The Giant of the North

by R.M. Ballantyne

Available from Vision Forum and Amazon

***

Although the adventure, wit and Christian emphasis in this book are just as satisfactory as many of Ballantyne's other books, this has been my least favorite so far. For one thing it's not quite factual, exploring the discovery of the North Pole before it actually happened. It's very interesting, but that's interesting conjecture. Also there is plenty of the kindly condescension toward Eskimos and the black "wooly" cook. The Eskimo hero is considered, however, to be unusually noble and intelligent. He warmly embraces the Gospel, which is clearly expounded to him. I realize, also, that this condescension is a Christian attitude of Ballantyne's time. Other than these objections I enjoyed this Arctic adventure.

The Captives

by Emma Leslie

available from Amazon

*****

The ancient Britons considered themselves free and noble, scorning the idea of being Roman subjects. But the cruel bondage of the Druid elders was far worse than any the Romans could inflict. While Guntra struggles with a tragic choice, her defiant son meets a Roman soldier in the woods. The Roman, curiously, claimed not to worship the gods of his countrymen, but "the Lord who dwells in heaven, and not in temples of hands." Jugurtha, the Briton lad, was amused to learn that the Roman worshipped the God of the whole earth who "is not cruel like your forest spirits; He is the God of love and kindness." What power could shuch an effeminate god wield? Love was of all things an emotion to be despised and smothered. But the Roman was to show that love and kindness had far more power than the dread of the Druids. It did not take long for such sunshine to melt reserves of hatred and anger. Will Guntra be able to save both her children's lives? Can Jugurtha reconcile his fierce patriotism with his new faith? What would God have him to do, and can he get that past the Roman conquerors?

This story brings Christ and His work to one of my favorite settings. Emma Leslie gives us a touching, fast-paced adventure where the love of Christ is made preeminent.

Helen's Temper and It's Consequences

by Mrs. George Gladstone
Available from Lamplighter Publishing
*****
Helen did have a temper, and she also despised those who were not blessed with beautiful bodies or worldly goods, this latter having much to do with the fact that she craved her peers' approval. Her younger sister Betty was not so smart as Helen, but she had a warm and compassionate heart and manner. When the girls encounter another young girl, who appears to be poor and crippled, Helen is rude, and Betty kindly helps her to find her way home. Betty's tender spirit becomes the means of helping improve the state of poor Louisa's family. She gives what she can to the struggling family, teaches the girls helpful skills, and shares the gospel, resulting in the salvation of more than one. Helen believes that Louisa is a bad reflection on her, and her anger leads her to a tragic behavior. There is one person, however, who sees a way to help Helen.

This is an excellent story for family read-alouds or independent readers. The sweet character of Betty is an inspiration for others, and Helen's is a warning, although the author never explicitly preaches at the reader. I heartily recommend it!

The Twelve Teas of Friendship

by Emilie Barnes
Available from Amazon
*****
What a beautiful book! The pictures are so beautiful and dreamy; the book is great, but the pictures really make it special. Quotes on friendship and facts about tea are also scattered over the pretty pages.

For each month a different "friendship" tea is outlined. They are all about celebrating a different theme with friends. Ideas include "Nature" in July, "Laughter" in September, "Togetherness" in June, "Family" in December, and more. In case you're not sure how to get started on the planning for each tea, there are suggestions for how to decorate, what to serve (including tasty recipes!), and ideas for activities. After the blurb about the tea, there "Something Delicious" (recipes!), "Something to Make" (from napkin holders to a tea cozy), and "Something to Think About". Each has a section about the setting with all kinds of ideas and also a column with "Fun Friendship Facts" pertinent to that month's tea.

This is a great book to use again and again. It's all about enjoying people, because really, that's what a tea party is about. Slowing down, paying attention to little things, and taking the time to care. Have a cup of tea with someone!

How Sleep the Brave

by J. H. Hunter
Available from Inheritance Publications
*****
This is a great story set during the persecutions of the Scottish Covenanters. Daily life and survival is depicted and sermons are related. As people are tortured and killed, the Black Avenger arises, and comes to the rescue of some of them. A master of disguises, nobody knows who he is, even his sweetheart... for a while. He never engages in acts of cruelty or revenge, but makes his appearances only to rescue and protect, although that necessarily involves hurt to the wicked at times. This book of church history is full of danger, adventure, and at all times, no matter the cost, a beautiful trust in God.

I highly recommend this one for children, adults, and families.

End of the Spear

by Steve Saint
Available from Amazon
*****
I've often read that a good author should be able to bring his readers to both laughter and tears, and this book did that for me several times. Not necessarily because Steve Saint is a great writer; with his heritage and experiences anyone should be able to write a great book.

"End of the Spear" is a book of many genres. It is the continued story of "Through Gates of Splendor", a missionary autobiography, a Waodoni history, and a commentary on so many aspects of life. There are several pictures, although it is too bad the ones on the cover are actors from the movie.

Speaking of the movie, if you have seen it, don't expect the book to parallel it. The book begins with Aunt Rachel's funeral, and jumps around a little. After Steve decides to bring his family to live with the Waodani, he learns more and more of the stories and accounts, so many of which are heartrending, that appear throughout the movie.

But then he continues with how he tried to them, and how he learned from them. What he did teach, and why he had to leave. How his children lived in the jungle, and the mutual love between them and the Waodani.

When he returned to the states, Mincaye made several visits, and they spoke at conferences together. Mincaye continued to be a part of his life, supporting him during a crisis he least expected.

If you have read about Nate Saint, Jim Elliot or the others of the 5 who were martyred, the Waodani or "Aucas", if you have seen the "End of the Spear" movie, if you enjoy missionary stories, if you are interested in the unreached peoples of our time, then this is a book you must read.

If you saw the movie and didn't like it, read the book anyway. It's much better, and I promise you'll be blessed by it. The power of God is illustrated so beautifully.

In the Heart of the Rockies

by G. A. Henty
Available from Amazon
***
This was an interesting and educational read, but not my favorite Henty. I did like the setting in Colorado a couple hundred years ago; Tom joins an uncle and together they strike a rich mine, survive a bitter winter in the Rockies, outwit and escape hostile indians, navigate the Colorado river, make it back alive, and eventually live happily ever after on the proceeds of their mine. Not too much nobility of purpose although the characters were morally upright, as always in Henty's books.

For learning about the discovery and exploration of Colorado, the book is great. But don't expect the drama of "The Lion of St. Mark" or "In Freedom's Cause".

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.