It Began with a Parachute

by William R. Rang
Available from Inheritance Publications and Amazon
****
Children will enjoy this story set in Nazi-occupied Holland. Bert learns lessons about obedience, friendship and truth after he rescues an American pilot who had been shot down. Every time he directly or indirectly disobeys his parents, he learned that he'd made the wrong decision. This is one children's story where the parents are not pitted against the children. Instead the Christian parents are on the children's side. There is plenty of adventure and character-building incidents in the short story, where the main people want to honor Christ. It would make a great book to read aloud to the family.

Corrie Ten Boom: Keeper of the Angels Den

by Janet and Geoffrey Benge
Available from Amazon
***
This book, as do many of the Benge's biographies, begins the first chapter in the middle of the story to capture the reader's attention. The second chapter goes back to Corrie's younger days and shows the reader of her background and heart for service.

This biography is a great introduction to Corrie Ten Boom for children or those unfamiliar with her life. If you are already familiar with her story, read her own words in "The Hiding Place", and "A Prisoner and Yet...".

Flame Over Tara

by Madeleine Polland
Available from Amazon
*****
In this beautifully written novel we follow a sensitive young girl as she struggles with her future after Patrick arrives in Ireland with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Macha had been excited to hear the news that she was going home to her parents and was to be married, although she was but fourteen years old. But when Patrick came onto the scene telling of his God, she was intrigued and determined to follow him like her foster brother Benet. The difference was that he had permission, and there were grave consequences for many when Macha's father heard that she was gone. The druids were not too pleased with Patrick and his gospel, and they try many means to get rid of him. Patrick outwits them, more by logical thinking than by the power of God, but nevertheless, God is accepted. Macha had promised herself to follow Patrick's God, her parents wanted her to marry, and Patrick himself had told her to obey her parents. Truly, she was not opposed to marrying...

This is a great book for a rainy day and will capture the attention of young people who may be studying this time time period.

The Raider's Promise

by Lois Walfrid Johnson
Available from Amazon
*****

In the last book of the Viking Quest series, Bree and Devin accompany Mikkel’s expedition in return for Bree’s freedom. The raider’s promise is that he will take her home, but Bree wonders during the course of their trip. After he becomes a Christian, Bree notices changes in Mikkel, but she wonders if they are real. And as Mikkel learns to follow Christ, he learns to forgive, to admit wrong, and to truly care for others, which does include Bree. He also learns what it is to be a real leader, that there is strength in humility. When they return to Ireland, he must prove that he has the strength to do the right thing regarding several people he has wronged, and wonders if there can be hope and forgiveness from Bree’s family. And Bree herself, after being gone so long, finds home not to be what she expected. Is there something she might be missing?

This conclusion to the Viking Quest books wraps up all the loose ends, and weaves truth, trust, honor, fidelity, and romance for a very fitting finale. Your family will love this series!

Stories of the Reformation in Germany and England: For Young People

by Rev. B. G. Johns, MA
Available from Vision Forum and Amazon
*****

The first of the two books is the title: Stories of the Reformation in Germany and England, and chapters alternate between the life and work of Martin Luther, and the life of Sir Harry Gray. Though nobility and through a life between estate and court, Harry Gray came to believe the same truths as Luther. He saw many of his acquaintances lose their lives for their faith, and came very near to giving up his own for Christ.

The second book is A Child’s Life of Luther, and is very well written for young audiences. Actually both works are wonderful for children. The Child’s Life of Luther is an excellent biography in that most of the text is taken from the actual words of those under discussion. Journals and letters of Luther, his friends, and others concerned in his history are quoted for the most accurate biography.

The author does not make the common mistake of practically deifying a great man. He says, “It must be confessed that Luther was at times very severe, and that he often used expressions which seem to us harsh and indelicate. For this Luther has been much blamed. But he was not perfect, any more than other men. It was his zeal in the cause of truth that led him into it.” And again, “Bitter and unyielding, not doubt he was; but it was with him a case of conscience. He dreaded a too free and irreverent use of the words of the Bible. Luther was not without his faults; but they seemed to be the result of a warm and devoted attachment to the cause of truth. If we should claim perfect for Luther, we should thereby place him above the apostles. Even St. Paul and St. Peter were not without their frailties and errors, as we learn from the Holy Scriptures.”

This volume does show us Luther in his frailties as well as his greatness, and the reader will come to love this man, simple and courageous, and devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ. Even young children will be able to understand and enjoy this book. I recommend the whole three-book series.

Little Sir Galahad

by Lillian Holmes
Available from Lamplighter Publishing and Amazon
****

This is a charming story of a young boy who has been crippled by an accident. David longs to be a physically strong and valiant young man, but learns what it is to be strong and valiant in character and spirit. He wants to support his aunt, and finds a way in spite of his weakness. The mother of a friend teaches him that he can be like Sir Galahad. Even without physical strength, David could say, “My strength is as the strength of ten because my heart is pure.”

This is a delightful story for boys especially, but girls will also enjoy it. It would make an excellent read-aloud book for family time, and the whole family, young and old, will certainly enjoy it.

Snow Treasure

by Marie McSwigan
Available from Amazon
****

In 1940 the Nazis came to Norway. The patriots of the country did not want their country’s gold to fall into Nazi hands and support the war from the wrong side, but knew of no way to get it to safety. This is the story of the brave children who appeared to constantly be playing in the snow, but were transporting the gold on their sleds past the Nazis. At night men would locate the gold where the children had hidden it, and remove it to a ship. It was taken safely away to America beyond the Nazis’ reach.

This story would be ideal for a family read aloud book.

Birth Without Violence

by Frederick LeBoyer
Available from Amazon
***

Although the author draws heavily on Eastern philosophy and is rather dramatic for shock appeal, I appreciated many of the subjects he examined. It is obviously kinder not to mention more natural to have soft lighting, and gentle voices at a birth. I appreciated the anatomical details of why the cord should not be cut immediately after birth, as well as the comments on the handling of newborns. The photos of newborns are very precious.

This book is certainly appropriate for expectant parents, especially if they have had no exposure or information on natural childbirth. Just take all the drama and philosophy with a grain (or more!) of salt.

Mr. Pipes Comes to America

by Douglas Bond
Available from Amazon
*****

The third in the Mr. Pipes series can only improve upon the first two. Mr. Pipes travels to New England with Dr. Dudley to see a few historic sites with Drew and Annie before heading to the west coast to spend Christmas with their parents. The humor that amused the readers in the first two books hasn’t disappeared, nor has Dr. Dudley’s disdain for things not British or his overbearing concern for Mr. Pipes’ health. The storyline is just as charming, and children will read it for the mere pleasure of it.

However, the main ideas that are constantly reinforced are Godly behavior, understanding and sharing the Bible, contrasting good hymnody and shallow songs, appropriate music, poetry, great men of faith, and doctrine. Mr. Pipes teaches an excellent course on great Church hymnody effortlessly and very enjoyably to all readers. Highly to be recommended!

A Lantern In Her Hand

by Bess Streeter Aldrich
Available from Amazon
**
This is the story of a young girl who dreamed big dreams and had great hopes of her life. Instead of her life fulfilling her dreams, however, she spent her days baking bread, piecing quilts, and taking care of children. Her children eventually accomplished the great things Abbie had hoped to do, but they seemed to care little for the life Abbie herself had led. It was a disappointing book for me, but it aptly brought to life the hopes and dreams of a young girl, and how real life prevents her from living her dreams. It did inspire me to analyze my dreams, to see if they are realistic, and to consider whether God might have other plans. Good dreams may need to be exchanged for what is best for us.

When Hitler Stole Link Rabbit

by Judith Kerr
Available from Amazon
**
Anna did not really think of herself as Jewish as she lived in Berlin. She was just a German girl. That is, until the Nazis came into power, and her father’s writing was no longer acceptable, merely because he was Jewish. So her family left Germany for Switzerland, and began a life which Anna discovered was called that of a “refugee”. We see the way her life changed from what she had always known in first in Switzerland, then France, and finally in England. Her experiences, based on the author’s own girlhood, are enlightening and entertaining as the reader reflects on the events of the time. There is nothing otherwise spectacular that occurs, and the drama unfolds like a “Little House” book.

One incident that rather bothered me was when Anna’s father was having nightmares. As she went to bed one night, she said something to the effect of, “Please, can I have them instead.” The book stated that Anna did not really believe in God, but she thought there might be someone who could arrange things. When her father’s nightmares ended, Anna secretly congratulated herself. I realize that all Jews do not believe in God, but I do, and would discuss this and a few other attitudes with any younger readers.

By England's Aid, or, The Freeing of the Netherlands

by G. A. Henty
Available from Amazon
***

Two brothers from Sir Francis Vere’s land in England follow him to honor and glory in the Netherlands, with many adventures along the way. When they leave the Netherlands to fight the Spanish Armada from England, one of the boys is knocked overboard. He ends up going to Spain, being captured by Algerian pirates, and eventually marrying and becoming a merchant in Spain. The other brother uses his keen observation and intelligence to become a great officer, and the brothers eventually meet in Spain at the end of the Netherlands’ war for independence, and go home together to their parents. They are strong and valiant, and almost always honorable, except in the case of hiring ruffians to carry off a friend’s young lady. The reader is educated on the many sides of the war, meeting all the important characters of the time, witnessing the battles, and understanding the reasoning and logic employed during the wartime. This is another terrific history book with entertaining adventure thrown in!

The Excellent Wife: A Biblical Perspective

by Martha Peace
Available from Amazon
****

I was really blessed through this book. It was an encouragement to me in my role, attitudes, and responses as a wife, completer, helper and companion of my husband. Martha Peace definitely brings a “Biblical Perspective” as her subtitle indicates, and her systematic line of thought was very helpful. The charts and lists with Scriptures were especially appreciated. This would be a great book for wives from brides to grandmothers.

N is for Nutmeg

by Elissa Grodin
Available from Amazon
*****

This delightful book is filled with scenic watercolors, cute rhymes, and lots of state information. Each page – or two – features a rhyme corresponding to a letter of the alphabet and telling something about the Connecticut’s history. There is more information about the fact in the rhyme at the side of the page. Famous residents such as Mark Twain and Noah Webster appear along with state nicknames (Nutmeg and Constitution) and symbols (state flower, tree, bird, etc.). Several historical anecdotes and state trivia are included for an interested reader, but the rhymes well be easily memorized by younger children. Even adults may find information they didn’t know about Connecticut! I think every child who lives in Connecticut, was born here, or is studying the state should read this book. I can’t wait to see the others in the series!

Sir Cumference and the Great Knight of Angleland

by Cindy Newschwander
Available from Amazon
*****

In this entertaining math adventure, Sir Cumference’s son, Radius, enters upon a quest. Quests were the thing to do for aspiring knights in the ancient land of Angleland (apparently now known as England on current maps). So Radius goes to rescue King Lell, and takes with him a medallion, very much like a protractor. He uses it to determine angles which help him to follow the clues to find the missing king. When he is successful, angles are named after similar places in his adventure, such as the Mountains of Obtuse. Plenty of math terms find themselves in the story, which make it all the more entertaining. Such a great way to introduce geometry to younger children!

Heart of Courage

by Lois Walfrid Johnson
Available from Amazon
*****

Bree says goodbye to her brother, sister, and cousin as they head home to Ireland, and she remains a captive in Norway. Mikkel has promised to free her if she and Devin accompany him on a voyage. He has noticed that God protects Bree, and she resents being considered a good luck charm. Bree is also afraid that Mikkel will not keep his promises, and fears for Devin’s safety if he returns to Norway.

Devin and Bree’s parents do send him back, however, and they set out with Mikkel’s expedition. Along the way they realize that someone is trying to hurt Mikkel and thwart his plans, endangering everyone’s lives. Mikkel also begins to understand that he can be a man, and still trust in Bree’s God. Through all the frightening changes in this fourth book of the Viking Quest series, Bree, Devin and Mikkel learn how to find a heart of courage.

The Pirate City:An Algerine Tale

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

A merchant and his two sons leave Sicily on a voyage, and are taken captive by a pirate from Algiers. They are enslaved, and during their many exciting adventures, we learn of the way of life in the pirate city. There is plenty of history included, along with some of the terrible ways of enforcing discipline which were used. Our main characters behave nobly, rise and fall in favor with the Deys (title of the king of Algiers), and eventually make their escape when all the slaves in Algiers were freed by the British.

I appreciate the fact that Ballantyne’s historical adventures are explicitly Christian. In this one, the gospel is presented to a dying man in the slaves’s prison.

Until reading this book, I had no idea about much of the history of Algiers, and this book was an easy and exciting way to learn.

One Woman Against the Reich

by Helmut W. Ziefle
Available from Amazon
*****

This is a timely book for today. Maria Ziefle was a strong Christian woman, and was very concerned about the Nazi influence on her family. As they dealt with the Hitler Youth, Nazi neighbors, the draft, horrors of war, pressures from “the Party”, the heartache of seeing so much wickedness, and so much more, Maria prayed that their family would remain alive and faithful to God.

Today in America we do not live with the horrors the Ziefle family faced. But as our culture becomes more Godless, our children can innocently be drawn into it, just as Kurt was attracted to the Hitler Youth. Parents must be vigilant in prayer and in teaching their children what is good and right and honoring to God. This woman’s story will be an encouragement for many parents. Especially as the book was written by her son.

Everything was not ideal in the Ziefle family. Georg was not the family’s spiritual leader; his wife was. Everyone may not agree with certain stands they chose to make, but ideal families exist only in fiction, and to agree with everything in a book, we must write it ourselves.

Many photographs are included throughout the book of the people and places described. The story unfolds in an easy way, although the events make for less than easy thoughts as we comfortably read about the Ziefle’s struggles. The war is not the focus, but rather the experiences of a Christian German family who did not support the Nazis. Readers of all ages will enjoy this biography, but parents in particular will be blessed by the account of a woman who fought for her family.

Love Notes On His Pillow

And Other Everyday Ways to Keep Your Love Alive
by Linda Gilden
Available from Amazon
*****

What is a love note? Sometimes it’s just a sweet little note that says “I love you, Sweetheart”, but it could be quite different. Linda Gilden describes lots of other ways to say “I love you” on paper and by other means. She also explores many other places to leave a love than a pillow. There are many stories in each chapter of couples who communicated a message of love in various tender and meaningful ways.

Although the author is a Christian, this is not a book about Christianity or the Christian marriage; it rather deals with a fun and practical side of marriage. There is a chapter on using Scripture in love notes, which I consider very helpful. A few verses are sprinkled through the pages, but even so, I believe any couple, Christian or not, would enjoy this book.

This is a book not to read through in one sitting, but rather to read a little, mark with a little flag, and try a suggestion before reading on. I enjoyed this book very much, and it has helped to enrich our marriage by giving both of us new ideas of expressing thoughtfulness and love. I recommend it to every couple, whether newlyweds or grandparents!

To Have and To Hold

By Mary Johnston
Edited by Joshua and Sarah Wean
Available from Vision Forum and Amazon
*****

This is one of the most captivating novels I’ve read in a long time. Originally published in 1907 for the Jamestown tercentennial, it was republished last year for the four hundredth birthday of the Jamestown settlement. Appropriately, the setting is colonial Jamestown. Several history characters are introduced and become a part of the story. James Rolfe is the best friend of the story’s hero. A good writer can bring readers to laughter and tears, and Mary Johnston does both. The story has been revised by Joshua and Sarah Wean. Whatever you may be looking for in a novel, from romance, adventure, intrigue, history, forgiveness, repentance, and the mercy of God, this book has it all.

Captain Ralph Percy is our hero, and a hero worthy of the name. He goes into Jamestown at the suggestion of a friend, who had informed him that he ought to take a wife. Many single young ladies were just arriving from England to be wives of the settlers, so the present time was an excellent opportunity. Captain Percy is a gentleman, and delivers a lovely young woman from being insulted. She accepted his marriage proposal on the spot. He is a Christian gentleman, and vows to love, cherish, and protect his wife with his life, though it’s little she seems to care about it. Throughout the book, Percy battles hostile Indians, Spaniards, haughty English nobles, his wife’s indifference to him, and his own natural desire for revenge, to eventually win his heart’s desire. He constantly affirms and follows through with his duty, even through the many dangerous and precarious situations it brings him to. At last when he can conquer his bitterest enemy, he cannot bring himself to kill him as it would displease and dishonor God.

This book is definitely to be highly recommended for the storyline, never mind the excellent history content. Boys and girls of all ages will relish the adventure, admire a clear picture of a valiant, Godly man, and respect a woman who chooses truth, honor and love.

The Doctors Who Conquered Yellow Fever

by Ralph Nading Hill
Available from Amazon
****
Doctors Walter Reed, William Gorgas, and Carlos Finlay come to life in this easy to read exploration of the fight against Yellow Jack. We see glimpses of Walter Reed’s young life and his early quest to become a doctor. His army career follows and before long we see the grim face of Yellow Jack. Reed searches for a cause, and finally proves to the world that the mosquito is the carrier of the dread disease. Heroic volunteers willing contract the disease in the journey to conquer yellow fever. Some of the researchers give the ultimate sacrifice of their lives to finding an answer. We follow Dr. Gorgas through Havana and Panama in his war against the mosquito, and see his final success. Yellow fever is eventually discovered to be caused by a virus, and a vaccine is produced. Today, the world no longer lives in dread of yellow fever thanks to the tireless effort and sacrifice of these great men.

This is a great resource for children, although it is also perfect for adults wanting to learn about the fight against yellow fever without having to study a comprehensive work on the subject. It is number 78 in the Landmark Series.

The Browns at Mt. Hermon

by Isabella Alden
Available from Keepers of the Faith
*****

Can I more highly recommend this sweet story? This is one of Isabella Alden’s more lighthearted stories, but in the humor, she never compromises the seriousness of the Christ-centered life. The plan of salvation is given more than once, and we meet characters to love and emulate.

Our heroine is Mary Brown, who understands her name is not one of the most rare! She accidentally receives a letter addressed to another Mary Brown, accepting her services at a Christian camp. After attempting to return the letter to its proper addressee and finding that that Mary Brown was no longer interested in the position, she decides, on a lark, to take the position herself. Mary Brown was quite well off, somewhat listless and discontent with her life, and was trying to find something interesting to do during the summer. So she assumes the character of a girl needing employment, and begins to learn much about work, Christian camps, and Christianity itself. During her eventful summer she changes much, along with several other Browns and Brownings! It turns out that a certain young man was also there to take a break from his own life, and he may be more than he seems.

Delightful and sweet, this story at some points reads a little like a mystery, but through it all, Isabella Alden’s focus on the Lord, makes the reader thoughtful. Are we, like Mary Brown merely professing Christ, or actually living for Him? Are we giving the expected verbal assent, or are we actually being conformed into His image? It seems there is a big difference.

The River of Grace

by Joyce McPherson
Available from Amazon
*****

I was delighted with this sensitive biography of John Calvin. McPherson writes simply to children, not down to children. She begins in John’s childhood, and touches on the events and issues of his life. She shows his thoughts with frequent quotes him from his letters and other writings. This book is a great introduction to the life and heart of a great reformer, and an excellent work.