in his journal that he missed her, but he was content in the Lord’s will. His second, younger wife went around the world with him as he spoke in different countries.

Rebecca Davis has written a great book as a biography. Younger children will enjoy reading it on their own, and it would also make for great discussions if read aloud in a family setting. I whole-heartedly recommend it!

Stones of Fire

by Isobel Kuhn
Available from Keepers of the Faith and Amazon
*****
Isobel Kuhn speaks of stones of fire as almost an oxymoron. Stones are hard and cold, and fire is hot and passionate. She describes people as stones of fire, people with fiery passion held rock solid by principle. Opals, stones with broken hearts made beautiful by the light that sparkles through them, are used as a physical example of a stone of fire. The book is written of just such a fiery stone.

The story of Mary begins when her name was still Third Sister in a small Lisu village in the highlands of China. We see her introduction to the missionaries John and Isobel Kuhn, her understanding of the Gospel, and her attraction to Lu-Seng. The reality of her faith and trust inGod is tested throughout the book, and she proves to be a ‘stone of fire’.

The book is written in a very easy to read style, and readers will be drawn into Mary's life as she encounters so many trials and hardships. We read of her family and marriage, the communist occupation and political turmoils of their village, and the physical problems that eventually led to her death at the ripe old age of... 25 years old. Through it all, she manifested such a sweet patience, so unlike Third Sister's feisty temper, that was rooted in her trust in the One Who redeemed her from her sins. Mary is such an example of a passionate woman who learns to let the Lord channel her passion to serve Him instead of herself. I felt ashamed of myself at times when reading of her love and trust, and awed once again by the power of Jesus Christ to change lives, even mine. If I could rate this book with more than five stars, I would. It is to be highly recommended.