Is History Really Dead - Christian Library Journal

Christian
Library
J O U R N A L
Volume IV No.2/3
W inter/Spring 1999
THIS ISSUE FEATURES:
■ Forgotten Pages
■ Monkeys, Men, and Myths
■ The Greatest Story . . .
■ Crown and Lamplighter Nominees,
1999-2000
■ Best Books on Hospitality
■ Wyoming Welcomes CLJ
■ Is History Really Dead?
■ Young Adult Series: Part 2

Dear Readers,
A Letter from the Editor
Corrections Fall, 1998
Greetings from Wyoming! After a long search, I accepted
a full-time professional library position and moved to Sheridan,
Wyoming, in December, 1998. The lovely rolling hills and
greengrass of spring here are wonderful, and call me to long
walks and drives in the nearby Bighorn Mountains. Snow
comes one day, followed by balmy spring weather and then
driving rain, so each day is a new surprise, much like life itself.
I am happy to be back at work on CLJ after a long break,
and hope you find the current issue helpful in your materials
selection for your library. This issue includes about twice the
normal number of reviews, making this a “combined issue,” to
be followed by our Summer issue in another two-three months.
The many renewals we have received in the past two
months have been a strong vote for continuing the journal. We
thank you for your patience, and hope this issue gives you
many ideas for expanding your library collection.
In Christ’s love,
Nancy L. Hesch
Editor and Publisher
In the Picture Book section of
the Fall 98 issue of CLJ, the title
was omitted from the review for
A Bad Case of Stripes, reviewed
by Judy Driscoll. Our apologies
to Blue Sky Press (Scholastic)
and the reviewer. You will find
the review, with its title, in the
Picture Book section of this
issue.
In the Children’s Fiction section,
several reviews were repeated on
the first two pages, thereby
causing several reviews at the
end to be dropped. We are
carrying these reviews in the
current issue. Our apologies to
Soundprints for Mysterious
Journey : Amelia Earhart's Last
Flight and Ice Continent : A
Story of Antarctic; Emerald
Books for The Secret of the Old
Well; Pacific Press Publishing
Assn. for Skeeter, the Wildly
Wacky Raccoon; Journey Books
(Bob Jones University Press) for
Iceland Adventure; and to our
reviewers Marcia Snyder, Jane
Mouttet, Leslie Greaves Radloff,
and Melinda Torgerson.
In the Children’s Nonfiction
section, the review of Charlotte,
by Janet Lunn, was printed only
in part. We are carrying this
review in the current issue. Our
apologies to Tundra Books and
our reviewer, Rhonda Marie
Lackey.

The Christian Library Journal invites
prospective reviewers and writers to write
for information. The Christian Library
Journal is published quarterly September
through August by Christian Library
Services. Subscriptions $45 per year; $55
in Canada. Back issues $4.50 as supplies
last. Bulk postage paid at Billings,
Montana. Indexed in Christian
Periodical Index. Address
correspondence to Christian Library
Journal, 671 Sheri Lane, Sheridan, WY
82801. POSTMASTER: Send address
changes to CLJ, 671 Sheri Lane,
Sheridan, WY 82801. Copyright 1999
by Christian Library Services.
Volume IV No. 2/3
WINTER/SPRING 1999
Christian
ISSN 1097-1262
Library
J O U R N A L
Phone (307) 672-2884
Fax (307) 672-2876
Email heschclj@cyberhighway.net
T A B L E O F
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
C O N T E N T S
Inside Front Cover
The purpose of the Christian Library
Journal is to provide readers with
reviews of both Christian and secular
library materials from a Christian point of
view. About 300 books, cassette tapes,
and videos from both Christian and
secular publishers are reviewed each
issue. Materials reviewed may reflect a
broad range of Christian doctrinal
positions and do not necessarily reflect
the views of the staff of the Christian
Library Journal.
Nancy Hesch
Andrew Seddon
Raymond Legg
Mary McKinney
Sylvia Stopforth
Kitty Lindstrom
Publisher & Editor
Editor: Articles
Editor: Adult Nonfiction
Editor: Adult Fiction,
Young Adult Nonfiction
Children’s Books
Editor: YA Fiction
Design and Graphics
Cover illustration from Because I Love You by
Max Lucado, illustrated by Mitchell Heinze, ©
1999. Reprinted by permission of Crossway
Books.
Printed in the U.S.A.
C O L U M N S
Monkeys, Men, and Myths Andrew Seddon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
School Librarian’s Corner Debra Stombres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Series Fiction: Part 2 Sylvia Stopforth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
The Greatest Story... Mary McKinney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Forgotten Pages Raymond Legg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
A R T I C L E S
Is History Really Dead? Leslie Greaves Radloff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Best Books on Hospitality Lydia E. Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
1998 Gold Medallion Award Winners Debra Stombres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
R E V I E W S
Picture Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Children’s Fiction : Gr. 2 - 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Children’s Nonfiction : Gr. 2 - 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Young Adult Fiction : Gr. 6 - 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Young Adult Nonfiction : Gr. 6 - 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Adult Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Adult Nonfiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
O T H E R
Publisher List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

AWord from the Editor: Andrew M. Seddon
MONKEYS,
MEN, AND
MYTHS
Few secular books have had more impact on
Christianity than Charles Darwin’s 1859 The
Origin of Species. Although the concept of
evolution wasn’t new, Darwin gave it a form
that virtually assured its acceptance by the
scientific community, and triggered what in
our century has been perceived as a ‘war’
between science and religion.
Today, an increasing number of scientists
find no conflict between their Christian faith
and scientific discoveries. But the conflict
over evolution still rages - not only between
Christian and un-believing scientist, but
between Christians of differing viewpoints.
(The term ‘creationist’ ought to include
everyone who believes that God created the
universe, but is usually restricted to those
who believe in a recent date for creation and
a literal interpretation of Genesis. Other
Christians hold to an old age of the earth and
allegorize or reinterpret the Genesis
account.)
As one consequence, books on the creationevolution
controversy have proliferated.
Some are well-written and thoughtful, others
are mere rehashes or second-rate offerings.
It is not my purpose in this article to
promote or defend any particular viewpoint,
but rather to list some of the more recent
books that may be worthy of review by
those interested in a particular aspect of the
controversy, or who wish to ‘read around’
the issues. Inclusion of a book should
therefore not be taken to imply endorsement
of the author’s viewpoint or arguments.
Creation/evolution literature can be roughly
divided as follows:
1) Those who believe in an entirely
naturalistic origin of the universe, where
God is either absent or irrelevant. Stephen
Hawking, Carl Sagan, and Steven J. Gould
would be examples. Since this is not a
Christian position, books promulgating this
viewpoint are not included in this review.
2) Those who believe that the God of
the Bible created the universe. This
category can be divided into:
a) Those who accept a recent date
for creation (‘young-earthers’), who usually
also deny evolutionary processes. Examples
would include Henry Morris and Duane
Gish.
b) Those who believe the
universe is ancient (‘old-earthers’), and who
may accept that God actively directs
evolutionary processes (Pattle Pun and
others, ‘theistic evolution’); personally
intervenes at specific points (Hugh Ross;
‘progressive creationism’); or created a
universe capable from its inception of
development (John Polkinghorne and others;
‘theistic creationism’).
The terms ‘evolution’ and ‘Darwinism’ are
frequently (and misleadingly) used
interchangeably. Evolution describes
changes over time; Darwinism is a specific
mechanism for change. Darwin originally
proposed that ‘natural selection’ operated on
existing variation in species; this idea fell
out of favor towards the late 1800s and was
replaced by the neo-Darwinian synthesis,
which is the version commonly taught in
schools. In this version, ‘natural selection’
works on random mutations in the genetic
code to produce new species. So to
challenge ‘evolution’ means to challenge the
whole idea of development over time
(whether caused by natural processes or
God); to challenge Darwinism means to
challenge one proposed mechanism of
evolution. Hence some evolutionists will
critique Darwinism while still holding to
evolutionary theory. It would be wrong to
label these critics as thereby believing in a
divinely directed creation.
Books on creation and evolution will
typically involve a variety of topics
including radiometric dating, the laws of
thermodynamics, the fossil record, presumed
human ancestors, the Genesis flood, etc. It
would be easy to spread the net wider and
include books dealing with the origin of the
universe (ie Creation vs the Big Bang), and
the relationship of science and theology; but
with a few exceptions, the following
bibliography is restricted to books dealing
with creation and evolution.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. General critiques of
Darwinism by Christians:
Phillip Johnson is a lawyer who
has written three books
critiquing Darwinian theory and
naturalism:
Darwin on Trial, IVP, 1991
Reason in the Balance, IVP,
1995
Defeating Darwinism, IVP,
1997
Charles Hodge, What is
Darwinism? Baker, 1994. This
book was originally written in
the late 19th century.
2. Critiques of Darwinism by
non-creationists:
Michael Behe, Darwin’s Black
Box, the biochemical challenge
to evolution. Free Press, 1996.
Behe is a Roman Catholic.
Michael Denton, Evolution - A
Theory in Crisis, Adler & Adler,
1986. Critiques evolution from
a variety of angles.
Richard Milton, Shattering the
Myths of Darwinism, Park
Street Press, 1997.
3. Books by young-earth
creationists:
By far the most books have
come from scientists affiliated
with the Institute of Creation
Research, founded by Henry
Morris. Morris has written
many books; the founding of
modern creationism may be said
to date from the publication of
The Genesis Flood by
Whitcomb and Morris in 1961.
Scientific Creationism has been
regarded as the standard
exposition of the young-earth
position.
Henry M. Morris, Biblical
Creationism, Baker, 1993. The
biblical counterpart to Scientific
Creationism.
The Biblical Basis for Modern
Science, Baker, 1984
The Long War Against God,
Baker, 1989. Explores the idea
that evolution is merely one
aspect of the devil’s war against
God.
Duane Gish, Creation Scientists
Answer Their Critics, ICR, 1993.
A refutation of criticisms of
creation science, such as those
contained in Montague and
Kitcher (below).
Evolution - the Fossils Still Say
No, ICR, 1995. The most
definitive criticism of the fossil
record.
Henry M. and John Morris, The
Modern Creation Trilogy, Master
Books, 1996. The most recent
exposition.
Marvin Lubenow, Bones of
Contention, Baker, 1992. A
criticism of supposed human
ancestry.
4. Books by old-earth creationists.
The most influential old-earth
creationist is probably astronomer
Hugh Ross and his organization
Reasons to Believe, which aims
to provide evidences for divine
activity from scientific
discoveries.
Hugh Ross, The Fingerprint of
God, Promise, 1989
The Creator and the Cosmos,
NavPress, 1993.
Creation and Time, NavPress,
1994.
Beyond the Cosmos, NavPress,
1996. Explores the
multidimensionality of God.
Ronald Youngblood, ed. The
Genesis Debate, Baker, 1986.
Robert Gange, Origin and
Destiny, Word, 1986.
Howard J. Van Till, Ed., Portraits
of Creation, Eerdmans, 1990.
5. Critiques of creationism. Most
critiques of creationism focus on
the young-earth variety.
By Christians:
Alan Hayward, Creation and
Evolution, SPCK, 1985. Hayward
believes the six creation days to
be days of divine fiat. Recently
released in the US by Bethany
House.
Howard J. Van Till and others,
Science Held Hostage - What’s
Wrong with Creation Science and
Evolutionism, IVP, 1988.
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

Lee Tiffin, Creationism’s Upsidedown
Pyramid, Prometheus,
1994. Tiffin, a minister, criticizes
flood geology.
Critiques of creationism by non-
Christians vary in the vehemence
with which they assail religious
beliefs in general. (Delos
McKown’s The Mythmakers
Magic is an extreme example of
anti-religious rhetoric obscuring
both scientific logic and good
taste and is not recommended for
this reason).
Ashley Montagu, ed. Science and
Creationism, Oxford, 1984.
Critiques creationism from a
variety of perspectives; some
authors do claim Christian beliefs.
Philip Kitcher, Abusing Science,
MIT Press, 1994.
Michael Ruse, But is it Science?
Prometheus, 1996. Tackles mainly
philosophical issues.
6. Other books of related interest:
John Sailhamer, Genesis
Unbound, Multnomah, 1996. A
novel reinterpretation of Genesis
1 and 2 by a noted biblical
scholar.
Ronald Numbers, The
Creationists, Knopf, 1992. A
history of the creationist
movement.
Ian Taylor, In the Minds of Men,
TFE, 1984. An examination of the
ramifications of Darwinism.
Del Ratzsh, The Battle of
Beginnings, IVP, 1996. Critiques
both creation science and its
opponents. Ratzsh freely admits
his confusion over which side is
‘correct’.
J.P. Moreland, ed. The Creation
Hypothesis, IVP, 1994. Examines
the evidence for ‘intelligent
design’ in the universe.
James Moore, The Darwin
Legend, Baker, 1994. Refutes the
idea that Darwin converted to
Christianity before his death.
7. From a Jewish Perspective.
Physicist Gerald Schroeder has
written two books examining
Genesis from a Jewsish
perspective:
Genesis and the Big Bang,
Bantam, 1990.
The Science of God, Free Press,
1997. Schroeder proposes that
the days of Genesis 1 need to be
understood in the concept of
‘cosmic time’.
Sign up now
to include your young Christian readers
in the
CROWN and LAMPLIGHTER
program.
Send an SASE (with .85 postage) to
Sandra Morrow, 11908 North Lamar, Austin, TX 78753
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

School Librarian’s s Corner
Technology Corner:
Welcome back to the School Library Corner of
Christian Library Journal.
by Debra Stombres
Awards to Note: Crown and
Lamplighter Nominations are out.
1999/2000 Crown Nominees:
Addie’s Forever Friend. Laurie Lawlor.
Animals that Walk on Water.
Patricia A. F. Martin.
Annie Henry and the Mysterious Stranger.
Susan Olasky.
Children of the Longhouse.
Joseph Bruchac.
Danger along the Ohio. Patricia Willis.
Faraway Summer. Johanna Hurwitz.
Flor and Tiger. Eric Carle.
Flute’s Journey. Lynne Cherry.
The Great Wall. Elizabeth Mann.
Hurricanes. Patricia Lauber.
Kavik. Walt Morey.
The Life and Times of the Peanut.
Charles Micucci.
Mist Over the Mountains. Raymond Bial.
Norman Rockwell-America’s Best -Loved
Illustrator. Joel Choen.
Old People, Frogs and Albert.
Nancy Hoep Wilson.
Orcas Around Me. Debra Page.
Silent Night. Margaret Hodges.
There’s Still Time. Mark Galan.
Tornado. Betsy Byars.
White Water. P. J. Peterson.
1999/2000 Lamplighter Nominees:
As Long as there are Mountains. Natalie
Kinsey-Warnock.
Basher Five-Two. Scott O’Grady.
A Distant Enemy. Deb Vanasse.
Echohawk. Lynda Durrant.
Journey of the Red Wolf. Roland Smith.
A Journey to the New World:
the Diary of Remember
Patience Whipple. Kathryn Lasky.
Meet the Austins. Madeleine L’Engle.
Out of Darkness. Russell Friedman.
Promise Song. Linda Holeman.
Tae’s Sonata. Haemi Balgassi.
www.classroom.net
This issue we are going to take a look at a popular and important
web site called Classroom Connect. This site is a great resource for
you whether you are a novice as a cybernaute or whether you surf
the web in all of your free time.
Taken from the welcome page at the Classroom Connect site during
one visit is a statement indicative of a growing national and perhaps
international attitude. “Information literacy will become an important benchmark in
their (students) success as they become the leaders of an increasingly global society.”
As school librarians, developing information literacy is one of our prime directives. The
Classroom Connect site is useful for our own development as well as a helpful place to
start when teaching our students.
For the beginning Web searcher, there are many helps. Check out the link to the
Classroom Connect Resource Station to find links to pages that teach citing internet
resources, give answers to FAQs (frequently asked questions), fun links, internet
acceptable use policies, lessons plans, global projects, college preparation, grant writing,
guide to searching, teacher contact database, and even video conferencing. This is a
great place to learn the basics of using the internet safely.
If you grow tired of weeding out the valuable results of a Yahoo or AltaVista search, try
G.R.A.D.E.S. This is Classroom Connect’s own search engine which brings in only
sites it has evaluated and approved. Remember, many search engines “crawl” around
cyber-space adding whatever they find, true and valuable or not.
Besides the search engine for reference sites, Classroom Connect offers search engines
for schools by school name, city, state, or country. Their interactive databases include a
teacher contact database. Help your teachers make that first connection to another
school desiring to do that internet project on the effects of El Nino in other parts of the
country.
Classroom Connect publishes a number of internet products which it markets at its site.
I have used the Internet Driver’s License and find it informative and thorough but
maybe a bit juvenile for high school students. If you are considering allowing students
to have internet access and you wish to train them and set some rules, it is a valuable
tool.
Got other favorite sites?
Email me at dstombres@aol.com!
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

Author Highlights:
Jean Craighead George, 2nd place winner
of the Lamplighter Classic award for
1998.
Visit her web page for a brief
autobiography and correspond with her
through email.
[www.jeancraigheadgeorge.com/]
“I write for children. Children are still
in love with the wonders of nature, and I
am too. So I tell them stories about a
boy and a falcon, a girl and an elegant
wolf pack, about owls, weasels, foxes,
prairie dogs, the alpine tundra, the
tropical rain forest. And when the telling
is done, I hope they will want to protect
all the beautiful creatures and places.”
Questions & Answers
Send questions to dstombres@aol.com or write to CLJ.
Q. Do I need an expensive computer to go online?
A. Not necessarily, though you probably won’t be able to
run the newest and fastest web browsing software. Last Spring (1998)
I purchased a 486 75MHz PC with Windows 3.1 and a 33.6 modem
for my parents. The modem did more for them than the speed of the
processor. This did not include a sound card but sound can be
distracting in a library anyway. I purchased the whole system
including monitor for about $300.00. By Spring of 1999 you should
be able to get a used Pentium 133 system for about this price. Most
internet service providers will give you free software. Check out
places that specialize in used PC equipment such as Computer
Renaissance for a basic system, but make sure you get a warranty.
Web Sites of Interest to Christian Librarians!
REFERENCE SOURCES:
Britannica’s Web Guide
www.eblast.com
Here is another great help when using the Web for research purposes.
Offering both a hierarchical index and a search engine of selected
sites, this free site is very useful when helping students find sites for
papers, debates, etc.
State and Local government on the Web:
www.piperinfo.com/state/states.html
Links to all 50 states and provinces, which in turn link to state and
local government sites. Also links to government associations and
Web sites.
CHRISTIAN SOURCES:
Religious Resources
http://etext.virginia.edu/relig.browse.html
The Revised Standard Version of the Bible and the King James are
available full-text in side by side frames for comparison.
Gospel Communications Network
www.gospelcom.net
Choose links to 116 Christian Organizations from this home page, or
search by keywords. Organized by Gospel Films, this is a great way
to check out Christian sites with a “one-stop shopping” method!
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

Is History Really Dead
or Do Books Just Make It Seem That Way?
think history is dull with a capital
“D”, you are not alone. Many students
Ifyou
have concluded just that. It’s no small
wonder when so many social studies and history
textbooks retell historical incidents in a dry,
matter of fact manner, leaving the story out in the
cold. With a little help and encouragement from
the school librarian however, classroom teachers
can use trade books to counteract dry texts and
make learning history interesting and fun. School
librarians can suggest picture book titles to be
used to introduce young readers to history and
plan displays of picture books which will serve to
whet their appetites and lead them to more indepth
study.
Learning history takes on new interest once it is
realized that history is someone’s story. That
person may be a pivotal player on the historical
scene, a minor figure, or “a footnote” in history.
All have a voice, a story to tell which supplies a
portion of the entire picture. High caliber trade
books make these stories come alive.
Books chosen with the following items in mind
will also add to the reader’s body of knowledge.
Through reading students should:
1) gain a knowledge of the world
around them,
2) discover ideas for themselves,
3) use the historical process,
4) explore materials for themselves,
5) develop critical thinking skills,
6) expand their minds and horizons,
7) be exposed to diverse ideas and
opinions, and
8) use a wide variety of reading levels and
materials tailored to meet the educational
and instructional goals set by the
teachers and students themselves.
Trade books provide an entre for topics discussed
in the text. They may be used to enhance
learning during the study of a theme or unit, or as
culminating activity. Picture books of a short and
visually appealing nature lend themselves to this
kind of use. Their length is less threatening to
less-abled readers while allowing scope to better
readers. The art work invites and engages the
reader and adds depth and breadth to learning.
Good description invites readers to make mental
images of a scene to compare and contrast to
prior knowledge and reinforce new learning.
Today’s picture books are written for a variety of
grade and reading levels. Hiroshima no Pika and
Rose Blanche both have an intended audience of
older readers because of their subject matter.
They work well with students in upper middle
and upper grades studying war and its effects.
Librarians can encourage teachers of upper
grades to include them in their lesson plans and
classrooms, and provide a collection of picture
books to be used primarily with students in those
grades.
In middle grades a study of the Civil War can be
introduced by looking at the horrors of slavery
and an explanation of the Constitutional
Convention’s compromise to count slaves as 3/5
of a person by reading Turner’s Nettie’s Trip
South. Later Bunting’s The Blue and the Gray or
Polacco’s Pink and Say could be read to illustrate
how war affects people. Many picture books
focusing on historical events or people provide
bibliographies for further reading which allow
students to explore a topic more fully.
Picture books are published and available for
most historical eras though many books focus on
American history and the Holocaust. There are
many selection aids for incorporating picture
books in the area of social studies and history.
Some are designed specifically for teachers, but
librarians can also make use of the suggestions as
well as the list of selected resources found in the
teacher’s manuals.
Librarians will find the following criteria for
selecting history and social studies trade books
helpful.
1) Know the author’s qualifications.
Check the track record and the
reviews; study
the lists from the
National Council of
Social
Studies Teachers, theInternational
Reading Association, and others.
2) Facts should be accurate. Check a
standard text or ask an expert.
3) Is the book current? Check for
offensive language - racist, sexist, or
stereotyped.
4) Illustrations should clarify text and
explain diagrams or maps.
5) Can fact and theory be clearly
delineated? This may be hard to do
especially in historical fiction where real
life people and made up blend.
6) Author’s purpose...to defend, convince,
enlighten?
7) Who is the intended audience and is the
book suitable?
8) Is the subject covered adequately?
9) Does the book foster inquiry?
10) For non-fiction check organization. Is it
logical? What is the sequence?
Simplest to most complex? Familiar to
unfamiliar? Early to late?
11) Is the language vivid and interesting?
The text should be lively, not plodding
and dull; suitable for non-fiction, but not
too casual.
12) Are there reference tools/aids such as:
glossary, table of contents, suggested
reading list, index, maps, pronunciation
guide, appendix, bibliography?
13) Are illustrations accurate?
14) Are a variety of primary source
materials such as pictures, photos,
documents, drawings etc. used with
clearly written captions? Are these
captions placed so that readers which
illustration they explain? Does the
medium suit the purpose or are black
and white illustrations used when color
would tell the story better or more fully?
Check size of illustrations to see if an
important part has been cropped.
15) How will the story foster
understanding between people?
16) Is the sum total of the book attractive
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 7 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

and clear?
17) What is your initial reaction to it? If
you don’t like it, it will gather dust on
your library’s shelves.
18) Check for historical anachronisms and
anomalies. Nothing destroys a book’s
credibility, or the librarian’s for that
matter, faster than a reader finding
something out of place or downright
wrong.
While many of these guidelines are general
and used for all book selection, they are of
utmost importance when applied to the
selection of non-fiction trade books to
enhance and extend the teaching of social
studies and history. The books in the
following bibliography are a small sampling
of those available and fit the criteria
established. You will find them useful with
many grade levels and generally “Good
Reads” all around. A look through the
shelves at your library, and the public library
and bookstore will yield a long list of titles
that you will find indispensible.
AUTHORS ON WHOM
YOU CAN COUNT
The following authors have established a
reputation for thorough research and
accurate writing. Picture books by these
authors can be used to introduce topics,
extend lessons, research on assigned topics,
and provide free reading.
David Adler. A Picture Book of....
Holiday, Series of picture book
biographies which introduce young readers
to famous Americans.
Don Brown. Ruth Law Thrills a Nation,
Ticknor & Fields, 1993; Alice Ramsey’s
Grand Adventure, Houghton, 1997.
Eve Bunting. The Blue and the Gray,
Scholastic, 1996; Dandelions, Harcourt
Brace, 1995; and other titles.
Jean Fritz. Many titles on a picture-story
book level.
Leonard Everett Fischer. Galileo,
Gutenburg, and other titles.
Gail Gibbons. Beacons of Light:
Lighthouses, Morrow, 1990; The Great St.
Lawrence Seaway, Morrow, 1991.
Amy Hest. When Jessie Came Across the
Sea, Candlewick, 1997.
Deborah Hopkinson. Sweet Clara and the
Freedom Quilt, Knopf, 1993.
Robert Innocenti. Rose Blanche. Creative
Education, 1985.
Tony Johnston. The Wagon. Tambourin,
1996.
Kroll, Steven. Lewis and Clark: Explorers
of the American West, Holiday, 1994.
Ellen Levine. If You Traveled West in a
Covered Wagon, Scholastic. Part of a
series.
David Macaulay. Pyramid, Mill,
Cathedral.
Maruki, T. Hiroshima No Pika. William
Morrow, 1980.
Ken Mochizuki. Baseball Saved Us. Lee
& Low Books, 1993.
Patricia Polacco. Pink and Say. Philomel,
1994.
A. and M. Provensen. The Buck Stops
Here. HarperCollins, 1990.
Faith Ringgold. Aunt Harriet’s
Underground Railroad in the Sky. Crown,
1993.
Glen Rounds. Sod Houses on the Great
Plains. Holiday House, 1995.
Marcia Sewall. The Pilgrims of Plimouth.
Atheneum, 1986.
James Stevenson. Don’t You Know There’s
AWar On? Greenwillow, 1991.
Dorrith M. Sim. In My Pocket. Harcourt,
1997.
Edward Tunis. Shaw’s Fortune: The
Picture of a Colonial Plantation (out of
print but available in libraries).
Ann Turner. Nettie’s Trip South,
Macmillian, 1987; Dakota Dugout,
Aladdin, 1989; Kate’s Trunk, Macmillan,
1992.
Jean Van Leeuwen. A Fourth of July on
the Plains, Dial; Across the Wide Dark
Sea: The Mayflower Journey. Dial, 1995.
Jane Yolen. Encounter. Harcourt, Brace,
Jovanich, 1992.
MATERIALS TO AID
SELECTION
BOOK LINKS: CONNECTING BOOKS,
LIBRARIES AND CLASSROOMS.
American Library Association. Bi-monthly
newsletter.
COOKING UP U.S. HISTORY: RECIPES
AND RESEARCH TO SHARE WITH
CHILDREN. Suzanne I. Barchers and
Patricia C. Marden (Teacher Idea Press,
1991)
LITERATURE CONNECTIONS TO
AMERICAN HISTORY: RESOURCES TO
ENHANCE AND ENTICE K-6. Linda G.
Adamson (Libraries Unlimited, 1997)
LITERATURE CONNECTIONS TO
AMERICAN HISTORY: RESOURCES TO
ENHANCE AND ENTICE 7-12. Linda G.
Adamson (Libraries Unlimited, 1997)
SOCIAL STUDIES THROUGH
CHILDREN’S LITERATURE: AN
INTEGRATED APPROACH. Anthony D.
Fredericks (Teacher Idea Press,1991)
AMERICA AS STORY: HISTORICAL
FICTION FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
1st and 2nded. Elizabeth F. Howard
(American Library Association, 1988, 1997)
LITERATURE BASED SOCIAL STUDIES:
CHILDREN’S BOOKS & ACTIVITIES TO
ENRICH THE K-5 CURRICULUM.
Mildred Knight Laughlin and Patricia Payne
Kardaleff (Oryx, 1991)
ADVENTURES WITH SOCIAL STUDIES
THROUGH LITERATURE. Sharron L.
McElmeel (Teacher Ideas Press, 1991)
UNDERSTANDING AMERICAN
HISTORY THROUGH CHILDREN’S
LITERATURE: INSTRUCTIONAL UNITS
AND ACTIVITIES FOR GRADES K-8.
Maria A. Perez-Stable and Mary Hurlbut
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

1998 Gold Medallion
Award Winners
Bibles:
The MacArthur Study Bible, John
MacArthur, Word Publishing.
Reference Works/Commentaries:
Dictionary of the Later New Testament
and Its Developments, edited by Ralph P.
Martin & Peter H. Davids, InterVarsity
Press.
Fiction:
Only the River Runs Free, Bodie & Brock
Thoene, Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Autobiography:
Just As I Am, Billy Graham, co-published
by Zondervan Publishing House and
HarperCollins.
Theology/Doctrine:
Jesus and the Gospels, Craig L. Blomberg
Broadman & Holman Publishers.
Devotional:
Experiencing God Day-By-Day, Henry
Blackaby & Richard Blackaby, Broadman
& Holman Publishers.
Inspirational:
What’s So Amazing About Grace? Philip
Yancey, Zondervan Publishing House.
Christian Living:
Prayer - The Great Adventure, Dr. David
Jeremiah, Multnomah Publishers, Inc.
Christianity and Society:
Their Blood Cries Out, Paul Marshall,
Word Publishing.
Missions/Evangelism:
An Unchanging Faith in a Changing
World, Kenneth D. Boa & Robert M.
Bowman, Jr., Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Christian Ministry:
Reaching a Generation for Christ, Richard
R. Dunn, Mark H. Senter III, General
Editors, Moody Press.
Christian Education:
Gospel Light’s Little Blessings, A
Complete Nursery Kit for Loving God’s
Little Ones, Sheryl Haystead, Editor,
Gospel Light.
Preschool Children:
The Parable Series (Set of 4) - Liz Curtis
Higgs, Tommy Nelson.
Elementary Children:
The Jubilee Family Illustrated Bible, Dr.
Claude-Bernard Costecalde, Consulting
Editor. Jubilee Publishing Group.
Youth:
It’s Time to Be Bold, Michael W. Smith,
Word Publishing.
Marriage:
Men And Sex, Dr. Clifford Penner & Joyce
Penner, Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Family and Parenting:
Extraordinary Kids, Cheri Fuller & Louise
Tucker Jones, Focus on the Family Book
Publishing.
Bible Study:
God’s Story, Anne Graham Lotz, Word
Publishing.
CONFERENCE
TIME
will soon be upon us.
Want to share CLJ with
others?
Ask us for sample issues to
share with other librarians
and/or administrators at
your regional conference of
Christian schools or
libraries.
We are happy to send up to
50 copies (as supplies last).
Nancy L. Hesch
Christian Library Services
671 Sheri Lane
Sheridan, WY 82801
Fax (307) 672-2876
heschclj@cyberhighway.net
Because I am working full-time, please
try to reach us by fax or email.
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

Best Books
on
Hospitality
by Lydia E. Harris
Hospitality — an almost
forgotten ministry - is needed
more than ever in today’s
hectic, impersonal world. The
following books offer
inspiration, biblical teaching,
and practical suggestions to
help Christians obey the
biblical command to “practice
hospitality.”
__________________________________
The Joy of Hospitality: Fun Ideas for
Evangelistic Entertaining, by Vonette Bright
& Barbara Ball (NewLife Publications,
1996, PB, 252 pages, $10.99).
Experienced in outreach through Campus
Crusade for Christ, these authors share the
exciting concept of evangelistic entertaining.
They provide step-by-step mentoring to host
gatherings, prepare testimonies, and lead
follow-up home Bible studies. Their fun
ideas are suitable for church, neighborhood,
or workplace. The book is full of creative
events for different ages and occasions, and
contains an extensive resource section which
includes helps for party planning and
sharing faith. This comprehensive book
combines evangelism and hospitality and is
a must for church libraries.
Also available, compiled by the same
authors and with the same publisher, is The
Joy of Hospitality Cookbook (1996, PB, 480
pages, $16.99). Both titles stand alone but
can be used together.
Open Heart, Open Home: The Hospitable
Way to Make Others Feel Welcome and
Wanted, by Karen Mains (Mainstay Church
Resources, 1997, PB, 208 pages, $11.00).
First published in 1976, this revised classic
provides a theological basis for hospitality.
Topics include hospitality versus
entertaining, hospitality as a gift of the
Spirit, servanthood, and more. Mains
believes hospitality begins at home and
should extend to the church, neighborhood,
and society. She includes practical tips on
time and home management along with new,
thought-provoking “Opening the Door”
activities that close each chapter. The
principles taught are pertinent for singles,
marrieds, men, women, churches, and
organizational boards.
Welcome, Stranger: Welcome, Friend:
Serving Those in Need Through Hospitality,
by Joann Cairns (Gospel Publishing House,
1988, PB, 144 pages, $3.95).
Cairns uses the biblical meaning of
hospitality, “love of strangers,” to emphasize
extending hospitality to neighbors, church
visitors, missionaries, co-workers, or out-oftown
guests. Her easy-to-read handbook
combines personal experiences, biblical
accounts, and practical teaching. Seasoned
in hospitality, she offers guidance for
handling restricted diets, lack of confidence,
time, and money. Additional tips include
being a good host and guest, ministering to
the bereaved, and preparing for unexpected
company. Appendices offer tasty menus and
recipes. An excellent, economical resource.
Creative Hospitality: How to Turn Home
Entertaining Into a Real Ministry, by Nancy
Van Pelt (Review and Herald Publishing,
1995, PB, 224 pages, $10.99).
A home economist, Van Pelt offers practical
advice for planning, organizing, and
extending gracious entertaining. She
provides useful tips for table settings, food
presentation, buffets, picnics, and potlucks.
Challenging readers to minister through
hospitality, she cites biblical role models and
emphasizes that hospitality is a powerful
witnessing tool. She encourages keeping
hospitality simple, developing a personal
style, and being hospitable to others besides
friends. Attractively illustrated and easy to
read, this excellent resource includes a
seven-week study guide and bibliography.
The Joy of Hospitality: Recovering a Lost
Art , by Dee Brestin (ChariotVictor, 1993,
PB, 96 pages, $5.99).
Brestin believes the world would change if
Christians practiced hospitality. This eightweek
women’s Bible study teaches
differences between hospitality and
entertaining, ingredients of hospitality,
hospitality to family and others, holiday
hospitality, being a gracious guest, and
more. Lessons include Scriptures, questions,
“Action Assignments,” prayers, and leader’s
helps at the conclusion of the guide. This
study is highly recommended for libraries
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 1 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

with curriculum resource sections.
A Christian Woman’s Guide to Hospitality,
by Quin Sherrer & Laura Watson (Vine
Books, 1993, PB, 247 pages, $10.99).
Previously published as A House of Many
Blessings, this motivational guide teaches
the importance and blessings of hospitality.
It’s divided into five parts: blessings of
home, family, special friends, sharing, and
God’s peace. Topics cover decorating on a
tight budget, putting family first, mentoring,
making guests feel welcome, using homes
for ministry, and much more. It stresses
letting God use your home to bless others.
Personal stories, practical ideas, and
generous biblical teaching make this a
valuable resource. Notes and recommended
books are included.
Party Mix: 21 Creative Plans for Fun
Fellowship, by Karol K. Ladd (Broadman &
Holman, 1997, PB, 238 pages, $10.99).
This handy resource provides creative ideas
to throw successful parties for church,
neighbors, families, or friends. It includes
theme parties (e.g. sea cruises, western, and
Hawaiian), special events (showers,
birthdays, farewells, and congratulations),
and year-round holiday celebrations.
Complete with plans for invitations,
decorations, activities, menus and recipes,
these innovative suggestions help teens and
adults host fun-filled parties. Useful recipe
and activity indeces are included.
Welcome Home, by Emilie Barnes with Anne
Christian Buchanan (Harvest House, 1997,
HB, 122 pages, $19.99).
Barnes’ heart for hospitality is seen
throughout this attractive gift book. Filled
with “housewarming” ideas for each room, it
shows how to create a welcoming home for
family and friends. Color photographs
provide a tour of her cozy home where she
hosts gatherings and regards family and
guests as royalty. A friendly book full of
love, beauty, and inspiration, Welcome Home
assures women it’s worth their time to create
warm, inviting homes.
Let’s Have a Tea Party! Special
Celebrations for Little Girls, by Emilie
Barnes (Harvest House, 1997, HB, 32 pages,
$14.99).
What little (or big!) girl wouldn’t enjoy a
garden or musical tea party? This colorfully
illustrated book presents six imaginative tea
parties with ideas for invitations,
decorations, menus, and fun activities.
Using these suggestions, mothers (or
grandmothers) and daughters can create
lasting tea party memories. Although bestsuited
for girls through grade school, party
themes could be adapted for older girls. A
charming addition for children.
For adult tea party ideas consider the
following titles by the same author and
publisher:
If Teacups Could Talk , (HB, 72 pages,
$15.99) or shorter version, An Invitation to
Tea, (PB, 48 pages, $7.99). Both include
paintings by Sandy Lynam Clough.
We Didn’t Know They Were Angels:
Discovering the Gift of Christian
Hospitality, by Doris W. Greig (Regal
Books, 1987, PB, 404 pages, $9.95).
This volume is an interesting blend of
personal accounts, recipes, and gentle
exhortation to practice hospitality. In part
one, Greig shares family stories of sacrifice
and blessings from thirty-five years of
welcoming guests and teaches biblical
lessons on hospitality. Chapters end with
thought-provoking study questions. Part
two, over half the book, contains almost 300
family-tested recipes for modest budgets.
Each recipe category (e.g. salads, desserts)
has a separate index.
Once-a-Month-Cooking, by Mimi Wilson &
Mary Beth Lagerborg (Focus, 1992, PB, 160
pages, $10.99).
Cooking only once-a-month is the method
taught in this unique cookbook. It provides
detailed grocery lists, recipes, and
instructions for preparing two week’s or one
month’s entrees at a time. Recipes are
varied, flavorful, and include low-fat
selections and side dishes. Especially
helpful for singles and busy individuals, this
plan supplies nutritious meals, reduces time,
cost, and waste, and invites spontaneous
hospitality. It’s an excellent, practical
resource with special helps and index.
The Personal Touch: Encouraging Others
Through Hospitality, by Rachael Crabb with
Raeann Hart (NavPress, 1990, PB, 129
pages, $8.00).
These authors believe the purpose of
genuine hospitality is to encourage others.
Adding your “personal touch” and focusing
on people, not preparations, makes it
effective. An inspirational, quick read with
practical insights, this book also includes
party ideas, menus, activities, special family
and holiday celebrations.
Lydia E. Harris, M.A. in Home Economics,
educator, is a freelance writer who “practices
hospitality” with her husband in Seattle,
Washington. Her special-tea is serving tea. This
article appeared initially in Church Libraries.
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 1 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

BOOK REVIEWS
PICTURE BOOKS
Little Bear’s Big Adventure, by Kathleen Allan-
Meyer; illustrated by Elaine Garvin. LCCN
9811239. Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books, 1998.
ISBN 1579240607, PAP, $5.49.
E. Bears--Fiction; Animals--Fiction; Behavior--Fiction. 32 p.
PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Mother has always said, “Please stay right outside the
front door,” but today Little Bear wishes for a new
experience so he will feel big and brave. Then two of
his friends invite him to go fishing in Big River and
Little Bear’s Big Adventure begins. That is also when
his big troubles begin, for Little Bear falls into the
river.
On the next adventure Little Bear gets sick from
eating too many blueberries. But when the friends
want him to carry a beehive home so they can enjoy
the honey, Little Bear stops and says, “No.” He
discovers the real way to feel brave. Little Bear is
sorry he has disobeyed his mother. He knows she is
right when she says little adventures are best for him
and he tells her so too.
Kathleen Allan-Meyer, a preschool teacher, has
written books based on experiences with the children
she has taught. The Little Bear Books were written to
help children learn big lessons.
Elaine Garvin’s playful paintings show her delight in
picturing small animals, and make the story come to
life with action and feeling. Marie Knaupp
The Pumpkin Runner, by Marsha Diane Arnold;
pictures by Brad Sneed. LCCN 9726666. New
York: Dial, 1998. ISBN 0803721250, HBB, $15.99.
E. Running--Fiction; Pumpkins--Fiction; Australia--Fiction;
Individuality--Fiction. 30 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Joshua Summerhayes, at age sixty, inspects the sheep
on his ten-thousand-acre ranch by running. He
decides to enter the Koala-K 900 hundred kilometer
race. Instead of the usual running attire, Joshua wears
overalls and orange gumboots. By the afternoon of
the first day, Joshua is keeping pace with the other
runners, and on the third day he is leading the race.
On the fourth day Joshua makes world news, and
photographers from all over the world travel to
Wombat Flat. However, one contestant is determined
to win the $10,000 prize and gets a ride in a hot-air
balloon for part of the distance. As the balloon
descends, it collides with a jeep, and Joshua wins the
race, setting a new record. He splits the winnings
with the other runners and only keeps enough of his
share to buy a new pair of overalls and gumboots.
Marsha Diane Arnold has written a story based on a
sixty-one-year-old farmer from Victoria, Australia,
who won an 875 kilometer race in 1983. The farmer
set a new record and won $10,000 that he split with
the other runners.
The Pumpkin Runner is an enjoyable story about a
sheep rancher who loves running. Joshua competes
in a race not for the prize money but just for pleasure
and doesn’t care that everyone ignores the runner
with gray hair and funny clothes until he leads the
race. The color illustrations by Brad Sneed add to the
enjoyment of the story. Dianne Woodman
Parts, by Tedd Arnold. LCCN 96028552. New
York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 1997. ISBN
0803720408, HBB, $14.99.
E. Body, Human--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. Unp. K - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
I think it was three days ago
I first became aware—
That in my comb were caught a couple
Pieces of my hair.
In this rollicking new book by Tedd Arnold, a fiveyear-old
boy discovers some unnerving things about
himself—more specifically, about his body. Written
humorously in first person, Arnold explores a child’s
discovery of what I’d call “body oddities”—hair that
sheds, skin that flakes, and baby teeth that loosen.
My own five-year-old, impressed by the bold
illustrations, sat riveted through the reading. We
laughed together when the boy in the story found
belly-button lint in his navel and concluded that his
stuffing was coming out; and again when the boy
suggested that “soon I’ll be in pieces in a pile without
a shape…thank goodness Dad keeps lots and lots and
LOTS of masking tape.”
Be aware that since the boy in the story thinks he’s
coming apart, he imagines his arm falling off when he
throws a ball, or worries about his head coming loose
Quality (Literary)
R A T I N G S Y S T E M
* Acceptability (Ethical/Moral Concerns)
5 Excellent - among the very best of this type 5 No questionable elements
4 Good - well written; strong recommendation 4 Slight concerns
3 Average -readers will enjoy 3 Moderate concerns
2 Fair - can recommend, but not as well written 2 Barely acceptable
1 Poor - cannot recommend 1 Too questionable to recommend
★ Outstanding Book of its Genre
* Acceptability does not refer to doctrinal position, unless the doctrine is anti-Christian.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 1 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKS
with a cough. Although the illustrations are innocent
and non-threatening, this idea may unsettle very
young or sensitive children.
Arnold successfully portrays a child’s fears and
curiosity related to his or her own body, while inviting
us to laugh along with him while he does so. Kimn
Swenson Gollnick
Digby and Kate and the Beautiful Day, by Barbara
Baker; pictures by Marsha Winborn. New York:
Dutton, 1998. ISBN 0525458557, HBB, $13.99.
E. Friendship--Fiction; Easy reading materials. 48 p. K - Gr.
3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In Digby and Kate and the Beautiful Day, Barbara
Baker shows five different settings where best friends
may work and play together even when they usually
disagree. The differences experienced by this odd
couple do not seem strange because Kate is a cat and
Digby is a dog. While Kate watches a mouse hole for
something warm and tasty to eat, Digby makes a
pizza which Kate declares to be, “Warm and tasty and
just right.” Then when Digby is winning at checkers
Kate makes her own rules. After a fly disrupts the
game, Digby goes home so they can play by his rules.
Kate uses markers to make a picture of Digby and
Digby uses his camera to make a picture of Kate.
Now Digby has time for a walk which was what he
wanted to do in the first place. It seems a walk in the
rain was enjoyable to both friends, but especially the
cocoa and cinnamon toast Kate made for the two wet
friends to enjoy when they come inside to dry off.
Marsha Winborn uses the eyes and facial expressions
to communicate feelings all through the illustrations
as well as the message that having a best friend is
definitely a good idea. Marie Knaupp
Elliot’s Emergency, written and illustrated by
Andrea Beck. Buffalo, N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998.
ISBN 1550744410, HBB, $12.95.
E. Accidenta--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
There is a medical emergency in the house! Elliot the
Moose has snagged his leg on a nail and his stuffing
is falling out. His playroom friends come rushing to
his aid. First Socks, the monkey fastens the seam
with a safety pin, but the hole keeps growing. Lionel
the lion applies tape, but it comes loose and pulls out
more of the stuffing. Other friends bring glue, gauze,
and a large metal clip. Although Elliot is thankful for
his friends concern, the remedies only seem to
complicate his troubles. Finally Socks finds a skillful
tailor who neatly stitches up Elliot’s seam and saves
his stuffing.
Elliot’s Emergency is Andrea Beck’s picture book
debut. Her bright, full-color illustrations soften this
plush-toy tragedy. The story handles the shock of
unexpected accidents without being over dramatic or
graphic. Because it compassionately relates to
feelings of loss and grief, and is ultimately reassuring,
it would be especially appropriate in a medical clinic
or pediatrics ward. Melinda Torgerson
Roses on Baker Street, by Eileen M. Berry;
illustrated by John Roberts. LCCN 9747278.
Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books, 1998. ISBN
089084934X, PAP, $10.44.
F. Moving, Household--Fiction; Schools--Fiction;
Missionaries--Fiction. 46 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
What do you do when you’re the new girl in class and
everyone seems to want to make fun of you? Danae
follows her mother’s advice and looks for roses. It
isn’t easy to make the transition from one country to
another, and when her well-meaning teacher, Mrs.
Blimm, has her stand in front of the class to tell about
her life in France, Danae finds it even harder to admit
that her nickname “mon petit chou” means “my little
cabbage,” a phrase sure to cause a stir in even the best
behaved classes.
Eileen Berry expertly captures the feelings of a new
student and the namelessness felt when trying to sort
out a roomful of new faces and traits. The reader
quickly identifies Plaid Skirt, Blonde Braid, and
Pencil Boy. It is on the second day of school as Danae
is looking for the roses in her classmates, that she is
befriended by Chocolate Eyes, who becomes Katie, a
new friend for Danae. Illustrator John Roberts
adroitly portrays with watercolor the emotions of all
the characters in this charming story. Judy Driscoll
Papa Ob Long : The Animals’ Great Journey, by
Leroy Blankenship; illustrated by Kelly Magladry.
LCCN 9744248. Nashville: Tommy Nelson, 1998.
ISBN 0849958245, HBB, $12.99.
E. Noah’s ark--Fiction; Giraffes--Fiction; Animals--Fiction. 32
p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
It is not often that an author can transport his audience
onto Noah’s ark with a new angle, but that is exactly
what author LeRoy Blankenship does in calling
readers to the ark through the eyes of Ob Long the
giraffe and his mate Skippa. Illustrator Kelly
Magladry continues this refreshing slant with animal
expressions that draw one to think about what the
animals might have felt when responding to the call
of the Lord. The usual roll call of animals is relieved
with a chuckle when the reader learns the names
given to the starring Long giraffe family, even unto
the grandchildren, Tagga and Hoppa. Judy Driscoll
Spike, written and illustrated by Paulette Bogan.
LCCN 9645328. New York: Putnam, 1998. ISBN
0399231633, HBB, $12.99.
E. Dogs--Fiction; Animals--Fiction; Self-acceptance--Fiction.
30 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Spike is an amusing little dog who thinks everyone
else’s life is more exciting than his. When he finds
the opportunity to steal away from his owner,
Shannon, he decides to experiment a bit. First he tries
his hand at being a chicken, then a bird, a fish, and
even a horse. After several hilarious mishaps, Spike
discovers that perhaps the life of a dog isn’t so bad.
After all, as he finds out when he returns home, he is
the only one that can make Shannon smile.
Spike, written and illustrated by Paulette Bogan, is a
wonderful little story. In less than 250 words, Bogan
is able to impart humor, suspense, and a valuable
lesson of self-acceptance. The illustrations are bold
and comical and help to complement the sparingly
written story. The dry depictions of Spike
wonderfully highlight his personality and spunk and
help the reader to immediately connect with, and care
for him. Spike is a gem and is sure to be one of those
stories that finds fans among readers of all ages.
Kerri Cunningham
Willow, by Norm Bomer; watercolor illustrations
by Stan D. Myers. LCCN 9739857. Grand
Rapids: Baker Books, 1998. ISBN 080104362X,
HBB, $14.99.
E. Rabbits--Fiction; Freedom--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction.
32 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Norm Bomer writes about Willow, a white bunny
rabbit, the pet of Benjamin and Rebecca. Willow has
tasty crunch nuggets from Beau’s dog food sack to
eat. She has a comfortable, safe hutch in a fenced
back yard to live in. Sometimes Willow even is
allowed to run free in the back yard. But Willow is
not happy. She wants to be really free.
One night the door to the hutch is not latched and
Willow is free. She digs under the white fence and
runs through the big clover field, but it is dead and
dry. Then two big strange dogs try to catch her. She
only escapes by reaching the woods and a briar
thicket. Now Willow learns freedom means fear of
dogs and scratches in the thicket. She is hungry and
thirsty for the good food and safety of her back yard
home. In the morning she finds her way back and the
children find Willow under her own hutch. She is no
longer unhappy and never tries to run away again.
Stan Myer’s watercolor illustrations add to the details
of the story which is written as Christian fiction
designed to show that God provides just the right
ingredients for happiness when acceptance is learned.
This is a lesson children need when they feel the rules
at home spoil their freedom. Marie Knaupp
Franklin and the Thunderstorm, written by
Paulette Bourgeois; illustrated by Brenda Clark.
Buffalo, N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550744038,
HBB, $10.95.
E. Animals--Fiction; Thunderstorms--Fiction; Fear--Fiction.
32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Finders Keepers for Franklin, written by Paulette
Bourgeois; illustrated by Brenda Clark. Buffalo,
N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550743686, HBB,
$10.95.
E. Lost and found possessions--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
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Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Franklin’s Secret Club, written by Paulette
Bourgeois; illustrated by Brenda Clark. Buffalo,
N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550744747, HBB,
$10.95.
E. Clubs--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
“Franklin could count by twos and tie his shoes.”
Each of these three storybooks introduce Franklin the
Turtle in this friendly manner. In Franklin and the
Thunderstorm, he is stranded at Fox’s house when a
storm hits, scaring Franklin right into his shell.
Franklin finds a camera in the park. Is it Finders
Keepers for Franklin, or does he do the right thing
and find the owner? Franklin loves to belong. During
the story Franklin’s Secret Club, Franklin finds out
how it feels to be left out.
The author of the Franklin series, Paulette Bourgeois,
has done a wonderful job of introducing a fun loving
turtle and his animal friends. In each book, Franklin
faces a problem, admits his mistakes or overcomes
his fear, and learns a valuable lesson in life. The
illustrations by Brenda Clark are bright and lively,
capturing the emotions and humor within the pages of
the books. Joanne M. Haffly
Will You Take Care of Me? by Margaret Park
Bridges; illustrated by Melissa Sweet. LCCN
9732917. New York: Morrow, 1998. ISBN
0688151957, HBB, $15.93.
E. Mother and child--Fiction. 30 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Little Kangaroo asks Mama Kangaroo, “Will I always
be little, Mama?” She explains that he is growing
bigger every day. “But when I’m big, will you still
take care of me?” Author Margaret Park Bridges
takes the question of love and gives sometimes silly
examples of a mother’s undying love for her child as
Little Kangaroo changes from a tree, to a flower, to a
bicycle, and more.
Young children take comfort in hearing stories of
unconditional love from a parent. Will You Take Care
of Me? joins the ranks of books such as The Runaway
Bunny, How Long? and Mama, Do You Love Me? as
a cuddle up and read book for toddlers and
preschoolers.
Illustrator Melissa Sweet uses bright watercolors in a
simple child-like form. Both the author and illustrator
have each published other children’s books. Joanne
M. Haffly
The Summer My Father Was Ten, by Pat Brisson;
illustrated by Andrea Shine. LCCN 9772769.
Honesdale, Pa.: Boyds Mills, 1998. ISBN
1563974355, HBB, $14.95.
E. Fathers and sons--Fiction; Honesty--Fiction. 30 p. K - Gr.
3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Every spring as a father and his daughter plant their
garden of tomatoes, peppers, onions, marigolds and
zinnias, he tells her once again the story of Mr.
Bellavista and the summer when he was ten. He and
his friends had been playing baseball near the vacant
lot where Mr. Bellavista’s garden grew. Through
their childish irresponsibility the garden is destroyed
and so is Mr. Bellavista’s desire to continue
gardening. The young boy cannot find the words to
express his sorrow but the following spring he and
Mr. Bellavista begin a special relationship that lasts
until Mr. Bellavista’s death.
A book where a young boy realizes the impact of his
actions upon the life of another and seeks to rectify
the results of those actions, is a book to be treasured
and shared. Watching the development of a
relationship between these two characters is full of
rich emotion and delight in the result. Pat Brisson has
written a story that captures the heart of both the
characters and the reader. Watercolor illustrations by
Andrea Shine are outstanding. The subtle use of color
variance and light convey a wealth of emotion
bringing an added richness to an already powerful
story. Sally Kuhns
Princess Bella and the Red Velvet Hat, by T. Davis
Bunn; illustrated by Doreen Gay-Kassel.
Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, 1998. ISBN
0764220977, HBB, $14.99.
E. Beauty--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Princess Bella has many beautiful hats in her closet,
but chooses to wear only one. It is an oversized red
velvet hat that the young rabbit pulls down to cover
her entire head and most of her face. Bella’s father,
the king, cannot understand why his daughter must
wear this hat all the time. While on their daily walk,
the king finally learns why his daughter needs her hat.
Bella remembers that her mother was beautiful, but
thinks that she is ugly. At least if she wears the hat,
Bella reasons, their subjects will have something
attractive to look at. The king tells Bella that true
beauty comes from the inside and how difficult it is to
attain such beauty. Bella decides she would like to
have that kind of beauty and also decides she can be
seen without her hat.
Princess Bella and the Red Velvet Hat by T. Davis
Bunn quietly teaches the true source of beauty. The
story is based on the Bible verse, I Peter 3:4, “Your
beauty should come from within you—the beauty of
a gentle and quiet spirit.” Cute bunny illustrations by
Doreen Gay-Kassel will delight children and add to
the subtle humor of the text. Elizabeth A. Coleman
Pawprints in Time, by Philippa Butler; illustrated
by George Smith. LCCN 9762071. New York:
Viking, 1988. ISBN 067087177X, HBB, $10.99.
E. Cats--Fiction. 24 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
Cat finds Anna one evening and he begins to whisper
to her of the nine lives he has lived. He tells Anna
about the palaces of the Egyptian pharaohs where cats
were worshipped as gods, and Cat’s journey down the
silk road to China. In Tibet, Cat tells Anna, there
were mountain temples and cats who worshipped
there. And Cat adds, “Wherever a cat goes, people
still say he brings good luck with him.” Cats played
in the great cathedrals and traveled around the world
on mighty sailing ships to every land leaving their
Pawprints in Time.
Philippa Butler chronologically touches on nine
different periods and places in history. The events she
has selected, while historically true, combine with the
writing style to present the cat as a very mysterious
animal. The adult reading the book may have to add
some explanation of the historical periods presented
and how they connect to each other in order for the
child to understand the story.
The dark rich colors of George Smith’s paintings add
to the magic of the cat with nine lives. The
mysterious view people have had of cats through the
ages seems to be reflected in the big yellow eyes of
the large black and white cat with the long white
whiskers. Adults, more than young children, may
find the lush pictures fascinating. Barbara A. Bryden
Mickey’s Class Play, by Judith Caseley. LCCN
9733036. New York: Greenwillow, 1998. ISBN
0688154069, HBB, $14.93.
E. Plays--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Family life--Fiction. 28 p.
PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Young children will enjoy the bright colors and
primeval art style of Judith Caseley’s newest picture
book, Mickey’s Class Play. Easy-listening text will
meet with four-to-seven-year-olds’approval. Mickey,
along with his entire kindergarten class, jump for joy
when Ms. Humphrey announces they will all star in
the class play. They will dress and talk like different
animals to celebrate diversity. But when Mickey
learns he is a duck, he squawks. Later, after costumes
are made in Art Class, Mickey changes his mind. In
fact, he likes being a duck, he decides. Ducks are
beautiful.
Weeks pass as students practice their parts at school
and home. Finally the big day arrives. Mickey is so
excited about the performance that night he rehearses
for his sister out on the picnic table. Alas, the
costume gets left outside and destroyed by rain along
with his hopes. The family chips in to make a new
one. Again Mickey balks. This costume is too
different. But sister Jenna has an idea. Looking at her
book of ducks, they find a duck that matches
Mickey’s costume. Wallah! Instant happiness.
This heartwarming story relates well to young
children, and shows familial support and help in times
of trouble. It’s a positive example of families
working together, strengthening bonds.
Like many mothers who write, Caseley procures plots
for her stories from the real-life adventures of her own
family. The back jacket shows her son Michael
dressed in his duck costume for his class play. Ginger
McGrath
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Something Else, by Kathryn Cave; illustrated by
Chris Riddell. LCCN 9742258. Greenvale, N.Y.:
Mondo, 1998. ISBN 1572555637, PAP, $5.95.
E. Individuality--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction. 28 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Something Else is a strange little creature who lives
alone. No matter how he tries, he is ostracized by all
the other creatures who say he does not fit in because
he is different.
Then one evening an even stranger creature knocks at
the door declaring to be just like Something Else.
Finally recognizing the lost, lonesome look,
Something Else realizes friends can enjoy working
together even when they are not alike. Now it is no
longer lonely in the little house on the hill top as the
two paint pictures, play games, and eat lunch together.
The enjoyable story, enhanced by vivid descriptive
pictures, will be enjoyed over and over again, and can
be used to encourage children in their own
friendships. Marie Knaupp
Missing : One Stuffed Rabbit, by Maryann Cocca-
Leffler. LCCN 9718203. Morton Grove, Ill.:
Albert Whitman, 1998. ISBN 0807551619, HBB,
$14.95.
E. Lost and found possessions--Fiction; Toys--Fiction. 29 p.
PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Janine, a second-grader in Mrs. Robin’s room, is very
excited because her name has been drawn to take
Coco, a stuffed rabbit, and his diary home for the
weekend. Inside the diary are Coco’s thoughts,
written by each student who has taken him home. On
Sunday afternoon tragedy occurs. Coco is lost! After
looking everywhere to no avail, Janine must face her
class on Monday morning without Coco. Another
student suggests that the class make posters and put
them up around the mall. While in the process of
doing this, the students see a sign advertising a toy
drive for the local hospital. The girls put two and two
together and head to the children’s ward. They arrive
just in time to see a big green frog handing Coco to a
little girl with a broken leg. Janine quickly concludes
that Coco is where he needs to be. In a last diary entry
Coco writes that he is now with someone who really
needs him and asks the class to write him.
Maryann Cocca-Leffler’s story, Missing: One Stuffed
Rabbit, is a pleasant, but bland account of a unique
elementary school assignment. Cocca-Leffler’s
illustrations are cute and modern: Janine’s mother
has a bi-level haircut and wears “hip” clothes. The
actual pages of the diary included in the book are in
the hand printing of various class members. There is
plenty to look at in this book, and sharp eyes will be
able to discover how Coco is lost. Lillian Heytvelt
Flip-Flops, by Nancy Cote. LCCN 9733143.
Morton Grove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 1998. ISBN
0807525049, HBB, $14.95.
E. Beaches--Fiction; Shoes--Fiction. 24 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The sun is hot and the beach is calling. Mother is
already packing, but Penny can only find one flipflop.
She hops with one flop to the car. At the beach,
the sand is warm and the waves wash over her feet.
She wishes she had a shovel, so she uses her flip-flop
to build a castle. That afternoon, Penny’s flip-flop
wins two sailboat races, catches half a bucket of
crabs, becomes a Frisbee, and rescues a family of
starfish from the hot sun. Best of all, her flip-flop
introduces her to many new friends. A special
telephone number scrawled on its well worn sole
makes it a keepsake from an afternoon Penny will
never forget.
Flip-Flops is a warm, soft-spoken story. Nancy Cote’s
pastel illustrations portray a multi-cultural
community at peace. Her characters radiate
unpretentious, unspoken acceptance. The conflict of
the story draws attention to the value of imagination
and improvising with an informal, easy-going style.
Even the text has a personal, hand-printed
appearance. The purpose of the story is not
immediately recognized, but the conclusion is logical
and satisfying. Melinda Torgerson
Why Did We Have to Move Here? by Sally J.K.
Davies. LCCN 96044995. Minneapolis:
Carolrhoda Books, 1997. ISBN 1575050463, HBB,
$14.95.
E. Moving, Household--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Friendship--
Fiction. Unp. K - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
William (named only on the book cover flap) is
frustrated because his family has just moved to a new
town. He has to share a room with his brother and go
to a new school. He misses his old school and old
friends. He feels awkward and uncomfortable in his
new class. After school, the children try to go ice
skating on the pond, but the ice is not safe. William
strikes on the great idea of skating on the iced-over
tennis court, which solves their skating problems and
makes him feel a part of the group.
Any child who has had to move to a new place or new
school will easily recognize and identify with
William’s struggles. Even though William finds a lot
to complain about, he finds a positive way to respond
to change and realizes that his new home may not be
so bad after all. This book can be used to open
discussions about coping with change and making
new friends. The epilogue provides information
about the author and her inspiration for the book.
The illustrations are colorful, lively, expressive, and
very multi-racial. The illustrations greatly enhance
the story by adding more to the action than is
contained in the words alone. The emotions
expressed are clear and appropriate. Even the animals
and toys mirror William’s feelings; for example, the
teddy bear covers his ears as William’s brother snores.
Karla Kessell
Sody Salleratus, retold by Aubrey Davis;
illustrated by Alan and Lea Daniels. Buffalo, N.Y.:
Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550742817, HBB, $14.95.
E. Soda--Fiction; Humorous stories; Folklore. 30 p. PS - Gr.
3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In the style of the traditional tall tale, story-teller
Aubrey Davis puts his talents on paper to delight his
audience with the tale of an old woman who sends
one after another of her family off to town to seek
Boy who went to buy baking soda for her home-made
biscuits. On the way, each of them meets a gigantic
bear, who grows even more gigantic as he eats each
of the family as they humpity hump, skippity skip,
crickety crack and limpity limp down the road and
over the bridge. This repeating tale is saved from
being too scary by the whimsical illustrations of Alan
and Lea Daniel whose belly bursting bear gets his due
in the end, and the family is saved by their pet squirrel
who chippity chips down the road to bring the story to
its happy ending...for everyone but the bear of course!
Both reader and listener will enjoy the rhythm and
repetition in this new story with an old theme. Judy
Driscoll
One Guinea Pig Is Not Enough, by Kate Duke.
LCCN 9721367. New York: Dutton, 1998. ISBN
0525459189, HBB, $15.99.
E. Guinea pigs--Fiction; Counting. 43 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Because one guinea pig is a lonely guinea pig, One
Guinea Pig Is Not Enough. Kate Duke keeps adding
one to each number until the excitement reaches ten
guinea pigs. Then ten mom or dad guinea pigs are
added and twenty guinea pigs is plenty.
A good practice book for beginning math, the
numbers can be added and the corresponding number
of guinea pigs on each page can be counted. The
activities of the guinea pigs on each page are very
entertaining. Many details can be seen and counted.
Finally, all the tired guinea pigs are hugged by moms
or dads and the book ends.
The pastel water colors blend with brighter shades as
the lonely guinea pig becomes smiling pigs, silly pigs,
giggling, singing, dancing, jumping, flying pigs.
Then proud, sorry, smart, helpful, picnicking, sneaky,
fighting, and finally ten good guinea pigs are seen,
definitely a book to be enjoyed over and over again.
Marie Knaupp
Just Right Stew, by Karen English; illustrated by
Anna Rich. LCCN 9772768. Honesdale, Pa.:
Boyds Mills, 1998. ISBN 1563974878, HBB,
$15.95.
E. Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Family life--Fiction. 29 p.
PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
It’s Big Mama’s birthday and Mama is making oxtail
stew. Big Mama is “famous” for her oxtail stew, so
Mama wants it to be just right. Mama and her sisters
each think they know the secret ingredient. The aunts
think they know the secret ingredient. Big Mama and
little Victoria are the only ones who really know and
no one will listen to Victoria. Big Mama sneaks into
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the kitchen and lets Victoria add the secret ingredient.
At dinner, the stew is declared “just right.”
Karen English has written a delightful read-a-loud
story about family life. The story is simple and easy
to follow, even for pre-schoolers. The color
illustrations of Anna Rich go well with the text.
Youngsters will enjoy this African-American story.
Jane Mouttet
Polar Star, by Sally Grindley; illustrated by John
Butler. LCCN 9752593. Atlanta: Peachtree, 1998.
ISBN 1561451819, HBB, $15.95.
E. Polar bear--Fiction; Bears--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--
Fiction. 32 p. K - Gr. 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Fat, furry, and sleeping cozily in her den, Polar Star
snuggles her cubs. Three months later, as early spring
arrives, Polar Star and two new cubs emerge into the
white wilderness of the Arctic. It is time to go in
search of food, and the two cubs, Snowball and
Snowflake, gamble beside her, amazed at the large,
exciting world they have entered.
A sudden attack by a male polar bear sends the cubs
squealing to Mama, and after a terrifying battle, Polar
Star hurries her family away from the danger and
back to their search for food and fun in the white
wilderness.
Sally Grindley presents an accurate account of polar
bears, showing the first few months in the lives of a
mother and cubs. At the end of the book is a page of
Facts about Polar Bears that reinforces what was
presented in the storyline.
Artist, John Butler, does an excellent job with his full
page color presentations. A fun and informing read
that lends itself to discussion and more learning.
Mary McKinney
Little Rose of Sharon, by Nan Gurley; illustrated
by Tim Jonke. LCCN 9812753. Colorado
Springs: Chariot Victor, 1998. ISBN 0781430313,
HBB, $14.99.
E. Rose of Sharon--Fiction; Love--Fiction; Generosity--
Fiction; Jesus Christ--Love. 24 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In Little Rose of Sharon, Nan Gurley tells a fanciful
parable of how Jesus came to be called the Rose of
Sharon. The little rose is proud of her beauty and
thrilled when the Creator comes through the garden
and notices her. She faces a storm bravely and
survives intact, but then drops her petals to protect a
small dove egg, which has fallen to the ground from
the nest in the tree above her. The dove hatches
safely, and the Creator returns. The little rose is
ashamed because she is no longer beautiful, but the
Creator tells her she is just like the Son he will send
to earth. The little rose gave everything, and so will
the Creator’s Son.
The author’s note explains that the only true thing in
the story is “the part about Jesus coming to earth and
giving everything He had to show the world the love
of God.”
The large format (8 1/2” x 11”) of this picture book
leaves ample room for Tim Jonke’s exquisite
illustrations, which complement the text nicely.
There is a small amount of text allotted to each two
pages. The book bears a finalist Gold Medallion
Book Award sticker from ECPA. Jeanette Hardage
★
How Big Is God’s Love? by Helen Haidle;
illustrated by David Haidle. Eugene, Ore.:
Harvest House, 1999. ISBN 1565079272, HBB,
$9.99.
E. Love. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Helen and David Haidle team up to write and
illustrate a wonderful children’s bedtime story about
God’s love. Based on Ephesians 3:17-19, God’s love
is depicted as longer, wider, deeper, and higher than
anything in the world. Each two-page spread
includes lyrical rhymes and colorful illustrations.
How Big Is God’s Love? explores everyday scenes
from countries around the world to show that his love
fills the whole earth and beyond. It stretches higher
than mountains, goes deeper than oceans, and is wider
than seas. God’s love reaches down to insects, cares
for animals, and overflows like waterfalls. It can’t be
measured and never ends: “Explore outer space with
a telescope lens; you’ll never discover where the love
of God ends.” The book reassures children that God’s
love protects them from harm and wraps around them
like Daddy’s arms. Concluding with John 3:16, it
conveys that Jesus is God’s greatest gift of love.
This delightful 8-by-8-inch picture book teaches a
profound attribute of God in simple verse that
children can understand and enjoy. Detailed
watercolor paintings are vibrant and realistic,
portraying families and scenery from Africa, Asia,
South America, and elsewhere. An excellent book for
introducing children to God’s great love for them, it
will undoubtedly be read again and again. Lydia E.
Harris
The Surprise Garden, by Zoe Hall; illustrated by
Shari Halpern. LCCN 979735. New York:
Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590100750, HBB, $15.95.
E. Gardens--Fiction; Seeds--Fiction; Vegetables--Fiction. 30 p.
PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Mom gives each of her three young children a handful
of assorted seeds to plant in a garden. The children
break up the soil with a trowel and rake and plant the
seeds using sticks they painted to differentiate them.
They water the seeds, and soon green shoots are
poking out of the ground. The garden flourishes with
the warmth of the sun and the abundance of water and
before long is full of peas, beans, squash, spinach,
lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and radishes.
The biggest plant is a watermelon and the tallest a
sunflower with flavorful seeds to eat. The food in the
garden ripens, and all summer the children delight in
eating the fruits and vegetables.
Zoe Hall has written a story in which gardening
fascinates three young children. After the children
plant a garden with unknown seeds, they eagerly
await for the plants to grow, astonished whenever
they discover a fruit or vegetable for the first time.
The Surprise Garden is a charming story with
information about the plants grown in the children’s
garden and which parts to eat. Shari Halpern’s full
page colorful illustrations surrounding the text add to
the charm of the story. Dianne Woodman
Mouse Creeps, by Peter Harris; pictures by Reg
Cartwright. LCCN 96021147. New York: Dial
Books for Young Readers, 1997. ISBN
0803721838, HBB, $14.99.
E. Mice--Fiction; War--Fiction; Stories in rhyme; Brothers--
Fiction. Unp. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A mouse sets off a chain of events which results in the
ending of a war through humor, bringing the father of
the house where mouse creeps home from the war to
his family.
The illustrations carry the story and add a great deal
of action. The style is reminiscent of early New
England paintings. The colors are muted, but rich.
The lines are crisp and depth comes from a layering
effect. The illustrations are not cluttered and children
will have no trouble following the action of the story
and finding humor in it.
This book can serve as an early reader due to the short
and simple text comprised of two or three word
sentences. Pre-school age children will delight in the
pictures and having this book read to them. Karla
Kessell
Beekeepers, by Linda Oatman High; illustrated by
Doug Chayka. LCCN 9772047. Honesdale, Pa.:
Boyds Mills, 1998. ISBN 156397486X, HBB,
$14.95.
E. Grandfathers--Fiction; Beekeepers--Fiction. 26 p. K - Gr.
3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
When the springtime sunshine pours through the
warm sky, Grandpa and his granddaughter dress in
their long-sleeved white coveralls, boots, gloves, and
hats to tend Grandpa’s bees. While they are working,
the sky darkens, and the hum of bee’s wings grows
louder and louder. Granddaughter takes the long pole
and brings a swarm of bees down into a hive Grandpa
has made ready for them.
Both are smiling as they leave the bee yard for:
A swarm in May is worth a load of hay.
A swarm in June is worth a silver spoon.
A swarm in July isn’t worth a fly.
Grandpa tells his granddaughter that she is a fine
keeper of bees.
Linda Oatman’s warm caring story of tending to
chores together in the early morning will be enjoyed
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by all ages. This is a valuable source for information
about the care of bees. The warm sunny oil paintings
of Doug Chayka enrich the experience shared
together. Marie Knaupp
Adventure On Klickitat Island, by Hilary Horder
Hippely; illustrated by Barbara Upton. New
York: Dutton Children’s Books, 1998. ISBN
0525452931, HBB, $15.99.
E. Animals--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. 30 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
It’s a dark autumn night of moaning winds and rising
seas when the young hero of Adventure on Klickitat
Island snuggles under his Blankie with Beary, his
stuffed animal. Snug under the covers, the little boy’s
thoughts go out to the poor animals on Klickitat
Island who must weather the storm without such
comforts. Suddenly, Beary jumps up:
...he reached for his jacket--
“Someone’s calling,” he said.
“We can’t be much help
if we stay here in bed!”
and off go the two on a mission to help the inhabitants
of Klickitat Island. Once they arrive, the two
organize the animals and build a shelter of logs under
which they all crowd in a happy, cozy tangle. Later,
when the storm has passed, the boy and Beary quietly
leave the snoozing den and head back to their own
welcoming bed at home. But both know where they
will be on the next stormy night.
Hilary Hippely tells a sweet bed-time story in verse in
Adventure on Klickitat Island. Tapping on the young
child’s natural sympathy for animals and impulse to
try and “help,” she has written a soothing,
imaginative story perfect for calming night-time
fears. Older children who can read on their own will
enjoy the rhyming aspect of the story as well as the
wonderfully dreamy, furry illustrations of Barbara
Upton. Hippely has two previous books to her credit,
as well as being published in numerous magazines,
but this is Upton’s first book. This reviewer looks
forward to seeing more of Upton’s art work in future
books for children. Pamela A. Todd
Swimming Lessons, by Betsy Jay; illustrated by
Lori Osiecki. LCCN 9746487. Flagstaff: Rising
Moon, 1998. ISBN 0873586859, HBB, $15.95.
E. Swimming--Fiction; Fear--Fiction; Youths’ writings. 32 p.
K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Since Jane is afraid of water, when Momma signs her
up for swimming lessons she tells everyone she isn’t
going to get into the water. Though Momma says
everyone knows how to swim, Jane refuses to believe
her. When Momma asks what she will do if Uncle
Frank tries to throw her in the pond at the Fourth of
July picnic, she doesn’t say anything, for that has a
good chance of happening. When the new pink
swimming suit has a dinosaur on the front that turns
purple in water, she is tempted but tries it instead in
the dog dish, and it works.
Swimming day finally arrives and Jimmy tells her
that girls and chickens can’t swim. Then it is her turn
to jump into the pool and suddenly everything
changes. Once she is in the water Jane can’t
understand why everyone made such a fuss. Now she
says everyone should learn to swim.
Swimming Lessons was written for a twelfth-grade
English class assignment. Betsy Jay had been writing
since she was a little girl. Her teacher encouraged her
to have this story published. Lori Osiecki, who
illustrated the book, lives in Mesa, Arizona, where
there are 365 swimming days a year. This is her first
children’s book.
Endorsed by the National Safety Council, this book
can be used to encourage children to learn how to
swim. It may help overcome fear of the water, and is
a delightfully humorous story with equally humorous
and expressive action-packed drawings on each page.
Also available with this book are bookmarks with
water safety tips, posters, and a copyright-free Tools
for Teacher’s Guide. Marie Knaupp
Lewis & Papa : Adventure on the Santa Fe Trail, by
Barbara Joosse; illustrated by Jon Van Zyle.
LCCN 9722572. San Francisco: Chronicle, 1998.
ISBN 0811819590, HBB, $14.95.
E. Fathers and sons--Fiction; Santa Fe Trail--Fiction; West
(U.S.)--Fiction. 40 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A young boy joins his father on a journey that leads
not only to new territory, but also to a new level of
maturity and understanding in Barbara M. Joose’s
tender story, Lewis & Papa. Lewis is proud that his
father asks him to help take a wagon load of goods
from the East to the new settlers in Santa Fe. Besides
buffalo stampedes and dangerous river crossings,
Lewis and his father experience the pain of loss when
their favorite ox, Big Red, falls ill. Lewis learns that
there is more to being a man than sheer brawn, and his
father discovers the quiet joy of tenderness. Their
journey ends successfully and while they make “a
pretty penny,” both father and son realize the real
wealth they gain is their new understanding of what it
means to be a man.
While the emotional content takes precedence over
the historical element of this story, readers are able to
learn historical facts about the Santa Fe Trail and the
people who traveled it through the historical note and
glossary that are included. The endpapers show a
map of the Santa Fe Trail and occasional spot maps
pinpoint the location and the progress of Lewis and
his father. Jon Van Zyle’s use of interesting angles
and close-ups add to the emotional impact of the
strong father/son bond this story relates. Lillian A.
Heytvelt
Alphabet Riddles, by Susan Joyce; illustrations by
Doug DuBosque. LCCN 9743676. Columbus,
N.C.: Peel Productions, 1998. ISBN 0939217503,
HBB, $13.95.
E (793.735). Riddles; Alphabet. 30 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Bright, colorful pages combine with Alphabet Riddles
to teach phonemic awareness. The reader is given the
first and last letters of a word. The accompanying
riddle and picture provide clues to the word. Some of
the riddles are harder than others. Each of the riddles
is written in rhyme. Several of the rhymes are about
things that most children in this age group would be
unfamiliar with such as aprons and echoes. Because
the large pictures show such a very small piece of the
item the child is trying to guess, it can be difficult to
tell what it is. The answers to the riddles are in the
back of the book.
Susan Joyce had dyslexia as a child and her parents
encouraged her to learn letters and words with
alphabet riddles. There is a page with ideas for
parents and teachers. Teachers may find this book
helpful with some children.
Doug DuBosque’s pictures are in bright, vivid colors,
but an adult may need to help the child see what the
lines represent. Barbara A. Bryden
Bedtime Ba-a-alk, written by Rukhsana Khan;
illustrated by Kristi Frost. Toronto: Stoddart
Kids, 1998. ISBN 0773730680, HBB, $13.95.
E. Bedtime--Fiction; Sheep--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
A young, drowsy girl climbs the stairs to bed. She
attempts to count some rambunctious sheep. As she
imagines the fence for them to jump, the mouthy ram
lets her know that they’ll need a clover-filled
meadow, sky, sun, and clouds. Then he notices that
the ground where they are is rather boring. The
bleary-eyed girl imagines more grass, and decides to
throw in a ferris wheel. Unfortunately, the muchamused
sheep have too much fun to jump over the
fence. After much pleading, the girl is empowered
when she realizes that she dreamt them up, so she
could dream them away. She warns them of this, and
after more grumbling, she does just that!
Kristi Frost’s bright illustrations done in pastels are
the perfect compliment to the humor-filled story.
Quite unusual in its story line, readers will experience
the same frustration that the girl feels as the obstinate
sheep refuse to cooperate. The pictures of the
carnival scene make Khan’s text come alive as the
reader feels that the girl is screaming to be heard over
the din of frolicking sheep. Carol M. Jones
A Monster in the House, by Elisa Kleven. LCCN
985250. New York: Dutton, 1998. ISBN
0525459731, HBB, $15.99.
E. Babies--Fiction; Monsters--Fiction. 29 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
As a new neighbor arrives wanting to play monster,
the young girl says she already has a monster in the
house! As she describes the various “troubles” this
monster causes, the new boy’s imagination creates a
most interesting scenario that fills the pages with its
messes and mischief. But finally the image becomes
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refined as the girl at last mentions the fun and
endearing things about this “monster.”
As the young man’s imagination calms down, he sees
a tiny, bald monster and then he is introduced to the
girl’s baby brother. The story ends with the two
taking the “baby monster” for a stroll and enjoying
their new-found friendship.
Although the monster being described is obviously a
baby, the pictures and text may surprise the youngest
readers, and delight them as the truth is revealed as to
whom the monster really is.
Elisa Kleven, both writer and illustrator, presents a
clever story incorporating both text and pictures in a
creative and appealing collage of color. Mary
McKinney
As I Kneel : Every Mother’s Prayer, by Bonnie
Knopf; illustrated by Nan Brooks. Colorado
Springs: Waterbrook Press, 1997. ISBN
157856025X, HBB, $12.95.
E. Prayer--Fiction; Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Stories in
rhyme. 32 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In rhyme form, this colorful and touching book of
prayers by Bonnie Knopf gives a sense of security
that a mother’s heartfelt prayers are heard. Every
other page has the prayer being encompassed by the
angels as the baby grows up and has children of her
own. At the end you find the grown child taking care
of her own babies and her now elderly mother.
This simple presentation of life shows how heavenly
love keeps each family as they grow up and grow old.
Each new generation is shown to share in the heritage
of care and love that had been given from those
who’d lived before.
Although God is not mentioned, just angels, you
sense a surety in an overall protection from he who
made the angels. The text is very simple, not giving
much detail in the growing up process, but the simple
prayers and progression lends itself to discussion.
The illustrations by Nan Brooks are delightful and
keep a child’s interest, whereas the text subject may
appeal to an adult more than a child. Mary McKinney
Pepita Thinks Pink : Pepita y el Color Rosalo, by
Ofelia Dumas Lachtman; illustrated by Alex
Pardo Delange. LCCN 9729676. Houston: Piñata
Books, 1998. ISBN 1558852220, HBB, $14.95.
E. Pink--Fiction; Color--Fiction; Prejudices--Fiction;
Friendship--Fiction; Mexican Americans--Fiction; Spanish
language materials--Bilingual. 28 p. K - Gr. 2.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Pepita despises the color pink. It reminds her of many
horrible things, but mostly of the yucky medicine she
has to take when she is sick. Needless to say, Pepita
is dismayed when she finds out that pink is the
favorite color of Sonya, the little girl who moves in
next door. For a long time Pepita will have nothing to
do with Sonya. However, after lessons from her
father and mother, neighbor Mr. Hobbs, and Tia Rosa,
Pepita discovers that color does not matter, but people
do.
Pepita Thinks Pink is a story about dislike, prejudice
and, ultimately, friendship. The story is told in both
English and Spanish, and author Ofelia Dumas
Lachtman does a wonderful job of positively
depicting a Mexican-American character and her
family. A more gently integrated theme would help
the story to read like a story rather than a rule book for
tolerance. Alex Pardo DeLange’s ink and watercolor
illustrations add interesting visual details like salsa,
pinatas, and peppers, but the cartoon quality of the
characters and their homes distracts from the serious
theme. Kerri Cunningham
The Sunsets of Miss Olivia Wiggins, by Lester L.
Laminack; illustrated by Constance R. Bergum.
LCCN 9740949. Atlanta: Peachtree, 1998. ISBN
1561451398, HBB, $15.95.
E. Great-grandmothers--Fiction; Old age--Fiction. 32 p. PS -
Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Confined to a wheelchair in a nursing home, Miss
Olivia Wiggins does not speak, move, or respond to
others. While looking at the sunset out the window,
Miss Olivia remembers a childhood sunset. Other
happy memories are sparked when her daughter,
Angel, and great-grandson, Troy, stop by for a visit.
As her guests leave, they comment on how Miss
Olivia looks to be almost smiling and how their visit
did her a “world of good.”
The Sunsets of Miss Olivia Wiggins by Lester L.
Laminack will be appreciated much more by adults,
who will not finish the book dry eyed, than children
who may not “get” much of the story. However, there
are still plenty of lessons that children can learn from
this story. Many relatives have given up visiting Miss
Olivia because they think she doesn’t know they are
there. Angel and Troy, however, know better and they
continue to visit Miss Olivia regularly. Whether they
get a response from her or not. The illustrations by
Constance R. Bergum match the text perfectly, adding
depth and texture to an already fine story.
Those coping with a family member with
Alzheimer’s will find this story to be an excellent
resource for children. This deals with the disease on
a purely emotional, non-medical level, that everyone
can understand. Elizabeth A. Coleman
Trevor’s Wiggly-Wobbly Tooth, by Lester L.
Laminack; illustrated by Kathi Garry McCord.
LCCN 987210. Atlanta: Peachtree, 1998. ISBN
1561451754, HBB, $15.95.
E. Teeth--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 32 p. K - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Trevor goes to school on Monday with his first loose
tooth. C.J. and Tillman urge Trevor not to let anyone
extract his tooth with a string. So Trevor conceals all
the string in his house. On Tuesday, Tillman urges
Trevor not to let anyone extract his tooth with pliers.
Trevor gets frightened remembering the pliers at
home. On Wednesday, Carmen encourages Trevor to
wiggle his tooth with his tongue. On Thursday,
Trevor’s father volunteers to extract the tooth. On
Friday, Grandma Sally goes to school with Trevor,
and the class concocts taffy. When Trevor bites the
taffy, his tooth gets stuck in it. Then Grandma Sally
bites the taffy, and all her top front teeth come out in
it.
Lester L. Laminack has written a story about a young
boy losing his first tooth. Because of Trevor’s family
and friends, he is both excited and scared. But
Grandma Sally’s antic at the end of the story ensures
Trevor will never forget the loss of his first tooth.
Trevor’s Wiggle-Wobbly Tooth is a humorous story
about a memorable event in a young child’s life.
Children will relate to the uncertainty Trevor
experiences in losing his first tooth. The whimsical
illustrations by Kathi Garry McCord will draw
children into the story. Dianne Woodman
Mountain Magic : A Family’s Legacy of Faith, by
Alice Boggs Lentz; illustrated by David Griffin.
LCCN 9811050. Nashville: Tommy Nelson, 1998.
ISBN 0849958415, HBB, $12.99.
E. Mountain life--Fiction; Family life--Fiction; Christian life--
Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Every year, the summer heat drives the family to
Grandma’s cabin in the mountain. The first few years
they travel by train, then by car. As the years go by
the activities change slightly, but one thing remains
the same. Each night before bed the entire family
joins together in a “hymn-sing.” The last song they
sing is the doxology and sounds, to the narrator, like
angels. Several generations go by, but still the family
tradition goes on, and she still thinks they sound like
angels.
Beautifully written by Alice Boggs Lentz, Mountain
Magic captures perfectly the enchantment of long
summer vacations. Children will enjoy this book, but
adults will truly appreciate this story of a family’s
spiritual tradition and how rapidly the years go by. A
good quiet time book, with little “action.” There are
no character names, only “Grandmother” or
“brothers.” This technique is successful due in part to
the lovely illustrations by David Griffin. The
drawings put a face to the narrator and enhance the
gentle text bringing the beauty of the mountain to life.
Elizabeth A. Coleman
Cows in the House, adapted by Beverly Lewis;
illustrated by Chi Chung. Minneapolis: Bethany
Backyard, 1998. ISBN 0764220969, HBB, $14.99.
E. Contentment--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Frustrated with his five little sisters’ constant fighting
and bickering, the barefoot boy consults his wise
grandfather about a solution. His grandfather tells
him to bring cows into the house. After the barefoot
boy obeys, the chaos in the house grows worse. The
barefoot boy goes to see his grandfather again. This
time the grandfather tells the boy to invite some
spoiled cousins to stay at the house. Naturally the din
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increases. Once again the barefoot boy goes to see his
grandfather. Grandfather tells the boy to invite a band
of musicians to the house. Finally, Grandfather tells
the boy to send everyone back to their own homes.
Now the barefoot boy sleeps peacefully through his
sisters’ quarreling and the house seems spacious.
Cows in the House is an enjoyable folktale based on
Philippians 4:11, “For I have learned to be content
with whatever I have.” The dialogue by Beverly
Lewis and illustrations by Chi Chung combine to give
the story a Chinese Proverb feel. While adults will
appreciate the subtle wit of this book, small children
will enjoy the story, but may miss the overall humor.
Grown-ups and children can both benefit from this
pleasant lesson in accepting one’s situation. Elizabeth
Coleman
Froggy’s First Kiss, by Jonathan London;
illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz. LCCN 9718772.
New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN 0670870641, HBB,
$14.99.
E. Valentine’s Day--Fiction; Frogs--Fiction; Schools--Fiction.
28 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Froggy dreams of Valentine’s Day. He thinks of
candy, love, and making valentines. But his days at
school are complicated by his crush on Frogilina.
This book will be read with giggles of delight as
Froggy struggles through the school week, falling off
the monkey bars on his head, sharing lunch box treats
with Frogilina, finally finishing his special valentine,
and receiving his first kiss. Then the book ends with
a surprise when Valentine’s Day arrives and Froggy
serves his mother breakfast in bed and gives her his
special valentine.
Jonathan London, who has written other Froggy
books, lives in California. Frank Remkiewiez, who
lives in Florida, has illustrated postors, greeting cards,
animal cracker boxes, and many books for children.
Froggy’s First Kiss is a good resource for
encouraging sharing and remembering others on
Valentine’s Day. Marie Knaupp
Sister Anne’s Hands, by Marybeth Lorbiecki;
illustrated by K. Wendy Popp. LCCN 9726671.
New York: Dial, 1988. ISBN 0803720394, HBB,
$15.99.
E. Race relations--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Afro-Americans--
Fiction. 32 p. Gr. 1 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Sister Anne’s Hands describes a seven-year-old girl’s
first encounter with racism during the 1960s. Author
Marybeth Lorbiecki creates a story with a powerful
and important message. She uses the first person for
Anna Zabrocky to recall her first black teacher, Sister
Anne. Anna sees beneath the “black dress and veil
like other nuns” and skin “darker than any person’s
I’d ever known” to the “sparkles” in Sister Anne’s
voice. Learning in Sister Anne’s second grade class
is filled with stories, counting teeth, buttons on
clothing, and pencils in desks, singing and stomping
out arithmetic problems. Though Sister Anne has
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reached inside her students to inspire true learning,
she is faced with prejudice as parents remove students
from her class. Then one day after lunch a paper
airplane sails toward Sister Anne’s desk with a racist
note scribbled on the wings.
Sister Anne teaches the students left in her class about
the black experience, about the color of hatred, and
about understanding other cultures around the globe.
She continues to teach reading, math and writing, as
well as a little painting and gardening. Most
importantly, she teaches students like Anna to spread
their wings and fly.
K. Wendy Popp’s illustrations are filled with 1960s
period detailing. They are luminous and dreamy,
beautifully expressing Lorbiecki’s poetic prose.
Sister Anne’s Hands is a story difficult to forget for
it’s message of human love—and how a special
teacher can influence a child for life. Lisa Wroble
The Girl Who Wore Too Much, retold by Margaret
Read MacDonald; with Thai text by Supaporn
Vathanaprida; illustrated by Yvonne Lebrun
Davis. LCCN 9738807. Little Rock, Ark.: Little
Folk, 1998. ISBN 0874835038, HBB, $15.95.
E. Folklore--Thailand; Bilingual books--English-Thai. 32 p.
PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Girl Who Wore Too Much is adapted from a
traditional Thai folktale and given a contemporary
setting. It is the story of a vain girl who has too
much—too many fine silk clothes, too many rings,
bracelets, and necklaces. One day she is invited to a
party and can not make up her mind what to wear.
Wanting to be the prettiest girl at the party, she
decides to wear all her dresses and jewelry. This is a
big mistake since her friends think she looks foolish,
not pretty. Weighted down by all her adornments she
falls behind. She will not heed the advice of her
friends to shed some of her dresses, and so she misses
the party altogether and falls exhausted to the ground.
Finally, she is chastened, gives away her clothes, and
is happy with one simple dress.
This story is a showcase for the excellent and vibrant
illustrations. Several Thai storytellers collaborated
with the author and illustrator to ensure accuracy of
detail in the color gauche, watercolor, and colored
pencil illustrations. The illustrator conveys the
excellence of Thai textile design in the scenes
depicted as well as in the lively geometric borders that
frame every scene. The endpapers are decorated with
a bevy of gaudily plumed birds. A parallel Thai text
in small typeface is at the bottom of each page
The author, who was a Fulbright Scholar in Thailand,
has departed from the traditional story to the extent
that the vain girl is redeemed rather than dying.
According to the author this story has great audience
participation appeal. David Rash
A Summery Saturday Morning, by Margaret Mahy;
illustrated by Selina Young. LCCN 9761542. New
York: Viking, 1988. ISBN 0670879436, HBB,
$15.99.
E. Stories in rhyme. 24 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
When you begin a summer morning by taking
...the dogs down the wiggly track,
The wiggly track, the wiggly track,
you know you are in for a great day and a great poem.
Margaret Mahy’s hike down New Zealand hills to the
sea is chronicled by a marchable poetic rhythm that
begs to be imitated and adapted by the listener.
Everyday occurrences take on new interest as dogs
chase cats, boys pass by on bikes and a goose who’s
.”..neck is long and her eye is mean,” present
themselves to the children on their way to
scattering shells and leaping logs,
On a summery Saturday morning.
Everything about A Summery Saturday Morning is
fun, fun, fun. The rollicking rhymes of two-time
Carnegie Medal winner Margaret Mahy are
wonderfully supported by Selina Young’s illustrations
of a mother, four children, and an assortment of
animals who set out for the beach and find the trip as
exciting as the destination. Children will want to try
their own hand at rhyming after they have caught the
rhythm and pattern. Let them! One caution ought to
accompany the praise: although this book and others
by the author for younger children are exceptional,
parents and teachers would do well to preview her
works for older children and teens where she deals
with darker themes and the supernatural. Pamela A.
Todd
★
Way Out in the Desert, by T. J. Marsh and Jennifer
Ward; illustrated by Kenneth J. Spengler.
Flagstaff: Rising Moon, 1998. ISBN 0873586875,
HBB, $15.95.
E. Desert--Fiction; Children’s poetry; Stories in rhyme. 26 p.
PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Way out in the desert having fun in the sun
lived a mother horned toad and her little toady
one.
If this book seem strangely familiar, it is because it is
an adaptation of Olive A. Wadsworth’s counting song,
Over in the Meadow. T. J. Marsh and Jennifer Ward
transplant the old tune into the Southwest, and do
their counting on Gila monsters, rattlesnakes, and
scorpions. One horned toad leads to two
hummingbirds and three javelinas. The verses’
flowing rhymes hold the rhythm of distant drums, as
Ken Spengler’s vibrant illustrations appear to pop off
the page in colors as rich and warm as a Sonora
sunrise. Predictability and repetitiveness build a
familiar anticipation as the book leads into the exotic
life of the desert.
Way Out in the Desert blends reading, mathematics,
music, botany, and art. Numbers hidden in each
picture invite young listeners to interact with the
story. A musical score encourages musicians to
translate the text into song. Curious science students
will be satisfied with the friendly tone and
insightfulness of the glossary. Rarely can a picture
book this educational be so much fun. Melinda M.
Torgerson
Uncle Frank’s Pit, by Matthew McElligott. LCCN
9727303. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670877379, HBB, $15.99.
E. Uncles--Fiction; Humorous stories. 28 p. Gr. 1 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Author and illustrator Matthew McElligott presents a
funny, far-fetched tale about Uncle Frank. For being
a relative who would never come to visit, Uncle
Frank finally shows up and then won’t leave. Uncle
Frank is rather eccentric so when he begins to dig a
hole in the back yard, no one questions it. But after
he takes furniture, the TV, and even a hot tub into his
hole, the family determines to put a stop to it. They
discover a well-furnished, comfortable home below
the ground, but discover something odd sticking out
of the ground in the corner.
Dad begins to dig and finds a huge, beautiful museum
piece that fills the hole and entire back yard. Now
that the hole and yard are all dug up, Uncle Frank
decide it’s time to move on. He senses special
vibrations coming from Aunt Edith’s place, and off he
goes.
This zany tale touches on the truth of having that
peculiar relative who may overstay his/her welcome
and bring a rather eccentric personality along.
Humorous and inquisitive, the storyline and great
illustrations will hold the interest of young and older
readers alike. Mary McKinney
Cinderella’s Rat, by Susan Meddaugh. LCCN
97002156. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1997. ISBN
0395868335, HBB, $15.00.
E. Rats--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Characters in
literature--Fiction. 32 p. K - Gr. 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 3
Here’s a fresh angle on the Cinderella story—this
time from the rat’s point of view.
“I was born a rat,” the rat says in the opening.
“I expected to be a rat all my days. But life is
full of surprises.”
Changed into a coachman, or “coachboy” as the rat
calls himself, he drives a girl (Cinderella, of course)
to the castle for the ball, and that’s where the story
veers off from the familiar. The rat-turned-coachboy,
drawn to the castle’s kitchen by the heavenly smell of
food, meets a human boy and shares a snack with him
in the pantry. Suddenly, the boy shouts, “A RAT!
KILL IT!” The rat-turned-coachboy thinks he’s been
found out, but sees instead a familiar rat scampering
across the floor toward him. The human boy raises
his foot, and the coachboy shouts, “Stop! That’s my
sister!”
“That must have been some powerful magic spell to
turn your sister into a rat,” the human boy says.
“Come. What we need is a wizard.” The coachboy,
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stunned by this turn of events but wishing to keep his
secret, follows the human boy to a wizard’s cottage.
The wizard (after making a few mistakes), turns his
sister into a girl. The three return to the castle, the
clock strikes midnight, and the coachboy changes
back into a rat. The story ends with a twist, and
everyone lives happily ever after. The rat repeats his
opening theme by stating, “Life is full of surprises, so
you may as well get used to it.”
The story is engaging, and a fresh change from the
familiar. Be aware that the author includes the
wizard’s incantations (“Eye of bat and tooth of
newt…”). This may lead children to mimic “spells,”
and detracts from an otherwise interesting story.
Kimn Swenson Gollnick
The Stars Are Waiting, by Marjorie Dannis
Murray; illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers. LCCN
9737123. New York: Marshall Cavendish, 1998.
ISBN 0761450246, HBB, $15.95.
E. Bedtime--Fiction; Night--Fiction; Animals--Fiction; Stories
in rhyme. 32 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Why is it important for children to go to bed? It is
because the stars are waiting. They are waiting for
animals to prepare for the end of their day and find
their safe place to sleep. Waiting for humans to gather
their loved children around them for a story. Waiting
for the children to be tenderly hugged. Waiting for
children to be snug in bed. Then the stars can come
out.
Every family needs a good bedtime story book that
will calm little bodies, preparing them for a restful
night. With tender, sometimes rhyming verse,
Marjorie Murray presents such a book in The Stars
Are Waiting. Jacqueline Rogers provides two page
soft water color paintings that add to the peacefulness
of the book. This is a delightful book for both parent
and child. Lynette Sorenson
Spunky’s Camping Adventure, based on character
and story by Janette Oke. Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1998. ISBN 0764221450, HBB, $9.99.
E. Dogs--Fiction; Camping--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Spunky the dog and his master Mark are excited
about their first camping trip together. While setting
up camp, they meet their neighbors, the Johnson
family and their dog Snapper. Mark is having a
difficult time getting along with Buzz Johnson, who
steals an arrowhead and plays some unfunny jokes on
Mark. Spunky is having similar trouble with Snapper.
When the canoe that Mark, Buzz, and the dogs are
paddling overturns, Spunky saves the day and Buzz
learns about true friendship.
Spunky’s Camping Adventure, based on character and
story by Janette Oke, is an adventurous fun book. The
illustrations by Elizabeth Gatt, Sue Wilkinson, and
Holly Lennox have a Saturday morning cartoon look
that will appeal to children. For added appeal,
Spunky has hidden his multi-colored ball on each
page, giving youngsters something to search for as
the story progresses. Each page is nicely framed,
with Spunky and his paw print featured prominently
throughout. While the cute drawings and design
almost outshine the text, solid biblical principles are
presented and children will truly enjoy this book.
Elizabeth A. Coleman
Badger’s Bad Mood, by Hiawyn Oram; illustrated
by Susan Varley. New York: Scholastic, 1998.
ISBN 0590189204, HBB, $15.95.
E. Animals--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Moods--Fiction. 24
p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Badger is in a terrible mood. He feels that he is no
good for anyone or anything. His animal friends try
to cheer him up to no avail. Then Badger’s best
friend, Mole, comes up with a clever idea. He plans
an awards ceremony for everyone in the forest. Mole
thoughtfully creates an award for each of his friends
from best slow dancer for snail to most gallant
courtier for frog. Badger is convinced to go and ends
up winning the most prizes. Feeling much better
about himself, Badger is able to truly celebrate with
his friends.
Hiawyn Oram has written a lovely story about the
importance of self-esteem. Through her descriptions
of each animal, the reader can picture each animal as
an individual with his or her own special abilities.
Susan Varley’s warm, colorful paintings complement
the loving tone of Hiawyn Oram’s story. Badger’s
Bad Mood could be integrated into a lesson about
building self-esteem with students planning their own
awards ceremony as the culminating activity.
Badger’s Bad Mood will be a helpful addition to
school libraries seeking titles with bibliotherapeutic
value. Susan Robinson
Silver Morning, by Susan Pearson; illustrated by
David Christiana. LCCN 9651579. San Diego:
Harcourt Brace, 1998. ISBN 0152747869, HBB,
$16.00.
E. Nature--Fiction; Morning--Fiction. Unp. Gr. 1 - 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
“While we slept the fog crept in. We zip our jackets
and slip outside feeling thick with magic.” Thus
Susan Pearson begins a journey with her readers
through a magical misty world transformed by fog
and shadowy shapes. This haunting tale captures a
spirit of wonder and discovery as a child and mother
make their way through field and forest. A rustle in
the distance betrays the presence of deer. Only the
flick of white tails reveals their presence. The sense
of hearing becomes essential in this shadowy world
that eludes vision. David Christiana’s muted
watercolors enhance the mystery and beauty of this
special morning.
Silver Morning is a sensitive beautifully written and
illustrated book. It is one of those rare volumes to be
treasured over and over by adult and child, perhaps
motivating a similar foray into the world of fog and
mist. As we endeavor to encourage a grasp of the
beauty around us, such a book becomes a gift of rare
value as well as a tool. Mary Jarvis
Thank You, Mr. Falker, by Patricia Polacco.
LCCN 9718685. New York: Philomel, 1998. ISBN
0399231668, HBB, $16.99.
E. Reading--Fiction; Teachers--Fiction. 45 p. PS to Gr. 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Trisha is excited to start school so she can learn to
read. Her kindly grandparents explain how
knowledge is sweet, like honey from the bee. Trisha
loves school and especially likes drawing pictures.
But words and letters are confusing and though some
of her classmates learn to read, Trisha does not.
First grade is worse. As the others progress to harder
books, Trisha is still struggling with the first book.
Second grade is no better. The students begin to
laugh at her stumbling, faltering reading and one boy
bullies her to tears by his name-calling. In third
grade, a new teacher, Mr. Falker, arrives and will not
let the other children laugh at her.
Mr. Falker also lavishly praises her drawings. When
he gives her a simple test after school, he gently tells
her she just does not see letters and numbers as others
do. She begins to have special lessons from Mr.
Falker and a reading teacher. She works and works
and finally, one day, she can read a whole paragraph!
Author and illustrator Patricia Polacco tells that she
was once a Trisha and that she had a Mr. Falker come
into her life who “unlocked the door and pulled her
into the light.” She asks children who read this book
to thank all the teachers they have loved.
Inspiring and sentimental, this story gives
encouragement to students with reading problems and
exhorts the value of a teacher who cares. Barbara G.
Taenzler
★
The Keeping Quilt, written and illustrated by
Patricia Polacco. LCCN 9747690. New York:
Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers,
1998. ISBN 0689820909, HBB, $16.00.
E. Quilts--Fiction; Jews--Fiction; Emigration and immigration-
-Fiction. 40 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The 10th anniversary edition of Patricia Polacco’s
The Keeping Quilt is as lovely as the original, which
came out in 1988 and won the Sydney Taylor Book
Award from the Association of Jewish Libraries. It
tells the story of a quilt that was made for Polacco’s
great-grandmother Anna from bits and pieces of
family clothing, becoming an important part of her
family’s history. “We will make a quilt to help us
always remember home,” Anna’s mother said” It will
be like having the family in backhome Russia dance
around us at night.” It was passed from one
generation to another, being used in many ways,
including as a tablecloth, a wedding canopy, a tent, a
picnic cloth, and as a welcoming wrap for each new
baby that came.
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In the 1988 edition, Polacco ends the book with new
daughter Traci wrapped in the quilt. In 1998, Polacco
continues her family’s story, showing how Traci and
brother Steven used the quilt as a superhero cape, as
a birthday tablecloth, and to cover their dying
grandmother as the family prays for her departing
soul. She ends the new edition with the hope that she
may someday be able to share the quilt with her
grandchildren.
“Polacco’s charcoal and marker illustrations are
charming and wonderfully detailed—even the
drawings of herself are true to life! The quilt (and its
original elements) are the only colored items in each
picture and that catches the eye and emphasizes the
way the quilt’s use changes from time to time.”
This is a wonderful book that can be used in many
ways, such as encouraging family history and
heirlooms, showing details of Jewish daily life, and
adding interest to a pioneer unit, where quilting is
talked about. Even if a library has the 1988 edition,
they may want to add this one! Betty Winslow
Cinnamon’s Day Out : A Gerbil Adventure, by
Susan L. Roth. New York: Dial Books for Young
Readers, 1998. ISBN 0803723229, HBB, $15.99.
E. Gerbils--Fiction. 30 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Cinnamon’s Day Out is a gerbil’s view of the exciting
world outside its cage. Chewing its way out of the top
of the cage, Cinnamon thinks the carpet is a green
meadow. A dog and cat seem to be a wolf and tiger.
When the gerbil is missed it is finally found eating in
a cupboard and flies through the air as a hand safely
deposits it back home.
Few words are used, but Susan Roth has filled full
pages with graphic multi-textured materials fully
depicting the adventure. Wood chips, wall paper, cut
and torn scraps of various shapes, sizes and colors
express more than many words could say. Many
exciting things to look at and discuss are seen on each
page of this book. Marie Knaupp
Hannah’s Baby Sister, by Marisabina Russo.
LCCN 9731412. New York: Greenwillow, 1998.
ISBN 0688158323, HBB, $14.93.
E. Babies--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction. 29 p. PS -
Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The addition and acceptance of a new sibling can be
a traumatic situation for many children, which is the
subject for Hannah’s Baby Sister by Marisabina
Russo. Jealousy is the usual emotion felt by siblings,
yet in this story Hannah has no problem with another
baby arriving. Her problem is that she is determined
it will be a sister—after all she has a younger brother
already, who needs two? But when the baby is a
Benjamin and not a Patsy, Hannah has to readjust her
thinking.
Even though there are numerous books that deal with
the arrival of new siblings, Russo’s warm,
uncomplicated text and illustrations lend the right
amount of clarity and optimism to this major event in
a child’s life. This story is also one that could be used
for the unwaveringly determined child who has a
difficult time accepting outcomes other than what he
or she anticipated. Although the ending is as expected
it is realistic of how a family would try to mend a
disappointed sibling’s feelings. For a more rollicking
approach try Kevin Henkes’ Julius, The Best Baby of
the World. Pam Webb
Mr. Emerson’s Cook, by Judith Byron Schachner.
LCCN 9810032. New York: Dutton, 1998. ISBN
0525458840, HBB, $15.99.
E. Emerson, Ralph Waldo, 1803-1882--Fiction; Food--Fiction;
Cookery--Fiction; Imagination--Fiction. 28 p. Gr. 1 - 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Newly arrived to America, Annie Burns becomes
cook to the family of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Concerned because her husband has given up food,
Mrs. Emerson gives Annie quite a challenge—to
make him eat again! Annie is impressed by Mr.
Emerson’s spending time doing farm work and
teaching his children.
Admiring Emerson’s poetry and his unique
perspective on life, Annie becomes devoted to the
Emerson family. However, as a cook, she fears she
has failed. She tries to no avail to entice Mr. Emerson
to eat. It takes a gift from her mother—a book written
by Annie when she was a child—to set her free into a
new way of thinking. Letting her imagination go, she
tries once more to cook a suitable dish for Mr.
Emerson. Her recipe for Sunrise Pie wins back Mr.
Emerson’s appetite.
Written by Annie Burns’ great-granddaughter, Judith
Byron Schachner, this book is a fun combination of
fact and fiction. The warm, whimsical writing, along
with watercolor and ink illustrations, allow the reader
to get to know Annie and Mr. Emerson. Mr.
Emerson’s Cook is not so much a story about Ralph
Waldo Emerson as it is about the power of
imagination.
Presented as an eccentric thinker, Emerson’s
Transcendental philosophy is not specifically
portrayed in this book. The afterword gives a
biographical sketch of Emerson’s life and explains the
connection to Annie Burns. Limited in information, it
is a good first resource for a student researching
Ralph Waldo Emerson. Karen Brehmer
Annie Ashcraft Looks into the Dark, by Ruth
Senter; illustrated by Lee Christiansen.
Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, 1998. ISBN
0764220950, HBB, $14.99.
E. Fear--Fiction; Trust--Fiction. 32 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Lying in her bed at night, Annie Ashcraft hears a
noise. It’s coming from the outside and sounds a lot
like something trying to get inside, maybe something
with a claw. Nothing helps the noise go away, not
closing her eyes very tight or pulling her quilt up over
her head. Finally, Annie whispers for her Daddy.
Somehow he hears her and comes to her room. After
reassuring her, Annie’s Daddy investigates the noise
and discovers its source. Tucking her back into bed,
Daddy returns to his room and Annie finally goes to
sleep.
Annie Ashcraft Looks Into the Dark by Ruth Senter is
based on the scripture, “I can lie down and go to
sleep. And I will wake up again because the Lord
protects me.” (Psalm 3:5) Children will be able to
identify with Annie’s fear of noises, darkness, and
shadows. While the story is not overly scary, tension
does build as Annie listens in the dark, contemplating
what might be outside. The dark colors in the
illustrations by Lee Christiansen add to the night time
feeling. This book could be a positive influence in
helping a child overcome their fears. Elizabeth A.
Coleman
A Bad Case of Stripes, by David Shannon. LCCN
9654643. New York: Blue Sky Press, 1998. ISBN
0590929976, HBB, $15.95.
E. Peer pressure--Fiction. 30 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Camilla Cream loves lima beans, but in her effort to
fit in with the crowd, she gives them up. In fact,
Camilla is so worried about what others think about
her that she literally becomes her worries. Should
she wear red or green on her first day of school?
Filled with all these doubts Camilla looks in the
mirror dismayed to find that she has become striped.
After assurances from the doctor that she is not
running a fever, and therefore not ill, Camilla goes to
school, where she quickly becomes the center of
attention, changing chameleon like to fit the whims of
all her classmates. Asked to remain at home until the
“stripes” disappear, there follows a series of medical
and psychological experts all with helpful suggestions
for getting over the stripes, each one of which only
makes poor Camilla worse. The climax comes when
an Environmental Therapist comes to visit and tells
Camilla to breathe deeply and become one with her
room. Poor Camilla, breathes deeply and literally
becomes her room with lips as the bed mattresses, and
eyes as pictures on the wall. It takes a little old lady
“as plump and sweet as a strawberry” to solve
Camilla’s bad case of stripes with a healthy dose of
lima beans. Camilla vows to never again become
what everyone else wants, but to be the best “self” she
can be... and to eat lima beans whenever she likes.
David Shannon with his wonderfully fantastical
illustrations has created a far out and entertaining
story. In fact, the events of the story are so unreal that
the audience can giggle without worry at Camilla’s
plight and yet identify with the stress of trying to be
what you are not, driving home the point of Mr.
Shannon’s message: Be yourself. Judy Driscoll
Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day of
Kindergarten, by Joseph Slate; illustrated by
Ashley Wolff. New York: Dutton, 1998. ISBN
0525460004, HBB, $15.99.
E. Kindergarten--Fiction; Hundred--Fiction. 40 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
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Miss Bindergarten is a lively border-collie teacher
who asks her students to bring in “100 of some
wonderful, one-hundred-full thing” to celebrate the
100th day of class. Her students get busy: Sara the
squirrel counts the ants in her ant farm, Jessie the
leopard pokes her spots to make sure she has the right
number, and the frog Franny “draws a picture of her
hundred-year-old face.” The story follows the quest
of each student (reported in alphabetical order by
name and species) and also the preparations of Miss
Bindergarten as she works hard to decorate her room
and herself for the big day. Creativity, hard work, and
enthusiasm are catching and the students strive hard
to bring in imaginative projects. Everyone’s efforts
are recapped in a notebook that Miss Bindergarten
puts together on the last pages.
Ashley Wolff’s illustrations are bright, cheerful, and
include a lot of detail to keep readers and listeners
intrigued. The rhyming text with the repeated phrase,
“Miss Bindergarten gets ready for the 100th day of
kindergarten,” is fun to read and reinforces the
concept of 100. This spirited story teaches counting
and early math concepts in a captivating way and
yields itself to classroom tie-in activities. It is likely
to inspire kindergarten teachers everywhere to join in
the festivities. Lillian A. Heytvelt
Emily Just in Time, by Jan Slepian; illustrated by
Glo Coalson. LCCN 9550002. New York:
Philomel, 1998. ISBN 0399230432, HBB, $15.99.
E. Fear--Fiction; Growth--Fiction; Grandmothers--Fiction. 30
p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Emily used to be too little to go down the twisty slide,
to pour her own milk, or to do a cartwheel. Now, she
can do a lot of things she couldn’t do before, but she
still can’t spend the whole night at Grandma’s. She
wants to—she loves to be at her grandma’s house—
but she can’t. She tries again and again, bringing her
own blanket from home once and then her teddy bears
to stand watch in the dark, but nothing helps. Each
time, she ends up crying and begging her
grandmother to take her home. Each time, her
understanding grandmother lovingly assures her,
“Someday it will be time. You will be able to stay
overnight and not think anything of it.” Emily keeps
visiting and keeps growing. Soon, she can put her
face in the water. She can color inside the lines in her
coloring books. She can even put her fingertips on
the tree limb that she couldn’t reach before without
leaping. Then, one night, she tries again and climbs
into the bed at her grandmother’s house. She falls
asleep right away, not thinking anything about it.
Grandma was right!
Coalson’s misty watercolors add just the right feel to
Slepian’s story of intergenerational love. The care
and patience of the grandmother as, time after time,
she must get up and dress and take her frightened
grandchild home makes this book a perfect readaloud
choice as well as a wonderful addition to any
library’s collection. Betty Winslow
Water Voices, by Toby Speed; illustrated by Julie
Downing. LCCN 9510588. New York: Putnam,
1998. ISBN 0399226311, HBB, $12.99.
E. Water--Fiction. 30 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Flowing water color illustrations enhance the soft
sounds of seven water experiences young children
enjoy. Poetic riddles describe Water Voices as Toby
Speed spins a web of imagination with words. In a
cacophany of nature sounds morningmist disappears,
and sprinklerspray calls for play. Then watch out for
hungry oceanwave, startling thunderstorm, and
splashing mudpuddles. After a full day, nothing is
more enjoyable than the bedtime bath splash. But
beware, sleepyhead, or the morning dew will be gone
before it can be seen.
A wonderful book to be enjoyed over and over again,
the memory of flowing words and feelings will
enhance each future experience with water. Marie
Knaupp
I Love You, Little One, By Nancy Tafuri. LCCN
96030791. New York: Scholastic, 1997. ISBN
0590921592, HBB, $15.95.
E. Animals--Infancy--Fiction; Mother and child--Fiction.
Unp. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
“Do you love me?” the little ones ask their mothers.
The response is always the same, “forever and ever
and always.” This is true whether the little duck or
the little brown bear asks. Each reassurance is
supported by an example from nature such as, “I love
you as the wild rye loves you, gently swaying above
you, giving you food and cover from harm.”
Author/illustrator Nancy Tafuri has created a quiet
bedtime book, I Love You, Little One. The large
format and full spreads will be sure to draw the
youngest audience. Her flat detailed watercolor and
ink paintings are in keeping with her previous works.
The lyrical text personifies nature. The oak loves the
owl, and the stars love the child. There is the constant
repetition of the fact that creation loves the creature.
Lorie Ann Grover
When Young Melissa Sweeps, poem by Nancy Byrd
Turner; paintings by Debrah Santini. LCCN
9740941. Atlanta: Peachtree, 1998. ISBN
1561451576, HBB, $15.95.
E. House cleaning--Fiction; Dance--Fiction; Stories in rhyme.
30 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
With broom in hand and chores to do, Melissa ties her
dancing shoes. She curtsies to her slender partner,
and the dust begins to fly. With a gay gavotte and a
Highland fling, she reels into her work. Dishes clatter
and kittens scatter before the flurry of her broom.
Optimism lightens her humble duty, and brightens the
corners just as surely, as Melissa cleans the room.
When Young Melissa Sweeps reads with breathless
exuberance. First published in 1927, Nancy Byrd
Turner’s timeless poem comes to life in Debrah
Santini’s frolicsome watercolor illustrations. The
book begs to be read again and again, and as the pages
swiftly turn, Melissa appears almost animated. The
contagious energy of this book invites the reader to
attack life with lighthearted determination. Melinda
M. Torgerson
Amanda Pig and Her Best Friend Lollipop, by Jean
Van Leeuwen; pictures by Ann Schweninger.
(DialEasy-to-Read.) LCCN 9719941. New York:
Dial Books for Young Readers, 1998. ISBN
0803719825, HBB, $13.99.
E. Friendship--Fiction; Sleepovers--Fiction; Pigs--Fiction. 48
p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
“Today is the very best day, Lollipop is coming to
play!” So many happy things were in store for
Amanda Pig that day, that she just had to break out
into poetry. Her first ever best friend was coming to
visit! But Lollipop is very shy and will only whisper
to Amanda as they play house and swing in the
backyard. Then, another first! Lollipop invites
Amanda to her house, where Amanda finds things are
a little bit different than back home. May she stay
overnight? Oh, another first! Amanda tries out the
top bunk of Lollipop’s bed, but finds she can not get
to sleep. Scary shadows and unfamiliar sounds send
Amanda scurrying to the phone and, soon after, into
her father’s arms. Friend’s homes are fine in the
daylight, Amanda decides, but at night, her own home
is best.
Jean Van Leeuwen’s ninth book in her Pig family
series continues the warm, loving story of Amanda,
her brother Oliver, and their family and friends. The
innocent excitement of new things and first times,
sweetly depicted by Ann Schweninger’s illustrations,
permeates Amanda Pig and Her Best Friend Lollipop
in a cozy, natural way that rings true to childhood
experiences. Such experiences are addressed so
gently and positively, that parents of pre-schoolers
through second grade would do well to use these
books to introduce the idea of similar things, like first
sleep-over fears, that will occur soon in the lives of
their own children. Appropriate as picture books for
the younger child on a parent’s lap, the series is also a
happy choice for the beginning reader who is ready to
progress to “chapter” books. Pamela A. Todd
The Tickle Stories, by Jean Van Leeuwen; pictures
by Mary Whyte. LCCN 9722107. New York: Dial
Books for Young Readers, 1998. ISBN
0803720483, HBB, $15.99.
E. Bedtime--Fiction; Storytelling--Fiction; Grandfathers--
Fiction. 29 p. PS - Gr. 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Maggie, Morgan, and Max are having trouble settling
down for the night. Even hugs, five kinds of kisses,
and toe tickles don’t do the trick as Grandpop
struggles to get his little “chickpeas” to sleep. “You
can’t go yet,” said Maggie. “You forgot the story.”
Then begin The Tickle Stories, three fanciful stories
within a story, of a hot, hot summer and a young
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Grandpop and his cousins trying to beat the heat.
Grandpop tickles the heat-sleepy worms to attract the
lazy fish for which they are angling; he feeds Gertie,
his favorite cow, some ice for heat relief and then
tickles her for some surprising results; and sleeping
on the cool, dark porch isn’t as peaceful as it sounds
when Grandpop starts—you guessed it—tickling Big
George’s big feet. In between each story, Grandpop
intersperses plenty of tummy, ear, and toe tickles.
You would think Maggie, Morgan, and Max would be
ready for more, but by the book’s cozy end, all three
are “snuggled down, hugging their pillows,” and
ready for bed.
Wonderfully bright watercolor washes energize The
Tickle Stories. Although the book is long for a picture
book, the stories are so much fun that the reader
moves from restless ruckus to relaxed rest along with
the three children, enjoying this warm, delightful,
loving, ticklish tale. Ann Ponath
My Name Is York, written by Elizabeth Van
Steenwyk; illustrated by Bill Farnsworth. LCCN
97008816. Flagstaff, Ariz.: Rising Moon, 1997.
ISBN 0873586506, HBB, $14.95.
E. Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806)--Fiction; West
(U.S.)--Fiction; African Americans--Fiction. Unp. Gr. 1 - 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
York, a slave to Captain Clark, ponders his freedom
while traveling with the Lewis and Clark party on a
mission to locate a Pacific Ocean waterway in 1803.
It is an arduous trip requiring the men to manually
haul their boats through grasslands and thickets and
travel down perilous rapids. At mission’s end,
Captain Clark carves the names of all the men on a
tree.
Elizabeth Van Steenwyk has written a story about a
slave who accompanies Lewis and Clark on their
westward mission. After the mission, Captain Clark
allows York to live as a free man, though he never
judicially confers York’s freedom.
My Name Is York is an engrossing story about a slave
who never stops yearning for his freedom, even
though it is not ever given. The illustrations by Bill
Farnsworth add to the enjoyment of the story.
Background information preceding the mission and
York’s life is delineated in the Foreword and
Afterword, and a map of the mission is illustrated on
the front and back covers of the book. Dianne
Woodman
Mouse, Look Out! by Judy Waite; illustrated by
Norma Burgin. LCCN 985249. New York:
Dutton, 1998. ISBN 0525420312, HBB, $15.99.
E. Mice--Fiction; Cats--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. 24 p. PS -
Gr. 1.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
My two-year-old niece and I were both captured by
the action and beautiful illustrations in Mouse, Look
Out! Judy Waite’s rhymed text follows the
movements of a little brown mouse in a once
gracious, but now abandoned manor house as it
searches for food and a warm, snug, place to sleep
out of the wind. Unbeknownst to it, there is a big,
black cat following its every move. The repeated
phrase: “Mouse, look out! There is a cat about!”
captures the suspense that builds as the stealthy cat
draw ever nearer its small prey. Readers and the cat
both are surprised by the ending. The sleek, black cat
learns that it is not the only one on the prowl in the
darkened house.
Norma Burgin’s naturalistic illustrations are an
absolute delight! Both the author and illustrator are
from England and this is reflected in Burgin’s use of
lush vegetation and the clinging ivy that creeps into
nearly every page. The shadowy hues complement
the gently ominous feel of the story. It is fun to follow
the strange, glowing eyes found on several pages
throughout the book and guess to whom they belong.
This is a lovely book to look at with a small child. It
encourages the awareness that someone more
powerful than us watches our every move, and leaves
its readers with the reassuring picture of the small
mouse safely sleeping in his new bed. Lillian
Heytvelt
The Legend of the Easter Egg, by Lori Walburg;
illustrated by James Bernardin. LCCN 9847180.
Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1999. ISBN
0310224470, HBB, $14.99.
E. Easter eggs--Fiction; Easter--Fiction; Jesus Christ--
Resurrection--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 30 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In The Legend of the Easter Egg, Lori Walburg
explains Easter and the gospel at a child’s level. Set
in a small prairie town, this is a sequel to The Legend
of the Candy Cane by the same author and illustrator.
The story takes place shortly before Easter. Thomas
must temporarily live with the Sonnemans because
his sister Lucy contracts scarlet fever. He helps in
their candy store and nibbles sweets all day. But
confections can’t erase his concern for Lucy. Will she
die? The Sonnemans treat him kindly and pray daily
for Lucy’s recovery.
Good Friday, Thomas attends church with the
Sonnemans and hears the story of Jesus’ death. Later,
when Mrs. Sonneman gives him an Easter egg, he
asks, “What are Easter eggs?” She tells him the true
meaning of Easter and explains that just as chicks
break out of eggs, so Jesus broke free of the tomb of
death. She encourages him to believe in Jesus and
pray for his sister. The next day he colors eggs and
prays by himself for the first time.
By Easter morning, Lucy is well and Thomas returns
home. He brings her a basket of colored eggs and
shares his new faith in Jesus and hope for eternal life.
Realistic, vivid illustrations done in acrylic and
colored pencil help tell the story. The artwork and
descriptive words are strengths of the book. Since the
time period is not mentioned, it’s difficult to place the
story at first. Also, a few words are unfamiliar to the
targeted age—children four to eight. Helpful
background information about traditions and symbols
of Lent and Easter are included at the end. An
appealing book, it should stimulate further adult-child
discussion about the meaning of Easter. Lydia Harris
Bow-Wow Birthday, by Lee Wardlaw; illustrated
by Arden Johnson-Petrov. LCCN 9772044.
Honesdale, Pa.: Boyds Mills, 1998. ISBN
1563974894, HBB, $14.95.
E. Birthdays--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction. 28 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Lee Wardlaw provides a warm story of give-and-take
and acceptance in Bow-Wow Birthday. When
Grandpa leaves his dog Rambler behind when he
goes on vacation, Maris is not sure about this animal
who favors her closet and her bunny slippers. But
when she finds out how old Rambler is she throws
him a birthday party. Rambler would rather nap,
which doesn’t deter Maris and her friends from
celebrating. But when the guest of honor can’t be
found, Maris reconciles her feelings for the old pooch
and accepts him for what he is, an old friend who
needs some extra loving. The large pastel illustrations
by Arden Johnson-Petrov provide the right touch of
liveliness for a dog-gone fun, yet sensitive tale.
Even though the story is long on text, it is a wonderful
book to help young children realize that when people
become older and slow down, they shouldn’t be
ignored, or even disdained. This book shows in a
thoughtful way how we can still show our
appreciation for the older persons in our lives. A little
compassion and tenderness can go a long way. Pam
Webb
Nantucket Cats, by Dawn Watkins; illustrated by
Lynn Elam Bonge. LCCN 9741138. Greenville,
S.C.: Journey Books, 1998. ISBN 0890849757,
PAP, $5.49.
E. Cats--Fiction; Clocks and watches--Fiction; Time--Fiction;
Nantucket Island (Mass.)--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. 32 p. PS
- Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Nantucket Cats are busy animals. They have a
different activity for each hour of the day and night.
At noon the cats eat their peas, at eight they hang up
their slickers and at one they sing a song. From all the
clocks that appear on each page and their strict
regimen it would seem the cats can tell time. As it
turns out, they have to hear the chime to know the
hour.
Simple rhyming poems tell the story of the feline’s
daily schedule. While Nantucket Cats, by Dawn
Wells, has a regional flavor, one does not have to be a
Cape Cod resident to appreciate the cat’s choice of
activities. For example, they cheer a sloop at four and
Continued on p. 95.
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BOOK REVIEWS
CHILDREN’S FICTION
Cam Jansen and the Catnapping Mystery, by David
A. Adler; illustrated by Susanna Natti. (A Cam
Jansen Adventure; 18.) LCCN 9750544. New
York: Viking, 1998. ISBN 0670880442, HBB,
$13.99.
F. Robbers and outlaws--Fiction; Hotels, motels, etc.--Fiction;
Mystery fiction. 58 p. Gr. 1 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Cam Jansen, her friend Eric, and her parents are
visiting Aunt Molly at a big city hotel. While talking
with a desk clerk about something exciting to do,
Mrs. Wright, a hotel guest, rushes up claiming her
luggage and her Little Tiger (a pet cat) are lost. It
turns out they’ve been stolen and Cam’s photographic
memory helps find the robber.
David Adler has written another fast moving book for
emerging readers. Susanna Natti’s black line
drawings illustrate the text well. An interesting
addition to the book is the reader’s chance to test their
photographic memory. At the end of the book,
readers are asked to study a certain illustration and
then answer questions about what they saw.
Cam Jansen and the Catnapping Mystery is just the
type of book enjoyed by those ready to graduate from
easy readers. The book is also a good read-aloud for
those who can’t yet read alone. Jane Mouttet
Poppy and Rye, by Avi; illustrated by Brian Floca.
LCCN 9731000. New York: Avon Camelot, 1998.
ISBN 0380976382, HBB, $14.00.
F. Mice--Fiction; Porcupines--Fiction; Animals--Fiction;
Fathers and sons--Fiction. 182 p. Gr. 3 - 7.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Poppy, the woodland creature adventure, continues in
Poppy and Rye. Poppy deer mouse is left heartbroken
over her beloved Ragweed’s tragic death. Ereth, her
porcupine companion, grudgingly agrees to escort her
in a journey to find The Brook and the family
Ragweed had spoken of so fondly. However, the
beavers have dammed the stream and the woodlands
are flooding. Ragweed’s brother, Rye, is being held
captive, and he in turn captures Poppy’s heart.
Avi’s mouse tales have won notable honors, including
the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award. Poppy and Rye
is sure to glow in this same favor. It is a story of love
aspiring to heroic bravery, sibling jealousy giving
way to individuality, and co-operation winning over
brute strength. The dialogue vividly portrays the
characters. Rye’s romantic nature is expressed in
poetic reflections. The “good old boy” leader of the
beavers rambles on in clique phrases, while Ereth’s
animal language swearing and insults leave no doubt
of his general attitude. Brian Floca’ black and white
illustrations emphasize dramatic points and lend
mouse-sized perspective to the adventure. He also
includes an overview of the territory, mapping out the
scene of the events. Melinda Torgerson
The Key to the Indian, by Lynne Reid Banks;
illustrated by James Watling. LCCN 9824972.
New York: Avon Camelot, 1998. ISBN
0380977176, HBB, $16.00.
F. Magic--Fiction; Space and time--Fiction; Family life--
Fiction; Indians of North America--Fiction. 228 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
In the last book, The Mystery of the Cupboard, Omri’s
father discovers the secret of the cupboard and the
magical key. Now Little Bear’s home is in danger.
Omri and his father travel back to help their friend
save his home and his heritage. Author Lynne Reid
Banks weaves history into the pages of this exciting
sequel to the Indian in the Cupboard series. Banks
approaches the history from the Indian perspective,
thus the European explorers and settlers are portrayed
as aggressive and unscrupulous.
One quote used from the book North American
Indians by George Catlin describes a Sioux chief’s
observation of the white men. “And the chief just
kept quietly asking about other white people’s
customs, such as robbing graves and abusing their
own women, and Catlin kept making notes and
keeping his head down and feeling more and more
uncomfortable, and at last the chief asked if it was
true that the Great Spirit of the white people was the
child of a white woman and that white people had
killed him—referring to Jesus, of course. When
Catlin had to say yes to that, the chief simply couldn’t
believe it, and said, ‘The Indians’ Great Spirit got no
mother—the Indians no kill him, he never die.’”
Quotes such as this provide opportunities to discuss
other cultures and other religious beliefs. Omri’s
father professes no religious beliefs and feels drawn
to the Indian tribe and their ceremonies.
The black and white drawings by illustrator James
Watling add drama to the text, although the dust
jacket’ color picture inaccurately depicts Omri and his
father as smaller than the six inches they are supposed
to be. Joanne M. Haffly
Virginia and the Tiny One, by Esther Bender;
illustrated by Joy Dunn Keenan. (Lemon Tree
Series; 2.) LCCN 9820317. Scottdale, Pa.: Herald
Press, 1998. ISBN 0836190904, PAP, $5.99.
F. Frontier and pioneer life--Fiction; German Americans--
Fiction; Christian life--Fiction; Family life--Fiction. 104 p. Gr.
4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
What happened 150 years ago if a mother gave birth
to three babies at once? Usually the weakest one was
left to die—not allowed to nurse. Thirteen year old
Virginia wouldn’t allow that to happen. She leaves
school in order to care for Tiny, the smallest of her
mother’s triplets. Virginia and her brother Danny
help Tiny fight for his life. No one in their area knows
what to feed a baby like Tiny. Virginia keeps trying
different things until Tiny starts getting stronger.
Esther Bender has written an enjoyable book for preteens
who like historical fiction. I appreciated her
prologue letting readers know what happened in the
first book of the series. Her notes at the end help
explain why Virginia was surprised her mom had a
baby as well as other historical aspects of the story.
Joy Keenan’s black and white drawings add a nice
touch to the story.
Virginia and her family exhibit a faith in Christ.
While not overly obvious, they do celebrate “Jesus’
birth” and “bring honor to the Christ child.” Virginia
reminds herself several times to “keep the faith,” an
expression she never understood before.
Virginia and the Tiny One gives readers a peek into
family life 150 years ago. It would be a great addition
to the historical fiction shelf in your library. Jane
Mouttet
Invasion from Planet X, by Paul Buchanan and
Rod Randall. (Tlhe Misadventures of Willie
Plummet; 1.) LCCN 9733078. St. Louis:
Concordia, 1998. ISBN 0570050413, PAP, $5.99.
F. Unidentified flying objects--Fiction; Inventors--Fiction;
Christian life--Fiction. 121 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Twelve-year-old Willie Plummet comes from a long
line of aviation buffs which explains his grand interest
in flying. So Willie’s invention is, of course, a flying
machine! He is super proud of his creation and
actually succeeds in getting it to lift off with the help
of two friends, Samantha and Felix, and several
helium balloons. His intentions to perfect the
machine fall by the wayside, however, when he and
his friends realize that the town has been cited on
national television as having UFO’s overhead. Their
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CHILDREN’ S FICTION
flying machine is the greatest prank ever, bringing a
booming business and many adventure seekers to the
area. But, like anything based on a false premise,
things get out of hand. What will happen when the
whole town discovers that their famous UFO is only
a kid’s invention?
Invasion from Planet X is a fast-paced, humorous
story that will keep the reader turning pages. Many
humorous side issues are also presented such as his
friend, Felix, hiring a bodyguard to keep from getting
beat up by a bully, and his dad creating a terrible
tasting chili that he wants to enter in the fair. Each
dilemma is faced with humor yet realistic “middleschool”
solutions that are most entertaining.
Buchanan and Randall do an excellent job keeping
the interest high and the moral lessons non-preachy
yet poignant. Mary McKinney
The Bug Safari : Entomology. (The Newtons’
Workshop; 5.) Chicago: Moody Kid’s Video, 1998.
ISBN 1575672294, VID, $.
F. Entomology—Fiction. 1 videocassette, color, 28 min. Gr. 2
- 5.
The “Cell-a-bration” : Cytology. (The Newtons’
Workshop; 6.) Chicago: Moody Kid’s Video, 1998.
ISBN 1575672308, VID, $.
F. Cytology—Fiction. 1 videocassette, color, 28 min. Gr. 2 -
5.
The DNA Decoders : Genetics. (The Newtons’
Workshop; 7.) Chicago: Moody Kid’s Video, 1998.
ISBN 1575672316, VID, $.
F. Genetics—Fiction. 1 videocassette, color, 28 min. Gr. 2 -
5.
The Pollution Solution : Ecology. (The Newtons’
Workshop; 8.) Chicago: Moody Kid’s Video, 1998.
ISBN 1575672324, VID, $.
F. Pollution—Fiction; Ecology—Fiction. 1 videocassette,
color, 28 min. Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In The Bug Safari, Wendell is trying to promote his
First Annual Bug Olympics, but silverfish, moths,
aphids, and termites are destroying people’s cherished
possessions. Wendell convinces Tim and Max to go
on a bug safari at a condemned warehouse, and they
find termites on rotten pieces of wood leading to a
discussion about why God created termites. After the
safari, the boys visit Grandpa Newton’s workshop,
and Grandpa Newton makes use of a piece of an old
termite mound, a food chain wheel, and a model of a
termite stomach to guide an educational discussion
about entomology. When Trisha finds out Megan’s
grandmother has cancer, she feels it is unfair that God
let it happen. So Trisha’s father quotes Romans 8:28
to help her understand that God is always at work in
a believer’s life. After people have figured out ways
of getting rid of the silverfish, moths, aphids, and
termites, Wendell holds his Bug Olympics.
In The “Cell-a-bration,” Trisha, Tim, and Max try
unsuccessfully to catch a frog for a pond animal
project. At home,Tim misses doing a small part of his
homework, and his father quotes Matthew 25:33 to
help Tim understand that small things matter to God.
Trisha and Tim try again to catch a frog but end up
with a jar of pond water instead. In Grandpa
Newton’s workshop, Grandpa Newton shows Trisha
and Tim microscopic protozoa living in the water and
uses a model of an amoeba and paramecium as
examples of the different kinds of protozoa. He
teaches Trisha and Tim about the intricate workings
of a cell with a hands-on exhibit called Cell City and
uses a diagram to illustrate how mitosis makes two
identical cells from one cell. Grandpa Newton’s
contraption for transporting mail from the mail slot in
the front door to the kitchen reinforces what Trisha
and Tim learned about the interdependence of each
part of a cell.
In The DNA Decoders, Trisha has just gotten a pair of
glasses which results in learning about genetics at the
Newtons with her friend Megan. In Grandpa
Newton’s workshop, Grandpa Newton uses a wireless
and Morse code to explain how Trisha’s bad eyesight
is in a code and an inherited trait. The girls learn how
DNA, chromosomes, and genes tie together, and
Grandpa Newton uses his bug exhibit to explain
Natural Selection. At home, Trisha’s dad discusses
with Trisha and Megan how all living things were
created to glorify God and refers to Galatians 3:28.
Back in Grandpa Newton’s workshop, Trisha and
Megan learn about skin tone and how every possible
combination of skin color can be made with a genetic
square. Grandpa Newton uses a chart to explain the
difference between evolutionism and creationism.
In The Pollution Solution, the Thomas family is
wasting water, so Trisha and Tim are encouraged to
conserve water and electricity. While helping their
grandparents with a painting project, Trisha refers to
their house as a habitat. This is the catalyst for a short
discussion about the meaning of ecology and the
responsibility of Christians to be good caretakers of
their homes, leading Trisha to quote Psalms 24:l.
After Tim nearly dumps paint water into the gutter, a
field trip helps him understand how toxic chemicals
can affect the food chain in the ocean. Grandma
Newton proposes a landfill contest between Trisha
and Tim in which the person with the lightest bundle
wins, and they learn about recycling as a result.
Through a hands-on exhibit called Spaceship Earth in
Grandpa Newton’s workshop, Trisha and Tim learn
about solar radiation, photosynthesis, the water cycle,
waste management systems, famines, and global
warming. Trisha and Tim tie the landfill contest, and
the family goes out to celebrate.
These videos focus on learning basic scientific
information about entomology, cytology, genetics,
and ecology mainly through educational discussions
and hands-on exhibits. The reading and quoting of
Bible verses is an essential part of each video as is
crediting God with the creation of all life forms. An
illustrated Study Guide comes with each video
consisting of a summary, pertinent Bible verses,
projects to pursue, questions to answer, a brief history
of the key man for a particular field, a devotional
reflection that ties in with the video’s main theme, and
a glossary. Dianne Woodman
The King of the Trees, by William D. Burt. LCCN
9762570. Mukilteo, Wash.: WinePress, 1998.
ISBN 1579210902, PAP, $11.99.
F. Fantasy. 233 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Rolin and his dad live in the big forest above
Beechtown, collecting honey from their many bee
hives and selling it on Market Day. But this market
day opens up a new dimension to Rolin as he finds
himself being chased by the greencloaks who want
the pendant he found from his grandmother. As Rolin
races into the woods, a strange, gleaming man
appears before him and beckons him to climb a most
unusual tree. As Rolin climbs he can’t find the man,
but as he returns to the ground he discovers that he is
in a new land. Now the adventure begins in full for
this young beekeeper.
In the same vein as C. S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch,
and the Wardrobe, the reader is taken on an exciting
journey to different lands, strange people and
dangerous creatures. Rolin discovers the mystery
behind his grandmother’s special box and learns that
he is chosen to help restore what has been destroyed
by evil. Godly principles are presented, as the godimage,
Wagnupa, the Tree of Life, challenges Rolin
and his new-found friends to not just seek the gifts he
offers, but to receive new hearts that can celebrate
true freedom, and living waters that can give life
eternal.
William Burt presents a wealth of images and
allegorical characters as the young hero, Rolin, learns
Christian truths within this fantasy tale of good
overcoming evil. The black and white sketches are a
bit elementary for the richness of the text and the
tantalizing storyline. Mary McKinney
Penalty Shot, by Matt Christopher. LCCN 969741.
Boston: Little, Brown, 1997. ISBN 0316141909,
PAP, $3.95.
F. Hockey--Fiction; Mystery fiction. 127 p. Gr. 3 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Jeff Conners is in trouble. Some of it was his own
fault, but some of it was the work of an enemy he
didn’t even know he had. Jeff lived and breathed ice
hockey and being on the school’s team was the most
important thing in his life. He’d made the first string
last year but in the process let his grades slide into the
basement. When Coach got the notice, Jeff had been
forced to turn in his jersey. This year, Jeff was
determined that things would be different, but it
looked like it would happen all over again if he
couldn’t get his English grade up. Under pressure
from his teammates and his own pride, Jeff goes to
get tutoring from the older sister of two of his fellow
players. To his surprise, it really helps. Expecting his
teacher’s praise, he is shocked to discover the work
she hands back to him is an earlier, mistake-ridden
copy. Then his best friend Kevin angrily waves a
nasty note in his face which he accuses Jeff of writing.
When Jeff figures out who is trying to get him ousted
from the team, the other boys and Coach demand the
culprit’s jersey. But Jeff goes to the coach privately
and asks him to give the boy another chance as an
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 2 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’ S FICTION
alternate. No longer separated by suspicion, and the
troubled boy restored to the team, they go on to win
their first league game.
Matt Christopher’s fifty-first sports book still delivers
the kind of story that boys like. There are sports
action and angst, team spirit, driving desire, and a
true-to-life problem that puts a monkey-wrench in
everything. Jeff’s problem with his grades is one
typically faced by those dedicated to sports. In his
buckling down to work, Christopher shows the
satisfaction a student can receive from really learning,
as opposed to getting by just for the sake of a passing
grade. The high point of Penalty Shot is not the
discovery of Jeff’s nemesis, but rather his forgiveness
exercised toward him when he asks the coach to allow
the boy to stay on the team as an alternate. The offer
of redemption and restoration is very clear without
being preachy or awkward. Aside from a desire on
this reviewer’s part to see more parental involvement
in Jeff’s problems, Penalty Shot is a fine choice for
any boy and especially for those who read reluctantly
except for the sports pages. Pamela A. Todd
Mice of the Westing Wind : Book One, written and
illustrated by Tim Davis. LCCN 9814559.
Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books, 1998. ISBN
1579420674, PAP, $6.49.
F. Pirates--Fiction; Mice--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction; Cats--
Fiction; Castaways--Fiction; Islands--Fiction. 118 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Mice of the Westing Wind : Book Two, written and
illustrated by Tim Davis. LCCN 9814559.
Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books, 1998. ISBN
1579240658, PAP, $6.49.
F. Pirates--Fiction; Mice--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction; Cats--
Fiction; Castaways--Fiction; Islands--Fiction. 114 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In Mice of the Westing Wind : Book One, Oliver and
Charles are reminiscing when Admiral Winchester
drops by with the Queen’s request for their help in
recapturing Captain Crag and his gang of pirate sea
dogs. After the mice volunteer, they shadow two of
the sea dogs who are allowed to escape from the
Queen’s tower and stow away on a ship with them.
Every night they drop luminescent markers into the
water for Admiral Winchester to follow. After Oliver
and Charles are caught by two rats and released by
Captain Tabby, the dogs revolt and seize control of the
ship from the cats. The mice are forced to jump
overboard, but stay afloat with their cork-lined vests
and land on a rockbound island. Emilio, a bat, flies
Oliver and Charles around the island to show them
the difficulty of leaving, but Charles refuses to giveup
hope.
In Mice of the Westing Wind : Book Two, Oliver
wakes-up from a dream remembering that he and
Charles are stranded on an island with little hope of
ever catching up to the pirate ship. Then Charles
designs a balloon and gondola, and the animals on the
island help the mice build the equipment and get
away. Oliver and Charles follow a marker to the
pirate ship and discover the sea dogs’ hideout.
Landing on a nearby beach, they stumble onto
Captain Crag’s hut and overhear plans about a trap set
for Admiral Winchester’s crew. So the mice sneak on
board the pirate ship to free the cat prisoners and set
booby traps. A fierce battle is fought between the cats
and sea dogs with the cats victorious after the animals
from the rockbound island join in the battle.
Tim Davis has written an adventure story in which
two mice through perseverance and friendship are the
catalyst in the recapturing of pirate sea dogs. Even
though Oliver and Charles nearly lose their own lives
and become stranded on an island with little hope of
escape, they never give-up their quest for the Queen.
The friendship that develops between the mice and
the animals on the rockbound island enable the cats’
victory. The black and white illustrations by Tim
Davis augment the story. Dianne Woodman
Liar, Liar, by Barthe DeClements. LCCN
9717716. New York: Marshall Cavendish, 1998.
ISBN 0761450211, HBB, $14.95.
F. Honesty--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction;
Family life--Fiction. 144 p. Gr. 3 - 7.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Liar, liar... We all remember that childhood refrain
aimed at someone not telling the truth. Lies can be a
cause for mocking, but lies can be the ruin of lives
and lies can cover other deeper problems, as well.
Such is the case in this well-written book by Barthe
DeClements about Gretchen Griswold whose
pleasant life is disrupted by the presence of a new girl,
Marybelle Jackson. It all begins with Marybelle
shaving off a part of Susan November’s beautiful red
hair during a classroom demonstration. An accident,
Marybelle assured everyone, but it is only the
beginning of unusual and confusing incidents making
Gretchen out to be the prevaricator! Gretchen’s
brother assures her that liars are eventually caught in
their own web of deception so with his help, she
weaves a plan that will divulge the truth once and for
all. In a surprising twist, the liar is exposed but so are
feelings and emotions that cause Gretchen and her
classmates to examine the real meaning of friendship.
Young people will enjoy this piece of realistic fiction,
written for fifth through eighth graders, and giving
them a slice of life that relates to problems in today’s
world. Though serious, Liar, Liar is not depressing
and has its light moments, too. Ms. DeClements has
written many other books for young readers and this
will take its place among them, checked out and
enjoyed by many. Ceil Carey
Cody’s Secret Admirer, by Betsy Duffey; illustrated
by Ellen Thompson. LCCN 9726812. New York:
Viking, 1998. ISBN 0670874000, HBB, $13.99.
F. Valentine’s Day--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 89 p. Gr. 2 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
What could be worse than a secret admirer at age
nine? Absolutely nothing, as far as Cody Michaels
cares. The anonymous valentine he receives in his
mailbox catapults his otherwise carefree life into a
week of worry. His first fiasco starts while sleuthing
to discover the admirer’s identity. Unfortunately,
being a novice, he gets caught and the whole class
thinks he put a secret admirer valentine into P.J.’s
desk. How embarrassing!
In the midst of his investigation a new problem
emerges. He learns, or so he thinks, his parents have
arranged his immediate marriage to a girl named Sita
from India. Suddenly, he decides, it’s time to grow
up. Carrying his father’s old briefcase and newspaper
to school to demonstrate his new maturity and calling
his teacher by her first name ends up in the hall for a
brief teacher-student conference. More
embarrassment ensues.
This laugh-out-loud book will tickle both children
and adult readers, although it’s written as a chapter
book for seven to eleven year olds. The sentences are
short; the word are simple. Every chapter ends with
one of Cody’s Top Ten Lists; i.e. the Top Ten List of
Things That Cause Trouble which include earthshaking
events like war and third-grade-shaking
events like pop quizzes and valentines.
All’s well that ends well even for Cody Michaels
when the secret admirer—a fifth grader no less!—
requests the valentine back. She had sent it to the
wrong address. Ginger McGrath
The Easter Storykeepers. (Storykeepers; 10.)
Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN
0310217776, VID, $14.99.
F. Easter--Fiction; Ancient Rome--Fiction; Early Christian
church--Fiction. 1 videocassette, color, 70 min. Gr. 1 - 7.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In the first century, the Christians in Rome faced
brutal enemies. This fully animated video tells the
tale of how Ben the Baker, his wife, and adopted
children bravely face persecution and fearlessly
spread the stories of Jesus. Narrowly escaping death
as their bakery shop burns, they take refuge in the
catacombs. As their own adventures unfold, so do the
events of the Easter story. Similarities tie the two
together. They are betrayed by friends, arrested, and
imprisoned. But neither the darkness of the caves nor
the isolation of the prison can silence the stories. In
fact, through the stories, they acquire some surprising
new friends who make possible their escape.
The Easter Story Keepers runs high on action, narrow
escapes, and dramatics. As the stories of Jesus are
told, they too come to life in animation. However,
they are told with a more subdued tone, which helps
separate the two. Although the video portrays some
traumatic events, such as the death of a protecting
soldier, Christ’s’ flogging and crucifixion, these
scenes are done carefully, keeping the age of the
audience in mind. Over all, the animation is smooth
and expressive. While the story does rely heavily on
dramatic action, its emphasis is on living and sharing
the truth. Melinda M. Torgerson
Race to Wallaby Bay, by Robert Elmer.
(Adventures Down Under; 5.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 0764221035, PAP,
$5.99.
F. Australia--Fiction; Steamboats--Fiction. 174 p. Gr. 3 - 7.
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Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Patrick McWaid, thirteen, along with the rest of his
family make a bone jarring wagon trip to Boomerang
Bend. A letter from Grandpa McWaid pleading for
help is the catalyst for this journey. The family’s
combined assistance is needed to raise the sunken
Lady Elisabeth. Grandpa’s crew has abandoned him,
thinking the paddle wheeler is jinxed after several
unusual accidents happen. He has only thirty days to
raise the boat, repair the damage, and chug it down
the river to the town of Goolwa or lose his half of
ownership to the new investor. In spite of their many
frustrating setbacks will they make it to Goolwa in
time?
Robert Elmer, author of The Young Underground
series, has created Race to Wallaby Bay, the fifth book
in the Adventures Down Under series. The previous
volumes will enable the reader to become better
acquainted with the history of the characters, but they
are written so as to be able to read each book by itself.
The setting is 1860 Australia and Mr. Elmer has
incorporated interesting factual incidents that are
gleaned from diaries and news articles of that era of
Australian history.
Though it is farfetched that all of the adventures
would happen to one family in such a short amount of
time, it does add to the excitement of the story and
will appeal to the age group that is targeted. Debbie
Lindsay
The Secret in the Old Book, by Vicki Berger Erwin.
(Elizabeth Bryan Mysteries; 6.) LCCN 9728803.
St. Louis: Concordia, 1998. ISBN 0570049954,
PAP, $4.99.
F. Mystery fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 112 p. Gr. 3 - 7.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
“Why do we have to move?” Elizabeth’s mom is remarrying.
With the new husband comes a new house.
Elizabeth and Mike, her younger brother, both like the
house Mom and Don, her fiance’, have picked out.
Teresa, Elizabeth’s boss, is also interested in the
house. It has many old books in it and she’s a book
dealer.
Jerry Kendall brings an old book into Teresa’s used
book store. He says it belongs to his grandma and she
wants to sell it. Jerry turns up again at Elizabeth’s
youth group meeting. Elizabeth eventually finds out
that Jerry, whose name is really Jim, is the step-son of
the man who is selling them the house. Jim’s stepfather
is cruel to Jim. In the end Elizabeth gets a new
house, a new dad, and a new brother.
Secret in the Old Book is sixth in the Elizabeth Bryan
Mysteries series, yet you do not have to read the
previous books to enjoy this volume. The characters
created by Vicki Erwin are believable, much like
young junior high students in your school or church.
Elizabeth and other characters show Christian love
for someone in need. Jerry/Jim wants to live on his
own rather than with his cruel step-father (his parents
are both dead). Older elementary students who enjoy
mysteries will enjoy Secret in the Old Book, written at
a sixth grade level. Jane Mouttet
Albertina the Practically Perfect, by Susi Gregg
Fowler; pictures by Jim Fowler. LCCN 9734460.
New York: Greenwillow Books, 1998. ISBN
0688158293, HBB, $15.00.
F. Best friends--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Treehouses--
Fiction. 80 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
“Albertina sure knows how to make friends.” (p. 26)
That theme echoes and re-echoes through the chapter
book by Susi Gregg Fowler, Albertina the Practically
Perfect. Molly, the story teller, moves to a new
neighborhood with her mom, dad, and baby brother
Walter. She leaves behind her beloved grandparents.
Albertina is the second person Molly meets, Violet
and her mean cronies being the first. Albertina, ever
the peace-maker, tries to give both sides a fresh start.
Another project is the tree house that Albertina and
Molly build. It is the envy of the community. This is
a place where Molly feels autonomous, where she
must make choices about sharing that space. And she
needs to make a decision about a betrayed
confidence.
Fowler weaves in themes that concern the primary
age child, like the dependence on a nightlight. She
presents the family as warm and caring,
compassionate in adopting the Chinese baby. There
is, however, the occasional glitch in the storyline;
why did the family move cross-town?
The drawings of Jim Fowler are cartoon-like, striking
the right tone for this serious story presented with a
generous dollop of humor. Su Hagerty
My Father’s Boat, by Sherry Garland; illustrated
by Ted Rand. LCCN 9719021. New York:
Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590478672, HBB, $15.95.
E. Fathers and sons--Fiction; Vietnamese Americans--Fiction;
Fishers--Fiction. 30 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A father and young son work all day together on their
shrimp boat. Sharing memories from the past, the
father reminisces about his own father, telling how he
learned the fishing trade so long ago in Vietnam. The
son’s many questions bring them both to desire a day
when all three can fish alongside of each other.
Author Sherry Garland prefaces the book quoting a
Vietamese proverb, “When you are young, you need
your father; when you are old you need your son.”
Together, Garland’s rich use of language and Ted
Rand’s sensitive illustrations prove this proverb true,
warming the heart of the reader.
My Father’s Boat celebrates unique cultural traditions
while presenting a universal bond between all fathers
and sons. This book would be a quality addition to a
collection for ethnic awareness or family values. A
beautiful text for read-aloud. Karen Brehmer
Rosie’s Big City Ballet, by Patricia Reilly Giff;
illustrated by Julie Durrell. (Ballet Slippers; 6.)
LCCN 9729767. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670877921, HBB, $13.99.
F. Ballet--Fiction; Competition (Psychology)--Fiction. 75 p.
Gr. 2 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Rosie’s grandmother had been a ballet dancer. Now
Rosie is taking ballet lessons. In fact, she was trying
out for a part in a “big city ballet.” She has so many
things to do: help her best friend Murph build his
treehouse, help mom clean house, and practice. In the
process Rosie learns the importance of helping a
friend before doing what she wants. She doesn’t get
the part she wanted, but she does get a part in a big
city ballet.
With just ten chapters and seventy-five pages in
Rosie’s Big City Ballet, children just starting chapter
books will like the length. Patricia Reilly Giff has
written yet another book that will be enjoyed by
second and third graders. Julie Durvell’s black line
drawings complement the text. The storyline flows
smoothly and while not high-action, does move
quickly enough to hold an early-readers interest. Jane
Mouttet
Reaching Dustin, by Vicki Grove. LCCN 978181.
New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1998. ISBN
0399230084, HBB, $16.99.
F. Emotional problems--Fiction; Interpersonal relations--
Fiction; Farm life--Missouri--Fiction; Schools--Fiction;
Missouri--Fiction. 199 p. Gr. 5 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
No way does Carly want to interview Dustin for her
school assignment. Dustin is dirty, creepy, and lives
in a strange compound with his relatives. But Carly
sticks with her assignment. She does her best to learn
about her nemesis. What she ultimately discovers is
that her cruel and thoughtless past action altered a
person’s life dramatically. Now kind acts and
confession may set things straight.
Middle grade novel Reaching Dustin, by Vicki Grove,
includes a family clan armed with semi-automatic
weapons. The group is also running a
methamphetamine lab. Main character Carly reaches
out to the youngest family member, but she often
disobeys her parents to do so. Her brother is shot in
the heel.
Vicki Grove holds her characters accountable for their
actions. Answers aren’t easy and the truth is hard to
admit to yourself. Lorie Ann Grover
Just Juice, by Karen Hesse; pictures by Robert
Andrew Parker. LCCN 9813375. New York:
Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590033824, HBB, $14.95.
F. Fathers and daughters--Fiction; Family life--Fiction;
Literacy--Fiction. 138 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Finding school challenging, Juice stays home most of
the time. Her family loves her and at home she is
important. She longs to encourage her depressed,
unemployed father. From him she learns that an
important letter has arrived. Neither of them able to
read, they go on to discover that their house has been
sold because of unpaid taxes. Hoping to reverse the
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action, they devise a plan, keeping it from Ma, who is
expecting a baby.
Pa starts a business. Things look better until the
truant officer delivers a court summons, imposing a
fine for Juice’s school absences. Secrets are unveiled
and it is Ma who plans what happens next.
The reader is left to wonder about the outcome of the
family’s troubles. Instead, the focus is on Juice,
discovering that she is okay just as she is, knowing
that because of their love, her family can face
whatever lies ahead.
Written in first-person singular, thoughtful reflections
draw the reader into the family’s situation. Author
Karen Hesse accurately portrays difficulties of a child
with a learning disability, most likely dyslexia. In
chapter sixteen a birth takes place. Tasteful,
necessary details are given; none are graphic. For a
child wondering how a baby is born, questions are
bound to surface.
The family’s passive reaction to Juice’s truancy is
somewhat unbelievable. The optimistically simple
resolution might leave some readers dissatisfied.
Cloudy, grey illustrations add little to enhance the
story.
A likable story, Just Juice is especially appealing to
children who can identify with Juice’s learning
difficulties. Karen Brehmer
without any problem, action, or plot, Great-
Grandmother’s Treasure is a book which adults could
appreciate, but perhaps not children. Kerri
Cunningham
Susannah, by Janet Hickman. LCCN 9739056.
New York: Greenwillow, 1998. ISBN 0688148549,
HBB, $15.00.
F. Shakers--Fiction; Ohio--Fiction. 140 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
WBE 1/2 page ad
Samantha’s sorrow and loneliness after the death of
her mother is compounded when her stern,
uncommunicative father decides to join a community
of Shakers. At Turtle Creek Samantha is sent to live
in a house for young girls watched over by grumpy,
elderly Sister Olive Gatwood. Her father goes to live
with the other men. She struggles with the Shakers’
belief that families should not live together.
Samantha questions whether God really wants
families to be separated and longs for the day when
she is old enough to leave the Believers. Susannah
takes care of little Mary at Sister Olive’s. Mary’s
father embraces the Shakers beliefs, but her mother,
Great-Grandmother’s Treasure, by Ruth Hickox;
pictures by David Soman. LCCN 9342242. New
York: Dial, 1998. ISBN 0803715145, HBB, $15.99.
E. Great-grandmothers--Fiction. 30 p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Great-Grandmother’s Treasure is a story about a
woman who lives life to the fullest. Whether she is a
young girl setting a rabbit free, a mother telling ghost
stories, or a grandmother stomping through mud
puddles, Great-Grandmother finds excitement in just
about everything. She even makes an apron and
decides to fill it with secret treasures. As the years
pass, even the great-grandchildren hear of this
treasure. However, no one has ever seen it. When
Great-Grandmother dies an old woman, everyone
finds out that her apron isn’t filled with treasures you
can see but with the riches that come from a life lived
for others.
Ruth Hickcox has written a story with an important
theme—we are made rich not through what we get
from life but from what we give away. Although this
is a worthy message, Great-Grandmother’s Treasure
is not a very interesting story. The events that are
depicted throughout the story are simply random
snapshots from Grandma’s life without any
discernible plot. While the theme does attempt to tie
these “snapshots” together in the end, there is no
storyline or action to hold the reader’s interest. The
result is a series of loosely-related scenes that fail to
come alive.
David Soman’s realistic watercolor and pastel
illustrations do a wonderful job of showing Great-
Grandmother throughout her long life. However,
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unwilling to be separated from Mary, does not. Both
parents want custody of Mary. As Susannah
becomes entangled in Mary’s problems she is faced
with a hard decision about her own future.
Janet Hickman tells the story of a young girl torn
between what the adults tell her is right and what her
heart tells her is right for her. Samantha, Mary, and
all of the other main characters are fictional.
However, Union Village, Eldress Ruth Farrington,
and Judge Dunlay are factual as are some of the
events. A helpful two page author’s note gives
additional information about the Shakers. James
McMullan’s colorful picture on the cover adds to the
mystery surrounding Mary’s mother. Barbara A.
Bryden
The Chinquapin Tree, by Jerry Kimble Holcomb.
LCCN 9748554. New York: Marshall Cavendish,
1998. ISBN 0761450289, HBB, $14.95.
F. Survival--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Runaways--
Fiction; Oregon--Fiction. 192 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Jessie, Allie, and Toady Cloud have a real home for
the first time with Mom and Pop. Dark-skinned Allie
is less fearful and withdrawn with Mom, whose skin
is dark too. When the social workers start visiting
more and more often, Jessie retreats to a haven—a
chinquapin tree she discovered on a bluff overlooking
the Pacific Ocean. Then the three siblings learn their
mother—they call her Sherrill—wants them back.
Allie, who had been severely abused by Sherrill,
panics. Desperate to keep the three of them together,
Jessie decides they should hide from the social
workers until Mom and Pop can find a way to adopt
them.
While the tide is low, she guides her two younger
siblings on a precarious journey to her chinquapin
tree. They lose a sleeping bag in the strong tide,
raccoons steal their food, they run out of matches, and
a boy a little older than Jessie discovers their hideout.
Despite the odds against them they learn to catch fish,
dig for clams, keep their only fire burning, and work
together to survive three weeks living outdoors. Most
importantly, they discover inner strength and even
Allie learns to be a leader instead of always
following.
Jerry Kimble Holcomb has written an adventurous
coming-of-age story. It focuses not just on becoming
self-reliant, but on family ties. The Cloud children
not only learn they are true survivors but that “family”
is people who love you—no matter where you, or
they, live. Lisa Wroble
Mister and Me, by Kimberly Willis Holt; with
illustrations by Leonard Jenkins. LCCN 9740329.
New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1998. ISBN
039923215X, HBB, $13.99.
F. Remarriage--Fiction; Family life--Louisiana--Fiction; Afro-
Americans--Fiction; Lumbermen--Fiction; Louisiana--Fiction.
74 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
It is 1940 and Jolene is learning to cope with many
situations: the death of her father; how white folks
get to sit in downstairs seats at the movie theater,
while she and Momma have to sit upstairs; big, loud
sweaty Leroy taking her Momma dancing. This
sweaty lumberman not only takes Momma dancing,
he also wants Jolene to approve of him proposing to
her Momma. Refusing to call Leroy anything but
Mister, Jolene tries various ways to get rid of him.
But how can you keep on hating a man who goes to
church with you, cooks scrumptious cornbread, plays
Louis Armstrong records, takes you to the Valentine
Ball, and forgives you when, in a fit of temper, you
chop up the velvet he is saving as a gift for Momma?
From the first paragraph Mister and Me provokes
laughter, tears, and empathy. Children’s author
Kimberly Holt draws on family history, research in a
sawmill town, and her knowledge of children to
create this true-to-life tale. Holt’s swift
characterizations encourage the reader’s
understanding. This is the story of a courtship
between a man, lovingly determined to grow into a
father, and the child who doesn’t realize she needs
him. The reader becomes pert, out-spoken, straight
forward Jolene as she wrestles with herself and
Mister. Leonard Jenkin’s black and white
illustrations use Jolene’s three loving adults as a
backdrop to highlight Jolene’s face as she struggles
with her various emotions. Presented in simple,
straightforward manner Mister and Me’s portrayals of
problems and the people who find solutions for them
transcend era and race. Donna J. H. Eggett
Faraway Summer, by Johanna Hurwitz;
illustrated by Mary Azarian. LCCN 9736363.
New York: Morrow, 1998. ISBN 0688153348,
HBB, $15.00.
F. Farm life--Vermont--Fiction; Family life--Vermont--Fiction;
Jews--New York (N.Y.)--Fiction; City and town life--Fiction;
Vermont--Fiction. 155 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Ruthi and her younger sister Dossi rent one room of
the Aronson family’s apartment in a New York
tenement. Dossi expected to spend the summer
helping Mrs. Aronson with her children, but Ruthi
heard about the Fresh Air Fund. Now Dossi, a young
Jewish girl, is on her way to Vermont. For two weeks
Dossi will live with a Christian family, the Meades,
on their farm. The Meades are not rich, but their
farmhouse seems huge to Dossi and Mrs. Mead’s
kitchen with its wonderful homemade jams and jellies
is almost overwhelming. Dossi discovers fireflies,
picks blackberries, and learns how to milk a cow. She
forms a friendship with Emma Meade and learns that
the people and families in this Faraway Summer
place aren’t so different from people at home.
Johanna Hurwitz realistically captures the hardships
two young Russian immigrant girls face in 1910 after
losing their parents. Written as Dossi’s journal
entries, the story moves slowly through Dossi’s two
week stay in the country. The Rabinowitz sisters and
the Meade family are fictional. The Fresh Air Fund,
Wilson Alywn Bentley, who discovered that no two
snowflakes are the same, and other historical details
are factual. Hurwitz’s attention to detail both in the
language and life styles of the characters brings life to
the story.
The cover illustration by Mary Azarian captures the
feeling of great empty spaces that awed Dossi when
she arrived in Vermont. Each chapter has an
appropriate woodcut on the first page. Barbara A.
Bryden
Starting School, by Johanna Hurwitz; illustrated
by Karen Dugan. LCCN 9747298. New York:
Morrow, 1998. ISBN 0688156851, HBB, $15.00.
F. Twins--Fiction; Brothers--Fiction; Kindergarten--Fiction;
Schools--Fiction; Teachers--Fiction. 102 p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Twins Marcus and Marius are ready for their first day
of kindergarten. But are their teachers ready? How
will the boys do being separated for the first time?
And who will have the better kindergarten class?
These questions are all answered with a bit of fun and
a bit of a mix up. Not only do the boys trade classes,
the usual twin story, but their teachers do also. This
provides the funniest scenes in the book.
Johanna Hurwitz has given characters Marcus and
Marius a novel of their own in Starting School. They
previously were minor characters in the Class Clown
books. These children are known to be a handful, but
the mischief they create is very mild. The teachers
bemoan to each other how difficult “their” twin is to
handle. The reader may not feel that degree of
difficulty.
Karen Dugan’s pencil illustrations accompany the
text. Occasionally the characters’ proportions are
slightly inaccurate. Her contribution does add to
Marcus and Marius’ antics.
Starting School will be a fun read for the younger
reader. It is the unusual case where the reader is older
than the main character. Lorie Ann Grover
Grandma’s Hands, written and illustrated by
Dolores Johnson. LCCN 976129. New York:
Marshall Cavendish, 1998. ISBN 0761450254,
HBB, $15.95.
E. Grandmothers--Fiction; Love--Fiction; Afro-Americans--
Fiction. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
With Dad gone and Mom having to get her life back
together again, Billy, a little African-American boy,
finds himself being placed in his Grandma’s hands.
Everything is so different from his inner-city life.
Billy now lives on a farm, does chores, and has to
cope with an old lady who speaks humorously but
doesn’t smile and has rough, aged hands. Mom does
not come back for a long time. Grandma and Billy
learn to smile at each other; understand each other’s
needs; live happily together. When a boy desperately
needs love, even rough hands, if they are gentle, can
dispense it. Together Billy and Grandma prove home
is where the heart is. Life does not follow storybook
lines nor does Grandma’s Hands. Billy finds peace,
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CHILDREN’ S FICTION
love, and acceptance with Grandma, but at the end he
must give it all up, moving on with his mother.
However, what this sojourn with Grandma has
garnered will never leave him.
Dolores Johnson’s water colors portray emotions
through faces and interaction on an impressionistic
background. Her words combine with the
illustrations to present the whole story to both heart
and mind. All the events, sad and happy, occurring in
Grandma’s Hands are apropos to today’s child and
parent, no matter what race. With a poetic swing,
Johnson presents a story readable by children. The
sentence structure, mainly simple, will at times cause
the reader to reach slightly beyond his reading level.
This book opens flat to display the complete two page
picture and accompanying words. Donna J. H.
Eggett
The Fiddler’s Secret, by Lois Walfrid Johnson.
(The Riverboat Adventures; 6.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1556613563, PAP,
$5.99.
F. Steamboats--Fiction; Mystery fiction. 160 p. Gr. 3 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In her sixth book of the Riverboat Adventures, Lois
Walfrid Johnson has created another exciting fictional
adventure. A map and riverboat drawing at the
beginning of the story, along with the author’s
acknowledgments at the conclusion, help readers
understand the historical accuracy of this story.
Detailed illustrations by Paul Casale add to the
overall appeal of the book.
Libby, Peter, Caleb, and Jordan are heading north on
the Mississippi River on Libby’s father’s riverboat in
the fall of 1857. One passenger exhibits
extraordinary talent as a violinist and reluctantly
gives a concert for the first-class passengers. Libby
and the boys suspect there is more to this man than
appears on the surface. When they arrive in St. Paul,
his violin is stolen and the young people help search
for it.
Libby is constantly reminded of Romans 8:28 and
needs to learn to trust God. She wants her widowed
father to marry Annika. When Annika decides to stay
in St. Paul and they are detained in Galena, Libby’s
faith begins to falter. Upon returning to find Annika,
they resume their search for the violin and realize that
danger is lurking. Libby disobediently goes off on
her own and is trapped by the thieves. Her dog finds
her and digs a hole through which she escapes. Libby
learns to trust and rejoices when her father marries
Annika and adopts Peter. Patricia J. Perry
Horrible Harry Moves Up to Third Grade, by Suzy
Kline; pictures by Frank Remkiewicz. LCCN
9813098. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670878731, HBB, $13.99.
F. Schools--Fiction; School field trips--Fiction. 58 p. Gr. 1 -
4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Harry and Doug go back to school in the fall
expecting things to be the same as last year. They
have the same teacher as in second grade, but have
moved to a new classroom on the second floor.
Several familiar faces at the school have been
replaced with new people. Each student is the class
has to tell about something they did that summer.
Doug tells the class about his trip to a copper mine.
What he didn’t tell was that he had been too scared to
go down in it. Miss Mackle, the teacher, decides the
mine would be a great place for a field trip. Doug is
able to conquer his fear with Harry’s help.
Suzy Kline wrote Horrible Harry Moves up to Third
Grade with elementary students in mind. The
characters are very believable. The black and white
drawings by Frank Remkiewicz do a good job of
illustrating the text.
Horrible Harry Moves Up to Third Grade does
contain some language that may be mildly
unacceptable, such as “Gee” and referring to the
bathroom as “the can.” These instances are very few
and probably wouldn’t prohibit its addition to your
library.
Horrible Harry Moves Up to Third Grade is a short
first chapter book. Many students who are tired of the
easy section but aren’t yet ready for the longer fiction
books will enjoy this one. Jane Mouttet
How I Saved Hanukkah, by Amy Goldman Koss;
pictures by Diane deGroat. LCCN 9652715. New
York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 1998. ISBN
0803722419, HBB, $15.99.
F. Hanukkah--Fiction; Jews--United States--Fiction; Family
life--California--Fiction; California--Fiction. 88 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
At the approach of the Christmas holidays, Marla
Feinstein is the only student in her fourth-grade class
to be given blue-and-white construction paper instead
of red-and-green for an art project. Embarrassed at
being singled out for her Jewishness, she is cheered
when her best friend, Lucy, requests the same colors.
Still, this event is the sort of thing she dislikes about
the holidays. Her family never puts up a Christmas
tree to decorate; their Hanukkah gifts are practical
and not wrapped in shiny paper; the Feinstein house
is the only one on the block without glittering lights
or plastic Santas on the lawn. For the first time she
begins to question, “Why?”
To Marla’s dismay, her parents’ answers are vague.
Celebrating Hanukkah has become a low priority in
the family, its history half-forgotten. Marla begins a
search that will lead her to other Jewish friends and
the library. Her enthusiasm ignites her parents’ sense
of pride, and the book ends with a touching ceremony
at the Feinstein house where friends and neighbors
hear the story of Judah Maccabee, learn the
significance of Hanukkah symbols, and even dance
the hora. When given the choice to have a tree next
Christmas, Marla elects to keep Hanukkah.
Amy Goldman Koss is careful to avoid the spiritual
implications of both Christian and Jewish holidays.
Despite a brief “seance” in which Marla and Lucy
frighten themselves, this story is an enjoyable way to
learn about the tradition of Hanukkah. With lively,
humorous characters, the author also explores such
themes as the selflessness of real friendship, the
uniqueness and value found in every family, and the
importance of keeping cultural traditions alive. Diane
deGroat’s illustrations add to the book by effectively
conveying real people who embody tenderness and
warmth. Marcy Stewart Froemke
Louise Takes Charge, by Stephen Krensky;
pictures by Susanna Natti. LCCN 9737441. New
York: Dial, 1998. ISBN 0803723067, HBB, $13.99.
F. Bullies--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 80 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Louise has been looking forward to her new year at
school until she sees Jasper. Jasper has become the
school bully. Louise comes up with a plan to trick
Jasper out of being so mean. Beginning with herself
and then gradually adding others, Louise becomes
Jasper’s apprentice. Soon everyone in the class is
helping Jasper be a bully. Jasper soon finds out that
having so many helpers is not much fun. He cannot
steal from and take advantage of his own apprentices.
Meanwhile Louise and her classmates have learned to
work as a team and are able to stand up to Jasper.
Finding himself outsmarted, Jasper can only resign as
class bully.
Stephen Krensky has written a humorous story which
will interest kids seeking fairness among classmates.
Louise Takes Charge is part of The Lionel and Louise
Series. This series appeals to second and third
graders with its large print, age-appropriate
vocabulary, short chapters, and attractive pen and ink
drawings. Stephen Krensky’s Louise Takes Charge
will be a welcome addition to libraries seeking more
books for middle readers. Susan Robinson
Emma and the Silk Train, written by Julie Lawson;
illustrated by Paul Momourquette. Buffalo, N.Y.:
Kids Can, 1997. ISBN 1550743880, HBB, $15.95.
E. Silk--Fiction; Railroads--Fiction; Canada--British
Columbia--History--Fiction. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Silkers stop for nothing. These trains with their
precious cargo of silk from China have priority even
over royalty. They must get to the market in New
York City. When a train derails and dumps bales into
the river, the whole town gets “silk fever.” The
reward for the cargo is an incentive. The adventure is
told in Emma and the Silk Train by Julie Lawson,
based on a real event. Emma is motivated by the
beauty of the fabric and she longs for a silk blouse of
her very own. She persists in her search, even going
beyond the bend of the river, a boundary set for her by
her parents. The remainder of the story is dedicated
to her creative use of the silk to effect her rescue.
Paul Mombourguette has actualized the essence of
photographic detail while using a paint brush and
bold colors. His picture book quality enhances this
lively drama. Su Hagerty
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Thomas’s Sheep and the Great Geography Test, by
Steven L. Layne; illustrated by Perry Board.
LCCN 9715816. Gretna, La.: Pelican, 1998. ISBN
1565542746, HBB, $14.95.
E. Geography--Fiction; Test anxiety--Fiction. 28 p. Gr. 1 - 3.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
How does a child go to sleep when worried about a
geography test? Count sheep. But where do those
sheep go once they’ve leaped over the fence?
Thomas imagines his four sheep travel around the
world visiting the countries he’s been studying. From
A to Z, with alliteration, Thomas’s Sheep and the
Great Geography Test introduces the reader to other
places.
Author Steven Layne presents sheep picnicking in
Peru, quilting in Qatar, juggling in Japan, and
kayaking in Kenya. The text, apart from naming
countries, gives no other pertinent information. The
sheep actions are unrelated to the places.
Perry Board has painted illustrations for the text.
Occasionally a landmark is shown, but not often. The
layout holds much unimportant negative space.
Board has created appealing sheep characters which
are dressed according to their travels.
If familiarity with country names is all that is sought,
Thomas’s Sheep and the Great Geography Test will
give a fun introduction to just that. Lorie Ann Grover
Mandie and Mollie & the Angel’s Visit, by Lois
Gladys Leppard. LCCN 9745479. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 0764220632, HBB,
$9.99.
F. Orphans--Fiction; Irish Americans--Fiction; Angels--Fiction.
128 p. Gr. 3 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
“Mandie Shaw, do ye be havin’ leprechauns in this
place?”, inquires Mandie’s 10-year-old guest from
Ireland. Mollie, an orphan from Belfast, is staying
with Mandie’s friend Celia and her mother until
Mollie’s aunt can be found. Mollie seems certain that
if she can find a leprechaun’s pot of gold for herself
and her missing aunt, her problems will be solved.
Thirteen-year-old Mandie, and her friend Celia, have
a different kind of problem. They are trying to
convince the lively, little girl that leprechauns are
only make-believe. Molly stops her search for
leprechauns after she hears the truth from God’s
Word, but is now convinced that an angel, all in
white, has appeared and is beckoning to her.
Lois Leppard has created an interactive story for
Mandie fans. Mandie and Mollie and the Angel’s
Visit contains two separate sections. The first half of
the book is a mystery story with penciled illustrations.
The second half is the same story, written as a threeact
drama. A complete script and set instructions
make it easy for children to read and perform. Donna
Brown
Tarantula Toes, by Beverly Lewis. (The Cul-de-sac
Kids; 13.) LCCN 9721031. Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1997. ISBN 1556619847, PAP, $3.99.
F. Tarantulas--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction. 78 p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Green Gravy, by Beverly Lewis. (The Cul-de-sac
Kids; 14.) LCCN 97021032. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1997. ISBN 1556619855, PAP,
$3.99.
F. Behavior--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Schools--
Fiction. 77 p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Backyard Bandit Mystery, by Beverly Lewis. (The
Cul-de-sac Kids; 15.) LCCN 97021033.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1997. ISBN
1556619863, PAP, $3.99.
F. Clubs--Fiction; Garage sales--Fiction; Mystery and detective
stories. 79 p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Jason Birchall plans to impress his friends and
neighbors, a group who call themselves the “Cul-de-
Sac Kids,” by starting a zoo in his bedroom. His star
attraction is going to be a super-spider, a pink toed
tarantula from South America. Jason tells his friends,
Eric and Dunkum, that he will have the spider on
display the very next day. But the shipment is
delayed and Jason can’t get his spider that quickly.
Rather than tell the truth about the delay Jason
decides to tell his friends a “whopping big lie.” He’s
going to say that “Pink toes,” the tarantula, is on the
loose and will be crawling all the way home to
Blossom Hill Lane! Jason’s lie backfires when he
actually gets his spider and no one will come see it
because they think he’s making it all up. How is
Jason going to prove to his friends that he really does
have a big scary spider in his room?
Carly Hunter is named “Student of the Week” in her
classroom and gets to make a wish for the whole class
to follow. On St. Patrick’s Day she would like to have
the whole class wear green clothes and eat green
food! The class thinks it’s a great idea, that is, all but
one member, Carly’s adopted brother from Korea. “I
not eat green food” asserts Jimmy. “I eat mashed
potatoes and gravy.” “Jimmy is a sour-pie brother,”
thinks Carly. Can Carly change Jimmy’s mind or will
he be the only hold out on her special day?
Stacy Henry has a great idea: Why not decorate all the
houses on Blossom Hill Lane with flags for Flag
Day? And, to get the money for the flags the “Cul-de-
Sac Kids” will hold a yard sale. The “Kids” gather up
items from their own possessions and have a
successful sale. But Stacy discovers something
mysterious when she goes back to the yard sale after
supper. Certain things are missing like Dunkum’s
radio and Dee Dee’s cat collar. The money is gone,
too. “Is there a thief in the neighborhood?,” Stacy
wonders. She decides to do some spying and find out.
The “Cul-de-Sac Kids” series, by Beverly Lewis, are
“first chapter books” for children. The series features
short chapters, large print, numerous black and while
illustrations and colorful covers. The whole format is
bright, appealing, and high in quality. Donna Brown
Breakaway, by Kimberley Griffiths. LCCN
96041690. New York: Avon Flare, 1997. ISBN
0380974886, HBB, $14.00.
F. Soccer--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction. 153 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Luke Espinosa watches the game with yearning. He
yearns for the father who coaches Paul Pickerell’s
soccer team. He yearns to play the game as Paul is
privileged to play. But Luke has responsibilities
beyond his years. He cares for Mr. Perea, his elderly
neighbor. He cooks and cleans so his tired single
mother will not have too much added stress. She
works long hours so they can pay their bills, and has
unfulfilled dreams of her own. She dreams of
becoming a hairdresser. Luke is challenged to go
after his dream by Amelia who just moved to town.
Luke and Amelia round up a team to take on the boys
who play for the league.
Luke’s search for and discovery of his father is
compelling. However, the story of Luke going after
exactly what he wants with determination and
stamina is more affecting. The reader will cheer for
Luke and Amelia’s team as they work hard to make
their dreams reality. Kimberley Griffiths Little has
constructed an appealing story that all readers will
enjoy. The story of overcoming trials by hard work
and dedication will empower readers who face their
own seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Carol M.
Jones
Hurricane! by Jonathan London; illustrated by
Henri Sorensen. LCCN 9414518. New York:
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard, 1998. ISBN 0688129781,
HBB, $15.93.
E. Hurricanes--Fiction; Puerto Rico--Fiction. 28 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Hurricane is written by Jonathan London and
illustrated by Henri Sorensen. The slight story
recounts how two boys living in Puerto Rico
experience the coming and aftermath of a hurricane.
The writing is fairly evocative. For example, in
describing the height of the storm the author says,
“lightning scribbled on the dark clouds,” and, “The
Palms, whipping crazily, slung coconuts at us.” Still,
somehow, the author fails to convey the same sense of
the aura of the storm that Robert McCloskey does in
Time of Wonder, for instance.
The virtue of this book is in the luminous oil
illustrations by Sorensen. In fact, the book would
convey the story and the atmosphere just as well
without the text. David Rash
★
Because I Love You, by Max Lucado; illustrations
by Mitchell Heinze. LCCN 9748306. Wheaton,
Ill.: Crossway Books, 1999. ISBN 0891079920,
HBB, $14.95.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Allegories. 32 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In this parable describing the depth of God’s love,
Shaddai, the wise craftsman, loves the children so
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much that he builds them a village, filling it with love
and laughter. A dark forest surrounds the village.
Shaddai builds a tall stone wall around the village to
protect the children from the dangers lurking in the
forest. Soon Paladin, the most curious of the children,
reports to Shaddai that he has found a large hole in the
wall. Shaddai cautions Paladin about the dangers in
the forest, and tells him he will not be able to find his
way back to the village if he leaves. When Paladin
expects Shaddai to repair the wall to keep the children
from leaving, Shaddai tells him that he made the hole
in the wall so that the children could leave if they
wish to.
He informs Paladin, “I want the children to stay
because they want to, not because they have to.”
Although Paladin loves Shaddai and wants to obey
him, he is drawn outside the fence by his curiosity.
Once outside, he finds that everything seems normal,
and he begins to doubt Shaddai’s words. Suddenly he
finds that he cannot find the hole to return to the
village. Too late he finds that everything is just as
Shaddai said. He cries out for Shaddai, but even
before he calls, Shaddai is on his way to rescue him.
Rich, vibrant illustrations by Mitchell Heinze are
excellent complements for Max Lucado’s beautiful
story of God’s great love for us. Together they show
us that God wants us love and obey him because we
want to, not because we have to. Virginia Brown
Poison-Pen Mystery, by Dandi Daley Mackall.
(The Puzzle Club; 4.) St. Louis, Mo.: Concordia,
1998. ISBN 0570050529, PAP, $4.99.
F. Mystery fiction; Christian fiction. 80 p. Gr. 1 - 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
It was terrible. People in their town were usually
friendly. Why was almost everyone in town in a bad
mood? Christopher, Korina, and Alex, The Puzzle
Club detectives, discover that someone is sending
poison-pen letters. Korina treats Alex like he’s too
young to do anything right. She and Christopher set
off to find clues, leaving Alex at Puzzleworks with
Tobias (the shop’s owner), his friend Mrs. Randolf,
and Mr. Randolf’s granddaughter Micki. Alex
decides he’ll solve the mystery before Christopher
and Korina. He and Micki search for clues on their
own. It is a surprise to everyone when they discover
who sent the letters. The Puzzle Club and their new
friends learn to overcome evil with good when they
decide to send encouraging letters to all who received
a poison-pen letter.
Dandi Mackall has presented Christian values
throughout Poison-Pen Mystery. The three Puzzle
Club members show caring and concern for those
around them. Even the negative attitude of Korina
and Alex toward each other is resolved by the end of
the book. Middle grade students will enjoy this
mystery even if they haven’t read others in the series.
Jane Mouttet
New Zealand Shake-Up, by Stacy Towle Morgan;
illustrated by Patricia Querin. (The Ruby
Slippers School; 6.) LCCN 97004706.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1997. ISBN
1556616058, PAP, $3.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; New Zealand--Fiction. 80 p. Gr. 2 -
4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Hope and Annie Brown, the home-schooled sisters of
Ruby Slippers School, are off down-under to visit a
sheep station (farm, for we northerners) in the island
country of New Zealand in the south Pacific. Their
father’s job takes him jaunting all around the globe,
so when he gets a new assignment, Hope, Annie, and
their mother pack up their books and go with him on
the best “field trips” in the world. Once in New
Zealand the girls and their mother stay with the
Coopers on their station far out in the country and
soon become part of the family as they help at
lambing time. Just as they become part of the rhythm
of station life things begin to happen that literally
shake everyone up. First, an earthquake destroys
parts of a far away city in which the girl’s father is
working and where one of the Cooper’s sons is at
boarding school. Then Hope discovers that the
Cooper’s farm worker, Rangi, a Maori Christian, is
being threatened by strangers. Has God kept their
father safe? Should a rash promise stop you from
doing what is right? Hope and Annie struggle to trust
and obey in all things and learn the importance of
following only their own shepherd, Jesus.
Stacy Morgan’s Ruby Slippers School series offers
seven- to ten-year-olds a gentle introduction to life in
other countries and cultures. Previous volumes have
seen the home-schooled sisters in the Caribbean,
Belgium, Egypt, Great Britain and Japan. The
adventures of Hope and Annie as they travel with
their parents are well within the realm of possibility
and depict the two girls in realistic struggles with their
own spiritual growth. At the same time, the series
provides Christian children, home-schooled or not,
with a sense of the wideness of God’s world and of
the truth of God’s promise that his people will come
from every nation and every tongue. Young readers
searching for their first “chapter books” can do no
better than to go on field trips with Hope and Annie
Brown. Pamela A. Todd
Escape from Shangri-La, by Michael Morpurgo.
LCCN 984878. New York: Philomel, 1998. ISBN
0399233113, HBB, $16.99.
F. Grandfathers--Fiction; Old age--Fiction; England--Fiction.
178 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Eleven-year old Cessie is thrilled to discover that the
strange man who has been watching her house is
actually her long lost grandfather. But when Grandpa
Popsicle has a stroke and must come to live with
Cessie and her parents, trouble begins. Popsicle is
moody and forgetful, and Cessie’s father acts as if he
wishes Popsicle had never shown up. After several
close calls with danger, Cessie’s parents send
Popsicle off to Shangri-La, a home for the elderly.
Immediately, Cessie becomes determined to help him
escape. Only then are she and Popsicle able to
unravel the truth of his mysterious past.
Escape from Shangri-La by Michael Morpurgo is a
wonderful story about family, relationships, and the
courage it sometimes takes to keep people together.
Full of action, suspense, and mystery as Cessie and
Popsicle plan the “great escape,” the story also quietly
explores the dynamics of inter-generational
relationships. Cessie, her father, and her grandfather
have much to learn about each other and,
consequently, much to forgive. Some readers will be
concerned about the use of alcohol that is mentioned
frequently throughout the book and the fairly lenient
attitude toward divorce that is displayed. However,
all readers will love the surprise ending that takes
them on a nighttime trip across the English Channel
and into the heart of Popsicle’s mystery. Kerri
Cunningham
The Mystery of the Wedding Cake, by Elspeth
Campbell Murphy; illustrated by Joe Nordstrom.
(Three Cousins Detective Club; 19.) LCCN
97455440. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 1556618573, PAP, $3.99.
F. Weddings--Fiction; Cousins--Fiction; Mystery fiction. 60 p.
Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Mystery of the Sand Castle, by Elspeth
Campbell Murphy; illustrated by Joe Nordstrom.
(Three Cousins Detective Club; 20.) LCCN
9753761. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 1556618581, PAP, $3.99.
F. Cousins--Fiction; Seashore--Fiction; Mystery fiction. 63 p.
Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Mystery of the African Grey, by Elspeth
Campbell Murphy; illustrated by Joe Nordstrom.
(Three Cousins Detective Club; 21.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 0764221302, PAP,
$3.99.
F. Mystery fiction; Cousins--Fiction; Detectives--Fiction;
Parrots--Fiction. 60 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Mystery of the Sock Monkeys, by Elspeth
Campbell Murphy; illustrated by Joe Nordstrom.
(Three Cousins Detective Club; 22.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 155661859X, PAP,
$3.99.
F. Mystery fiction; Cousins--Fiction; Detectives--Fiction. 62
p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Three Cousins Detective Club is a series by
Elspeth Campbell Murphy about three cousins,
Sarah-Jane, Titus, and Timothy who work together to
solve small mysteries that come up in the lives of their
family and friends. They get along well, having set
up guidelines for themselves such as, “The cousins
had a rule that said it was OK for one cousin to sort of
be the boss of something. AS LONG AS THAT
COUSIN DIDN’T GET BOSSY.”
The storyline of each book moves along quickly and
the clues are presented in a way that beginning
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chapter book readers will probably be able to solve
the mystery. The mysteries are all believable and
within the limits of ten year old detectives to solve.
Each book begins with a Bible verse that presents the
lesson to be learned from the story. There is some
humor in the books and a subtle rotation of leadership
among the cousins from book to book, giving each
character a chance to shine. Joe Nordstrom’s pencil
drawings give the book a very current, up-to-date
look and are very well done. Sally Kuhns
The Journal of James Edmond Pease : A Civil War
Union Soldier, by Jim Murphy. (My Name Is
America.) LCCN 9810738. New York: Scholastic,
1998. ISBN 059043814X, HBB, $9.95.
F. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Fiction;
Orphans--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 173 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Using a company journal to tell the story of James
Edmond Pease, Jim Murphy, known to many readers
as a Newbery Honor recipient, brings a wide
background of knowledge and research into Pease’s
story. Written as fiction, this journal of a teenage
Union soldier gives readers a soldier’s insights into
camp life and battle along with his personal thoughts
about the war. James Edmond Pease becomes the
keeper of the journal for his company after the other
two writers are killed, and the journal does in fact
save his life at one point by catching a minie ball.
Since Pease tells the story, readers see what is
happening through his eyes. He witnesses the horrors
of battles, the kindness of soldiers and slaves whom
he helps escape in return when he is separated from
his company and must make his way back to the
Union lines. Along the way he begins a
correspondence with the sister of a fellow soldier
which develops first into friendship, then becoming
more serious as time passes until finally, after the war
they marry. Their letters are innocent, full of hope
and concern for one another, providing a way for
Pease to discuss some of what he has witnessed.
Readers will find themselves drawn into the daily
routine of soldiers. Descriptions of battles are realistic
enough for the audience of the book, as are those of
camp life. Tender moments between the warring
sides provide a good contrast to war. Readers can
compare this to Gary Paulsen’s Soldier’s Heart,
(1998) though the intended audience for that book is
somewhat older; or for a younger audience, Ann
Turner’s Drummer Boy (Harper, 1998) and Murphy’s
own A Boy’s War (Scholastic, 1990). Good addition
to historical fiction and the materials on the War
Between the States. Includes a few four letter
expletives, but nothing readers won’t have heard
elsewhere. Leslie Greaves Radloff
Sara and Jenny agree they are worst friends. All their
time together is spent battling with words, until Sara
ends up hospitalized with a brain tumor. Jenny
decides, no matter what, she will be nice to Sara. But
that isn’t what Sara truly wants. The discord
continues until both girls are able to communicate
their true feelings.
My Worst Friend, by P. J. Petersen, is a well-written
tale, but is filled with cutting remarks. Sara schemes
and plots to frustrate Jenny from beginning to end.
Only when Jenny returns a quip is Sara satisfied. The
movie Nightmare on Elm Street is mentioned, and
“that boxer that bit off the guy’s ear.”
Simple, but expressive black and white drawings by
P. J. Petersen accompany the text. The illustrations
are straight forward in portraying Sara’s poor physical
condition and bald head.
Good, deep lessons can be learned from this novel,
but they are couched in some negative examples.
Lorie Ann Grover
Thomas, by Bonnie Pryor; illustrated by Bert
Dodson. (American Adventures; 1.) LCCN
989199. New York: Morrow Junior Books, 1998.
ISBN 068815669X, HBB, $15.00.
F. Pennsylvania--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction;
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction;
Frontier and pioneer life--Pennsylvania--Fiction. 150 p. Gr. 3 -
6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
After Thomas’ father leaves to fight against the
British, Tory soldiers force his family from their
home. Along with his mother, sister Emma, and
brother Ben, he journeys to a nearby fort for
protection. Thomas is fascinated watching the
soldiers and listening to the other colonists’ stories.
Eager for adventure, he and a friend sneak out of the
camp to spy on the enemy. The family’s final hope to
escape capture is to flee from the fort and travel
across the Pocono Mountains, with sparse knowledge
of the area and little food.
Set around the actual massacre in Pennsylvania’s
Wyoming Valley during the American Revolution,
Thomas portrays realistic situations, showing many
trials that colonists had to endure. Author Bonnie
Pryor draws the reader in, presenting interesting and
likable characters.
This book would be an excellent literature tie in to
any Revolutionary War unit. The story flows simply,
and offers suspense and adventure, appealing to the
reluctant reader. Three final pages give interesting
facts about this era. Thomas is the first book in a
series about boys living in important periods of
United States history. Karen Brehmer
Carolyn Reeder has written an excellent historical
novel concentrating on W.W.II from an eleven-yearold’s
viewpoint. December, 1941, and Foster
Simmons is grappling with the emotional upheaval of
having his beloved older brother shipped overseas,
and his best friend of Japanese descent branded an
enemy and exiled to an internment camp.
Besides this, Foster’s family works together trying to
keep their stern, demanding father from exploding
with angry venom at them. In many ways, Foster’s
father is his identified enemy. Foster and his friends
join the war effort by selling bonds, collecting scrap,
and preparing for air raids. When Foster’s older
brother becomes a war statistic, Mr. Simmon’s hard
exterior is cracked and the family begins the healing
process. Foster then gains a new perspective on his
father, his past, and his relationship with his family.
This well researched book makes both wars—the war
at home, and the war overseas—real and
understandable. Carolyn Reeder captures the
imagination and arouses sympathy and applause for
Foster as he emotionally works through the turmoil of
both wars. Paula Stewart Marks
Mik-Shrok, by Gloria Repp; illustrated by Jim
Brooks. (Adventures of an Arctic Missionary; 1.)
LCCN 988838. Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books,
1998. ISBN 1579240690, PAP, $6.49.
F. Missionaries--Fiction; Sled dogs--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction;
Alaska--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 133 p. Gr. 3 - 7.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Steve and Liz Bailey arrive in Alaska in 1950 for their
first term of missionary service and, due to
unforeseen circumstances, find themselves alone on
the field. Gloria Repp has woven together the stories
of several missionaries to create a three-part fictional
series: Adventures of an Arctic Missionary. In this
first book in the series the daily work of new
missionaries is realistically portrayed. The Baileys
attempt to befriend the Eskimos, learn their language,
survey the area, and communicate with supporting
churches while remaining under the direction of their
mission board back in the States. Steve must
purchase several sled dogs to provide needed
transportation.. The Lord provides an assortment of
huskies which Steve begins to train. They name one
Mik-Shrok, which means “small, but good enough,”
and he soon takes his place as lead dog. As the
Eskimos carefully watch, Steve and Liz live their
faith and trust in God.
Jim Brook’s line drawings depict life in Alaska and
give personality to Mik-Shrok. Patricia J. Perry
My Worst Friend, by P. J. Petersen; illustrated by
Meredith Johnson. LCCN 983219. New York:
Dutton, 1998. ISBN 0525460284, HBB, $15.99.
F. Cancer--Patients--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Friendship--
Fiction. 134 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Foster’s War, by Carolyn Reeder. LCCN 9710682.
New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590098462,
HBB, $16.95.
F. World War, 1939-1945--United States--Fiction; Fathers--
Fiction; Family problems--Fiction. 267 p. Gr. 4 -7.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Threat, by Nancy Rue. (The Christian
Heritage Series, the Charleston Years; 3.) LCCN
9751659. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 1561795666, PAP, $5.99.
F. Family life--Southern states--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction;
Southern States--Fiction; Slavery--Fiction. 204 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 3 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

CHILDREN’ S FICTION
The Trap, by Nancy Rue. (The Christian Heritage
Series, the Charleston Years; 4.) LCCN 9751660.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1561795674, PAP, $5.99.
F. Family life--South Carolina--Fiction; Hypocrisy--Fiction;
Slavery--Fiction; South Carolina--Fiction. 198 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Austin Hutchinson, with his mother and little brother,
is living with his Uncle Drayton at the Ravenal
Plantation while his father travels in the north
speaking on abolitionist themes. In The Threat, by
Nancy Rue, Austin gets an American Flag pin from
his father. His uncle’s life is threatened for his views
about secession. When Izard and Fergus discover
Austin’s viewpoint, they threaten him. He struggles
and learns to value the same things that Jesus values.
In The Trap, Austin learns about hypocrisy. He states
the word “hypocrite” almost interminably at times.
He can see it in his uncle when he tries to force his
eldest daughter to marry a Confederate officer.
Austin has trouble seeing the log in his own eye. As
he prays, and through the insight and support of
Daddy Elias, the older black slave, Austin
understands some of his own frailty.
The action and philosophical wrestling is presented
through the eleven and twelve year old eyes of
Austin; his cousin, Charlotte; and their friend and
slave, Henry James. Because of Austin’s inner
turmoil, the reader is definitely pulled into the
motivations and feelings of the characters more than
in some other historical fiction series. Certainly the
issues of slavery and the secession of the southern
states are dominant themes in these books. Aunt
Olivia is still the stereotypical southern lady of the
times, more concerned with her dresses and what
other people think than she is with what is right. Judy
Belcher
The Hostage, by Nancy Rue. (The Christian
Heritage Series, The Charleston Years; 5.) LCCN
9825553. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 1561796387, PAP, $5.99.
F. Slavery--Fiction; Charleston (S.C.)--History--1775-1865--
Fiction;
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Escape, by Nancy Rue. (The Christian
Heritage Series, The Charleston Years; 6.) LCCN
9825554. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 1561796395, PAP, $5.99.
F. Escapes--Fiction; Slavery--Fiction; Charleston (S.C.)--
History--1775-1865--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 181 p.
Gr. 3 - 7.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In The Hostage, Austin’s oldest cousin Kady becomes
involved with helping escaping slaves. Then Austin
is kidnapped to lure his father back to Charleston.
Can Kady help him get away from the kidnappers?
In The Escape, safety becomes a major concern.
Austin and his family need to get to the north soon,
because war has started. Henry James, the thirteenyear-old
friend and slave, is to be sold and even
Polly’s slave Tot has been mistreated. Can they all be
sent north though the escape system Austin’s cousin
Kady is involved in?
The Charleston Years focuses on eleven-year-old
Austin Hutchinson whose family has been left in
Charleston while his father, an abolitionist, tries to
help the northern cause. As the North and South
move towards war, Austin’s family are confronted by
anti-north demonstrations as well as confronting
problems that involve the house where they are
staying. Nancy Rue paints a good picture of the early
1860’s as well as giving readers a positive picture of
how young people can rely on values and faith to
sustain them during troubled times. Although the
series builds on earlier details, each book can be read
separately. Paula Stewart Marks
The Hired Hand, by Robert D. San Souci;
illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. New York: Dial
Books for Young Readers, 1997. ISBN
0803712960, HBB, $15.99.
F. African-Americans--Fiction. 40 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 3
Old Sam owns a sawmill. His lazy son, Young Sam,
makes no effort to learn the business or do good work.
A drifter offers to work for Old Sam for one year in
exchange for learning the trade. The New Hand
works well for Old Sam, but Young Sam resents New
Hand. Young Sam sneakily witnesses New Hand
making an old man young again through magic. This
old man made young brings his old wife to receive the
same treatment, but New Hand is not available, so
Young Sam presumes to perform the magic himself.
In his own lazy way, Young Sam cuts corners and this
results in the woman’s death. Young Sam is taken to
court for murder and declares his regret for being lazy
and mean to New Hand. New Hand comes to Young
Sam’s rescue by producing the woman alive, well,
and made young again.
The illustrations provide the best feature of this book.
Jerry Pinkney has illustrated many children’s books
and is a three-time Caldecott winner. These
illustrations are rich and expressive, providing a rural
setting and portraying the story well.
A retelling of a African American folktale first
published in 1899, this story is well written. Some
might consider Young Sam’s realization of the error
of his ways, confession and plea for New Hand’s
forgiveness followed by New Hand’s merciful act to
be symbolic of Christian salvation. This ending,
however, does not balance out the use of magic.
Karla Kessell
Summer Reading Is Killing Me! by Jon Scieszka;
illustrated by Lane Smith. (The Time Warp Trio.)
LCCN 9750378. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670880418, HBB, $13.99.
F. Books and reading--Fiction; Characters in literature--
Fiction; Magic--Fiction. 73 p. Gr. 2 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Time Warp Trio has just met its seventh
adventure. It is a 250-pound chicken from D. Manus
Pinkwater’s book, The Hoboken Chicken Emergency.
Their thin blue book with strange silver designs has
just digested the summer reading list for the entire
school, and all the characters are running loose in
Hoboken. The only means of calming the chaos is to
find the thin blue book. Unfortunately, it is under
siege in the library. Every antagonist on the list has
taken sides with a burly, button-eyed Teddy bear with
a murderous, power-hungry heart. All literature will
soon be under his control. Summer Reading is Killing
Me! is the Trio’s pathetic cry for help.
Time Warp Trio fans will be familiar with the dangers
of the thin blue book. First time acquaintances will
figure it out soon. Jon Scieszka has taken pains to
introduce the reader to a multitude of interesting
characters. They swirl through the story out of their
own context and in surprising combinations. The plot
is to hook the reader covertly into a lifetime reading
habit. Lane Smith has lent her own influence by
punctuating the highpoints of the action with dramatic
sketches. The plan is quite effective. The results are
permanent. Melinda M. Torgerson
Cave Hill Treasure and Other Stories, by Nancy
Speck. (A Fairfield Friends Devotional
Adventure; 4.) LCCN 9745449. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 0764220071, PAP,
$6.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Conduct of life--Fiction. 126 p. Gr.
3 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Fairfield Friends are finding out what it really
means to be a Christian as their everyday adventures
become a way to learn more about God and what
scripture really teaches. Whether it’s learning not to
join in when others pull a nasty prank, or
remembering to be respectful to your elders, this
group of friends knows how to hold each other
accountable.
Nancy Speck has created a great devotional for kids
which uses everyday situations to teach biblical truth.
While the way scripture is introduced seems a little
unbelievable for a group of kids, the method is
effective in revealing the truths in a way children can
relate to.
Her book is a series of ten short stories which are
actually scripture applications. At the end of each
story is a written lesson and hands on activities to
reinforce what has been learned, although many of
these activities seem stale or unrealistic for todayís
busy schedules.
Overall, Cave Hill Treasure is a successful Bible
learning tool which parents and even Sunday school
teachers will find refreshing, however the study
portion concentrates more on actual behaviors rather
than on the learning of scripture. Virginia Schnabel
My Angel Named Herman, by Elmer L. Towns.
LCCN 984896. Nashville: Tommy Nelson, 1998.
ISBN 0849958393, HBB, $7.99.
F. God--Fiction; Astronomy--Fiction; Guardian angels--
Fiction; Angels--Fiction. 96 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 5 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

CHILDREN’ S FICTION
Herman works as a janitor at Jacob’s school. He is an
older, kind man with a twinkle in his eye. When
Jacob first meets him he is amazed at all the
knowledge Herman has about the stars and the
universe. From that day on, Jacob makes a point to
search out Herman and talk about the wonders of
God’s creation. Herman seems to know the answers
to everything, and he always makes sure that Jacob
gives God the honor for the marvels he unveils.
Herman says he is on assignment when Jacob
questions him about his work. This puzzling answer
doesn’t make sense until Herman actually pulls Jacob
from the frozen lake he’s broken through. Now
Herman is nowhere to be found, but Jacob remembers
all he has learned and how Herman had said that
angels were sometimes referred to as stars. Jacob
watches, amazed, at the new star that appears in his
telescope, and then just as mysteriously disappears.
He knows deep in his heart that it is Herman who had
been sent on special assignment just to share with
Jacob and ultimately rescue him from drowning.
Elmer Towns writes an informative, interesting book
all about the amazing facts of the universe. He
presents the information from the view of Herman,
the angel, as the reader follows the storyline. My
Angel Named Herman presents a clever story packed
with facts that should delight any young reader with
an inquisitive mind. Mary McKinney
Nothing Here But Trees, by Jean Van Leeuwen;
pictures by Phil Boatwright. LCCN 9734318. New
York: Dial, 1998. ISBN 0803721803, HBB, $15.99.
E. Frontier and pioneer life--Ohio--Fiction; Ohio--Fiction. 32
p. Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Set in the great forests of 19th century Ohio, Nothing
Here But Trees tells the story of an unnamed pioneer
boy and his family. Due to hard times, the family has
had to leave their home in New York State and travel
to the new state of Ohio. At first, the boy does not like
Ohio. It is too different from New York and it seems
as if there are nothing there but endless, dark forests.
However, after trees are felled, a house built, crops
planted, and friends made, the young boy feels as if he
might like his new home after all.
Author Jean Van Leeuwen has written a beautiful and
moving account of pioneer life. By using colloquial
words and images, she evokes the difficulties, hard
work, and courage that were a part of everyday life
for America’s pioneers. Contributing to the feel of
19th century Ohio are Phil Boatwright’s oil and
acrylic illustrations. He recreates the lush beauty of
ancient forests while at the same time making sure to
accurately represent pioneer life. Examples of this
are his depictions of everything from butter churns
and kettles to cornhusk dolls and patched clothing.
Because of Van Leeuwen’s careful storytelling and
Boatwright’s attention to detail, Nothing Here But
Trees would be a very useful story when studying
American pioneers. However, the story also stands
alone as a wonderful account of fear, loneliness and,
ultimately, hope. Kerri Cunningham
The Firehouse Mystery, created by Gertrude
Chandler Warner; illustrated by Charles Tang.
(Boxcar Children Mysteries.) LCCN 96050218.
Morton Grove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 1997. ISBN
0807524476, HBB, $13.95.
F. Mystery fiction. 121 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
A visit to the local firehouse launches the Alden
children on another quest for answers in their
mysterious circumstances in The Firehouse Mystery,
one of the latest in the Boxcar Children mystery series
created by Gertrude Chandler Warner. Benny, Violet,
Jessie, and Henry learn that the community firehouse
is set for demolition, and they begin a campaign to
save the historic landmark. Their efforts are met with
unusual “accidents”, and it becomes evident that
someone desperately wants the firehouse destroyed.
Ms. Lerner, an angry town council member; Rebecca
Wright, an architect; and Mr. Frederick, a writer,
become the primary suspects. The children discover
Mr. Frederick’s deception as well as his theft of
antique trophies from the firehouse. In so doing they
are able to save the firehouse.
The element of mystery found in the earlier Boxcar
Children books written by Miss Warner herself is
found in this book as well as the emphasis on
educating the reader in the subject area covered in the
story, e.g., firefighting procedures, types of
equipment, firehouse routine, etc. Found also in the
book is careful gender neutral character selection.
Christine is the firefighter who actually fights a fire in
the book; the architect is female, as well as the
antagonist town council member. Mike is a
handicapped paraplegic firefighter who befriends the
Aldens. There were no ethnic distinctions found.
Although the book seems to lack the substance of
older Boxcar titles, it is engaging and quite
informative. Pencil drawings rendered by Charles
Tang illustrate key moments in the story, a story
which communicates right is right and wrong is
wrong. And for the Boxcar Children, that is no
mystery! Arlene S. Neal
Voyage on the Great Titanic : The Diary of Margaret
Ann Brady, by Ellen Emerson White. (Dear
America.) New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590962736, HBB, $9.95.
F. Titanic (Steamship)--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction; Shipwrecks--
Fiction. 197 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Sister Catherine has found a way for Margaret to join
her brother William in America. Mrs. Carstairs is
looking for a companion to accompany her on her
Voyage on the Great Titanic. Left at the orphanage by
her brother after the death of their parents, Margaret
longs to join him in America. Now she has free
passage. In return, Margaret will walk Mrs. Carstairs’
dog, help her dress, and run errands. Mrs. Carstairs
orders beautiful clothes for Margaret to wear.
Margaret and Robert, their cabin steward, quickly
become good friends. When the Titanic collides with
an iceberg Robert puts Margaret on the last life raft.
Ellen Emerson White creates a detailed world full of
the rich colors, exotic food, and extravagant clothes
of the wealthy in 1912. Margaret and her diary are
fictional. However, many of the people mentioned,
the near collision of the Titanic and the New York, the
sinking of the Titanic, and some other events are
factual. The characters outlook on life, other people,
and the language used are true to that period of time.
The last twenty-eight pages of the book contain
excellent historical notes, pictures, maps, and a time
line. Elizabeth B. Parisi’s lovely oval picture of
Margaret adds to the story. Barbara A. Bryden
Mysterious Journey : Amelia Earhart’s Last Flight,
written by Martha Wickham; illustrated by David
Lund. (Odyssey.) LCCN 977244. Norwalk, Ct.:
Soundprints, 1997. ISBN 1568994125, KIT,
$19.95.
F. Earhart, Amelia, 1897-1937--Fiction; Air pilots--Fiction;
Time travel--Fiction; National Air and Space Museum--Fiction.
1 32 p. hardcover book; 1 13 min. audiocassette Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Lucy and her friends Emma, Kevin, and Tomas are
visiting the Amelia Earhart exhibit at the National Air
and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution.
While there Lucy, an aspiring pilot, finds herself
swept back in time. She has become Amelia Earhart
on that fateful night when she was lost. Lucy
experiences all the trauma and decision that Amelia
and her crew had to make. Would she make the same
mistakes and perish?
Kevin, Emma, Lucy and Tomas are visiting the Pony
Express exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution. The
are naturally drawn to a video featuring “Boston”
Upson. Suddenly, Kevin realizes that he is outside of
Friday’s station waiting for another rider to arrive.
The first shots have been fired at Fort Sumter and the
Civil War has begun. Can Kevin get the news and the
mail through to the next rider? A blizzard is heading
this way and the river is flooded. What can he do?
These writers have created a series that draws you
into a period in history. Each book is accompanied by
a cassette tape of the story being read with the full
dramatization of background music. You can hear the
engine of the plane and the beating of the horses
hoofs. You feel as if you are right there with them.
You can feel the suspense and the drama. Yet in the
end you realize that Emma and Kevin have been
swept away by their imagination and they are back
safe and unharmed. Kevin and Emma are never quite
the same, however, for they have really sensed what
it was like to be a part of history.
The illustrations are bright and vivid, characterizing
the young people well. They draw you further into
the story and the adventure. The package of the book
and the tape serve well to make history come alive for
young people who have lost interest. Marcia Snyder
Continued on p. 96.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 3 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWS
CHILDREN’S NONFICTION
200’s - Religion
Bibleland.COM. Grand Rapids: Kids Media, 1997.
ISBN 080100098X, CDR, $29.99.
For IBM-Compatible PCs: 486SX, 33 MHz or higher CPU,
8MB or more RAM, Windows 3.1 or Windows 95, 640 x 480
pixel resolution color monitor, Graphics adapter card w/ 256 or
more colors, 2X spped or better CD-ROM drive, Windows
compatible sound card and speakers.
For Apple Macintosh (w/ sound and speakers built-in), 68030,
33 MHz or higher CPU, 8 MB or more of RAM, System 7.0 or
higher operating system, 640 x 480 pixel resolution color
monitor w/256 or more colors, 2X speed or better CD-ROM
drive.
220. Bible games; Computer education. 1 CD-ROM Gr. 4 -
12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
This computer program is a simulation of being on
the internet. Kids are “logged on” when they begin
and are “connected” to other “sites” as they progress
through the program. On the welcome page they are
offered several options: learn about Bibleland, search,
game page, BibleLand video, BibleLand dicionary,
and E-mail. Within these different connections, there
are many ways for the student to get information.
With the “search” connection, the user can choose a
topic such as people, miracles, places, books of the
Bible, promises, or punishments. They are then
“connected” to a list of instances that occur in the
Bible. They may go to Delilah’s web page to learn
about her role in Samson’s life, or watch a video of
the Holy Land and the Isrealites journey through the
wilderness. The BibleLand dictionary offers a wealth
of information for those doing research. The
dictionary includes over 2000 entries. The E-mail
section is fun for kids who want e-mail and never
receive any on their parent’s computer. When the
student chooses “e-mail”, the letter is from a Bible
character and it usually raises a question or gives
direction to motivate kids to explore the Bible further.
Kids of all ages will enjoy this program. For those
that are younger, the games will be
appealing;however, for the web pages and other
information, younger students may need help with the
reading. The graphics are well done, and the video
and dramatization segment is very impressive. The
translation used throughout is The New Living
Translation. This program will also help teach the use
of the internet without the concern if they work on
this alone. Patricia A. Youmans
Family Bible Challenge. Colorado Springs:
Rainfall Media, 1997. CDR, price unknown.
Macintosh (8 MB of RAM, System 7.0 or higher,
color monitor w/256 colors & 2X CD-ROM drive)
Windows (8 MB of RAM, Windows 3.1 or 95, color monitor,
graphics adapter card w/256 color capacity, sound card & 2X
CD-ROM drive)
220. Bible games. 1 CD-ROM Gr. 1 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Three Bible related games are contained on this CD-
ROM. The Trivia Game is patterned after Trivial
Pursuits, allowing up to four players to compete in
answering trivia questions and collecting score bars in
each of six categories. The Quiz Game involves
answering trivia questions until a preset goal of
correct answers is reached. Multiple players can
participate in the Quiz Game, but each player
continues until he/she reaches his/her goal, before the
next player takes a turn. The Memory Match-up
Game is modeled after the game of Concentration.
Matching pictures of Bible characters are hidden.
The goal is to expose the pairs that match.
All three games provide a choice of levels of
difficulty. The Trivia Game and Quiz Game have the
option for the questions to be read aloud at the first
level. The questions and multiple choice answers are
read by both male and female voices alternating
randomly. The voices are clear and easily
understandable. The graphics of these programs are
basic and animation is minimal.
The games contain some interesting bugs and
glitches. The voice may read a different question and
answer than what is displayed on the screen. Also,
occasionally score bars disappear during the Trivia
Game. Players could easily be distressed to find that
their hard earned score is disappearing for no clear
reason.
The majority of the content of the trivia questions is
taken straight out of scripture word for word. A few
questions involve interpretation or doctrinal beliefs
not contained in the exact wording of verses. The
program does provide the scripture reference from
which the question/answer was derived. Some
questions seem to be extreme or nonsensical, such as
“What were the Thessalonian Christians to the
believers in Macedonia & Achaia? .as students, with
suspicion, as examples, with love.” (This was taken
from I Thessalonians 1:7.)
These games will be enjoyed by true trivia game
lovers; however, the graphics, animation and program
bugs may cause most players to lose interest in the
games within a short period of time. Karla Kessell
Little Girls Bible Storybook for Mothers and
Daughters, by Carolyn Larsen; illustrated by
Caron Turk. Grand Rapids: New Kids Media,
1998. ISBN 0801044073, HBB, $16.99.
220. Bible stories. 359 p. PS - K.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
A rudimentary book of Bible stories from a woman’s
prospective. Reworded in elemental style, the fifty
stories should be enjoyed as a mother reads to her
daughters. This would also be suitable for a Christian
day care.
Stories are slanted to little girls and are written in
study form: a short, simple Bible story, followed by a
section for discussion about what the story means and
how God teaches his people. There is also a section
on how to apply God’s teachings to our lives. Author
Carolyn Larsen selected stories for a child’s first
Bible exposure and illustrator Caron Turk lends
interest in the tales by colorful and descriptive
drawings, helpful for a child who does not read yet.
Limited readership because of the mother-daughter
audience targeted by the title. Would make a lovely
new baby girl gift. Barbara G. Taenzler
NirV Kids’ Quest : Study Bible. LCCN 9860358.
Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN
0310925584, HBB, $24.99.
220. Bible. 1679 p. Gr. 2 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
What makes this Bible unique? Zondervan’s NirV
Kid’s Quest Bible is designed for children. It is based
on the NIV, but easier understood words are
substituted to make this a book that children will
enjoy reading. It is called a “quest” Bible because it
asks and answers five hundred questions that children
might wonder about. Does your body stay in the
grave when you go to heaven? Is it all right to say bad
things if there is no one there to hear you? Is it all
right to throw rocks at someone who throws rocks at
you? Answers are biblically based and stand strong
on morals and truth.
Each question is accompanied by a delightful,
blackline, cartoon character. Each book of the Bible
begins with a short Who? What? When? and For
Whom? introduction. The Bible ends with a
dictionary and index to questions. This is an
impressive, easy to understand Bible that keeps to the
integrity of scripture and will hold the interest of
children or new believers who need a good
foundation. Paula Stewart Marks
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 7 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

CHILDREN’ S NONFICTION
My ABC Bible Verses : Hiding God’s Word in Little
Hearts, by Susan Hunt; illustrated by Yvette
Banek. LCCN 9817102. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway
Books, 1998. ISBN 1581340052, HBB, $10.99.
220.5. Bible--Memorizing; Alphabet rhymes; Christian
education--Home training. 52 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Adults as well as children will enjoy the delightful
read aloud stories that show two young children,
Missy and Bill, learning to use God’s important
verses in their everyday life. Join them as they find
out how using a soft answer can overcome a friend’s
anger. Find out how being a peacemaker is very
important when both children want the same toy.
Susan Hunt has selected twenty-six verses, one for
each letter of the alphabet, that young children can
easily memorize and find useful every day. Each
verse is accompanied be a short explanation, a reallife
story, discussion, and short prayer ideas. Verses
are from the King James and New King James
versions and emphasize the integrity of God’s Word
and the need to make that Word a standard of
behavior. Yvette Banek has added colorful,
expressive, cartoon children that aptly fit each story.
Paula Stewart Marks
365 Read to Me Bedtime Bible Stories, by Melanie
M. Burnette. Nashville: Broadman and Holman,
1998. ISBN 0805493387, HBB, $10.99.
220.9. Bible stories. 271 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
365 Read to Me Bedtime Stories offers familiar half
page stories, conveniently organized for read aloud
sharing. Beginning with the story of Creation and
following the Bible through Christ’s ascension,
author Melanie Burnette introduces children to
biblical characters and their world. Each passage is
numbered and the biblical reference on which the
story is based is cited.
The easy text and organized format make this book a
handy tool for daily sharing. Heavy on Old
Testament passages, there are sixty-three entries from
I and II Kings. Hard to understand pictures of God’s
judgment, and stories of death and destruction, make
these choices questionable for bedtime reading.
Some entries are incomplete and unclear. Solomon
gets wisdom from God but there is no mention that
God asked him to choose whatever he wished, and
Solomon’s reward came from an answer that was
pleasing to God. One entry tells of Daniel’s objection
to eating King Nebuchadnezzar’s food. The reader is
left hanging, with no further story of the test that
showed him healthier than the other men. Some
details are inferential. When Cain asks Abel to walk
in the fields, “Abel was glad that Cain wanted to be
with him. He hoped they could love each other like
real brothers again.”
As with any paraphrase, one should keep a literal
translation of the Bible close at hand. By comparing
365 Read to Me Bedtime Stories to the Bible, families
will find opportunities for discussion, helpful in
gaining biblical awareness and knowledge. Karen
Brehmer
Toddlers’Action Bible, by Robin Currie; illustrated
by Bill Clark. LCCN 9724651. St. Louis, Mo.:
Concordia, 1998. ISBN 0570050308, HBB, $9.99.
220.9. Bible stories. 96 p. PS.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Young children learn best through hands-on activity.
The Toddler’s Action Bible helps children become
involved in Bible stories by offering action cues
between story lines.
In the story of Creation, the world is “dark, dark,
dark”. A cue is given: “Close eyes. Can you see
anything at all?” When God creates light, the child
opens his or her eyes and nods, “It is good”. Wiggling
fingers show ocean waves and touching fingertips
together make mountains. Frequent actions and
sound effects bring the story to life for children.
Chapter titles are simple and relate to a child’s world.
The story of Mary and Martha is called: “Dust, mop
and bake.” Under each title is a description of the
event: “Jesus visits Mary and Martha”, and a
reference for finding the story in the Bible.
Color illustrations decorate every second page. Each
story ends with a project, or memory tool, to reinforce
the lesson. In teaching the story of Jesus feeding the
5,000, a family picnic is suggested, on the living
room floor.. Child and parent may act out the story of
Palm Sunday by cutting out large palm-shaped
leaves, coloring them, and waving them like palm
branches, as they welcome Jesus, together. Donna
Brown
The Baker Book of Bible People for Kids, by Terry
Jean Day; contributing editor, Daryl J. Lucas.
Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1998. ISBN
0801044049, HBB, $12.99.
220.9. Bible--Biography; Bible stories; Bible--Handbooks,
manuals, etc. 192 p. Gr. 2 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Baker Book of Bible People for Kids is a Bible
handbook for children, ages eight and up. It contains
biographical information on over 200 people from the
Bible, color illustrations depicting key events and
large, easy-to-read, print. Entries are in alphabetical
order for easy access. Names and references are in
bold type. Subject headings are highlighted in red.
Special features include: Key events linking each
person with a main Bible event, a list of the person’s
relatives, showing family connections, study
questions that help children apply the Bible to their
own lives, Bible references to locate the person’s
story in the Bible, phonetic pronunciation of every
name.
The quality, readability and appeal for children are all
excellent. The biographies include information on the
good and bad choices made by well-known Bible
people and the consequences of those choices.
Donna Brown
Noah, by Mary Rice Hopkins; illustrated by
Wendy Francisco. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,
1998. ISBN 1581340028, HBB, $10.99.
221.9. Noah (Biblical character); Bible stories--O.T. 24 p. PS
- Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Mary Rice Hopkins, known for her children’s music,
has set the words to “Noah Was a Faithful Man” on
paper for children to read or sing as they follow
Wendy Francisco’s dramatic illustrations of faithful
Noah, accepting God’s command, building the ark,
and floating away. Especially impressive is the
enormity of the ark which itself is faithful to the
biblical description. The story is preceded by a note
to parents, followed by discussion questions which
can be used by parent or teacher. Judy Driscoll
Noah’s Wife, written by Marty Rhodes; illustrated
by Anita Riggio. LCCN 9531044. Grand Rapids:
Wm. B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 080285107X, HBB,
$15.00.
222. Noah’s ark; Noah’s wife (Biblical figure); Bible stories--
O.T. 32 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In this re-telling of the Biblical story of Noah and the
flood, Noah’s wife is the main focus. While Noah
receives his instructions from the Lord, his wife is the
one who supports him and faces the trials brought on
by his unique calling. It is Noah’s wife who cares for
the animals he brings home and faces the laughter of
the of the townspeople who think that she’s married to
a “crazy man”. On occaision Noah’s wife even has to
chase the elephants out of her vegetable garden. But
when Noah and his wife are safely inside the ark, and
the rain is pounding outside, they are “glad to have
one another to hug”.
Mary Rhodes Figley brings humor and imagination to
the story of Noah’s Wife. Young children will enjoy
the bright and funny scenes in which Noah’s wife
chases an elephant out of her cucumber patch or rocks
a pair of piglets to sleep in her arms.
The watercolor illustrations are large, bright, and
plentiful. They are frequently interspersed with text
and both are surrounded by bright, colorful borders.
Pre-schoolers will be delighted with the story of
Noah’s Wife. Donna Brown
Queen Esther Saves Her People, retold by Rita
Golden Gelman; illustrated by Frané Lessac.
LCCN 972568. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590470256, HBB, $15.95.
222. Esther, Queen of Persia; Bible stories--O.T.; Purim. 38 p.
Gr. 2 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Queen Esther Saves Her People is a beautiful tribute
to sorrow transformed into joy. This retelling by Rita
Golden Gelman is faithfully based on the Hebrew
scroll called the Megillah (the Book of Esther in the
Old Testament).
Esther is a beautiful and good Jewish girl living in
Persia. When the king of Persia banishes his wife for
disobeying him, he chooses Esther as his new wife.
Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, warns her not to tell
anyone at the court she is Jewish because they might
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harm her. Mordecai continues to watch out for
Esther’s safety once she becomes Queen.
The king allows Hamen, the prime minister, to run the
empire. Hamen acts as if he were king, requiring
everyone to bow down before him. Mordecai refuses,
because “Jews do not bow down to human beings.”
Hamen chooses a day to put all Jews in the Persian
empire to death. Queen Esther devises a plan to show
the king how little he knows about how the empire is
run. When the king learns Esther is Jewish and
Hamen plans to kill all Jews, Hamen is put to death
instead. Purim, a day of joy and abandon, celebrates
Hamen’ s death—and life for Jewish people in Persia.
Frane Lessac’s bold and colorful artwork mirrors the
Purim mood—booing Hamen and cheering on Queen
Esther. Stylized hair and perspective details are
reminiscent of mosaics and relief sculptures of the
ancient Persian empire. A note at the end explains
more about the Purim celebration. Lisa Wroble
My Book About Life in Jesus’ Time, by Robert
Baden; illustrated by Michelle Dorenkamp.
LCCN 9727909. St. Louis, Mo.: Concordia, 1998.
ISBN 0570050367, HBB, $9.99.
225.9. Sociology--Biblical; Bible. N.T. Gospels--Social
scientific criticism; Palestine--Social life and customs--To 70
A.D.; Jesus Christ--Childhood. 96 p. K - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
My Book about Life in Jesus’ Time presents a very
clear picture of daily life and customs in Palestine.
Robert Baden lists an abundance of facts about plants
and animals, languages, weather, schools and
churches, houses, travel, food and clothes, feasts,
weddings, and various other subjects. He
accomplishes all this in lilting rhyme.
The book begins with a map of Palestine, then
proceeds to teach in an enjoyable and memorable
way. The last page emphasizes how, even though life
is very different today, people are still alike in one
respect:
We sin each day, but Jesus died
and rose to set us free.
God loved the world so much that He
Did this for you and me.
Michelle Dorenkamp illustrates the text beautifully.
A little mouse watches everything that happens
throughout this small (6” x 7”) book. Jeanette
Hardage
Wonderful Earth, by Nick Butterworth; illustrated
by Mick Inkpen. LCCN 9747411. Nashville:
Tommy Nelson, 1998. ISBN 0849958326, HBB,
$14.99.
231.7. Creation; Human ecology--Religious aspects--
Christianity; Ecology. 32 p. PS - Gr. 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Wonderful Earth is an interactive learning tool using
flaps, cut-outs and pop-up illustrations to show the
variety and glory of God’s creation. Expanding on
the account of Creation given in Genesis, this book
shows the reader that not only did God separate the
land from the water but that water can take on so
many fascinating forrms such as: rain, rivers, mist,
waterfalls, hailstones, snow, icicles, icebergs, and
great oceans! And that there is an even greater variety
among plants and animals.
Illustrations are plentiful, detailed, fun to examine
and play with. A split page even allows readers to
combine two animals into one and “create” an animal
that God didn’t make, like a croco-pus!
Crowning God’s creation is his masterpiece , human
beings. Author Nick Butterworth tells readers that we
were meant to take good care of this beautiful world
God gave us. But sometimes we don’t do a very good
job of it. We’re cutting down needed forests, filling
the air with dirty smoke, and poisoning rivers and
seas. He encourages children to stop and think about
these things and to ask God for his help in making a
change. Donna Brown
In the Beginning There Was No Sky, written by
Walter Wangerin, Jr.; illustrated by Lee
Steadman. LCCN 9728111. Minneapolis:
Augsburg, 1997. ISBN 0806628391, HBB, $15.99.
231.7. Creation. 32 p. PS - Gr. 1.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
In the Beginning There Was No Sky by Walter
Wangerin, Jr. is written in the voice of a narrator who
invites the listening child to cuddle up and hear the
story of creation. The story begins at a time when
there was no sky, only a void and progresses through
the creation of water and dry land, animals of the sea,
land and air, to the climax of the creation of the
human child. The narrator’s purpose in telling the
child this tale is to comfort the child and to stress
God’s love for the child.
Liberties are taken with the biblical account of the
creation story. The animals talk to God begging him
to create the child who will lead them. God is
anthropomorphized, described as having feet, crying
tears, and laughing. Adam (not so named in the book)
is created as a child and the narrator encourages the
child to whom the book is being read to remember
being that Adam child. The overall tone of the story
is somewhat New Age.
The illustrations are semi-impressionistic and
appropriate to the subject matter. There is some
inconsistency in the quality of the individual pictures.
Karla Kessell
I Want To Know About the Ten Commandments :
What They Are and Why They’re Still Important for
Me Today, by Rick Osborne and K. Christie
Bowler. LCCN 9811683. Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 1999. ISBN 0310220955, HBB, $9.99.
241.5. Ten commandments; Christian ethics. 32 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Do the ten commandments apply to youth today?
Osborne and Bowler say they do, and that obeying
them leads to happiness. I Want to Know About The
Ten Commandments explains their origin, content,
and value. The seventh book in the “I Want to Know”
series, this 8-1/2-by-11-inch book is for eight to
twelve year-olds.
The authors teach that the first three commandments
form the foundation of a relationship with God and
show how to love and honor him with our actions,
words, and in our hearts. If he’s first in our hearts,
we’ll put no other gods before him. First in our
actions means we worship no other gods or idols,
including present-day idols such as computers, TVs,
or people. Honoring God with words means not
misusing his name by swearing or speaking falsely
about him. The fourth commandment, “Remember to
keep the Sabbath day holy,” shows our need of God
for physical refreshment and spiritual help to keep his
commandments.
The last six commandments, the authors explain,
cover relationships with people. Honoring parents
includes showing them love, obedience, and respect.
The remaining five deal with relating to others: don’t
murder, commit adultery, steal, lie, or covet. These
commandments are discussed with sensitivity and
teach youth to respect others in their hearts and with
words and actions.
The book’s content is serious and meaty without
being too academic or preachy. Activities, puzzles,
and ways to apply the teaching are interspersed
throughout. Upbeat writing style, youthful
expressions, color photographs, and cartoons make it
youth-friendly. A few practical questions and
answers conclude the book. Parents who want to
introduce their children to the ten commandments
will appreciate this book for preteens. Lydia E.
Harris
All God’s Children : A Book of Prayers, selected by
Lee Bennett Hopkins; illustrated by Amanda
Schaffer. LCCN 9640944. San Diego: Harcourt
Brace, 1998. ISBN 0152014993, HBB, $15.00.
242. Prayers. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
All God’s Children is a compilation of of twenty- two
prayers by many authors. The prayers touch on a
number of things like thankfulness for the planet and
all God’s creation, friendship, sprouting gardens, and
sharing with others that are not so fortunate. There
are individual prayer(s) for beginning the day,
mealtime, bedtime, plus The Lord’s Prayer.
Lee Bennett Hopkins has compiled a book of prayers
that commemorates the love God has for all living
things. The prayers are written in the language of
young children and could help children who want to
pray about something important to them, but are
unsure of the words to use. The oil paintings by
Amanda Schaffer add to the enjoyment of the book.
Dianne Woodman
God’s Promises for Girls, edited by Gwen Ellis.
Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN
0310975565, HBB, $9.99.
248.8. Christian life. 30 p. K - Gr. 5.
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Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Girls four to twelve will enjoy the beauty and
femininity of this visually appealing gift book. God’s
Promises for Girls discusses seven topics, each
followed by numerous biblical promises from the
NIrV version that reinforce the thoughts shared.
Concepts presented include God’s love, caring, and
protection, and that everyone is special. The book
concludes by saying God not only wants to be our
friend and help us make wise choices; he wants
people to know and experience the best promise of
all—forgiveness and eternal life. There’s a place on
the last page to inscribe name and date if a decision is
made to accept Christ.
The ideas are clearly presented through stories,
illustrations, and short simple sentences. The delicate
pastel artwork gives a feeling of femininity and
spring. A gold cross necklace is included as a
reminder of God’s promises and love. The book’s
reassuring message combined with Old and New
Testament Scriptures makes it valuable to reread.
Lydia E. Harris
300’s - Social Sciences
Sammy, Dog Detective, by Colleen Stanley
Bare. LCCN 973881. New York: Cobblehill
Books, 1997. ISBN 0525652531, HBB,
$15.99.
363.2. Police dogs; Dogs. 31 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Sammy is a very special dog. Both of his parents
were police dogs and now Sammy Dog Detective is
ranked as “Number One” police dog in the Western
States Police Canine Association. Sammy and Andy
became a team when Sammy went to K-9 school.
Now Sammy lives with Andy and his family when he
is not working. At school Sammy learned how to
respond to hand signals, climb ladders, jump through
open windows, and many other things. Every week
Sammy spends some time training with Andy, so he
won’t forget. At home Sammy plays with Andy’s
children and acts like any other pet. When Halloween
comes Sammy goes trick-or-treating with the
children. He has been a pirate and a dinosaur.
Sammy receives presents at Christmas just like the
rest of the family.
Colleen Stanley Bare combines an interesting story
with excellent color photographs in a book about a
real K-9 dog. Any words or concepts that the young
reader might not understand are explained in words
and shown in pictures. For example, Bare not only
tells the reader what Sammy does in agility training,
photographs of Sammy walking on narrow planks
and climbing over barrels accompany the text. An
index is included. Barbara A. Bryden
Juneteenth : Freedom Day, by Muriel Miller
Branch; photographs by Willis Branch. LCCN
979656. New York: Cobblehill Books, 1998. ISBN
0525652221, HBB, $15.99.
394.263. Juneteenth; Afro-Americans--Social life and customs;
Slavery--Texas; Texas--Social life and customs. 54 p. Gr. 3 -
6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
At the end of the Civil War, news of slavery’s end was
slow to travel through all the southern states. Slaves
in Texas learned of their freedom on June 19, 1865.
The emancipated slaves celebrated their long-awaited
freedom with jubilation. In Texas this freedom day
was celebrated annually, and eventually came to be
known as Juneteenth.
Muriel Miller Branch describes the history of this
important expression of Black hope and pride in
Juneteenth : Freedom Day. The lively and
informative prose begins with her journey to Texas,
accompanied by her husband whose photos
supplement the text, to research the book and
experience Juneteenth Texan-style. Though
celebrated in a sprinkling of states across the country,
it is most popular in Texas, especially Galveston,
where news of freedom first arrived to Texas. Branch
explains how the celebrations developed in the years
following 1865, how they grew from individual
family celebrations to city-wide festivals, the
importance of reading the Emancipation
Proclamation or General Order #3 during Juneteenth
events, and the decline, and resurgence, in popularity
in recent years. A final chapter provides suggestions
for starting “your own Juneteenth.”
Ample historical photos supplement those taken by
Willis Branch during the couple’s research visit to the
Rosenberg Library and Juneteenth festival in
Galveston as well as other Texas celebrations sites.
An impressive bibliography offers titles for additional
reading. Two addresses for additional information are
also provided, as is a helpful index. Lisa Wroble
Kitoto the Mighty, by Tololwa M. Mollel;
illustrated by Kristi Frost. Toronto: Stoddart
Kids, 1998. ISBN 0773730192, HBB, $14.95.
398.2. Folktales--Africa; Mice--Folklore. 32 p. PS - Gr. 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Kitoto is a little mouse who lives in the African
Savannah, a tropical, treeless plain. When he barely
escapes a hawk’s talons, he tries to find a powerful
ally to defend him. Is it the mighty river, the powerful
sun, the fierce wind, the towering mountain? The
answer is a surprise.
Author Mollel explains the story is based on a
traditional folk tale found the world over. Illustrator
Kristi Frost enhances the short, simple story with
colorful, fanciful pictures. Though the story line is
simple, children should find this an interesting
example of a little being making a big difference.
Barbara G. Taenzler
Under the Cherry Blossom Tree : An Old Japanese
Tale, retold and illustrated by Allan Say. LCCN
96036278. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1997. ISBN
0395845467, HBB, $13.95.
398.2. Folklore--Japan. 32 p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
According to author/illustrator Allen Say, Under the
Cherry Blossom Tree is one of the most popular of the
traditional “joke tales” used by Japanese performers
to entertain countless generations of audiences. The
tale revolves around a bitter, miserly landlord
reminiscent of Dickens’ English character, Scrooge.
One spring day, poor villagers take a holiday and
prepare a picnic under the cherry blossom trees. The
miserly landlord, watching them and popping cherries
into his mouth, complains, “Why are they so happy?
Bah!”
Quite by accident, he swallows a cherry pit. The next
day, a cherry tree sprouts from the top of his head,
reminiscent of Seuss’ Daisy-Head Maizy. The tree
grows and grows, until a year later it blooms. The
villagers once again take a holiday, this time
gathering around the landlord to marvel at the tree
growing out of his head. Their comments infuriate
the old man. He uproots the tree, leaving a large hole
in the top of his head.
Over time, rain water collects in the hole. “Bah!” the
old man exclaims. “Now I’ll have to sleep sitting
up.” Soon, fish are seen jumping from the top of his
head. A few village boys try to steal the fish, but their
attempts awaken the old man. Enraged, he chases the
boys. Tripping on a rock, he flies head over heels.
His feet sink into the hole on his head, and his whole
body disappears—leaving only a “lovely pond in the
valley” with carp swimming lazily in the clear water.
It becomes known as “the happiest spot in the valley.”
This story uses dark humor and may not be
appropriate for young children due to the frightening
imagery. Older children may benefit from
understanding the tradition of “joke houses” in Japan,
and students might be asked to make comparisons of
familiar story elements to other known works (such as
Dickens and Seuss). The black-and-white ink
illustrations appear on every other page, detailed and
well-done, using a fine cross-hatch style. Kimn
Swenson Gollnick
The Fisherman and His Wife, by Rosemary Wells;
pictures by Eleanor Hubbard. LCCN 956486.
New York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 1998.
ISBN 0803718500, HBB, $15.99.
398.2. Fairy tales; Folklore--Germany. 26 p. PS - Gr. 2.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Ulla and Ragnar are a cozy cat couple who live on the
banks of the Torva Fjord in Norway. Ragnar is a
fisherman who plies his trade out on the waters, while
Ulla keeps a small but pretty cottage on land where
she and Ragnar smile “smiles of love across the
candle-flames.” But one day Ragnar feels a huge tug
on his lines and he pulls in a great fish with eyes like
emeralds and ruby red lips. In exchange for its life,
the fish promises, it will grant Ragnar any wish he
names. The fisherman cat asks for a catch of lobster,
but when Ulla hears the tale, lobster will not do. And
so begins the traditional tale that takes the fisherman
and his wife from cottage to palace to cottage again,
as they learn from whence true happiness is gained.
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Rosemary Wells subtitled her work as “a brand-new
version” and the claim is not without merit. The basic
outline of the story is the same as its traditional
forerunners, but the change of the characters from
old, worn humans to cats gives the story an
unexpectedly fresh appeal. The fisherman’s wife is
no longer merely a shrewish, greedy old woman.
Instead she is a young, inexperienced cat/wife who
foolishly longs for things that will only ruin her
happiness and teach her nothing of life’s
responsibilities. Her covetousness is indulged by
husband and fish, until she asks to be Queen. This the
fish refuses to grant because, “A good queen must
think of other people all the time. Ulla would think
only of herself.” So, it is back to the cottage and, a
year later, when they have learned to be happy again,
a needy kitten appears at their door.
Without mentioning them, The Fisherman and His
Wife illustrates wonderfully the twin verses from
Scripture: “Thou shalt not covet” and “It is more
blessed to give than to receive.” Children familiar
with these verses will immediately see their
application in the story of Ulla and Ragnar. The
illustrations of Eleanor Hubbard are brilliant and
enchanting as they capture the flavor of Norwegian
folk culture with delightful detail. This rendition of
the old tale will serve equally well as a read-aloud for
story time, a picture book to be shared by parent and
child or an “I can read it myself!” for beginning
reader. Pamela A. Todd
500’s - Natural Sciences and
Mathematics
Mud Matters : Stories from a Mud Lover, by
Jennifer Owings Dewey; photographs by Stephen
Trimble. LCCN 9732929. Tarrytown, N.Y.:
Cavendish Children’s Books, 1998. ISBN
0761450149, HBB, $15.95.
553.6. Mud. 72 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Author Jennifer Owings Dewey has written a tribute
to mud whose title says it all: Mud Matters. A more
apt title could not have been chosen for this slim, little
book all about wet, soft earth and the author’s
fascination with it. From her childhood days of
walking barefoot through mud to discovering fossils
in river beds, Dewey repeatedly celebrates the joy she
finds in mud. Through memories, storytelling,
drawings, and photographs, she discusses mud in all
its many forms and explains why, to her, mud matters.
While Dewey is a talented writer and storyteller, she
has unfortunately chosen a subject will appeal to very
few. A book about mud could be interesting if
approached scientifically. However, an entire book
devoted to stories of “mud wars” between
neighboring children, descriptions of building
miniature “mud villages,” and detailed explanations
of Dewey’s youthful mud oven creations is a different
story. The book’s lack of organization and Dewey’s
reminiscent wanderings keep any pertinent
information that the book does contain from being
easily found or used. The index and glossary are the
most useful aspects of the book.
While Dewey and many others may be fascinated
with mud, not I. Other than the impressive
photographs by Stephen Trimble, it is difficult to
think of possible need or use for this book. Kerri
Cunningham
Coral Reef, by Paul Fleisher. (Webs of Life.)
LCCN 971932. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark
Books, 1998. ISBN 0761404325, HBB, $14.95.
577.7. Coral reef ecology; Ecology; Coral reefs and islands.
40 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Tide Pool, by Paul Fleisher. (Webs of Life.) LCCN
9629171. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761404317, HBB, $14.95.
574.5. Tide pools; Tide pool ecology; Ecology. 40 p. PS - Gr.
3.
Saguaro Cactus, by Paul Fleisher. (Webs of Life.)
LCCN 9637810. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark
Books, 1998. ISBN 0761404333, HBB, $14.95.
583. Saguaro; Cactus; Desert ecology; Ecology. 40 p. PS -
Gr. 3.
Oak Tree, by Paul Fleisher. (Webs of Life.) LCCN
9639962. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761404341, HBB, $14.95.
583. Forest ecology; Ecology; Oak; Trees. 40 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Webs of Life series by Paul Fleisher draws the
young reader into every aspect of life which
surrounds a series of small ecosystems and shows
them the interdependence of creatures in the nearby
food chain. Summary pages review each book’s
highlights in good learning format. Coral Reef is the
most colorful of the books. Pictures of the many
types of coral, fish, and plant life constantly grab the
eyes. The text is simple enough for most primary
children to understand because of the photos which
are the real strength of the series. Oak Tree tells of the
yearly life cycle of the deciduous oak tree and the
animals which depend or are influenced by it. The
animal shots are excellent, especially the black rat
snake that seems almost alive. The shots of
surrounding flora do not pack the same punch, but
give a good view of that aspect of the ecosystem.
Saguaro Cactus is an amazing plant and an amazing
ecosystem. The photos help children grasp the
concept that the desert is not devoid of life. They will
enjoy the coyote, rattlesnake, cougar, scorpion, and
tarantula. The pictures of the flowers on the cacti are
amazing in their starkness and beauty. Tide Pool
focuses on a small intertidal zone at low tide. Pictures
of starfish, barnacles, and mussels enliven the pages.
Many of the specimens have protective shell covers,
so some of the pictures aren’t quite as exciting as the
other books. This visit still gives students a good
insight into what they will see on the edges of the
ocean.
I enjoyed all the books in the Webs of Life series.
They never get bogged down, but lead the child
through God’s wondrous creatures at a quick, exciting
pace. The pictures make the series appropriate for
pre-readers, but the text seems to expand the appeal
through third or fourth grade readers. Larry Smith
National Audubon Society First Field Guide to
Birds, by Scott Weidensaul. LCCN 9717989. New
York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590054821, HBB,
$17.95.
598. Birds. 159 p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
National Audubon Society First Field Guide to
Wildflowers, written by Susan Hood. LCCN
9717992. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590054643, HBB, $17.95.
582.13. Wild flowers. 159 p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
National Audubon Society First Field Guide to
Insects, written by Christina Wilsdon. LCCN
9717990. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590054473, HBB, $17.95.
595.7. Insects. 159 p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
National Audubon Society First Field Guide to
Rocks and Minerals, written by Edward Ricciuti
and Margaret W. Carruthers. LCCN 9717991.
New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590054635,
HBB, $17.95.
552. Rocks--Collection and preservation; Minerals--Collection
and preservation. 159 p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
This exciting series of identification books is written
expressly for students, but has much appeal to anyone
interested in nature. At the beginning of each book is
a brief section that explains the parts of the book and
what sort of information can be found in each.
Overview material is found in “The world of ...”.
Scientific names are explained, rules for the naturalist
(“an explorer of nature”) and equipment needed is
listed. The section entitled “How to look at ...”
explains to the young scientist what it is that is
distinctive about the particular animal, plant, or
mineral that will lead to identification. Following this
is the actual field guide. One common item is focused
on each page, with a large photo and detail
information. Others that are related are pictured
smaller on the facing page. This section has icons for
differentiating shapes and categories. The last section
of the book is the reference section, which is very
complete. It contains a glossary, bibliography, index,
and credits. The bibliography includes a list for
further reading, organizations that are apropos, and
web sites. In a slip pocket in the back cover is a
pocket-sized spotter’s guide.
The guide on birds explains anatomy; distinctives;
and explanations of feathers (“evolved from scales”),
migration, nests, and chicks. Field marks are spelled
out with information about colors, shape, bills, wings,
singing, and ranges. Endangered birds are shown.
The actual field guide only pictures the male bird,
unless there is a significant difference between the
sexes. Fifty common birds are included with
descriptions of 125 more. The reference section has
the state birds listed.
The guide on wildflowers covers the scent, color and
its purposes, size and shape, and uses of wildflowers.
The anatomy and parts are explained. The flowers are
organized by color in the field guide section, and
differentiated by leaf shape and arrangement, height,
blooming time, habitat, and ranges. State flowers are
included in the reference section.
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The guide on insects has an incredible enlargement
picture on the frontispiece for the budding
entomologist. The differences between arthropods,
spiders, and insects are clarified. The various families
of insects are explained, from flies to butterflies to
mantids. Some of the photographs actually appear a
bit gross because of their extreme enlargement. This
would probably have great appeal to some students.
The reference section also points to tapes and discs
for further information.
The guide to rocks and minerals is pointed at the
aspiring geologist. Basic types of minerals and rocks
are explained along with a geologic time scale of
millions of years. Color, streak, luster, and hardness
are given as helps for recognition. Crystals and
gemstones and fossils are expounded upon.
These books have meaningful and helpful
organization with interesting information for just
plain reading. They would be fun to use as a test for
studying the units with kids. Wonderful photography
is on almost every page. These could easily
encourage kids to be naturalists. Judy Belcher
6
★
The Heart : Our Circulation System, by Seymour
Simon. LCCN 9538021. New York: Morrow,
1996. ISBN 0688114083, HBB, $15.93.
612.1. Circulatory system; Heart. 29 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Simon gives the reader references for visualizing and
understanding the information he presents. The heart
is the size of your fist. There are more red blood cells
in the body than there are stars in the Milky Way.
Almost no cell is more than one millionth of an inch
from a capillary!
Seymour Simon leads the reader on an expedition of
the human heart and circulatory system. Analogies
fill the text to illustrate intricate concepts. The heart,
blood cells, and blood vessels are depicted in creative
ways. Illustrations are labeled with a description and
most give details on the method of capturing the
image. Educators and readers who have come to
know Simon’s work will not be disappointed. Carol
M. Jones
If You Were an. Astronaut, by Virginia Schomp.
LCCN 9637787. New York: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761406182, HBB, $14.95.
629.45. Astronauts; Occupations. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
If You Were a. Ballet Dancer, by Virginia Schomp.
LCCN 9714154. New York: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761406166, HBB, $14.95.
792.8. Ballet; Ballet dancing; Occupations. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
If You Were a Construction Worker, by Virginia
Schomp. LCCN 9651537. New York: Benchmark
Books, 1998. ISBN 0761406174, HBB, $14.95.
624. Construction workers; Occupations. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
If You Were a. Police Officer, by Virginia Schomp.
LCCN 9716299. New York: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 76140614X, HBB, $14.95.
363.2. Police; Occupations. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
If You Were a. Firefighter, by Virginia Schomp.
LCCN 9635142. New York: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761406158, HBB, $14.95.
363.37. Fire fighters; Fire extinction; Occupations. 32 p. Gr.
2 - 4.
If You Were a. Veterinarian, by Virginia Schomp.
LCCN 9644277. New York: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761406131, HBB, $14.95.
636.089. Veterinarians; Occupations. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
This series of books about occupations is colorful and
up to date. Highlighting some of the favorite
aspirations of this age group, these books give
detailed information about the jobs in a politically
correct manner, showing women astronauts as well as
male ballet dancers.
Large print and phonetic pronunciation in parenthesis
are aids to beginning readers. The large, color, close
up action photographs of people doing that job
augment the text. There are pictorial glossaries at the
end of each book showing special equipment used in
the occupation along with the jargon of the trade.
This series would be a great addition to any school or
home library. Anita Goldman Horning
Apple Trees, by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent;
photographs by William Muñoz. (Early Bird
Nature Books.) LCCN 9627581. Minneapolis:
Lerner, 1997. ISBN 0822530201, HBB, $14.95.
634. Apples. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Bobcats, by Caroline Arnold; photographs by
Richard R. Hewett. (Early Bird Nature Books.)
LCCN 9635084. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN
82253021X, HBB, $14.95.
599.74. Bobcat. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Brown Bears, written and photographed by Lynn
M. Stone. (Early Bird Nature Books.) LCCN
9738175. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN
0822530295, HBB, $14.95.
599.784. Kodiak bear; Brown bear; Bears. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Jellyfish, by Leighton Taylor; photography by
Norbert Wu. (Early Bird Nature Books.) LCCN
9722207. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN
0822530287, HBB, $14.95.
593.5. Jellyfishes. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Moose, by Lesley A. DuTemple; photographs by
Frank Staub. (Early Bird Nature Books.) LCCN
9724685. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN
0822530317, HBB, $14.95.
599.65. Moose. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Polar Bears, by Lesley A. DuTemple; photographs
by William Muñoz. (Early Bird Nature Books.)
LCCN 974131. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN
0822530252, HBB, $14.95.
599.786. Polar bear; Bears. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Sandhill Cranes, written and photographed by
Lynn M. Stone. (Early Bird Nature Books.)
LCCN 9649981. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN
0822530279, HBB, $14.95.
598.3. Sandhill crane; Cranes (Birds). 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Tarantulas, by Conrad J. Storad; photographs by
Paula Jansen. (Early Bird Nature Books.) LCCN
975141. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN
0822530244, HBB, $14.95.
595.4. Tarantulas. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Vultures, by Roland Smith; photographs by Lynn
M. SToen. (Early Bird Nature Books.) LCCN
9647074. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN
0822530112, HBB, $14.95.
598.9. Vultures; Endangered species. 48 p. Gr. 2 - 3.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
The Early Nature Books by Lerner Publications help
young readers learn more about their world while
increasing their reading skills. Drawing from talented
seasoned writers and photographers, this series
provides a well-rounded look at nature with the young
reader specifically in mind. The books are sized just
right for beginning scholars. There is a thoughtful
blending of text and captivating full-color
photographs as readers learn about animals and
plants. Facts are placed in a fun, interactive format.
The information is divided into chapters and each
book begins with a bright map which gives a regional
overview regarding the subject. There are side notes
that provoke thinking, as well as a word detective
feature. The books also have a section directed to
adults to help young readers prosper in their reading
attitude and ability. The books feature a glossary and
an index.
Depending on the book and subject there are slight
evolutionary references which does not deter from the
overall content. And without being preachy the series
points out to readers the need to care for the
environment in order to ensure the wonders of nature.
This is a series to consider when looking for
uniformity of content and approach for a nature or
science section. Pam Webb
700’s — The Arts and Recreation
The Colossal Book of Crafts for Kids & Their
Families; originally published as: Sticks & Stones
& Ice Cream Cones and Snips & Snails & Walnut
Whales, by Phyllis Fiarotta with Noel Fiarotta.
LCCN 9724530. New York: Black Dog and
Leventhal, 1997. ISBN 1884822576, HBB, $14.98.
745.5. Handicraft; Nature craft. 517 p. PS - Gr. 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Colossal Book of Crafts for Kids & Their
Families is full of great ideas. Twenty-nine chapters
describe a multitude of projects from paper airplanes
to vegetable string paintings, from educational crafts
to fun with eggs, pine cones, twigs, and stones. There
are chapters on tasty treats, puppets, parties, gifts,
wearable arts, shell flowers, and pear people. The
book ends with a play to perform and an award ribbon
craft to congratulate the reader on finishing the book!
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CHILDREN’ S NONFICTION
Phyllis and Noel Fiarotta strove to make their craft
book kid-friendly. Most of the materials needed are
easily obtained. Many are found in the backyard or
the recycling bin. The instructions are simply written;
a double asterisk indicates a step which requires the
help of an adult. Black and white illustrations help
the crafter picture the completed project. The book is
sturdily constructed too, a plus for the inevitable wear
and tear of a craft book’s life. A few of the projects
seem a bit out-dated, but with so many from which to
choose, The Colossal Book is sure to contain
something for every crafter! Ann Ponath
Making My Room Special : Creative Ways to
Decorate Your Room, by Emilie Barnes with Ann
Christian Buchanan. Eugene, Ore.: Harvest
House, 1999. ISBN 0736900446, HBB, $14.99.
747. Interior decoration. 32 p. Gr. 1 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Emilie Barnes, known for writing and speaking on
home management and decorating to women, now
shares her homemaking expertise with preteens.
Although written for girls, moms will also appreciate
this book encouraging tidy rooms.
In Making My Room Special, nine-year-old Emilie
Marie and her friends invite young readers to join
their room makeover service. Each Saturday the girls
meet at a different home and help each other clean
and decorate their bedrooms. One friend’s room
needs a thorough cleaning, another needs
reorganizing, a third needs redecorating. One friend
wants ideas for sharing her room with a younger
sibling. Working together, the girls find solutions for
their room problems. Their bedrooms go from
cluttered and messy to organized and cute.
The book offers efficient ideas for room cleanup and
organization. Learn six speedy cleanup steps and
how to make cleaning fast and fun. Get organized by
sorting things in three categories: give away, throw
away, and put away. Follow hints to work in fifteenminute
intervals, to file rather than pile, and to put
belongings away rather than putting them down.
Simple redecorating tips are given to personalize and
dress up rooms. They include no-sew pillows, fabric
covered storage boxes, and wall decorations.
Charming watercolor paintings by Michal Sparks
illustrate the instructions and ideas. Girls will enjoy
this visually inspiring gift book with practical and
creative suggestions to make their rooms special.
Parents who value neatness, organization, and beauty
will welcome this book reinforcing their values.
Lydia E. Harris
Purple Mountain Majesties : The Story of Katharine
Lee Bates and “America the Beautiful”, by Barbara
Younger; illustrated by Stacey Schuett. New York:
Dutton Children’s Books, 1998. ISBN
0525456538, HBB, $15.99.
780. Bates, Katharine Lee; America the Beautiful (Song). 29
p. Gr. 2 - 6.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Barbara Younger presents a charming and captivating
account of Katharine Lee Bates and how “America
The Beautiful” came to be in her debut book, Purple
Mountain Majesties. Illustrator Stacey Schuett
captures with colorful vitality the very inspiration
Miss Bates must have had when witnessing the
wondrous beauty of America’s landscape during the
late 1800’s.
The book centers around the train trip Miss Bates
took in the summer of 1893. A poet at heart, and a
scholar in trade, Miss Bates was powerfully moved
by the splendor she observed as she traveled
westward from Boston to Colorado and wrote her
impressions in a traveling diary. But she was
disappointed with her poetry and set it aside. Two
years later she came upon what she called her Pike’s
Peak poem and sent it to a magazine, where it was
published in the Fourth of July issue. From that point
on her poem became etched in the hearts of America’s
people, and was considered the first choice for a
national anthem then, and perhaps now, by many.
Children will relish the warm expansive illustrations,
and older readers will appreciate the history behind
the beloved song. “Purple Mountain Majesties” is a
worthwhile addition, especially for its patriotic flavor.
Pam Webb
Game Day : Behind the Scenes at a Ballpark, by
Robert Young; photographs by Jerry Wachter.
(Photo Books.) LCCN 9733592. Minneapolis:
Carolrhoda Books, 1998. ISBN 1575050846, HBB,
$22.60.
796.357. Baseball. 48 p. Gr. 2. - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Play by play action is detailed in Game Day. Robert
Young describes the many aspects that take place on
the day of a baseball game. Readers observe through
Jerry Wachter’s photographs exactly what happens
before, during, and after the game. The photo journal
takes readers into the underground storage of the
Oriole Park field where popcorn is popped and
supplies are delivered. Above ground, bases are
washed, grass mowed, lines painted. The players
stretch in a pre game work-out. The excitement
mounts during the game as fans fill the seats, buy
souvenirs, consume food, and enjoy the game.
Players on the field are joined by their coaches,
ballboys and ballgirls, batboys, umpires, and of
course, the mascot!
The photographs in Game Day are clear shots that add
to the text. Details are illustrated perfectly in Jerry
Wachter’s pictures. Young’s text is written on a third
grade reading level. Accompanying text inset on
pages throughout add to the complexity of the
information without overwhelming early readers.
Detail oriented readers will thoroughly enjoy this
photo journal down to the details of managing the
scoreboard and television stats during the game.
Carol M. Jones
The Kids Campfire Book, by Jane Drake and Ann
Love; illustrated by Heather Collins. Buffalo,
N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550744542, HBB,
$17.95.
796.54. Campfire programs; Outdoor recreation; Amusements.
128 p. Gr. 2 - 10.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
The Kids Summer Games Book, by Jane Drake and
Ann Love; illustrated by Heather Collins. Buffalo,
N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550744690, HBB,
$17.95.
790.1. Games. 176 p. Gr. 2 - 10.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Want to enjoy the traditions of campfires? Authors
Jane Drake and Ann Love demonstrate a variety of
time-tested and new campfire favorites from games
and songs to fire building techniques and cooking
recipes.
Tucked within the pages of The Kids Campfire Book
is information on wildlife, stargazing, and plant
identification. Also included are two ghost stories
which may frighten young children but are enjoyed
by adolescents. This book would be good to take
along for ideas at a group or family campfire, even if
the campfire was in the backyard.
In The Kids Summer Games Book, Drake and Love
share many of the favorite games of their childhood.
From card games such as rummy and hearts to
dominoes and checkers, old favorites are reintroduced
to children of all ages. Outdoor games such as Spud,
Bootin’, Scavenger Hunt, and three types of tag give
simple yet complete instructions.
There are games to make, water games, beach games,
and games for just one or two. Hand this book to a
couple of ten year olds, and watch the games begin.
Or better yet join in!
Heather Collins illustrated both of these books in
delightful black and white sketches. She captures the
playfulness of the activities and gives accurate
drawings of game instructions. Joanne M. Haffly
800’s —Literature
The Little Buggers : Insect & Spider Poems, by J.
Patrick Lewis; pictures by Victoria Chess. LCCN
9431900. New York: Dial Books for Young
Readers, 1998. ISBN 0803717695, HBB, $15.99.
811. Insects--Poetry; Spiders--Poetry; American poetry. 28 p.
Gr. 3 - 5.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
God made the lowly termite
As a warning and a sign
That kids should eat their vegetables
Instead of knotty pine--
So goes the first verse of “School Lessons” in The
Little Buggers by J. Patrick Lewis. A collection of
silly rhymes about icky insects, this third
collaboration of Lewis and Victoria Chess firmly ties
author and illustrator together as a team. From the
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lowly doodlebug, to the common cricket and on to the
exotic butterfly, twenty-three bugs get poems all their
own to amaze, disgust or provoke to laughter the
middle elementary crowd. For those who groan at the
announcement of poetry time, The Little Buggers may
inspire a new interest in or at the least, give them
something to really groan about.
As a silly, fun book that happens to be written in
verse, The Little Buggers works well enough. But as
poetry, it is almost totally lacking in imagery or
original use of words. Only the first verse of “The
Pond Glider” in which the damselfly’s wings are
described as “...wings of veins, minutely shattered
windowpanes,” does the language rise above the
commonplace. The illustrations are like-minded,
depicting the insects cartoonishly. The language and
illustrations work together to give the reader an
entertaining book, but not a memorable one. Pamela
A. Todd
A Dream Come True, by Johanna Hurwitz;
photographs by Michael Craine. (Meet the
Author.) LCCN 989371. Katonah, N.Y.: Richard
C. Owen, 1998. ISBN 1572741937, HBB, $14.95.
813. Hurwitz, Johanna; Women authors; Illustrators; Women--
Biography; Authors, American. 32 p. Gr. 1 - 5.
Tell Me a Story, by Jonathan London; photographs
by Sherry Shahan. (Meet the Author.) LCCN
989374. Katonah, N.Y.: Richard C. Owen, 1998.
ISBN 1572741945, HBB, $14.95.
813. London, Jonathan, 1947-; Authors, American. 32 p. Gr.
1 - 5.
Growing Things, by Jean Van Leeuwen;
photographs by David Gavril. (Meet the Author.)
LCCN 989372. Katonah, N.Y.: Richard C. Owen,
1998. ISBN 1572741953, HBB, $14.95.
813. Van Leeuwen, Jean; Women authors; Authors, American;
Women--Biography. 32 p. Gr. 1 - 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In a continuation of the Meet the Author Series,
Richard C. Owens presents three more authors to
learn about and from. The authors in their own styles
tell the stories of how they began writing, and how
they continue writing for children today. The reader
is treated to photographs both of the author as a child
and of the author today engaged in the varied
activities that make up a writer’s life. The stories are
written simply enough for young readers to both read
and identify with, but at the same time, upper
elementary students who love writing will enjoy
finding out what makes a good writer and what some
of their thoughts and activities are. Children will also
discover that authors are real people with real families
and homes and pets.
Whether it’s Jonathan London jumping on a
trampoline with his children, or Johanna Hurwitz
looking in the phone book for a good name, there’s
something to be learned about writing, the writing
process, and being a good story teller in each book.
Judy Driscoll
Auld Lang Syne, by Joanne Findon; paintings by
Ted Nasmith. Toronto: Stoddart Kids, 1997. ISBN
0773730060, HBB, $15.95.
821. Burns, Robert, 1759-1796--Biography; Poets, Scottish--
Biography. 26 p. Gr. 3 - 5.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
The song “Auld Lang Syne” is sung around the world
as a tribute to the passing of a year or the parting of
friends but it began as a simple folk song, one of
hundreds collected and refined by Scotland’s national
poet, Robert Burns. Joanne Findon’s book offers a
glimpse into the short life of a master of word and line
who’s work still delights the world. Born the son of
a poor tenant farmer, Robbie Burns knew backbreaking
labor from a young age. But he also knew
the warmth of a loving family and a father who
valued education. The farm work took a toll on his
health; the education helped produce a world-famous
poet. Auld Lang Syne briefly chronicles Burns’ life
through both Findon’s text and Ted Nasmith’s
paintings which attempt to mirror the landscape style
of the late eighteenth century.
Auld Lang Syne is a well-meant attempt to expose
eight to ten year olds to the life of a poet whose work
is rarely included in collections for children of this
age. Wildly popular in his time and admired for
centuries thereafter, Robert Burns is simply not a poet
well enough known to children today to interest them
in his biography. Conversely, if Burns is studied to
even a small degree in literature class, Auld Lang
Syne would be quite useful for showing that there are
real people behind the poems they study. It is
unfortunate that the author chose to write in the first
person, as Burns himself, for the text’s style is
wooden, lacking the incipient sparkle and delight
with words that one would expect to see in such a
narrative. Wooden also describes Ted Nasmith’s
illustrations, although the subjects of his paintings are
very appropriate to the time and place of the story’s
events. Christian parents and teachers may also be
wary of Burns’ attribution of his poetry to an ancient
Scottish goddess. Whether this was done in
seriousness or merely as a metaphor, the text does not
make clear. Pamela A. Todd
900’s - Geography, History, and
Biography
Maps, by David L. Stienecker; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
971455. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998.
ISBN 0761405380, HBB, $14.95.
912. Maps. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
States, by David L. Stienecker; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
972071. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998.
ISBN 0761405410, HBB, $14.95.
917.3. United States--Geography; Geography. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
The World, by David L. Stienecker; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
973017. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998.
ISBN 0761405437, HBB, $14.95.
910. Earth; Geography. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Countries, by David L. Stienecker; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
97323. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998. ISBN
0761405429, HBB, $14.95.
910. Geography. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Measurements, by Fran Sammis; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
97383. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998. ISBN
0761405399, HBB, $14.95.
912. Distances; Measurements; Maps. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Cities and Towns, by Fran Sammis; art by Richard
Maccabe. (Discovering Geography.) LCCN
97322. New York: Benchmark Books, 1998. ISBN
0761405402, HBB, $14.95.
307.76. Cities and towns; Maps. 32 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A map can capture the world and fold it into a pocket,
but it takes a knowledgeable reader to unlock the
meanings and solve the mysteries. David L.
Stienecker and Fran Sammis introduce early grade
school students to the intrigue of maps in this series.
Maps explains how a round world can be reproduced
on flat paper. States gives examples of regional
divisions, as well as historical, weather, and highway
maps. The World begins with a map of the continents
as they might have been 180 million years ago. It
traces continental drift, temperature, climate, land
use, and energy sources. Countries focuses on
national capitals, borders, population, and terrain.
Measurements explains map scale, elevation, contour
lines, and calculating distances. Cities and Towns
gives examples of maps that might be used for parks,
streets, bus routes, and malls.
The Discovering Geography series is not a
comprehensive collection of maps. It gives examples
to develop skills and familiarize the reader with many
possibilities. Along with elementary information,
Discovering Geography poses questions, and offers
puzzles, games, and activities that interact with the
illustrated maps. The questions are straightforward
and the directions are clear. The maps are simple and
uncluttered, focusing on one or two aspects. The
answers to all questions are listed in the back, along
with a short glossary and index. Melinda M.
Torgerson
Margaret Bourke-White, by Catherine A. Welch;
illustrations by Jennifer Hagerman. (Carolrhoda
On My Own Books.) LCCN 95011695.
Minneapolis: Carolrhoda Books, 1997. ISBN
0876148909, HBB, $13.13.
921 (770). Bourke-White, Margaret, 1904-1971;
Photographers; Women--Biography. 56 p. Gr. 2 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
As a child, Margaret imagines becoming a scientist or
exploring the jungle, but is frightened of the dark and
being alone in the house. So Margaret’s mother
devises games that gradually ease her fears. Margaret
never loses sight of her desire for travel and becomes
a professional photographer upon reaching adulthood.
Throughout Margaret’s career, she chooses dangerous
assignments. She photographs firsthand the
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Louisville, Kentucky, flood in 1937 and Germany’s
attacks on Moscow in 194l. These are only two of her
numerous achievements. Her photographs of
Buchenwald are key in the discovery of the truth
about German prisoner-of-war camps. After World
War II, Margaret continues traveling and
photographing people in cruel surroundings.
Catherine A. Welch has written a story about an
innovative woman in a male dominated profession
whose achievements outshine many of her male
peers. Through Margaret’s photographs, the world is
exposed to the inhumane suffering of people in
plights not under their control .
Margaret Bourke-White is a compelling story about a
woman who thrives on danger but is horrified by the
atrocities people commit. The paintings by Jennifer
Hagerman will enable children to see the story unfold
before their eyes. Supplementary information about
Margaret Bourke-White in the Author’s Note and
Afterword plus a listing of important dates adds to the
excellence of the book. Dianne Woodman
Jazz Is the Word : Wynton Marsalis, by Margaret
Gay Malone. (Benchmark Biographies.) LCCN
96040410. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761405194, HBB, $14.95.
921 (788.9). Marsalis, Wynton, 1961-; Trumpet players. 48 p.
Gr. 3 - 5.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Wynton Marsalis, the first artist ever to receive
Grammy awards for both classical and jazz music in
the same year, was not always dedicated to music.
When he was twelve, he liked playing the trumpet,
but his real passion was basketball. His whole family
was musical and they encouraged him to play his
horn, but it wasn’t until Wynton heard a recording by
artist Clifford Brown, that his dedication to music
took the serious turn that would make him into a
world-famous musician. Jazz Is the Word chronicles
the hard work, the resulting success and the generous
nature of a phenomenal artist whose music continues
to break new ground and garner critical praise.
This easy to read biography does a very good job of
telling children what they want to know about life as
a famous musician and what they should know about
the discipline it takes to become one. Mr. Marsalis’s
interest in and encouragement of young people where
ever he goes is also a fine example of obeying God’s
command that we should share our gifts with others.
Its language is simple without talking down to the
reader and is interspersed with photographs that
match the chronology of the narrative. A glossary of
musical terms and references appears at the end,
along with an index and a list of suggested resources
for learning more about Wynton Marsalis and his
music. Pamela A. Todd
Charles Dickens : The Man Who Had Great
Expectations, by Diane Stanley and Peter
Vennema; illustrated by Diane Stanley. LCCN
9141552. New York: Morrow, 1993. ISBN
0688091113, HBB, $14.93.
921 (823). Dickens, Charles, 1812-1870; Authors, English. 44
p. Gr. 4 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Charles Dickens: The Man Who Had Great
Expectations takes the reader through the life of
Charles Dickens, from his childhood sufferings to his
early death. Authors Diane Stanley and Peter
Vennema show that Dickens was an outgoing man
who loved people. Dickens’ writings, reflecting the
despair in the lives of England’s poor, prompted
reform. Laws were changed; housing and schools for
the poor were improved. Even as Dickens’ success
increased, he always worked to help ease the burdens
of the poor.
Well-written, this picture book has complete pages of
text, each devoted to one aspect of Dickens’ life.
Though dry at times, the detailed information offers a
useful resource for student research. In presenting
Dickens as an author, specific books and characters
are mentioned, but not discussed in-depth. Including
mellow illustrations depicting life in Victorian
England, this biography offers a thorough view of
Dickens’ life, to anyone wanting to know more about
him. Karen Brehmer
★
Charlotte, by Janet Lunn; illustrated by Brian
Deines. Toronto: Tundra, 1998. ISBN
0887763839, HBB, $15.95.
974.7. Haines, Charlotte, b.1773; New York (N.Y.)--History--
Revolution, 1775-1783. 28p. Gr. 3 - 5.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Author Janet Lunn and illustrator Brian Deines have
designed a masterpiece of nonfiction in the picture
book, Charlotte, the true story of Charlotte Haines, a
ten-year-old girl living in New York in 1783. War
with Great Britain has left scars of hatred and
bitterness in Charlotte’s family. Her father, a
Loyalist, and her uncle, a rebel, don’t speak to each
other.
Charlotte’s pleasurable days of embroidery, painting,
and dancing with her cousins Sally and Betsy at
Mistress Sewell’s Select School for Young Ladies end
abruptly when the Loyalists are forced to leave their
homes. Will she never see her cousins again? After
Father forbids her to visit them, she disobeys, going
one last time to say good-bye. Denouncing her as
“traitor”, he orders her to leave and she never sees her
family again. Charlotte lives a long life in Nova
Scotia as a mother and grandmother, and in spite of
her sad memories, as everyone’s cheerful friend.
In a story of familial divisiveness and rejection,
Lunn’s realistic characters and their emotions come
alive. Children will enjoy reading or listening to her
diction, which bathes the reader in the flavor of the
times without sounding archaic. Drawing stools and
whispered confidences blend beautifully with
colorful full page illustrations of cobblestone streets,
ivy covered buildings, and people dressed in bonnets,
flowing capes, and uniforms of the day. Though the
rejection theme may upset very young children, the
story will delight young and old. Rhonda Marie
Lackey
The Kids Can Book of Canada, written by Barbara
Greenwood; illustrated by Jock MacRae. Buffalo,
N.Y.: Kids Can, 1998. ISBN 1550743155, HBB,
$15.95.
971. Canada--History; Canada--Geography. 56 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
The Kids Book of Canada written by Barbara
Greenwood and illustrated by Jock MacRae serves as
a pictorial introduction to Canada and its provinces
and territories. The first four pages of this book
consider Canada as a whole; then each province is
presented from west to east, finishing with the Yukon
and the Northwest Territories. Each province or
territory gets the same treatment. First, is a two-page
description including basic facts such as the
provincial population, area, capitol, flag, bird, tree,
and gemstone with a large map and a small inset map
showing the province’s location within Canada.
Next, is a two-page layout with interesting places,
people, events, inventions, etc., at the top and an
historical timeline at the bottom.
This book is profusely illustrated with appealing
color drawings. The layout, however, seems a little
busy and hard to follow. The many illustrations
strewn across the pages make it easy miss some of the
text. The top and bottom layout across a two-page
spread did not make for easy reading.
The many facts and figures presented seemed up-todate.
The impending (April 1, 1999) creation of
Nunavut and Denedeh was discussed under section
devoted to the soon to disappear Northwest
Territories. This book could have been improved
through better editing. British Columbia’s “stands of
giant Douglas spruce” are mentioned, but Douglas fir
not spruce is correct. The impression that France lost
all its colonies in Canada, in 1713, is conveyed on
page six. Actually, it was not until Quebec was
captured by Wolfe in the Seven Years’ War in 1759
that France was finally driven out of Canada.
The author seems intent on being politically correct in
the people and places sections: she mentions thirteen
women by name and sixteen men. Some of the
choices seem to be motivated less by achievement
than by inclusion of ethnic minorities. There is no
discussion of the rifts and tensions in contemporary
Canadian politics. A glossary is included; an index
would have been useful. The book measures 12
inches by 9 inches. The binding is glued in. David
Rash.
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BOOK REVIEWS
YOUNG ADULT FICTION
Perloo the Bold, by Avi. LCCN 9710681. New
York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590110020, HBB,
$16.95.
F. Fantasy. 225 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
One of Avi’s latest, Perloo the Bold is a wonderful
fantasy about Perloo, a peaceful scholar who finds
himself chosen to be the new leader of his people, the
Montmers. In his reluctance to take on this authority,
there is a hint of Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit which
will only make Perloo all the more enchanting to
readers. The Montmers are a furry people who live in
underground burrows and the adventure Perloo finds
himself in has all the qualities of excitement that
youngsters enjoy—an evil foe who wishes to take on
the cloak of leadership for himself, a trusted friend
who prods and pushes our hero into his new role, and
even an impending battle that is forestalled by, of all
things, snowballs!
Young readers will enjoy this fine adventure that
reads smoothly and quickly and keeps your interest
from page one. While instilling values, such as
honesty and being true to yourself, Perloo is never
preachy. Whether your library already has a
collection of Avi books or this is the first, Perloo the
Bold will be a well-read addition to the youth section.
Ceil Carey
A Different Kind of Hero, by Ann R. Blakeslee.
LCCN 9632786. New York: Marshall Cavendish,
1997. ISBN 0761450009, HBB, $14.95.
F. Frontier and pioneer life--West (U.S.)--Fiction; West (U.S.)--
Fiction; Chinese Americans--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction.
144 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Talk about character growth! In Ann Blakeslee’s A
Different Kind of Hero, little Renny must watch his
father, Lon, fist-fight for his rights and the rights of
his fellow Irish miners, although Renny himself is not
sure this is the way to settle matters. Over the course
of the book, Renny does learn to use his fists (his
father makes him take boxing lessons), but he
discovers that following his heart’s leading is also
important as he befriends Wong Gum Zi, the Chinese
boy who moves into their Colorado mining town.
The intelligent Zi seeks only an American education.
However, to obtain this he must overcome the town’s
intense fear and dislike of the Chinese people. Fights,
a mysterious robbery, Zi’s albino raven, White Star,
and a fire, all contribute to the story’s exciting
resolution, and to Renny’s new understanding of his
father and life.
Blakeslee’s gift for characterization shows itself in A
Different Kind of Hero. Wonderful snippets of
colorful, authentic dialogue and detail round out the
many people and cultures who fill Renny’s world.
These include his soft-hearted Irish mother, Miss
Steele, the teacher, Finn Brodie, the grade school
bully, and the dance hall girls, just to name a few. The
story, told in Renny’s voice, moves at a well-balanced
pace. A Different Kind of Hero is a book to be studied
for its symbolism and style, a book from which much
can be learned about prejudice and people, and above
all, a book to be enjoyed for the heartfelt tale it tells.
Ann Ponath
Off the Rim, by Fred Bowen; illustrated by Ann
Barrow. (An AllStar SportStory.) LCCN 9820967.
Atlanta: Peachtree, 1998. ISBN 1561451614, PAP,
$4.95.
F. Basketball--Fiction. 112 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Chris has been a bench-warmer for his basketball
team long enough. Now he’s determined to practice,
and practice some more until he can make those shots
and be allowed to play with the first string. But it
seems that no matter how long or hard he works he
still is low man on making points.
When Chris decides to practice with Greta, the star
player on the girl’s basketball team, he begins to see a
little improvement, but it’s still not enough. Finally,
Chris talks with Greta’s mom and discovers that she
was a guard on her team many years before. With
little persuasion, Greta’s mom happily coaches Chris
on how to work as an effective guard. At long last,
Chris finds that he can be useful on the team and keep
the other teams from scoring so much. Grateful to
Greta and her mom, he becomes a valuable player and
determines to continue working on those difficult-tomake
shots as well.
Fred Bowen writes a believable story about the
challenge kids have when they belong to the B string
on the basketball team. Bowen gives good pointers
about the importance of practicing and keeping a
good attitude even when not allowed to play in a
game. There is an informational section at the end
that describes how girl’s basketball used to be played,
and why the players used half court for guards and
half court for forwards. The black and white
illustrations give an adequate “feel” for those who are
left on the bench. Mary McKinney
The Heart of a Chief, A Novel, by Joseph Bruchac.
LCCN 9749248. New York: Dial Books for Young
Readers, 1998. ISBN 0803722761, HBB, $15.99.
F. Indian reservations--Fiction; Penacook Indians--Fiction;
Indians of North America--New Hampshire--Fiction;
Alcoholism--Fiction. 153 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Chris lives on the Penacook Indian Reservation. His
mother died in a car accident. His father is in rehab
for his alcoholism. Chris and his younger sister
Celeste live with Doda, their grandfather, and Auntie,
Doda’s sister. Chris and his friends attend school off
the reservation because the reservation school only
goes through third grade. Chris, Pizza, Gartersnake,
and Belly Button face problems both as sixth graders
in a junior high and as Native Americans in an Anglo
or white school. Pizza gains acceptance through his
sports abilities. Chris gains acceptance through his
leadership capabilities. Chris is voted leader of his
group in language arts class. Their assignment is to
pick a controversial topic and report on it. Chris leads
his group to the topic “Using Indian Names for Sports
Teams.” His group is able to convince the school to
change their name from Chiefs. Chris isn’t a leader
just at school. Doda was once a Penacook Chief.
Chris acts like a chief and is able to convince the tribe
to change the proposed location of a casino.
Being a Native American himself and having worked
with Native American youth, Joseph Bruchac bases
The Heart of a Chief on the reality of Native
American life today. Chris faces issues many faced
by Native Americans across our country: violent
death of a family member, alcoholism, acceptance in
the Anglo world, the issue of casinos, and traditional
ways that are being forgotten.
The Heart of a Chief is an excellent book about the
life of Native Americans. While the Penacook
Reservation doesn’t exist, it is like many Indians
reservations. Readers will come away from the book
understanding Native Americans a little better. Jane
Mouttet
A Glory of Unicorns, compiled and edited by Bruce
Coville; illustrations by Alix Berenzy. LCCN
9713689. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590959433, HBB, $16.95.
F. Unicorns--Fiction; Short stories. 198 p. Gr. 4 - 10.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
What could be more exciting than a book of stories
centered on that glorious make-believe animal, the
unicorn? That’s apparently what much-published
children’s author Bruce Coville had in mind when he
collected the stories contained in A Glory of
Unicorns. Unfortunately, not all of the stories contain
the glory promised in the collection’s title.
Many of the stories are set in other countries, times,
and worlds, while others attempt to spread the
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 4 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
AWord from the Editor: Sylvia Stopforth
Young
Adult
Series
In my last column, I
wrote in general terms
about series and why
young readers may be attracted to them. This
column will take a closer look at specific
series that readers of CLJ have been asking
about.
FANTASY / SCI FI
Animorphs, by K.A. Applegate. Scholastic,
1997/1998. PAP, $3.99 Approx. 160 p. Gr. 5
and above. Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Sample titles: The Alien; The Android, The
Forgotten
This is pretty entertaining stuff. The evil
Yeerks have arrived on earth with the
intention of taking over. These parasitic alien
slugs enter a human body and take over the
mind, turning humans into “Controllers.”
The tricky bit is that no one knows of their
existence.
No one, that is, but five middle-school
children and an Andalite named Aximili-
Esgarrouth-Isthill. Ax is the last surviving
member of his species left on earth; his dying
brother, not wanting to leave the earthlings
defenseless against the Yeerk invasion, gave
these five children the power to morph, to
take the form of any animal they touch.
Together, Cassie, Jake, Rachel, Marco,
Tobias, and Ax give the Yeerks a run for their
money, harrassing them like a tiny guerilla
army.
Applegate’s series appeals on many levels.
First, the whole concept of alien invasions
and conspiracies seems to be very popular
right now. Then we have the powerful and
often-used theme of the faithful remnant
battling seemingly insurmountable odds.
During the morphing scenes, the author
manages to work in some interesting
information about various animal species. On
top of all that, her books are a quick read, and
her characters are likeable.
There is some violence, due to the fact that
we are dealing with intergalactic war, but
there are no gratuitous details, and often
characters use their heads, rather than their
fists/paws/claws.
Each book deals with larger issues as well,
such as trust and friendship on an interspecies
level, or the dangers of technology.
In one case, Cassie is confronted with the
ugly side of nature, and must wrestle with the
difference between acting on animal instincts
and acting on a human understanding of right
and wrong.
Add to this a slick marketing strategy,
postcards and bookmarks included in the
books, catchy cover art, and a Web page, and
the result is a series that can’t miss.
§
Diadem Series, by John Peel. Scholastic
Sample titles: Book of Names, Book of Signs,
Book of Magic
The Diadem Series will appeal to the
armchair sleuth as well as to the hardcore
fantasy fan. Streetwise Score, warriorprincess
Renald, and techno-wiz Pixel are
swept up into this adventure from different
worlds and different times. Like the reader,
they are initially left in the dark; this
establishes link between reader and
characters. John Peel has mastered the art of
feeding the reader just enough information to
keep him interested and curious, without
being frustrated.
Each of the three children has a specific
magic gift, or power. As the series
progresses, they develop these gifts, make a
joint decision to use them for good, and,
unwillingly at times, learn to work together
against evil wizards, quarrelsome goblins,
and slothful trolls.
Character development is minimal, with some
reliance on stereo-typing, but pace is good,
and Peel’s casual writing style makes for an
easy read. He uses some familiar fantasy
conventions (names =3D power), but
combines them in original ways. Strange
symbols and cryptic clues are scattered
throughout the book, and both reader and
characters race against time to decipher their
meaning. Some of the dialogue - and
characters’ reactions - doesn’t quite ring true,
but generally, the series is an entertaining
romp.
Through his characters, Peel makes some
wise observations regarding friendship, trust,
and the price of power. Curiously, while
there does seem to be an absolute source of
evil, there is no corresponding source of
good; as a result, in the first three books at
any rate, the central struggle pits humanity —
in the form of these three characters —
against evil.
This series should be read in sequence, as the
puzzle pages are not reprinted in each book.
RELATIONSHIPS / REALITY
NOVELS
Friendship Ring Series, by Rachel Vail.
Scholastic
Sample titles: Please, Please, Please; If
You Only Knew
Rachel Vail’’s forte is her ability to capture all
the angst of adolescence on paper. For
example, she vividly portrays the
complications inherent in schoolyard
friendships, and the sharp anxieties and guilt
that arise when one friend is ready to move
on before another.
In Please, Please, Please, she describes CJ’s
dilemma: should she continue to give her all
to ballet, or should she
live
a “normal life” with her friends. Should she
make her mother happy, or herself?
In If You Only Knew, she introduces her
readers to Zoe, who is struggling to
differentiate between boy friends and
boyfriends, as she slowly comes to terms with
her changing body.But all this wonderfully
honest emotion never quite goes anywhere.
CJ decides to level with her mother, and
when we leave her, she is happily kicking a
soccer ball down the playing field, but is it as
simple as all that? Where are the moments of
doubt, the small regrets? All the emotional
realism and candor demand more, somehow.
Recognizing the fact that this is an on-going
series, one is nonetheless left with the sense
that the characters have not quite finished
telling their story. Each title is a vignette, a
sound bite on paper.
Don’t look for role models here; rather, look
for sympathetic characters going through the
trials of adolescent life.
§
California Diaries , by Ann M. Martin.
Scholastic
Sample titles: Dawn; Sunny; Maggie; Dawn:
Diary Two
Dawn and her friends are in the eighth grade
at Vista middle school in California. As part
of an on-going school assignment, they are all
expected to keep a journal.
Written by Ann M. Martin, of Babysitters’
Club fame, each title in this series introduces
us to one of a group of friends, each
struggling with his or her own personal
demons. These include such issues as stepparents,
eating disorders, depression, and a
terminally ill parent. Each title picks up
roughly where the last left off.
The first diary in the series is written by
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 7 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
Dawn; the central conflict arises when
certain members of her class are invited to a
high school party. Three of the girls decide
to go, without their parents’ knowledge, and
one becomes drunk. In the end, they find
they have been victims of an upperclassmens’
prank.
Diaries present the innermost thoughts and
fears of their writers. As such, they should
provide a sense of intimacy. But these
characters never draw close. In striving for
objectivity, the author never establishes the
reader’s sympathy for the characters.
Martin is obviously committed to a realistic
depiction of the lives of teens. There are no
easy answers, but neither are there positive
role models, or even brief moments of
brightness to provide contrast. As a result,
the series is rather bleak.
Most of the diaries use scripts and lined
pages which effectively convey the feel of a
hand-written journal. And yet, a unique
voice never emerges. All tend to blend into
one dark, self-absorbed narrative.
Ultimately, this series is all about alienation
— from the reader, from one another, from
the characters’ own sense of self. Realistic?
Yes, but only in terms of the darker side of
growing up.
On the other hand, according to reader
reviews provided by the Amazon.com
webpage, a lot of kids feel they can relate.
HORROR
Northern Frights, by Arthur G. Slade.
Orca Book Publishers. 1997. PAP, $6.95.
Gr. 6 - 10
Sample titles: Draugr; The Haunting of
Drang Island
Lock the doors and turn on the lights before
you read Arthur Slade’s Northern Frights.
Otherwise, this dark, modern series steeped
in Norse mythology may just be too much.
In Draugr, Sarah, Michael, and Angie spend
summer vacation with Grandpa in smalltown
Manitoba. Grandpa is a great one for
telling scary stories, and some of his
favorites are about the draugr — one who
returns from the dead.
The stories are scary enough, but one night,
after something tries to get at the kids
through the bedroom window, their
grandfather disappears. A late night trip to
the cemetary reveals that an ancient curse has
claimed him, and now threatens to claim
them all, one by one. In the end, Sarah must
draw upon the strength of her ancestors to
defeat the draugr, and to erase the curse.
The conclusion is not entirely convincing,
but the author has provided some
foreshadowing, and the reader will simply be
happy to be able to breathe again.
The Haunting of Drang Island, the second in
the series, reunites the reader with fifteenyear-old
Michael. This time, it’s up to him to
find a way to defeat the evil spirit that lures
Jormungand, a mighty sea serpent, from the
depths of the ocean with the promise of
blood sacrifices.
Characters are sketchy, as they are secondary
to the plot, but Slade provides enough detail
to enlist the reader’s sympathies. The pace is
a bit unrelenting, what with blood feuds and
supernatural horrors, but fans of the “fright”
genre will devour every word, and they may
learn a thing or two about mythology along
the way.
**A note for fans of the Dear America series:
Scholastic is introducing a complementary series
for boys, under the title, “My Name Is America.”
unicorn’s magic abroad in our own world. The
problem with the collection is that the stories are of
uneven quality. For instance, Coville’s own story,
“The Guardian of Memory,” reminded this reader of
the syrupy, saccharine world of My Little Pony. It
feels fake and coy. The unicorns have names like
“Cloudmane” and “Seafoam.” Yech. On the other
hand, there are storiaes like “Stealing Dreams” by
Ruth O’Neill. “Dreams” is a clever yet emotive tale
about a child setting out to capture a unicorn. It’s too
bad the stories are so uneven in quality, because the
general idea of the collection is a good one. Georgia
Beaverson
★
The Journal of William Thomas Emerson : A
Revolutionary War Patriot, by Barry Denenberg.
(My Name Is America.) LCCN 9752938. New
York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590313509, HBB,
$9.95.
F. Boston (Mass.)--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction;
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction;
Orphans--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 156 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Some Revolutionary War heroes were seasoned men.
Others were common people caught in the social
turmoil, longing only for peace. The Journal of
William Thomas Emerson is a fictitious diary
spanning the years of 1774 and 1775. Orphaned and
abused, Will escapes to Boston where he finds work
at the Seven Stars Tavern. His main charge is looking
after Becca, the owner’s infant daughter, but Mr.
Wilson, the border who lives upstairs, soon has him
smuggling messages and spying on loyalist activities.
As he fetches kindling and sweeps the barroom floor,
Will sees the British soldiers growing hostile and the
townspeople chaffing under their tyrannical authority.
The unrest tears at the fabric of the community,
turning trusted neighbors into feared enemies.
Barry Denenberg is known for his meticulous
historical research. He does not shy away from the
harsh realities of colonial life, but his descriptions of
it are unadorned and to the point. Will is portrayed as
an empathetic and industrious child stepping into
manhood prepared to fight for liberty and freedom.
Historical notes direct attention to factors that
contributed to the revolution, as well as personalities
that played prominent roles. Engravings by Paul
Revere are included in a series of illustrations
depicting colonial life and events. Heather Saunders’
maps and examples of handwritten letters are in
keeping with the style of that period. A foldout map
of Boston traces the activities and locations of the
journal. Melinda Torgerson
AYank Among Us, by Wanda Dionne. LCCN
9629633. Austin, Tex.: Eakin Press, 1997. ISBN
1571681086, PAP, $12.95.
F. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Fiction;
African-Americans--Fiction; Slaves--Fiction. 186 p. Gr. 8 -
12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Josiah, the leading character in A Yank Among Us, is
a free black Yankee boy who leaves his job in a store
in Philadelphia to become an aid to a Navy Captain
during the Civil war. They became prisoners of war
in Texas, and Josiah ends up as a worker on Judge
Diamond’s cotton plantation, instead of being left in
the prisoner camp.
Life changes for Josiah as he is no longer free; he
works alongside other black folks, yet finds it hard to
understand them or be accepted by them—or by the
white people, as he has the label “Yank”. He must
overcome the distrust that Judge Diamond has for
him as he is seen as the enemy. His way of thinking
contrasts with that of his best friend, Blackie, who has
known only slavery. There are many tragic moments,
many lessons learned, and a change of heart as he
comes to love the ways and lifestyle of the south.
This enjoyable, easy-to-read book covers a small part
of the civil war, and is filled with action and conflict.
Wanda Dionne carefully shows the impact that a faith
in God can have in attitudes and actions. Josiah’s
thought are interspersed within the story and that is
effective in helping the reader understand his
thoughts and the changes happening to him. The
reader will not have a hard time imaging he is with
Josiah as, “The Texan reached a huge white paw
toward Josiah and jerked him up by his neck,
dangling him as if he were a kitten” (p 1) or when
Josiah meets Miz Diamond for the first time. Lynette
Sorenson
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 4 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
Bandit’s Moon, by Sid Fleischman; illustrations by
Jos. A. Smith. LCCN 9736197. New York:
Greenwillow, 1998. ISBN 0688158307, HBB,
$15.00.
F. Murieta, Joaquin, d. 1853--Fiction; Robbers and outlaws--
Fiction; California--Gold discoveries--Fiction. 136 p. Gr. 5 -
9.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Because of a string of bad luck, Annyrose Smith finds
herself trying to flee from the heartless and mean O.
O. Mary. In Bandit’s Moon, by Sid Fleischman,
Annyrose and her brother are orphans during the
California gold rush. Her brother, Lank, has left
Annyrose with O. O. Mary and gone on ahead to try
to strike it rich while she heals from a broken ankle.
He doesn’t know what a mean person O. O. Mary can
be. When O. O. Mary’s home is raided by Mexican
bandits, Annyrose escapes with them. Thinking she is
a boy, their leader Joaquin demands that she teach
him to read English. She feels it’s the least she could
do to repay him for saving her from O. O. Mary. As
she travels with these bandits, she is repulsed by the
talk of killing the “Yankees”. She struggles with the
thought that she is traveling with a bunch of killers.
She is determined to escape from them and find her
brother. As she travels with Joaquin, she gets to know
the pain and bitterness he feels against those who took
his land and his wife. Does she turn him in as the
killer he claims to be? Or, is he really a killer at all?
Bandit’s Moon is a fast paced, action packed book that
will certainly keep young reader’s attention. There is
superficial characterization, but doesn’t keep the story
from being entertaining as well as somewhat
informational. Mr. Fleischman has done a good job
of showing the tension between the Mexicans and the
Americans, however, a little more detail about the
cause of the tension would have been helpful.
Describing the underhanded methods the Americans
used to acquire the Mexican’s land would have been
useful earlier in the story. Some of the difficult
vocabulary could use some explanation. This is a
fast, entertaining story that could be used for further
study of Mexican and American relations. Mr.
Fleischman includes a brief summary about the real
legend of Joaquin. Patricia A. Youmans
Orphan Runaways, by Kristiana Gregory. LCCN
974345. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590603663, HBB, $15.95.
F. Brothers--Fiction; Orphans--Fiction; Gold mines and
mining--Fiction; Bodie (Calif.)--History--Fiction; California--
History--Fiction. 151 p. Gr. 7 - 10.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
After their parents die in an epidemic, Danny and his
six-year-old brother, Judd, are sent to live in an
orphanage in San Francisco. After enduring much
misery, they finally decide to run away and find their
uncle. When they find him in Bodie Camp, a goldrush
boomtown in the California hills, Danny is
dismayed to find his uncle in love with a Chinese
woman.
Although they are welcomed warmly into Uncle
Hank’s home, Danny refuses to live there. Instead, he
and Judd stay at a rough boarding house and run wild
throughout the town. However, when Danny is faced
with Judd’s life-threatening illness he must turn to
Uncle Hank and Lu-Chen for help. Only after Lu-
Chen’s help and kindness does he decide to give up
hate and racism and learn that prejudice is wrong.
Kristiana Gregory has written an exciting historical
adventure which also includes some valuable lessons.
By basing her story on the lives of two young boys,
Gregory is able to accurately depict the excitement of
a gold-rush boomtown, while at the same time
expressing the thoughts and opinions that were
commonly held in 1878.
Although the story does lack careful characterization,
there is enough action and adventure to easily
compensate. An Author’s Note at the end of the story
informs the reader that while the story is fiction, it is
based on many real characters and events. Orphan
Runaways is an fine example of solid, entertaining,
and informative historical fiction. Kerri Cunningham
Time Will Tell, by Robin Jones Gunn. (Sierra
Jensen Series; 8.) LCCN 9751662. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1561795682, PAP,
$5.99.
F. Friendship--Fiction; Interpersonal relations--Fiction; Family
life--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 149 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Now Picture This, by Robin Jones Gunn. (Sierra
Jensen Series; 9.) LCCN 9821107. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1561796360, PAP,
$5.99.
F. Interpersonal relations--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 167
p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Hold On Tight, by Robin Jones Gunn. (Sierra
Jensen Series; 10.) LCCN 9821106. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1561796379, PAP,
$5.99.
F. Voyages and travels--Fiction; California, Southern--Fiction;
Christian life--Fiction. 153 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In Time Will Tell, readers are reacquainted with Sierra
Jensen, high school senior. Sierra lives in an upper
middle-class section of town, attends a Christian high
school, holds down a part time job, and maintains a
4.0 GPA. She bubbles with life and love for God
while agonizing over a changing relationship with a
girlfriend at school, and trying to balance her drive to
be involved with a friend who is challenging a school
dress standard.
Now Picture This revolves around Sierra’s longdistance
relationship with Paul, a summer
acquaintance from Europe. Before she realizes it,
she becomes so involved, with her letter writing and
gift planning for a unique Christmas present for Paul,
that she ignores her family and friends. Her older
sister confronts Sierra.
In Hold on Tight, Sierra learns how to get along in a
group when her brother visits a graduate college in
Southern California and takes Sierra and three friends
along in the family van to look at Christian colleges.
All three books stand alone, yet when read as a series
give readers a true picture of the spiritual growth
Sierra experiences during her senior year. Robin
Gunn creates a lovely character in Sierra, who tries
hard to do what’s right while having a lot of fun with
friends.
Deliciously accurate, from the names of bridges and
streets to weather conditions, Gunn’s work portrays
an authentic picture of life for a Christian teenage girl
in Portland, Oregon. Parents are portrayed in correct
biblical perspective and family relationships receive
high priority in all three stories, as do church and
youth group involvement. Carolyn L. Hearing
Lives of Our Own, by Lorri Hewett. LCCN
97042984. New York: Dutton Children’s Books,
1998. ISBN 0525459596, HBB, $15.99.
F. Race relations--Fiction; Interracial dating--Fiction; African
Americans--Fiction; Georgia--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 214 p.
Gr. 9 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
Shawn Riley, a well-to-do private school student, is
uprooted from her Denver home when her parents
divorce. She goes with her father to live with her
grandmother in Georgia. As an African-American,
Shawna finds Southern traditions, especially the all
white “Old South Ball” racially exclusive.
Kari Lang, an “Old South” born and bred local, pits
herself against Shawna, but as they come to know
each other, they realize Kari’s mother and Shawna’s
father were close friends in high school. When the
girls find out that Allison Craighead (the mom) and
Joe Riley (the dad) were sent away their senior year
to live with relatives in other cities, they assume that
Allison must have become pregnant by Joe. On a trip
to find the missing sibling, Kari and Shawna bond
with each other, but are disappointed to find that there
was no pregnancy and no sibling. In the process of
sorting through their parents’ past, the girls find the
independence of “lives of their own.”
In Lives of Our Own Lori Hewett portrays the
complexities of not only interracial relationships, but
also teenage peer pressure and dating pressures in the
changing South. The characters are clearly drawn,
the dialogue realistic. One character takes the Lord’s
name in vain, but the narrator points out that the
character knew better. Ms. Hewett allows both
Shawna and Kari to undergo transformations in their
thinking about race. Three generations’ attitudes
toward authority, male-female relationships, and
social mores are contrasted.
John Clapp’s cover illustration is exquisitely done
with black-on-white and white-on-black images of
the two beautiful girls opposite each other. It is clear
at the book’s end that they have “lives of their own.”
What isn’t clear is what they intend to do with them.
Arlene S. Neal
The Mayflower Secret, by Dave and Neta Jackson;
illustrated by Julian Jackson. (Trailblazer Books.)
LCCN 9745439. Minneapolis: Bethany House,
1998. ISBN 0764220101, PAP, $5.99.
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YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
F. Tilley, Elizabeth, 1607-1687 or 8--Fiction; Pilgrims (New
Plymouth Colony)--Fiction; Massachusetts--History--New
Plymouth, 1620-1691--Fiction; Orphans--Fiction; Christian life-
-Fiction. 157 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Historical and heartwarming, The Mayflower Secret
by Dave and Neta Jackson is a wonderful addition to
any young person’s library. Thirteen-year-old
Elizabeth and her family begin the long journey from
England to the New World on the Mayflower in 1621.
After a hazardous trip, Elizabeth loses both parents to
scurvy and joins the Brewster family as nanny. Life
is not easy in the harsh land, but the people work
together, trying not to worry or bicker. It’s a matter of
life or death.
One sunny day in July 1923 another ship docks at
Plymouth. Onboard are the Brewsters’ two grown
daughters and an invitation for Elizabeth’s return to
England. Does she really want to leave the New
World? She had thought so but now she’s not sure.
Her answer comes easily when John Howland
proposes to her. So, at barely sixteen, Elizabeth again
has a family of her own.
The Mayflower Secret is preceded by interesting
authors’ notes differentiating fact from fiction. A
brief biography of the featured “Christian hero,”
William Bradford, follows the story. Details from
early American history set in an entertaining plot will
engross fiction lovers while tantalizing nonfiction
enthusiasts. It will particularly appeal to those
interested in the first Thanksgiving.
Antiquated dialogue may slow down some readers
but lends authenticity. And illustrations interspersed
throughout the book, albeit somewhat amateurish,
help young readers visualize scenes.
The Mayflower Secret is one of many books in the
Trailblazers series published by Bethany House.
Ginger McGrath
The Long Patrol, by Brian Jacques; illustrated by
Allan Curless. (A Tale from Redwall.) LCCN
9715508. New York: Philomel, 1998. ISBN
039923165X, HBB, $21.99.
F. Animals--Fiction; Fantasy. 358 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The latest in the Redwall Abbey series, The Long
Patrol focuses on the heart’s desire of young Tammo
the hare. All his life, Tammo has longed to serve as a
soldier in the Long Patrol, a fighting unit of hares, but
his hide-bound father judges him too young to join.
And it looks as though Tammo’s heart’s desire will be
delayed—until the Long Patrol is called on to draw
the Rapscallion Army away from its target, Redwall
Abbey. Tammo’s luck changes as he gets his chance
to play the lead role in a swashbuckling battle against
the Rapscallion Army.
Full of action, emotion, and good, old-fashioned
adrenaline, The Long Patrol lives up to the reputation
Jacques has established with his other books. The
world he portrays is moral and complex, one in which
bad things sometimes happen to good people (and
animals). But it’s also a world in which the just
ultimately triumph. With wonderful, engaging prose
and an exciting plot, The Long Patrol is a great read
for young and old alike. Definitely a keeper. Georgia
Beaverson
City of Lies, by John L. Jenkins and Mark W.
Weaver. (Century War Chronicles Freedom
Series; 2.) Manassas, Va.: Reconciliation Press,
1998. ISBN 1888565047, PAP, $7.95.
F. Chicago (Ill.)--History--Fiction; Crime--Fiction; Reporters
and reporting--Fiction. 153 p. Gr. 6 - 10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
During a tedious parlor meeting moderated by her
Aunt Agnes, Christine makes her decision to accept
the teaching position at New Eden. The strange
Christian Science ideas that are discussed in the
parlor fuel her resolve to strike out on her own.
New Eden seems the perfect place for Christine, now
a young adult of twenty-one. The place is organized,
clean, and aesthetically beautiful; the fellow workers
are helpful and friendly. No position is considered
better than another and each one works for the
common goals of the community. But her friend,
Adam Vestry, informs her there are possible, but as
yet unsubstantiated, connections to underground
crime. Certainly New Eden is virtual utopia on earth.
...or is it?
John Jenkins and Mark Weaver have combined their
literary skills once again in this second book in The
Century War Chronicles series. City of Lies is the
sequel to The Invisible Empire and picks up the
storyline four years later for another adventure with
Christine Thompson and Adam Vestry. They come
face to face with the consequences of greed for power
and unjust gain.
Jenkins and Weaver have intertwined this story with
historical incidents during the time involving the
emergence of Christian Science, the burgeoning idea
of utopia, and the rebuilding of Chicago to its status
of Queen of the West after the great fire. The purpose
of this series is to encourage thinking skills in an age
of deception so the reader can observe motivations,
thoughts, and reactions through the characters.
Debbie Lindsay
Sneeze on Monday, by Lou Kassem. LCCN
96096792. New York: Avon Flare, 1997. ISBN
038078646X, PAP, $3.99.
F. Moving, Household--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 124 p. Gr.
6 - 8.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 3
Ellen Adair is an eighth grader whose affluent world
is shaken by her parents’ move to an older crimeinfested
neighborhood in Riverford. Her privileged
former life in Blue Hills had been filled with friends,
social events, and popularity, but her father’s
unemployment forces the move that results in a
change of schools and change in lifestyle for Ellen.
She has a difficult time learning to deal with her
street-tough peers at Taylor Middle School and tries
to maintain her ties with her old friends back at Blue
Hills School, a rival of Taylor. Slowly she is able to
see the Taylor students in a new light and to view her
old friends from a new perspective. When she ends
up on a quiz bowl team representing Taylor against
Blue Hills, Ellen realizes just who her true friends are.
This contemporary story by Lou Kassem portrays
middle school student relationships for the most part
as brash, in-your-face, and combative. Ellen does,
however, undergo a change of heart toward her new
peers and vice versa. The book’s language is sharp,
to the point of crude at times, and the characters are
somewhat stereotypical.
Attractive cover art by W. Alfant makes Sneeze On
Monday visually appealing. A side issue in the plot is
Ellen’s open rudeness to her authorities, and at the
book’s end there is no indication whether her attitude
changes. Arlene S. Neal
Edith Shay, by A. LaFaye. LCCN 9816832. New
York: Viking, 1998. ISBN 0670875988, HBB,
$15.99.
F. Self-reliance--Fiction; United States--History--1865-1898--
Fiction. 183 p. Gr. 6 - 9.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Katherine Lunden lives with her loving family on a
farm in Wisconsin. Her family wants her to marry
and settle close by, but Katherine has a burning desire
to see the world. Given the opportunity to go stay
with a relative in Michigan, she instead takes the train
to Chicago. With only ten cents in her pocket, she
learns to make her way. She assumes the identity of
Edith Shay, whose suitcase she finds. Later, she goes
to Virginia to search for the real Edith Shay.
This book has interesting plot and character
development, in spite of minor inconsistencies.
Alexandria LaFaye does a good job of showing the
development of thought in this sixteen-year-old girl
who is torn between love for her family and a desire
to find herself. To show this, the author uses many
flashbacks, as she is reminded of home. The author
also uses the local color of the phrases that play in
Katherine’s mind as she sorts out her life. Both the
flashbacks and the cliches are a bit distracting in
places. Cathleen Sovold Johnson
Look Back, Moss, by Betty Levin. LCCN 9734510.
New York: Greenwillow, 1998. ISBN 0688156967,
HBB, $15.00.
F. Sheep dogs--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction; Animal rights activists--
Fiction; Animals--Treatment--Fiction. 152 p. Gr. 4 - 7.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 2
Jody lives with his Mom and her sister. The sisters’
passion is rescuing abused animals. Sometimes they
use Jody as a distraction so they can illegally get the
animals in question. Jody is torn up inside, and he
often eats a lot to compensate for his inner agony. On
one “rescue,” a border collie is seriously injured. As
Jody gains respect for the instincts of the creature, and
bonds and loves this incredible animal, he loves
himself more, too. His mother comes to see what is
really important a little more clearly, also.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 5 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
While details about the Border collie are fascinating,
Jody’s mother’s ignorance, deceits, and conniving are
troubling. She operates from the philosophy that the
end justifies the means. The author is not quite
convincing presenting her ardor for delivering the
animals. A neglected guard dog might be a feasible
target, but a kids’ frog jumping contest? Mom stays
over with a boyfriend one night, and wonders if this
botheres Jody. “As far as Jody could see, adults have
their own set of rules or made them up as they went
along.” Judy Belcher
Echoes in the Wind, by Beverly Lewis.
(SummerHill Secrets; 7.) LCCN 974707.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1997. ISBN
1556618735, PAP, $5.99.
F. Interpersonal relations--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 144
p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Merry Hanson has more than enough to juggle in her
young life without the added trauma of nearly dying
in a skating accident. But the accident and the
temporary amnesia that results could turn out to be a
blessing in disguise. The fifteen-year-old finds she
must slow down in her attempts to solve the mysteries
that pop up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, so
that she can solve her own personal mysteries of what
happened the day of the accident and which of two
very different young men deserve her awakening
affection.
Echoes In the Wind brings back the intriguing Levi
Zook, an Amish neighbor turned Mennonite, whose
gentle determination that Merry recover her memory
springs from personal as well as spiritual motives, and
continues the story of Merry’s friend Chelsea, whose
mother is slowly recovering from involvement in a
cult. As Merry sorts through unfamiliar and
conflicting feelings she comes to understand that the
echoes from her forgotten past are a God-given
opportunity to learn her own heart.
Beverly Lewis’s picture of the interaction and tension
of the Amish, Mennonite, and “English” in Lancaster
County, Pennsylvania, are accurately and respectfully
depicted in her series, SummerHill Secrets. Those
unfamiliar with these branches of Christianity will
gain some insight into the beliefs and practices of
these groups who engender so much curiosity and
exploitation by those outside of their communities.
Merry and her friends are very believable, with
strongly drawn personalities and convincing
problems. Even though amnesia is an overworked
device, it works well in this story as an illustration of
how the worldly accretions on our hearts must be
stripped away before we, through God’s grace, can
see the truth about ourselves and those around us.
Pamela A. Todd
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
An Amish girl having her picture taken in designer
jeans with her hair down? Fifteen-year-old Rachel
Zook, having found a photograph of an ancestor,
desires to experience being English. She convinces
Merry Hanson, her neighbor, to not only take her
picture but take her to her high school for a day.
Rachel’s exposure to another way of life leaves her
confused. Merry, because of her promise not to tell,
ends up sneaking around behind her parents’ backs.
With the help of her parents and Rachel’s older
brother, Merry is able to help Rachel see her error and
come back to herself.
Hide Behind the Moon, Beverly Lewis’ eighth book
in the SummerHill Secrets series, can be read alone
but may leave the reader wondering who is who and
what happened previously. Her insight into Old
Order Amish and Mennonite cultures bring light to
young readers’ curiosity of what it would be like to be
Amish. Patricia J. Perry
Oh, Suzannah, by Katharine E. Matchette. LCCN
9794863. Tualatin, Ore.: DeKa Press, 1998. ISBN
0964504529, PAP, $8.75.
F. Oregon--History--Fiction; Fathers and daughters--Fiction.
156 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Oh, Suzannah is an interesting account of a young
pioneer girl and her father who embark on a difficult
move to Oregon to work with the Indians. Suzannah
is tender-hearted and willing to put Christ and others
before herself. However, when her father chooses to
remarry after the death of Suzannah’s mother, she is
faced with a most difficult challenge.
Through precarious travels by ship and unsettled
living conditions, Suzannah continues to be critical
and aloof from her new step-mother, despite the fact
that Charity is able to nurse her sick father back to
health during the journey. Once they settle in the
Oregon territory, Suzannah is excited about working
with the Indians. She is gracious and unselfish
towards them yet continues to view her step-mother
as an intruder. Suzannah knows that she isn’t
pleasing to Christ in this, but how can she allow
Charity to replace her beloved mother?
This historical fiction presents Suzannah as a young
girl in her early teens. Katherine Matchette presents
little-known facts within the storyline, as the
characters face fierce storms, Indian attacks, and
challenging living conditions. The heart for doing
God’s work is admirably presented and this book
should be a good tool for stirring young readers
towards appreciation of those who worked as
missionaries. Mary McKinney
CLC Ad, 1/3 p.
Hide Behind the Moon, by Beverly Lewis.
(SumerHill Secrets; 8.) LCCN 9745421.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556618743, PAP, $5.99.
F. Amish--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction.
142 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
The Muffin Child, by Stephen Menick. LCCN
9751817. New York: Philomel, 1998. ISBN
0399233032, HBB, $17.99.
F. Orphans--Fiction; Death--Fiction; Resourcefulness--Fiction.
216 p. Gr. 5 - 7.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
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YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
Unable to believe that her parents died when the
bridge broke, eleven-year-old Tanya refuses to accept
the help of the villagers. Instead, she insists on living
on the farm by herself with only her cow, Milenka, for
company. Remembering the wonderful muffins her
mother made, Tanya decides to make muffins. The
men in the village buy muffins from the Muffin Child
every day. But the women are jealous of her muffins,
greedy Parvel tries to take over her farm, and Gypsies
move onto her land. Her problems escalate. The
Gypsy children threaten Tanya with a pitch fork, the
villagers accidentally burn down her barn and house
in their search for a lost child, and Anton, the
sharpener, tries to kill her when she discovers he has
taken the child. The Gypsies rescue Tanya, care for
her, and raise her as part of their family.
Stephen Menick’s story is set in the Balkans in the
early 1900’s. Tanya’s mother tells Tanya the rather
depressing story of the great-grandmother she was
named for. In the telling, she makes no attempt to
hide Tanya’s mistakes or the weaknesses of the other
characters in the story.
The young girl with dark hair, blue eyes, and gold
earrings in the cover picture by Ian Schoenherr
emphasizes the folk tale quality of the story. Barbara
A. Bryden
Masada : The Last Fortress, by Gloria D.
Miklowitz. LCCN 9817756. Grand Rapids: Wm.
B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 0802851657, HBB,
$16.00.
F. Masada Site (Israel)--Siege, 72-73--Fiction; Jews--History--
Rebellion, 66-73--Fiction. 188 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
It is the year 72 C.E. in the land of Judea. Upon a
high rock fortress called Masada, lives a small
remnant of Israelites who have resisted capture by the
Romans. Together, they have vowed to never give in,
and to never give up. In this self-contained fortress,
which once belonged to King Herod, they have
managed to maintain their freedom for many years.
Now the Romans have vowed to capture this rebel
band at any cost, and so a year long siege on Masada
begins, only to end in terrible tragedy. Gloria D.
Miklowitz has created a wonderful human interest
story about the people who lived and died at Masada.
Her characters seem real, although only the main
character, Simon, is dealt with in any depth. From his
perspective, you find out what life on Masada might
have been like and the emotions that many of those
involved in the siege must have dealt with.
The one confusing element of this novel is that it
switches from Simon’s viewpoint to that of a Roman
soldier. While it is interesting to learn about the
Roman’s viewpoint, this back and forth treatment
makes the chapters where this happens more difficult
to follow. There is also a descriptive portion of the
novel which deals with romantic feelings and details
a kissing scene which leans toward the erotic side,
however, for the older reader, Miklowitz’ treatment of
this incredible event in Jewish history is inspiring and
challenging. Virginia G. Schnabel
Invasion of the UFOs, by Bill Myers.
(Bloodhounds, Inc.; 4.) Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1998. ISBN 155661893X, PAP, $5.99.
F. Mystery ficton; Science fiction. 140 p. Gr. 4 - 9.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Bloodhounds, Inc., a brother and sister detective
agency, receive a call from a neighbor who claims to
have seen lights from a UFO, flickering in the night
sky and heading for the nearby hills. He is convinced
that an alien invasion has begun and asks the two
young detectives to come over and investigate.
Sean and Melissa Hunter, along with their one
hundred and two pound bloodhound, “Slobs,” find
themselves drawn into a mystery that involves car
thieves, New Age fanatics and a flying saucer. While
investigating the mystery of the UFO they stumble
onto a gang of car thieves, find themselves
handcuffed to a “flying saucer” and are shot at by
amateur “soldiers” who are trying to to drive off alien
invaders.
Bill Myers has written several excellent serials for
pre-teen and teen readers. The Incredible Worlds of
Wally McDoogle are especially popular with pre-teen
boys. Bloodhounds, Inc. follows a similar pattern of
wild humor, crazy antics, and mystery.
In Invasion of the UFOs one scene details Sean and
Melissa’s adventures in making dinner. They start off
all right but Sean isn’t quite certain about things like
quantity and temperature. They end up with mashed
potatoes being flung against the walls; as the electric
mixer gets bumped into high gear, a bubbling
marshmallow mess in the oven, and four bags of
spaghetti that come boiling up out of the pot to travel
across the kitchen floor and wrap itself around ankles.
On the serious side, Invasion of the UFOs carries a
message of Christan compassion and friendship for a
lonely old man as Sean and Melissa try to put Jesus
words into practice: “Whatever you do for the least of
these, you do for me.” Donna Brown
A Searching Heart, by Janette Oke. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 076422140X, HBB,
$15.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Family life--Fiction. 256 p. Gr. 9 -
Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Virginia Simpson has her life all planned out. As
events around her begin to alter plans for college and
marriage, Virginia must deal with the loss of what she
thought was her dream. As several years go by,
Virginia tries to make the best of her situation and
begins preparing for life as a spinster. Getting a job
in town, Virginia begins saving to buy a small house.
When the house next to the Simpson’s becomes for
sale, Virginia is disappointed when it is sold to an
older woman, Mrs. Withers. When Virginia and Mrs.
Withers become close friends, the older woman
introduces Virginia to her grandson, Jonathan. As
romance begins to blossom, God’s true plan for
Virginia unfolds.
A Searching Heart focuses on relationships with
friends, family, and God. Many of the characters are
committed Christians. They witness to and pray for
those characters that do not know Christ. Just like
real life, some come to accept Christ and others do
not. With few historical details, it’s difficult to
pinpoint exactly what decade the story takes place in.
When Virginia and her first love, Jamison break their
engagement, many teens will be able to relate to her
feelings. Hopefully, they will also take away the
larger lesson of the book; that God is in charge and he
has a plan. Elizabeth A. Coleman
Return to Harmony, by Janette Oke and T. Davis
Bunn. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1996. ISBN
1556619030, CAS, $20.00.
F. Friendship--Fiction; North Carolina--History--Fiction;
Audiobooks. 2 sound cassettes (ca. 3 hrs.) Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
A sentimental story of two girls during the First World
War, this book demonstrates the power of faith to
overcome painful circumstances. Notwithstanding
their different environments, Bethan and Jodie are
best friends. They pray and hold each other
accountable through difficult times. Then, in spite of
the few female science students at the time, Jodie
goes to college, straining the friendship.
Schifferdecker reads the narrative fairly well except
when portraying anger or excitement. The dialogue
where Bethan pleads for Jodie’s continued friendship
sounds whiny and annoying. She reads the script at a
steady pace. Her light and childlike voice is wellsuited
for this tale of two innocent girls. Anita
Goldman Horning (Adapted with permission from
AudioFile Magazine)
Strays Like Us, by Richard Peck. LCCN 9718575.
New York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 1998.
ISBN 0803722915, HBB, $15.99.
F. Social isolation--Fiction; Interpersonal relations--Fiction;
Great-aunts--Fiction. 155 p. Gr. 7 - 9.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
While waiting for her mother to return, Molly
temporarily moves in with her Aunt Fay. Will, a
neighbor, has moved in with his grandparents and
befriends a reluctant Molly. At the public library
Molly meets Tracy, a home schooler. The two girls
hit it off right away, but Tracy’s mother dislikes Molly
and ends their friendship.
At Christmas, Molly finds out that her mother has no
intention of returning for her; she also learns that
Will’s dad, ill with pneumonia, is living a sequestered
life with Will. A couple of months later, Will’s dad
dies of AIDS. After her mother is arrested for selling
dope, Molly discovers that Aunt Fay is not a blood
relation. In spite of this, the social worker who comes
to scrutinize Molly’s abode determines it to be
acceptable.
Richard Peck has written a true-to-life story about a
twelve-year-old wary of friendship because her drugaddicted
mother has never let them put down roots.
As a result of Will’s friendship and Aunt Fay’s
support, Molly comes to terms with her imbroglio.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 5 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
Strays Like Us is a compelling story about preteen
children grappling with the consequences of drugaddicted
parents. Dianne Woodman
Sandry’s Book, by Tamora Pierce. (Circle of
Magic; 2.) LCCN 95039450. New York:
Scholastic, 1997. ISBN 0590553569, HBB, $15.95.
F. Friendship--Fiction; Magic--Fiction; Fantasy. 252 p. Gr. 5 -
8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
In a world where a magical few protect others, four
young people find themselves at Winding Circle. At
this temple community noble children are educated,
and mages live and learn. When all four children fail
to fit in with their peers, they are sent to live at a
house called Discipline. The four have nothing in
common —except the magic they deny they possess.
In Circle of Magic, Sandry’s Book, Tamora Pierce
weaves an intriguing coming-of-age adventure. The
first in a series of four books, Sandry’s Book explains
how the four mages-in-training come together. Left
under the care of two dedicates and a mage, the group
becomes an odd family, learning to accept themselves
and each other.
Sandry, a daughter of nobles with ties to royalty in
two countries, has always been fascinated by
weaving, something nobles do not do. Briar, a thief,
has always felt an affinity for plants and wallows in
the comfort earth provides for him. Daja, the
daughter of successful merchants is cast out by her
people when she is the only survivor of a shipwreck,
but has always been more interested in metal working
than buying and trading. Tris, a merchant’s daughter,
has been plagued by a bad temper that usually
coincides with severe weather. Each must master
their power and also learn to work together. Their
combined elements of magic are the only thing that
can save them—and all of Winding Circle—from a
natural disaster thrown out of control by magic. Lisa
Wroble
Trouble at Silver Pines Inn, by Gloria Repp;
illustrated by Gabriela Dellosso. Greenville, S.C.:
Journey Books, 1998. ISBN 1579240003, PAP,
$6.49.
F. Grandfathers--Fiction. 149 p. Gr. 9 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Nicky Radford has traveled to the Atlantic coast with
his mother and brother. They’ve come to help Aunt
Margo, who owns a large old inn. On the third floor
of the inn, behind closed doors, lives Nick’s
grandfather. Nick would like to get to know this
angry recluse who’s laid up with a broken leg.
The story weaves around Nick and his grandfather,
other boarders at the inn, and a Japanese neighbor.
The old Japanese man makes wonderful kites, which
he flies on the seashore. He helps Nick come to
understand his grandfather. And in the end, a violent
storm forces Nick and Grandfather to work together
to rescue Nick’s mother.
The themes of forgiveness and returning good for evil
run through the story. The Trouble at Silver Pines Inn
is set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, with
birds inhabiting the shoreline. Gloria Repp uses the
birds to teach a lesson on identifying God’s creative
handiwork in the special construction of bird feathers.
The story is enhanced by several full-page pencil
illustrations by Gabriela Dellosso. Myrtlemay
Pittman Crane
Mine Eyes Have Seen, by Ann Rinaldi. LCCN
9710680. New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN
0590543180, HBB, $16.95.
F. Harpers Ferry (W. Va.)--History--John Brown’s Raid, 1859--
Fiction; Brown, John, 1800-1859--Fiction; Abolitionists--
Fiction; Fathers and daughters--Fiction. 273 p. Gr. 5 - 9.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Ann Rinaldi’s novel, the title of which is taken from
a line in a Civil War song, tells the story of John
Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry in 1859, from the
perspective of his daughter, Annie. The story begins
after Brown’s execution for the raid, when Annie
Brown has gone to live with Louisa May Alcott to be
educated and to “get her head together.” Louisa May
encourages her to write down what happened that
fateful summer and autumn when John Brown and his
followers tried to take over the arsenal, and Annie
doees just that. Writing and reflection allow Annie to
try to understand the complex man who was her
father.
Using primary and secondary source documents,
Rinaldi breathes life into figures from history books.
Brown is a person obsessed by the idea of freeing the
slaves, a man with many connections but also a
failure in many ways. Readers meet his followers
and learn why they follow Brown, even though they
know there is little hope of achieving their goal
without loss of life. As Annie sits and keeps watch for
strangers on the porch of the rented house we learn
her thoughts about the group, and her gradual
realization that the plan is doomed; the fatalistic
attitude of the men is touching.
Rinaldi deftly introduces key historical figures such
as Frederick Douglass, Robert E. Lee, who
commands the soldiers who captured Brown, and
George Washington’s great-grandson, whose slaves
awake to find that Brown has freed them. Mine Eyes
Have Seen is another good read from a master writer.
Some cursing and vulgar language. Leslie Greaves
Radloff
The Fiery Stranger, written and directed by John
Schmidt; produced by John Schmidt and Mark
Hunt. (Present Time; 2.) Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 1998. ISBN 0310213851, VID, $19.99.
F. Paul (Apostle)--Fiction; Time travel--Fiction. 1
Videocassette, color, 60 min. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
How would the early Christians treat those without
friends and those who had been in trouble? Josh,
Emily, and Caleb decide to use Josh’s laptop, which
has technology beyond current capabilities. They
decide to bring Paul the Apostle up from the year 40
A.D. But the Paul they meet has not yet been
converted. They are able to get him back to his own
time, but not before he incites three teenagers to
vandalize and burn a church. The church exhibits
much anger and hatred toward Lisa, the girl who
comes forward to admit her part in the crime. Lisa
approaches Emily with her unbelievable story about
Saul of Tarsus. The kids bring him back to current
time, this time after his conversion. Saul is able to
help the church forgive Lisa for her part in the crime.
The Fiery Stranger features gospel music performed
by the Friendship Baptist Church mass choir. The
acting is not as professional as it could be. Parts of
the plot are a bit unbelievable, such as when Lisa runs
into the headlights right after she vandalizes the
church and makes no attempt to get right away. Older
elementary and junior high students will enjoy this
high action video that helps bring the Bible to life.
The copy I previewed did not contain the usual FBI
warning about copyright infringement. Nor did I find
any notice of “home-use only.” From this I would
assume the video may be shown in a church or school
setting. Jane Mouttet
Saratoga Secret, by Betsy Sterman. LCCN
9749678. New York: Dial Books for Young
Readers, 1998. ISBN 0803723326, NBB, $16.99.
F. United States--History--1775-1783, Revolution--Fiction.
249 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The British are coming, or aren’t they? Sixteen year
old Amity Spencer doesn’t know what to believe. She
does realize she’s come to adulthood, but no one
seems to notice. Everyone continues to call her child
and treat her as one. That is until Amity has to carry
secret battle plans into town to General Benedict
Arnold. As a young woman she sets off to work
through her fears and do her Continental duty.
Saratoga Secret is a strong, positive, young adult
historical novel. Sterman does a fair job in
representing the thoughts of both Tories and
Continentals in the Revolutionary War. German
soldiers are also portrayed sympathetically. Good
successful effort was made to round the reader’s
perspective of all participants. On the individual
level, a character questions her identity, is tested
physically and emotionally, and emerges with clearer
self-understanding. Amity is a positive role model in
her thoughts, aspirations, and actions. Even her
desire for marriage is handled in a modest way.
Young adults will feel the suspense as they live
through the Battles of Saratoga. Readers will gain
familiarity with historical characters, their faults and
strengths, by reading Saratoga Secret. Lorie Ann
Grover
The Moonstones, by Jean Thesman. LCCN
9752307. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670879592, HBB, $15.99.
F. Cousins--Fiction; Aunts--Fiction; Mothers and duaghters--
Fiction; Puget Sound (Wash.)--Fiction. 166 p. Gr. 5 - 9.
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 3 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

YOUNG ADULT
FICTION
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
When fifteen-year-old Jane Douglas travels with her
mother to Royal Bay to prepare her deceased
Grandmother’s house for sale, she hopes they will
soon be finished so that she can return home and
enjoy her summer break. Like her mother, Jane
detests the old town, and her aunt and cousin are
disturbing. But when she meets Carey, a boy who
seems different from all the other boys she knows, she
falls in love and wishes she never had to leave him.
Interwoven with the romance is Jane’s changing
relationship with her mother, Abby, who has
childhood issues to resolve with her sister. Jane can’t
understand why she won’t confront Aunt Norma, then
realizes her own relationship with cousin Ricki is
oddly similar. On their first night at the house, she
allows Ricki to pressure her into sneaking out to visit
the disreputable amusement park on the beach, then
continues on her own when this becomes the only
way to meet Carey. Though Jane feels guilty, she
deceives her mother until she’s caught. And when her
mother asks her to stop seeing Carey, Jane refuses.
She knows what a nice boy he is; her mother doesn’t.
When they must finally part, Carey gives her a
handful of moonstones to remember him by.
The tension between mother and daughter adds depth
and interest to this story of a sweet first romance.
Jean Thesman’s style is elegant, spare, and a true
delight to read. The heroine and her mother are
complex characters, and it is easy to care for them
both. However, Norma and Ricki seem to have no
redeeming qualities at all, and the resolution between
the adult sisters never comes. Abby takes her
daughter’s advice, and the two simply leave.
While it’s true that some people are set in their ways
and won’t change, the reader might wish for a more
satisfying ending to The Moonstones. One or two
questionable words are used in the text. Marcy
Stewart Froemke
Wrong Turn in the Fast Lane, by Matt Tullos.
(Summit High Series; 1.) LCCN 9735636.
Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998. ISBN
0805401806, PAP, $4.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Interpersonal relations--Fiction; High
schools--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 138 p. Gr. 7 - 10.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Processing the Computer Conspiracy, by Matt
Tullos. (Summit High Series; 2.) LCCN 9740331.
Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998. ISBN
0805401814, PAP, $4.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Courage--Fiction; High schools--
Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 137 p. Gr. 7 - 10.
Quality - 2 Acceptability - 5
Matt Tullos, a counselor for teens in his church, has
created a series that deals with contemporary issues.
He has included modern day references to fashion
trends, music groups, and current events that will
soon date the series. It appears that he is attempting
to deal with all the issues teens might face within the
public school system in his first two books.
Wrong Turn in the Fast Lane includes a suicide, a
very physical dating relationship that almost results in
premarital sex, a youth group discussion on
premarital sex, and a drug-induced hallucination, and
ends with a positive HIV diagnosis. Vandalism and
theft by a school teacher and student, threats and false
accusations, and arrest and incarceration for
possession of narcotics are some of the topics dealt
with in the second book, Processing the Computer
Conspiracy.
Most of the adults in the books are out of touch with
teens. The Christian teens reach out to their peers
through an in-home discussion led by their ponytailed
youth pastor, a Christian rock concert with
stage effects and dancing in the aisles, and dramatic
testimonies of change from some who were heavily
involved in sin. Patricia J. Perry
ATraitor Among Us, by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk.
LCCN 9714256. Grand Rapids: Wm. B.
Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 0802851509, HBB, $15.00.
F. World War, 1939-1945--Netherlands--Fiction; Netherlands--
History--German Occupation, 1940-1945--Fiction. 130 p. Gr.
4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Thirteen-year-old Pieter Van Dirk is involved with the
Resistance in Holland during 1944. He cannot trust
anyone since a traitor is in the town. Pieter delivers
fake identification cards to the Resistance
commander, helps send a secret message, hides a
short-wave radio, gets medicine for an injured Jew,
and witnesses the murder of the traitor. A lot of
actionpacked into this short book of thirteen chapters
ends with the hope that the war will soon be over.
Drunkenness is treated as a normal occurrence among
the townspeople. To provide extra income for food,
Pieter sneaks out after dark to search for the Nazis’
“bent smokes” (cigarette butts). His mother empties
the tobacco out of the paper and sells it. Pieter has a
crush on an older girl and the author mentions her
physical features. In his work with the Resistance
Peter must tell lies.
Elizabeth Van Steenwyk has included a map of the
Netherlands, an afterword to explain the outcome of
the battle, and a pronunciation guide to help with the
Dutch words. Patricia J. Perry
Forgive the River, Forgive the Sky, by Gloria
Whelan. LCCN 9714257. Grand Rapids: Wm. B.
Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 080285155X, HBB, $15.00.
F. Grief--Fiction; River life--Michigan--Fiction; Physically
handicapped--Fiction; Michigan--Fiction. 111 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Lily is a twelve-year-old girl whose father died while
fishing. She holds the river responsible. T.R. is a test
pilot who was paralyzed in a plane crash. He holds the
sky responsible. T.R. escapes the city and buys the
acreage along the river in northern Michigan where
Lily spent her whole life. Lily and T.R.’s friendship
over the summer brings about a number of changes.
Lily lays to rest her insatiable grief and learns to
forgive the river. T.R. comes to the place where he can
forgive the sky and returns to the city to fly a plane
specially equipped for his handicap. Gloria Whelan
has created a beautiful story of two hurting
individuals who help each other come to understand
that loss is an inevitable part of life. Patricia J. Perry
The Dog with Golden Eyes, by Frances Wilbur;
Mark Coyle, illustrator. LCCN 9743266.
Minneapolis: Milkweed Editions, 1998. ISBN PAP
1571316159, $6.95; HBB 1571316140, 15.95.
F. Wolves--Fiction; Wildlife rescue--Fiction. 193 p. Gr. 4 - 9.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Thirteen year old Cassandra has a lonely life. Her
parents are separated, she had just lost her best friend,
and she is home alone a lot. Her life takes a new
direction when she begins to feed a dog that comes to
her house at the same time each day. She adopts him,
but must be creative to find a job to provide food for
him without her mother finding out. Needing to find
out information about dogs, she learns from teachers
and books, finally discovering that her dog is an
Arctic Wolf. Realizing that it is not safe for him to
live among people, she works hard to discover the
owners of the wolf and to keep him safe until they can
come and get him. The reader of this book will learn
about wolves and their habits, yet more important
they will learn that the struggles they face such as not
being accepted, or weight problems, or loneliness can
be overcome.
This is an enjoyable “I have to keep reading” book
that will both entertain and inform the reader. The
plot is intertwined with real life issues that have
probably solutions. Black and white sketches
illustrate the story. A list of other Milkweed novels
for children is provided at the end of the novel.
Lynette Sorenson
Bat 6, by Virginia Euwer Wolff. LCCN 9714742.
New York: Scholastic, 1998. ISBN 0590897993,
HBB, $16.95.
F. Softball--Fiction; City and town life--Fiction; World War,
1939-1945--United States--Fiction. 230 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Every year the sixth grade girls from Bear Creek
Ridge Grade School and Barlow Road Grade School
compete against each other in a softball game at the
end of the school year in May. In 1949, the fiftieth
year of the competition, the girls spend the entire year
preparing. Each girl writes the events and her
attitudes and feelings, like they are journaling
together. One team member is Shazam, whose real
name is Shirley, a poor, illegitimate girl, abandoned
by her mother and living with her grandmother. Her
father was killed at Pearl Harbor. On the other team
is Aki, a girl of Japanese descent, who spent the war
in a Japanese internment camp. The conflict develops
and envelopes everyone in the community. The
problems are not totally resolved in the end.
The text begins with the team rosters. Because each
one “wrote” her own parts, much of the story is
Continued on p. 97.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 5 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWS
YOUNG ADULT NONFICTION
000’s - General Knowledge
★
Computers, by Diane Lindsey Reeves and Peter
Kent; illustrations by Nancy Bond. (Career Ideas
for Kids Who Like.) LCCN 985199. New York:
Facts on File, 1998. ISBN HBB 0816036829, PBB
0816036888, HBB, PBB, $HBB 18.95, PBB 12.95.
004. Computer science--Vocational guidance; Vocational
guidance. 167 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Sports, by Diane Lindsey Reeves; illustrations by
Nancy Bond. (Career Ideas for Kids Who Like.)
LCCN 9815203. New York: Facts on File, 1998.
ISBN HBB 0816036845, PBB 081603690X, HBB,
PBB, $HBB 18.95, PBB 12.95.
796. Sports--Vocational guidance; Vocational guidance. 167 p.
Gr. 4 - 8.
Writing, by Diane Lindsey Reeves; illustrations by
Nancy Bond. (Career Ideas for Kids Who Like.)
LCCN 986229. New York: Facts on File, 1998.
ISBN HBB 0816036853, PBB 0816036918, HBB,
PBB, $HBB 18.95, PBB 12.95.
808. Authorship--Vocational guidance; Creative writing--
Vocational guidance; Book industry and trade--Vocational
guidance; Vocational guidance. 166 p. Gr. 4 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
For any child wanting to explore what he or she could
do to make a living, or for any parent/teacher/librarian
trying to guide a child with these decisions, the Career
Ideas for Kids series is an excellent resource. These
books are fun, easy to read, and informative. The
standard format for each book begins with a short
section that explains how to use the book. This is
followed by a questionnaire that allows readers to
pinpoint their interests. Next is a great section called:
“Take a Trip” which profiles fifteen different
individuals working in jobs that belong to the career
path the book focuses on. All profiles are of actual
people and many include addresses of related
professional organizations and web sites. This
section is followed by a more thorough listing of jobs
related to the career path. Each book ends with a set
of exercises that help the reader to focus on which
jobs and skills were most interesting. Also included
is a wonderful bibliography broken down into
sections: Awesome Internet Career Resources; More
Career Books Especially for Writers (or Sportsfans or
Computer Whizzes); Heavy Duty Resources;
Finding Places to Work; Finding Places to Practice
Job Skills; and No-College Options.
These books covering career ideas for kids are some
of the best I have seen. They encourage youngsters
to explore the many possibilities available and give
them the tools and direction needed. The text is very
readable, and while geared for younger students,
would be informative for high school students as
well. Nearly every page contains an eye-catching
graphic and all the profiles include photos. Besides
making readers aware of the amazing numbers and
kinds of jobs available in these fields, these books are
excellent resources for finding further information.
There are three more titles (not seen by this reviewer)
in the series: Career Ideas for Kids Who Like Art,
Career Ideas for Kids Who Like Science, and Career
Ideas for Kids Who Like Talking. Lillian Heytvelt
200’s - Religion
Be Not Far from Me : The Oldest Love Story :
Legends from the Bible, retold by Eric A. Kimmel;
illustrated by David Diaz. LCCN 9724543. New
York: Simon & Schuster, 1998. ISBN 0689810881,
HBB, $25.00.
221.9. Bible stories. 256 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Eric Kimmel has used the Bible and the Midrash to
retell the love story between God and his children in
this book Be Not Far From Me. The Old Testament
stories of twenty heroes and heroines from Abraham
to Daniel are listed under five categories: Abraham
and his children, Out of Egypt, Judges and Kings,
Prophets and Exile, and Redemption. The stories
vary in length; the story of Deborah is only four
pages, while the story of David is twenty pages.
This book provides an account of well-known Bible
stories combined with unfamiliar details that are
available by reading the Midrash. “Midrashim are
stories and traditions, many as old as the Bible itself,
that amplify and explain the terse and often
challenging biblical text” (p 250). Eric Kimmel used
the original Hebrew text as his primary Bible source.
Children who are familiar with the story of David and
Goliath might be confused when they read “The five
stones he took from the stream miraculously became
one shining stone engraved with God’s name” (p 144)
unless they are told the background behind this book.
David Diaz, a Caldecott Award-winning illustrator of
Smokey Night by Eve Bunting, provides full-page
bold silhouette prints depicting an important aspect of
each story. At the end of the book is an Epilogue,
comparing Bible times with today and a Note on
Sources, which is very helpful in understanding the
purpose and background for the book. There are also
four maps showing the Middle East at various time
periods, and a Time Line from 2000 and 400 B.C.E.
(Before the Common Era). Lynette Sorenson
Jesus : The Man, the Message, the Messiah, by Ray
VanderLaan. Colorado Springs: Focus on the
Family Multimedia, 1997. CDR.
232.9. Jesus Christ. 1 CD-ROM Gr. 5 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
“Shalom!” The Rabbi, Tamar, and friendly Eyal greet
as Jesus: The Man, The Message, The Messiah
begins. This CD is designed to give its users a
realistic look at life in Jesus’ day while studying the
Gospel (an NIV harmony of the four gospels by
Orville E. Daniel). Users may take photographic and
video tours of the Holy Land, accompanied with
authentic sounds and music. Click on boldfaced
words in the Gospel text and learn about the marriage
customs at the time or Nazareth’s history. Study
questions help focus the user’s search. A concordance
lists many Biblical references; further study gives
books, periodicals, and other sources of information.
It contains 188 lessons and countless sideroads that
advance the user’s understanding of Christ’s earthly
life. When finished for the day, an electronic
bookmark keeps the user’s place until the next study
time. The program can be set for home or school use.
Ray Vander Laan’s extensive research makes Jesus:
The Man, The Message, The Messiah an intriguing
project. On first use, the sheer volume of information
was overwhelming, but the format is relatively easy
to follow and the graphics, sound, and endless variety
of research topics is extremely interesting. Some of
the Faith Talks and reference material may reflect the
specific beliefs of the author. Overall, Vander Laan’s
work provides a new dimension in the study of
Christ’s life and times. Ann Ponath
Charge It on the Master’s Card, by Charles
Haddon Spurgeon; with a little help from Randy
Petersen. LCCN 987410. Grand Rapids: Revell,
1998. ISBN 0800756673, PAP, $7.99.
242. Devotional calendars. 132 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Charles Spurgeon was one of the most dynamic and
influential preachers of the 19th century. His writings
are as timely and applicable today as they were 100
years ago. The truth of God’s word and its impact on
our lives is eternal. However, our language has
changed over time, sometimes making Mr.
Spurgeon’s writing style difficult to understand.
Randy Petersen has taken Spurgeon’s classic
devotional, The Cheque Book of the Bank of Faith,
and paraphrased it into English as we speak and write
it today.
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 5 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

YOUNG ADULT
NONFICTION
The book contains 120 daily devotions. Each is
headed with a scripture verse followed by a half to
full page essay to expand or illustrate the verse of the
day. Most conclude with a short prayer.
Charge It to the Masters Card presents a blend of the
Father’s love for us just as we are while also
challenging us to be changed by the Spirit. The
reader will be encouraged to look for ways to live out
their faith tempered with a message of hope.
The book is subtitled A Contemporary Devotion for
Teens, but adults will be stretched by it as well. The
writing style is very conversational in tone. Even
non-readers will find the writings easy to digest, and
will, hopefully, carry the words with them throughout
the day. Carol Shearer
The Mark of a World Changer : Bulding Your LIfe
with Character, Not Hype, by Ron Luce. Nashville:
Thomas Nelson, 1996. ISBN 0785272518, PAP,
$7.99.
248. Conduct of life; Christian life. 223 p. Gr. 8 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The founder and president of Teen Mania Ministries
has written his own thirteen-week devotional book to
challenge a generation of young people to make a
difference in their world. Ron Luce’s book is
developed around themes that boil down to ten
challenges. The contemporary, colorful cover of The
Mark of a World Changer will attract the young
audience for which it was written. Inside, bold
graphics, short daily readings, and places to write,
make this an eye-catching volume. Teens are
encouraged to memorize and meditate on selected
scriptures and then to make personal applications to
the reading of the day. Weekly themes are on passion
for God, stability, strength, integrity, self-control, a
pure heart, humility, hard work, endurance, and
vision. Quotes throughout the book tell what other
teens say that “missions is.” Luce challenges teens to
go on a missions trip and develop a radical lifestyle of
a world changer while they are still young. Esther
Knaupp
Your Place in This World : Discovering God’s Will
for the Life in Front of You, by Michael W. Smith;
with Mike Nolan. Nashville: Thomas Nelson,
1998. ISBN 0785270205, HBB, $12.99.
248. Christian life. 256 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In Your Place In This World, popular Christian singer
and songwriter Michael W. Smith lays out for
teenagers the concept that God has a plan for each
person’s life.
The book is divided into four parts: Place, Purpose,
Passion, and God’s Plan. Starting with simple ideas
and working up to the profound ones, Smith
encourages teens to avoid doing things they know are
incompatible with God’s will, and instead cultivate
those talents and interests that the Creator put into
their hearts. He illustrates his points with stories
about his friends, other celebrities, his own life, and
biblical examples.
Smith makes some important points that might be
new ground for some kids. For example, you don’t
have to wait until adulthood for God to use you. He
tells the story of a blind eight-year-old fan whose bold
prayers inspired him while on tour. He reminds about
David, the shepherd boy, whom God anointed king,
and who defeated the fierce warrior Goliath who’d
intimidated the rest of the army.
Smith also puts kids on the alert for those little
accidents and small successes that God uses
powerfully for his own purposes. He points to the
cross-over popularity of his song “Place in This
World.” He believes it was successful not to make
him a star, but to put him into contact with people
who were open to hearing about the gospel at that
moment in time.
Although always entertaining, the book starts out
slow and lightweight. The second half, however,
picks up momentum with profound truth. This book
would be particularly effective read and discussed by
parents and high school juniors planning for college
and career. Andrea R. Huelsenbeck
A Heavenly Place : Words of Inspiration to Bring a
Little Bit of Peace and Paradise into Your Life, by
Jaci Velasquez with Thom Granger. LCCN
985431. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1998.
ISBN 0684846489, PAP, $10.00.
277.3. Velasquez, Jaci; Contemporary Christian musicians--
Biography. 128 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
It seems that Jaci Velasquez is trying to reach out to
young people with the message that even famous
people, like herself, have normal problems, concerns,
emotions, feelings, and difficulties. Eight small
chapters cover topics appropriate for young readers,
such as: relationship with God, family, friends,
dating, sex, dreams and goals, and controling
feelings. Each chapter includes small paragraps or a
few sentences that convey a feeling or an idea. She
uses her own life examples to illustrate her
convictions.
Young readers will relate to the different events in
Jaci’s life and hopefully see that, with God, they can
cope. From divorce, to her first kiss, Jaci is very open
and honest about her feelings and convictions. Being
written in the style of a diary, and being true to young
people’s language, A Heavenly Place will appeal to
young readers even if they aren’t familiar with her
music. Patricia A. Youmans
300’s - Social Sciences
Child Welfare, Carol Wekesser, book editor.
(Opposing Viewpoints.) LCCN 97027518. San
Diego: Lucent Books, 1997. ISBN 1565106792,
HBB, $20.96.
305.23. Child welfare--United States; Children--United States-
-Social condition. 192 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
The Opposing Viewpoint Series provides information
for students to become informed about specific,
timely issues. Each book is dedicated to one issue.
Chapters dedicated to specific topics contain essays
providing point and counter point. Greenhaven Press
strives to present both well known and lesser known
writers for each topic. The series also provides a
detailed index to help the student determine where to
turn for further research. There are in depth questions
for consideration at the end of each book.
Additionally, there is a listing of organizations
specific the topic, with addresses and a brief synopsis
of their missions. The articles are cited so the student
may look up the unabbreviated text. The series is
used in middle, junior high, high schools, and public
libraries.
This book covers Child Welfare and is divided into
four chapters containing six to eight essays. Each
chapter begins with a preface and specific questions
for the reader to consider as the selection is read. At
the end of each chapter is a list of additional articles
to further aid the student. The positive position
begins each section with the negative following. My
only concern regarding this series is the information
overload without much help in analyzing the
information. Bianca Elliott
To Save the Earth : The American Environmental
Movement, by Jules Archer. LCCN 9735373. New
York: Viking, 1998. ISBN 0670871214, HBB,
$17.99.
333.70. Muir, John, 1838-11941; Carson, Rachel, 1907-1964;
McTaggert, David Fraser, 1932-; Foreman, Dave, 1936-;
Environmentalists; Environmental protection. 198 p. Gr. 10 -
12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
As we approach the twenty-first century, Jules Archer
takes a look back at four significant figures of the late
nineteenth and twentieth century North American
environmental movement. Beginning with John Muir
(1838-1914), self-taught naturalist, conservationist,
and the architect of the national park system of the
U.S., Archer goes on to provide biographies of Rachel
Carson (1907-1964), David McTaggart (1932- ), and
Dave Foreman (1946- ). Each figure is placed in their
historical context and the development of their
thought and actions is present in their particular
milieu. Archer is particularly adept at succinctly
describing the unique contribution of each individual
to the larger cause. A more general chapter on the
history of the environmental movement and another
on present and future challenges round out the work.
The author provides a list of environmental
movements as well as a bibliography and suggested
further reading. This book is ideally suited for
students doing research for term papers. Ted
Goshulak
The Fifth Amendment : The Right to Remain Silent,
by Harvey Fireside. (The Constitution.) LCCN
9733476. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0894908944, HBB, $19.95.
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347.73. Due process of law; United States. Constitution. 5th
Amendment--History; Constitutional amendments. 128 p. Gr.
7 - 12.
The Thirteenth Amendment : Ending Slavery, by
Elizabeth Schleichert. (The Constitution.) LCCN
9734082. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0894909231, HBB, $19.95.
342.73. United States. Constitution. 13th Amendment--
History; Constitutional amendments; Slavery; African
Americans--History. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Constitution series by Enslow Publishers is an
informative, easy-to-understand presentation of
several of the constitutional amendments. At the
conclusion of each volume is the entire text of the
Constitution of the United States and a list of all the
amendments. Chapter notes, a glossary, a list for
further reading, and an index conclude the books.
The introduction gives a brief overview of each of the
chapters to follow. These well-written, highly
documented books are invaluable to a better
understanding of our constitution.
The Fifth Amendment, the Right to Remain Silent, by
Harvey Fireside begins by explaining how the fifth
amendment works. It goes on to give the history of
the amendment, going back as far as medieval
England. It discusses the opponents and supporters of
the amendment among our founding fathers and
concludes with recent decisions made in courts
regarding the fifth amendment.
The Thirteenth Amendment, Ending Slavery begins
with a chapter on Nat Turner’s rebellion on August
21, 1831. It goes back to the writing of the
Constitution and discussions on the slavery issue.
This is followed by a historical overview of slavery in
North America beginning in Jamestown in 1619. The
following chapter covers the Civil War including
Harriet Tubman’s story. The book concludes with the
reconstruction and desegregation in the 1950’s.
Author Elizabeth Schleichert shows the impact of the
Thirteenth Amendment on African Americans in the
past and today. Esther Knaupp
Schools Under Siege : Guns, Gangs, and Hidden
Dangers, by Carl Bosch. (Issues in Focus.) LCCN
9636363. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909088, HBB, $19.95.
363.1. School violence; Violence. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Plague and Pestilence : A History of Infectious
Disease, by Linda Jacobs Altman. (Issues in
Focus.) LCCN 9812677. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1998. ISBN 0894909576, HBB, $19.95.
614.4. Communicable diseases; Diseases. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Neo-Nazis : A Growing Threat, by Kathlyn Gay.
(Issues in Focus.) LCCN 9640872. Springfield,
N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909010, HBB,
$19.95.
320.53. Neo-Nazis; White supremacy movements; Racism;
Prejudices. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
Cults, by Karen Zeinert. (Issues in Focus.) LCCN
9640886. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909002, HBB, $19.95.
291.9. Cults. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Militias : Armed and Dangerous, by Kathlyn Gay.
(Issues in Focus.) LCCN 9712528. Springfield,
N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909020, HBB,
$19.95.
322.4. Militia movements; Government, Resistance to. 112 p.
Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Family Abuse : A National Epidemic, by Maria
Hong. (Issues in Focus.) LCCN 977906.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894907204, HBB, $19.95.
362.82. Child abuse; Family violence. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
Teen Crime Wave : A Growing Problem, by Jeffrey
A. Margolis. (Issues in Focus.) LCCN 9653650.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
089490910X, HBB, $19.95.
364.36. Juvenile delinquents; Juvenile delinquency--
Prosecution; Juvenile homicide; Juvenile justice,
Administration of. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Prisons : Today’s Debate, by Marilyn Tower Oliver.
(Issues in Focus.) LCCN 9640137. Springfield,
N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909061, HBB,
$19.95.
365. Prisons; Prisoners. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
School Prayer : A Historical Debate, by Tricia
Andryszewski. (Issues in Focus.) LCCN 9651951.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909045, HBB, $19.95.
344.73. Prayer in the public schools. 104 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Guns, Violence, and Teens, by Vic Cox. (Issues in
Focus.) LCCN 9636365. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894907212, HBB, $19.95.
363.4. Gun control; Firearms; Juvenile delinquency; School
violence. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
AIDS : Choices for Life, by Carol Rust Nash.
(Issues in Focus.) LCCN 971255. Springfield,
N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909037, HBB,
$19.95.
616.97. AIDS (Disease); Diseases. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 2
The Issues in Focus series by Enslow Publishers does
an excellent job of presenting contemporary teen and
society problems. These attractive library-bound
editions include chapter notes of scenes referred to, a
glossary of terms, a bibliography of suggested titles
for further reading, and an index. Wide margins,
pictures, and charts relating to the text enhance the
effectiveness of the material. Each of these books
must be read to check for acceptability since some of
the subjects involved may contain explicit material
that would not be appropriate for young readers.
The book Schools Under Siege is filled with
examples, statistics, and quotes about today’s
problems with school violence. It examines the
reasons for the problems and discusses solutions on
what can be done to change this trend.
Starting with a discussion of disease in ancient times
and a detailed discussion of the Black Death, the book
Plague and Pestilence gives an excellent overview of
the history of diseases. It covers the epidemics of the
Renaissance and moves to the new world. It
concludes with modern epidemics and the issues
surrounding AIDS.
Neo-Nazis gives the background to Neo-Nazism as it
discusses its growth today and links to the movement
in Europe. It shows how propaganda and hate is
spread and discusses how hate crimes can be stopped.
A comment on “hate talk” erupting from broadcasts
“like Rush Limbaugh who also spews racist vitriol”
makes the philosophy of the author suspect although
the book is informative.
The book Cults is concise and informative in covering
the subject mostly in a contemporary setting. It goes
back to colonial times, but the bulk of the material is
on recent groups such as the Branch Davidians, the
Freeman, The Family, and The People’s Temple.
Militias gives the history of the “right to bear arms”
movement going back to colonial times. Current
groups such as Ruby Ridge, the Branch Davidians,
and incidents such as the Oklahoma City bombings
are covered. Quotes are given and philosophies are
discussed.
Family Abuse covers subjects such as child abuse and
neglect, domestic violence, and other forms of family
abuse. The examples are so graphic and the language
so explicit, it may be inappropriate for reading by
teens, but could be a resource for adults working with
abused children.
The book Teen Crime Wave gives the history of
juvenile justice in American and discusses its causes.
It gives a detailed description on how the juvenile
justice system works and describes innovative
programs that have been used. It contains one swear
word in a quote.
Prisons takes a hard look at the increasing problems
our society is facing with the increase in the prison
population and possible solutions. It explains laws
regarding juvenile sentencing and describes life in
prisons and discusses the effectiveness of prisons and
harsh sentencing.
School Prayer gives a background of the Supreme
Court debates going back to the 60’s. The separation
of church and state issues from colonial times is
discussed. It ends with controversies in the 90’s.
Guns, Violence, and Teens presents the issues of
youth and gun violence including violence at school.
State and federal gun control laws are explained. The
book explains the debate on gun control from a
balanced perspective. The issue, according to the
book, is not whether we have gun control, but what
kind of control will work.
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AIDS, Choices for Life begins with the true story of a
young man who died of AIDS and then gives the
history of the development of AIDS, how AIDS is
transmitted, related diseases, how to protect yourself,
and testing and research of AIDS. It is a “politically
correct” presentation that condones immoral
lifestyles. Esther Knaupp
Addiction : The “High” That Brings You Down, by
Miriam Smith McLaughlin and Sandra Peyser
Hazouri. (Teen Issues.) LCCN 9632675.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909150, HBB, $18.95.
362.2. Drub abuse. 104 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Brothers and Sisters : Born to Bicker? by Pamela
Shires Sneddon. (Teen Issues.) LCCN 9632677.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909142, HBB, $18.95.
306.875. Brothers and sisters; Sibling rivalry. 112 p. Gr. 7 -
12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Sexual Abuse and Incest, by Dale Robert Reinert.
(Teen Issues.) LCCN 976704. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909169, HBB, $18.95.
976704. Child sexual abuse; Incest. 104 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
Eating Disorders and Weight Control, by Susan
Frisset and Paula Harney. (Teen Issues.) LCCN
9712489. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909193, HBB, $18.95.
616.85. Eating disorders; Weight control; Self-perception. 128
p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Teens with Single Parents : Why Me? by Margaret
Shultz. (Teen Issues.) LCCN 9639439.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909134, HBB, $18.95.
306.85. Single-parent family. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 3
The Teen Issues series by Enslow Publishers are
informative, relevant and current. Each book in the
series concludes with a chapter on where to find help,
chapter notes, suggestions for further reading, and an
index. They are attractively laid out and easy to read.
Quizzes relating to the material are scattered
throughout the text, and numerous personal examples
from teens are used to enhance the material. These
attractive library-bound books are ideal for research
and for teens who are facing specific problems.
In Addiction, the “High” That Brings You Down,
stories of real teens are used to illustrate how
addictions shape the role or every member of the
family. Common addictions of drinking, using drugs,
gambling, spending money, sexual relationships, and
eating are explored. Signs to identify problems are
explained as well as suggestions for solutions to the
problem.
Sibling rivalry as a normal part of family life is
explored in Brothers and Sisters, Born to Bicker?
Stories of teens are used to illustrate a variety of
situations. Issues discussed include being a twin,
birth order, gender, age spacing, and many other
combinations that add to the stress of sibling
relationships.
Personal stories, questions and information about
abuse are explored in the book Sexual Abuse and
Incest. It tells how abuse happens, how survivors are
affected,and how to end abuse and move on
emotionally. It explores legal issues and sources of
help. Because of the explicit sexual language, this
book may be best used as a resource for adults
working with abused teens.
Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating
disorder are all discussed in the book Eating
Disorders and Weight Control. Factors such as selfesteem,
stress, and pressure to be thin are examined,
and quizzes throughout the book help with selfevaluation.
With the exception of two places where
evolutionary statements are made, the book is very
informative and helpful.
Teens with Single Parents, Why Me? covers issues
such as dealing with parental dating, the feeling of
being caught in the middle, and the responsibility
trap. Numerous quotes from teens who have gone
through the same struggles help hurting teens know
that they aren’t alone, and help them cope with a
tough situation. Coarse and vulgar words used in
some quotes may be objectional as well as a comment
made about a sex ed course that does not promote
abstinence. Esther Knaupp
Hazy Skies : Weather and the Environment, by
Jonathan D. W. Kahl. (How’s the Weather?)
LCCN 9642084. Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN
0822525305, HBB, $15.95.
363.73. Weather; Air--Pollution; Pollution. 64 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Air pollution has always been a part of the planet and
is both natural and man-made. Lighting causes
pollution when it starts a forest fire and pours smoke
into the atmosphere. Cars, trucks, and buses cause
pollutants such as carbon monoxide, soot, ash, and
nitrogen oxides. Years of exposure to pollution can
impact a body’s natural protection and lead to
respiratory diseases. Wind is a significant factor in
determining air pollution levels. It can carry pollution
high into the atmosphere or trap it at ground level.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) can stay in the
atmosphere for up to 60 years, and chemical reactions
with CFCs break down the ozone layer. In countries
near Antarctica, skin cancer rates are on the rise.
Some scientists feel air pollution has played a central
role in the global warming trend, and many
governments and individuals are now working to curb
air pollution.
Jonathan D. W. Kahl has written an informative book
inclusive of illustrations with captions synonymous to
the text. Well-authenticated, the book includes an
introduction, glossary, index, and metric conversion
chart.
Hazy Skies elucidates the interconnection of
atmospheric pollutants and weather. The book is a
valuable educational tool for learning about the
reasons for air pollution, problems stemming from
pollutants, and the need for everyone to take
responsibility on curbing pollution. Dianne
Woodman
Our Poisoned Waters, by Edward F. Dolan. LCCN
96047175. New York: Cobblehill Books/Dutton,
1997. ISBN 0525652205, HBB, $14.99.
363.739. Water--Pollution; Pollution. 122 p. Gr. 10 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
As we near the end of the twentieth century and
survey the myriad of issues facing humankind, the
pollution of the worldís water resources must be high
on the list of concerns. This is the challenge which
Edward Dolan sets out to describe in the present
volume. Dolan provides a worldwide perspective on
this important subject covering both fresh and salt
water situations. The author begins by stating the
causes of the present dilemma and provides examples
of a variety of forms of water pollution. In the final
chapter, Can You Be of Help? Dolan lays out practical
ways for us do become involved. This is a balanced,
fact-oriented book, geared towards students requiring
information for their term paper research. A thorough
bibliography and index round off the work. Ted
Goshulak
Education, by Linda Leuzzi. (Life in America 100
Years Ago.) LCCN 9727664. Philadelphia:
Chelsea House, 1998. ISBN 0791028496, HBB,
$19.95.
370. Education--United States--History--19th century. 87 p.
Gr. 8 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Education, by Linda Leuzzi, is part of the Life In
American 100 Years Ago series, and shares the story
of the beginning of education in America starting with
the Puritans. It covers the progress of elementary,
secondary, undergraduate, and graduate education. A
chapter is devoted to people who influenced
education because of their wealth or because of their
vision; both victories and struggles are shared.
Extensive coverage is given to the education of
women and other minorities including blacks,
migrants, and Native Americans.
This easy-reading, informative book is strengthened
by the multitude of pictures that take the reader back
in time. Pictures include a black and white engraving
of Harvard College (p 17), a black and white photo of
Native American students at Carlisle Indian School (p
34 ), and a colored print of lunchtime games. (p 27).
Credits for pictures is provided at the back of the
book. A few of the photos are out of place: a picture
of a primary classroom was in the middle of a chapter
on universities (p 76). A helpful index is included as
well as a short list of further readings that include
older as well as currently published material. This
book provides a great starting place for someone
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interested in background information of education in
America). Lynette Sorenson
Guide for the College Bound : Everything You Need
to Know, by Larry Linamen. LCCN 9823848.
Grand Rapids: Fleming H. Revell, 1998. ISBN
0800756703, HBB, $12.99.
378.1. College choice--United States; Church colleges--United
States; Universities and colleges--United States--Admission;
College student orientation--United States. 202 p. Gr. 11 -
Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Larry Linamen’s Guide for the College Bound,
Everything You Need to Know is an up-to-date,
informative guide that would be beneficial for high
school students, their parents, and individuals of any
age who are planning to go to college. This excellent
source includes tips on how to choose a college,
questions to ask college reps, answers on finances,
and helpful tips on making use of the internet to get
college information.
This book tells students what to expect in a first term
of college and includes tips for successfully
transferring to another college without losing
valuable credits. It also includes information about
distance learning and educational choices for grownups.
The appendices include a list of financial aid
resources, a listing of names and addresses of
Christian colleges and universities, and web pages by
denomination. This practical guide book is well worth
reading for all prospective college students and their
parents. Esther Knaupp
Parzival : The Quest of the Grail Knight, retold by
Katherine Paterson. LCCN 9723891. New York:
Lodestar/Dutton, 1998. ISBN 0525675795, HBB,
$15.99.
398.22. Perceval (Legendary charater)--Legends; Arthur, King-
-Legends; Knights and knighthood--Folklore; Grail--Folklore.
127 p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A boy raised by his mother in the wilderness and
known to himself only as Young Master or Dear Boy,
knows nothing of life beyond his home. He does not
know of God, the Creator of the bird whose death he
causes. He sorrows so deeply after this accident his
mother orders her peasants to capture all the larks
nearby and wring their necks so her son will return to
happiness. Her plan fails. to allay his sorrow; she tells
him about God and also about the devil from whom
he must flee. The boy soon meets three knights.
Determined to become a knight, he sets out, riding a
dilapidated old nag and armed only with his mother’s
advice and a javelin.
The quest takes him into unfamiliar territory where he
discovers his true parentage and even his name,
Parzival. To his amazement, he finds other family
members. In spite of his youth and inexperience,
Parzival wins many combats, earning the love of a
beautiful woman. While luxuriating one night in a
king’s palace, Parzival fails to ask an all-important
question. His omission leads to years of misery while
he searches for the Grail.
Paterson ends the ancient tale, retold in her
experienced style. In the same triumphant manner as
the original thirteenth-century epic poem Parzival, the
Quest of the Grail Knight, includes high drama,
suspense, surprises, pathos, and well-described
characters who exhibit good and evil. Paterson
clearly presents the story of God’s love and his plan
for saving those who believe him.
Parzival, just 41/2” x 7”, makes a handy family readaloud
book for long winter evenings or summer
afternoons in the shade. Betty M. Hockett
500’s - Natural Sciences and
Mathematics
Scientists of Ancient Greece, by Don Nardo.
(History Makers.) LCCN 983842. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063629, HBB,
$22.45.
509.2. Science, Ancient; Science--Greece--History. 128 p. Gr.
7 - 12.
Rulers of Ancient Rome, by Don Nardo. (History
Makers.) LCCN 983841. San Diego: Lucent
Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063564, HBB, $22.45.
937. Heads of state--Rome; Rome--History--Republic, 265-30
B.C.; Rome--History--Empire, 30 B.C.-476 A.D.; Rome--
Biography. 128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The History Makers Series by Lucent Books would
be a definite addition to any school library. These
well researched volumes are filled with documented,
interesting facts about prominent people who have
made a difference in the world. Each book contains
chapter biographies of both well-known and some not
so prominent figures. Quotes from both primary and
secondary sources are used throughout each book.
After a concise introduction, a chapter follows on
each person. Each volume ends with a list of notes, a
chronology of events, a list of books for further
reading, a list of major works consulted, additional
works consulted, and an index. Numerous pictures
and diagrams sprinkled liberally through the books
make them inviting to a wide audience of readers.
Scientists of Ancient Greece by Don Nardo includes
chapters on Democritus, Plato, Aristotle,
Theophrastus, Archimedes, Ptolemy, and Galen.
These great thinkers were prominent in the areas of
philosophy, botany, scientific classification,
astronomy, and medicine. The book shows where
their theories were found to be correct and where they
were not.
Don Nardo’s Rulers of Ancient Rome begins with a
brief history of ancient Rome from around 2000 B.C.
to the fall of Constantinople in 1453. The rulers
included are Fabius, Marius, Caesar, Cicero,
Augustus, Nero, Constantine, and Justinian. The
chapter biographies include personal facts about each
leader as well as the circumstances and important
events in Rome under their leadership. It gives an
excellent overview of the entire Roman empire.
Esther Knaupp
The Birder’s Bug Book, 2nd ed., by Gilbert
Waldbauer. LCCN 983428. Cambridge: Harvard
Univ. Press, 1998. ISBN 0674074610, HBB, $27.95.
595.717. Birds--Ecology; Insects--Ecology. 290 p. Adult.
A Guide to the Nests, Eggs and Nestlings of North
American Birds, by Paul J. Baicich and Colin O. J.
Harrison. San Diego: Academic Press, 1997.
ISBN 0120728311, PBB, $22.95.
598.2. Birds--North America. 347 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In line with the increasing interest in the natural world
around us, a growing number of more advanced
guides are coming out in spring. The two books
covered in this review fulfill that role in a superior
manner. Field guides provide basic identification
tools whereby we can match the seen with the known.
Beyond this initial identification we look to books
which provide the relational characteristics of our
interconnected world.
Gilbert Waldbauer, professor emeritus of entomology
at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, has
written a book which provides a context for
understanding the ecological interdependence of two
of nature’s creatures: birds and insects. The lives of
insects and birds are inextricably interwoven and
incredibly fascinating. This book looks at birds that
eat bugs, bugs that eat birds, insect and bird defenses,
bugs that eat people, and how people have responded.
With color photographs and black-and-white line
drawings, this is a well-conceived work. Two
chapters which stand out are the chapter on the bugs
that birds eat, where Waldbauer discusses various
“eating habits” used by different birds, and a final
chapter on “disappearing diversity” worldwide.
Baicich and Harrison’s book falls closer to the
category of field guide. However, their presentation
supplements the standard field guide and provides
additional information on the breeding biology of
North American birds. Using identification keys,
species descriptions, color plates, and black-andwhite
drawings, the authors provide succinct yet
pertinent information on the nests, eggs, and nestlings
of North American birds. This second edition comes
twenty years after the first edition and is greatly
improved. The only comparable works, Hal
Harrison’s Field Guide to Eastern Birds’Nests (1975)
and Field Guide to Western Birds’ Nests (1979) (both
in the Peterson Field Guide series), lack the depth and
detail of the present volume. For further information
of North American birds’ eggs see: http://www.pma.
edmonton.ab.ca/vexhibit/eggs/vexhome/egghome.ht
m which provides a comprehensive “virtual exhibit”
of images from the Provincial Museum of Alberta,
Canada.
The Birder’s Bug Book and A Guide to the Nests, Eggs
and Nestlings of North American Birds are both
valuable additions to any library collection. They are
both well-written and useful for enhancing our
knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
Ted Goshulak
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The Great Blue Heron : A Natural History and
Ecology of a Seashore Sentinel, by Robert W.
Butler. Seattle: Univ. of Washington Press;
Vancouver, B.C. : Univ. of British Columbia, 1997.
ISBN 0774806354, HBB, $29.00.
598.3. Herons; Birds. 183 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The great blue heron is the quintessential heron
throughout the majority of North America. However,
despite its widespread territory, this impressive bird’s
biology is still largely unknown. Butler, a research
scientist with the Canadian Wildlife Service, and an
adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University, has
spent over ten years researching the great blue heron.
This study focuses on a particular West Coast colony
and is the first effort to follow the natural history of
this species for a full year of its life cycle. Coastal
British Columbia is home to a particular subspecies of
the great blue heron, distinctive for its nonmigratory
nature. It is at risk due to ever encroaching human
activities. While focusing on a specific geographical
location the results of this study shed light on the
interplay between man, nature, and the preservation
of quality habitats, which transcend place.
Butler presents the reader with a thorough, engaging
look at the great blue heron’s foraging habits, food
selection, social and territorial behavior, breeding,
colony location selection, and population dynamics.
While based on his 1991 Ph.D. thesis (University of
British Columbia), Butler makes his technical data
come alive. It is obvious that he enjoys his work and
his enthusiasm is contagious. The final chapter of the
book looks at the challenge of the conservation of this
species in its native ecosystem. This is where Butler’s
synthesis comes into its own; for we see the threat
which human disturbance places on the future of
these magnificent creatures. With a foreword by
Robert Bateman, a comprehensive bibliography and
index, and many charts and photographs, this is a
well-crafted piece of work. Ted Goshulak
A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors,
by Brian K. Wheeler and William S. Clark. San
Diego: Academic Press, 1995. ISBN 0127455302,
HBB, $32.00.
598.91. Birds of prey--North America; Falconiformes--North
America. 198 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
This guide to the diurnal birds of prey of North
America complements the authors’ earlier work. In
1987, Clark and Wheeler authored A Field Guide to
the Hawks of North America (Peterson Field Guide
series). This book was well-received in birding
circles, with one caveat. The 242 black-and-white
photographs were of only limited use in field
identification. A Photographic Guide to North
American Raptors is an answer to those
shortcomings, and more. With over 370 color
photographs, mostly taken by the authors, and
descriptive species accounts for each of the forty-two
raptor species, this new “edition” is a major work on
its own. The photographs cover the numerous
variations, phases, and stages of the various hawks,
eagles, vultures, falcons, and kites found throughout
North America. Regular vagrants are also given
space. In addition, a “raptor identification problems”
section rounds out the book. Here, fourteen ongoing
identification problems are described and illustrated,
with photographs, in great detail.
Brian Wheeler, illustrator of the 1987 volume, and coauthor
of this latest book, is a talented photographer
and bird artist. More information on his work can be
found at: http://www.virtualbirder.com/bkwheeler/ .
He is at present working on a second edition of the
1987 hawks book as well as smaller versions (eastern
species and western species) of the 1995 raptor work.
All three of these latest products should be available
in the year 2000. Ted Goshulak
600’s - Technology
The Family, Karin L. Swisher, book editor.
(Opposing Viewpoints.) LCCN 97019211. San
Diego: Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1565106687,
HBB, $20.96.
649. Family--United States; Divorce--United States; Family
policy--United States; Adoptions--Government policy--United
States. 224 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Family is part of the Opposing Viewpoints Series
by Greenhaven Press. The series covers such
controversial topics as Abortion, An Aging
Population, American Values, Homosexuality, and
Violence. The book editors have compiled many
varying viewpoints on the subject of family; family
decline, new family forms, single parenthood, gayparented
families, etc.
The book compilers present all sides of the issue.
They includes the views of those who wish to replace
America’s conventional moral standards with an
immoral set of values. Michael Lerner is quoted as
saying, “The agenda of the conservatives and the
religious right does not respect America’s diversity
and would require adherence to a repressive belief
system.”
Also in the book are articles from those who do claim
to adhere to Judeo-Christian morals. D. Bruce
Lockerbie writes, “Advocates of the new forms of
family structure are really advocates of spiritual
rebellion against any higher moral authority than
themselves.”
The introduction to the book uses this quote from
John Stuart Mill to support its validity. “The only
way in which a human being can make some
approach to knowing the whole of a subject is by
hearing what can be said about it by persons of every
variety of opinion and studying all modes in which it
can be looked at by every character of mind. No wise
man ever acquired his wisdom in any mode but this.”
Myrtlemay Pittman Crane
700’s — The Arts and Recreation
★
Sister Wendy’s Book of Saints, by Sister Wendy
Beckett. Chicago: Loyola Press, 1998. ISBN
0829412700, HBB, $19.95.
704.9. Saints. 96 p. Gr. 5 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A drink of cold water for the thirsty, a shelter for the
weary—the inspiration drawn from Sister Wendy’s
Book of Saints by Sister Wendy Beckett is this, and
more. She defines a saint as one who has embraced
God’s love with an unreserved “yes.” The saints are
legend and real, each demonstrating character that
embodies the love of God. The book begins with the
familiar disciples and apostles, goes on to Mary
Magdalene, Paul, John the Baptist, Stephen. There is
a section on virgin martyrs, some who were horribly
mutilated before dying, then on to the saints through
the Medieval times. The book ends with the family
portrait of St. Anne, the mother of Mary, the Virgin
Mary and the Christ Child. “You are not a saint
because you keep the rules and are blameless; you are
a saint if you live in the real world, going out and
loving the real people whom God has put in your life.
For most of us, this is our own family.” (p. 91)
Each page is framed with opposing cornerpieces, the
date of death, feast day, place or characteristic
identified with the person, and attributes. A dropped
initial begins each article, and there are illuminated
letters throughout. Sister Wendy’s comments on the
paintings make the lives of the saints breathe with
their humanity, their devotion. Su Hagerty
Draw Dinosaurs, by Doug DuBosque. LCCN
9724684. Columbus, N.C.: Peel Productions, 1997.
ISBN 0939217228, PAP, $8.95.
743.6. Dinosaurs in art; Drawing--Technique. 64 p. Gr. 6 -
Adult.
Draw Insects, by Doug DuBosque. LCCN
9744401. Columbus, N.C.: Peel Productions, 1997.
ISBN 0939217287, PAP, $8.95.
743.6. Insects in art; Drawing--Technique. 64 p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Doug DuBosque has published two books that deal
with drawing subjects that appeal to children and
adults alike; insects and dinosaurs. In Draw
Dinosaurs, twenty-four dinosaurs are presented with
detailed step-by-step instructions. Each dinosaur
page includes the dinosaur’s vital statistics and a
tidbit of interesting information. Special pages
dealing with basic forms, finishing touches, and
various appropriate backrounds are also included. In
Draw Insects, forty-nine different insects, from A to
Z, are shown. Each page includes information as well
as a life-size drawing of the insect. The reader is
encouraged to study the author’s drawing before
beginning their own illustration. DuBosque directs
the student to look for the characteristics of insects,
such as: six legs, two antennae, three body parts, and
whether or not there are wings. A special section
called Insect Relatives is also included which covers
10 favorite creepy-crawlies that are not insects, such
as the wolf spider, the tick, and the scorpion.
DuBosque makes the topic of dinosaurs and insects
fun and interesting. The step-by-step directions will
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make even the most art challenged person feel
successful. The reading level would make these
books appropriate for young adults, but would also be
a helpful tool for younger students that have adult
help. The illustrations are done in black and white
and could easily be used to trace if a particular insect
or dinosaur is needed immediately. The science facts
are an extra bonus that could be used in a science
curriculum or with a student that has an above
average interest in either topic. Patricia A. Youmans
900’s - Geography, History, and
Biography
Chasing the Horizon : Our Adventures Through the
British Isles and France, by Patrick & Thomas
Kinkade. Eugene, Ore.: Harvest House, 1997.
ISBN 1565076583, HBB, $17.99.
914. Great Britain--Description and travel; France--Description
and travel. 197 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 2 Acceptability - 4
Chasing the Horizon, written by Patrick Kinkade and
illustrated by his brother Thomas, details a trip the
brothers and their father took to Britain and France.
The Kinkades wanted to retrace the elder Kinkade’s
travels in the military in World War Two.
To be successful, a book of travel experiences
requires several factors—an entertaining writing
style, keen observation, human interest (both of the
author and those encountered), knowledge of history,
and a sense of humor. Patrick Kinkade provides
interesting details of places visited, and he possesses
good observational skills. Unfortunately, Chasing the
Horizon fails to satisfy in other areas.
Why should the reader care about the author’s trip?
This is the most important question and one that
Chasing the Horizon never answers. There’s little
Christian content, and a promised “bond of love”
between sons and father never seems to materialize.
While Kinkade writes in a familiar style, his humor
tends to fall flat. His tone at times is affected and selfconscious
as he tells about the “clan Kinkade.”
I’m left wondering why the Kinkades felt this book
was worth writing. Far from being a “wondrous
journey” as the cover proclaims, Chasing the Horizon
fails to excite or inspire. Thomas Kinkade’s
paintings, used as illustrations, are competent but fail
to redeem the book. Andrew M. Seddon
American Jazz Musicians, by Stanley I. Mour.
(Collective Biographies.) LCCN 9727173.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0766010279, HBB, $19.95.
920 (781.65). Musicians; Jazz. 128 p. Gr. 5 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Check the demographics.: ten biographies, nine of
black persons, one white; nine males, and one
female. The reason? “Jazz really is the music of
black Americans.” (p. 7) In American Jazz
Musicians, Stanley J. Mour introduces the reader to
these musical giants. Mour follows the chronology of
jazz, from the forerunner, ragtime, with Scott Joplin
(1868-1917) to Benjamin “Benny” David Goodman
(1909-1986), noted for the integration of races in his
band, to the contemporary trumpet genius, Wynton
Marsalis (b. 1961.)
Mour surrounds his informative biographies with a
preface, chapter notes, a list of books for further
reading, selected discography and an index. Each
chapter also has two black and white photographs of
the subject.
American Jazz Musicians has a high interest level
with a limited vocabulary. Su Hagerty
Commander in Chief : Abraham Lincoln and the
Civil War, by Albert Marrin. LCCN 97008518.
New York: Dutton Children’s Books, 1997. ISBN
0525458220, HBB, $25.00.
920 (973.7). Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865--Military
leadership; United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865;
Presidents. 246 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Morrin doesn’t show a perfect hero, but he shows a
realistic hero. Each chapter highlights different
incidents as the book progresses through Lincoln’s
life, but the majority focus on his tenure as president
of the United States. There is no attempt to write a
definitive biography of Lincoln from cradle to grave,
but each background facet and related information
relate to how Lincoln conducted himself during the
civil war. Through ridicule, questionable military
leaders, and an inherited set of devisive political
circumstances, he remained true to his faith in God
and convictions of moral righteousness. Throughout
his public life Lincoln displays a duty to serve, even
when it costs him dearly.
Marrin mixes snippets from primary sources with his
easy to follow story line that connects the episodes
from Lincoln’s life. The cited material is easy to
follow, although a few passages do have fairly coarse
language.
The book is an excellent example of history shared
through a top-notch story-teller. It is directed towards
young adults, but easily fits adult and upper
elementary audiences as well. It is valuable as both
an entertaining story about Lincoln’s life and as
material for specific research information. Marrin
makes Lincoln come alive while allowing the reader
to appreciate him even more. Larry Smith
Women of Hope : African Americans Who Made a
Difference, by Joyce Hansen; foreword by Moe
Foner. LCCN 9632117. New York: Scholastic
Press, 1998. ISBN 0590939734, HBB, $16.95.
920.72. Afro-Americans--Biography; Women--Biography. 32
p. Gr. 4 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In Women of Hope, former teacher and awardwinning
author Joyce Hansen writes compelling onepage
biographies of twelve outstanding African-
American heroines who conquered racial and gender
prejudice to accomplish their dreams. The volume
includes notable educators, Nobel- and Pulitzer-prize
winners, the first African-American female
neurosurgeon in the U.S., and the first black woman
astronaut. Among the featured women are Ella
Josephine Baker, the Delaney sisters, Ruby Dee,
Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, and
Mae C. Jemison.
With each story, recurring themes surface: the
responsibility one has toward others; the necessity of
following one’s path whatever the obstacles. The
concise biographies whet the appetite for more, and
an annotated bibliography provides further reading
opportunities. The book itself is a work of art with its
picture-book size, textured endpapers, and haunting
photographs, which resonate with character and draw
the reader to study each noble face again and again.
This volume will inspire young people of any color
and would be a welcome addition to the classroom.
Marcy Stewart Froemke
Barbara McClintock : Nobel Prize Geneticist, by
Edith Hope Fine. (People to Know.) LCCN
9743754. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909835, HBB, $18.95.
921 (576.5). McClintock, Barbara, 1902-1992; Women
geneticists; Geneticists; Nobel Prizes--Biography; Women--
Biography. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Simon Wiesenthal : Tracking Down Nazi Criminals,
by Laura S. Jeffrey. (People to Know.) LCCN
978220. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894908308, HBB, $18.95.
921 (940.53). Wiesenthal, Simon; Holocaust survivors; War
criminals--Germany; Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945). 104 p.
Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Sally Ride : First American Woman in Space, by
Carole Ann Camp. (People to Know.) LCCN
979339. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894908294, HBB, $18.95.
921 (629.45). Ride, Sally; Astronauts; Women--Biography.
104 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Neil Armstrong : The First Man on the Moon, by
Barbara Kramer. (People to Know.) LCCN
9645143. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894908286, HBB, $18.95.
921 (629.45). Armstrong, Neil, 1930-; Astronauts. 112 p. Gr.
5 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Isaac Asimov : Master of Science Fiction, by Karen
Judson. (People to Know.) LCCN 9736586.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0766010317, HBB, $18.95.
921 (813). Asimov, Isaac, 1920-1992; Authors, American;
Science fiction--Authorship. 112 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
All books in the series follow the same format, an
introduction to the figure, description and information
about their formative years, their work, and what they
are doing now. Many events are touched upon, but
the authors seem to be trying to present information is
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a well-rounded manner, not just the positive aspects
of the person’s life but also the difficulties. Figures in
the series are interesting, some known to readers
because of mention in social studies history, or
science texts, and also from current events and
popular contemporary figures. Pick and choose the
titles that will best serve your users’ needs.
To many young readers the name Barbara
McClintock will have little meaning. Yet she, along
with Marie Curie, who was awarded the prize with
her husband, and Dorothy C. Hodgkin, are some of
the only women to win Noble Prize in science. This
biography gives readers an idea of the struggles and
sacrifices this woman made throughout her long
career.
After a short look at McClintock’s childhood and
youth, the author focuses on her work with corn, and
the “jumping genes” (called that because of their
behavior), which led to the winning of the prize.
Readers see the perseverance, focus on, and
dedication to an idea that is needed by scientists as
they form an hypothesis, and continue experimenting
in spite of meeting dead ends. It is amazing that a
life’s work could be focused on so common a plant.
While the writing here is clear, it is academic. The
biography will be useful for those classes discussing
scientists in general and women scientists in
particular.
Primary source documents are noted, with frequent
use of “ibid.,” although one wonders if that is needed
at this particular grade level. A bibliography is
provided, and photos are used throughout. There is
even a web site with links to other sites for more
information about McClintock’s work. Useful for
upper grade students involved in beginning research
or writing reports. Consider your library’s needs first.
Tracking down Nazi criminals became the life work
of Simon Wiesenthal. Background is provided for
Wiesenthal’s early life and World War II. Much
attention is paid to the years he spent in Germany and
later in America gathering stories from Holocaust
survivors while trying to track down and bring to
justice the German soldiers and officials who were
responsible for the destruction of 6,000,000 Jews and
other prisoners in the concentration camps during
World War II.
Sally Ride, America’s first female astronaut, broke
ground for subsequent women astronauts, among
them Christa McAuliffe, the teacher who flew on the
ill-fated Challenger flight in the early 80’s. For young
women and girls growing up in the 1980’s, she
provided a role model for entering the sciences and
jobs traditionally thought of as “men’s work.” Those
things are pointed out as well as giving readers a look
at her life before and after her years as an astronaut.
Neil Armstrong, the man who first walked on the
moon during the summer of 1969, is an intensely
private man who, after retiring from NASA in 1971,
taught at the University of Cincinnati, was chairman
of a large corporation, and the recipient of both the
Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional
Space Medal. In addition, he continued to fly planes
and was on the Rogers Commission which
investigated the Challenger accident in 1986. Format
for this volume does not vary from the others, and
while Neil Armstrong and his achievement are
interesting the writing here is dry.
The writing in Isaac Asimov does not seem as good as
that in some of the others. While Asimov was an
extremely prolific writer, writing more than 500
books in his lifetime, and setting the standard for
science fiction writing, he never seems to come alive
on these pages. Rather this telling of his life has little
of the spark needed to make readers want to read the
works by the master of science fiction, whether they
be fiction or non-fiction. readers who want only the
facts and dates will find them here, however. Leslie
Greaves Radloff
Susanna Wesley, by Kathy McReunolds. (Women
of Faith.) Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 0764220039, PAP, $4.99.
921 (649). Wesley, Susanna; Women--Biography; Christian
biography. 160 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
John and Charles Wesley greatly influenced
Christianity and Susanna Wesley by Kathy
McReynolds gives a glimpse into the life of their
mother who had a tremendous impact on their lives.
Not only do we learn about Susanna’s family and
growing up years, but we also become aware of the
changes that were happening in the Christian church
during the 1600’s. Susanna became interested in
Christianity at an early age, and also received more
education than most other girls her age. Susanna’s
faith helped her to deal with hardships in marriage,
poverty, the birth of nineteen children and the death of
many of them at a young age. In the midst of her
struggles she became a leader in spiritual matters, not
only in her household, but also in the Christian
community.
This book is easy to read, but sometimes goes into
details that don’t seem relevant to a story about
Susanna. Chapter 2 gives too much detail about what
was going on in the Church during her growing up
years. There are many lengthy quotes from other
biographies such as John Kirk’s The Mother of the
Wesleys. Actual quotes form the writings of Susanna
or her family members give added insight into their
thoughts and actions; however, a few of them are
lengthy (eg. p 87-97). A number of times throughout
the book, the author refutes what others have said in
biographies about Susanna Wesley (eg. p 26) and
evidence is provided to prove the point. Current
views on Susanna’s child rearing and teaching
methods are also discussed (p 82). A short
bibliography, including older as well as current titles,
and two appendixes, one of selected meditations and
prayers, and the other with Susanna’s exposition on
the Apostles Creed make this book a useful source of
information about the Wesleys). Lynette Sorenson
The Tall Mexican : the Life of Hank Aguirre, All-
Star Pitcher, Businessman, Humanitarian, by
Robert E. Copley; with a forward by José F. Niño.
LCCN 983185. Houston: Piñata Books, 1998.
ISBN 1558852255, HBB, $16.95.
921 (796.357). Aguirre, Hank, 1931-1994; Baseball players;
Businessmen; Mexican Americans--Biography. 159 p. Gr. 6 -
12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
While Hank Aguirre may be best known to sports fans
as a major-league baseball pitcher with a blazing
fastball, others will remember him as the founder of
Mexican Industries, a corporation founded to train
and employ minorities. Aguirre’s major-league
career ran from 1955 to 1970, and he pitched for the
Cleveland Indians, the Detroit Tigers, the Los
Angeles Dodgers, and the Chicago Cubs. It was in
1962, while with the Detroit Tigers, that Aguirre
became an All-Star pitcher and had the lowest ERA in
the American League. Always proud of his Hispanic
heritage, Aguirre wanted to help other Mexican
Americans “climb up the ladder of life” after his
retirement from baseball. In 1979, in a neglected area
of urban Detroit, he founded Mexican Industries, an
auto-accessories company. Today that firm is a
multi-million dollar business that employs more than
a thousand people. Aguirre lost a battle with prostate
cancer in 1994.
The main focus of this book is on Aguirre the
businessman and humanitarian rather than Aguirre
the major-league pitcher. Little information is given
on his personal life as an adult expect for a quick
accounting of his divorce and re-marriage at the age
of sixty-one and a vague mentioning of his children’s
problems with addiction. Throughout the book
Copley uses many quotes from different sources to
supplement the text. The sixteen pages of photos
show Hank Aguirre’s growth from a smiling little boy
with a baseball to a successful businessman. The
book also contains a chronology, Aguirre’s stats and
career pitching highlights and a helpful glossary and
index. Lillian A. Heytvelt
Lorraine Hansberry : Playwright and Voice of
Justice, by Catherine Scheader. (African-
American Biographies.) LCCN 9735798.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0894909452, HBB, $19.95.
921 (812). Hansberry, Lorriane, 1930-1965; Dramatists,
American; African Americans--Biography; Women--Biography.
128 p. Gr. 5 - 10.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
This well-written and exceptionally researched
biography covers the life of Lorraine Hansberry, a
gifted Black playwright who died much too early at
the age of thirty-four. Author Catherine Scheader’s
research includes interviews with Hansberry’s sister,
cousin, and former husband in addition to a variety of
biographical books.
Following the format of Enslow’s African-American
Biographies series, Lorraine Hansberry: Playwright
and Voice of Justice opens with a chapter describing
opening night of Hansberry’s first play, Raisin in the
Sun, on Broadway. The play, by a then unknown
Black playwright, was the first to focus on the Black
experience, and met with doubt that it would succeed
on Broadway. A multitude of backers toured the play
through key cities, such as Chicago and Philadelphia,
to convince a Broadway theater of the play’s merit.
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The success of Raisin in the Sun launched
Hansberry’s career as a playwright at the age of
twenty-nine. A prolific writer, much of Hansberry’s
work was published and produced posthumously by
her former husband and “literary executor.”
Remaining chapters follow Hansberry’s life
chronologically from her birth into an affluent Black
family to her illness with pancreatic cancer and death
in 1965. Literary projects as well as background
information for the reader to fully understand the
political influences on Hansberry’s career are also
described. Notes for each chapter are included at the
end of the book, as is a chronology of Hansberry’s
life. A list of suggested reading and a thorough index
are helpful for student research. Lisa Wroble
Langston Hughes : Poet of the Harlem
Renaissance, by Christine M. Hill. (African-
American Biographies.) LCCN 9710991.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894908154, HBB, $18.95.
921 (818). Hughes, Langston, 1902-1967; Poets, American;
Afro-Americans--Biography. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Jackie Robinson : Baseball’s Civil Rights Legend,
by Karen Mueller Coombs. (African-American
Biographies.) LCCN 9620584. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894906909, HBB, $18.95.
921 (796.357). Robinson, Jackie, 1919-1972; Baseball players;
Afro-Americans--Biography. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett : Crusader Against Lynching,
by Elaine Slivinski Lisandrelli. (African-
American Biographies.) LCCN 9734253.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894909470, HBB, $18.95.
921 (323). Wells-Barnett, Ida B., 1862-1931; Afro-American
women civil rights workers; Afro-American women journalists;
Civil rights workers; Journalists; Women--Biography. 128 p.
Gr. 5 - 12.
Carter G. Woodson : Father of African-American
History, by Robert F. Durden. (African-American
Biographies.) LCCN 9730243. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894909460, HBB, $18.95.
921 (973). Woodson, Carter Godwin, 1875-1950; Educators;
Afro-Americans--Biography; Historians. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Barbara Jordan : Congresswoman, Lawyer,
Educator, by Laura S. Jeffrey. (African-American
Biographies.) LCCN 9619955. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 0894906925, HBB, $18.95.
921 (328.73). Jordan, Barbara, 1936-1996; Legislators; Afro-
Americans--Biography; Women--Biography. 112 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Coretta Scott King : Striving for Civil Rights, by
Anne Schraff. (African-American Biographies.)
LCCN 9643141. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997.
ISBN 0894908111, HBB, $18.95.
921 (325). King, Coretta Scott, 1927-; Civil rights workers;
Afro-Americans--Biography; Women--Biography; King, Martin
Luther, Jr., 1929-1968. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Jesse Owens : Track and Field Legend, by Judith
Pinkerton Josephson. (African-American
Biographies.) LCCN 9717005. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1997. ISBN 089490812X, HBB, $18.95.
921 (796.42). Owens, Jesse, 1913-1980; Track and field
athletes; Afro-Americans--Biography. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
This series gives readers information about Black
Americans who are only briefly mentioned in many
social studies and history books, and whose stories
need to be told. For that reason alone the series is
worth looking at, though school librarians will want
to evaluate each volume to see which best fits their
school needs.
Each volume contains additional endnotes, primary
source documents, a bibliography, and some
photographs of the individual and his/her times.
Writing of individual volumes is uneven and at times
“textbookish,” but they do enlighten readers and
provide much needed information about these
prominent Black Americans. They will be useful for
schools needing information about Black Americans,
and also those wishing to build their knowledge of the
contributions and struggles of Black Americans.
Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance are
synonomous. This legendary Black American writer
whose poetry earned him much praise in later years,
waged a long battle to have his work accepted during
his lifetime. Along with many other American writers
and performers, both white and Black American,
Hughes left America in the early years of the century
to live and work in France where there was less racial
bias. After honing his skills in Paris and traveling in
Europe, he returned home to American where he
became a prominent spokesperson for, and poet of the
Black American community, receiving the Spingarn
Medal from the National Association for
Advancement of Colored People in 1960.
This volume makes reference to the Harlem
Renaissance and Hughes’ personal life, though it does
not go into as much detail as the Milton Meltzer
biography (Crowell, 1968 and recently reissued by
Millbrook Press with illustrations) or Audrey
Osofsky’s Free to Dream : The Making of a Poet:
Langston Hughes (Lothrop, 1996), nor is the writing
as fine. This volume does includes a bibliography for
further reading, uses many photographs, and includes
some of Hughes’ poetry.
April 1947 seems like eons ago to today’s young
readers, yet fifty-one years ago Jackie Robinson
broke the color barrier in professional baseball by
signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers. The grandchild
of slaves, Robinson’s parents separated while he was
quite young. His mother took him to live in the north
to escape the Ku Klux Klan and Jim Crow laws.
Once his talent became apparent he played with the
Negro Leagues until Branch Rickey signed him with
the Montreal Royals. Use with the other biographies
of Robinson, Teammates by Peter Golenbock
(Trumpet, 1990), though for a younger audience, it
provides good background and is quickly read, while
the McKissock book about the Negro Leagues, Black
Diamond: The Story of the Negro Baseball League
(Scholastic, 1994), gives context for the struggle
Blacks faced in intergrating major league baseball.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett devoted her life to the antilynching
crusade. For those of us not familiar with
lynching or aware of how prevelant it was in 19th
century United States, particularly in the South, this
book is an eyeopener. According to the writer, Wells-
Barnett traveled to as many lynchings as possible to
gather the facts from eye-witnesses and other
individuals involved. She then wrote editiorials
against them urging members of Black communities
to unite and stand together demanding the rights
promised them by the Constitution. She did this
while raising younger sisters and later her own
children.
Carter G. Woodson, the son of slaves, was the first
Black American to receive a PH.D in history from
Harvard University. He struggled throughout his life
to make others, both black and white, to see that the
Black community had its own hstory and a story
which needed telling. Though he was at times aloof
and at odds with colleagues, he was well-respected
and remembered for being a moving force behind
Negro History Week (which would later become
Black History Month). He saw his mission as that of
educating others in the rich history of Black
Americans. Like Hughes, he was a recipient of the
Spingarn Medal from the National Association of
Colored People in 1926.
Not only did Barbara Jordan struggle against racism,
sexism, and poverty to become a lawyer in Texas
during the 1960’s, she also faced opposition from
within the ranks of Black Americans who thought
she was not taking a decisive enough stand on certain
issues. During her career Barbara Jordan was
appointed to the Judiciary Committee after her arrival
in Washington in 1973 when her mentor, Lyndon B.
Johnson recommended her. She also was a keynote
speaker at the 1976 Democratic National Convention
in New York CIty. After retiring from political life
she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The widow of Martin Luther King, Coretta Scott
King gave up a promising career as a singer to marry
Martin Luther King, Jr. and work with him in his
mission to bring the idea of civil rights for Black
Americans to pass. Today many people would scoff
at the idea of a person with so much talent giving up
her dream to follow her husband. Yet throughout the
biography readers sense the strength of Coretta Scott
King and her determination to fulfill his mission after
his assassination in 1968. This book provides an
introduction to a woman who was, and is, very much
a part of the Civil Rights movement.
Think Jesse Owens and visions of the 1936 Olympics
come to mind. But there is more to the story of Jesse
Owens than disproving Hitler’s idea of the Master
Race. Readers follow his youth and early years as a
track star, when pay was not as good as now, and
endorsements for products few, even fewer if you
happened to be Black. One wishes that the central
figure of this biography would be more alive. Use
with the Adler biography of Owens written for
younger audiences and you’ll have a well-rounded
look at this track and field star. Leslie Greaves
Radloff
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Charlotte Brontë and Jane Eyre, by Stewart Ross;
illustrated by Robert Van Nutt. LCCN 971765.
New York: Viking, 1997. ISBN 0670874868, HBB,
$16.99.
921 (823). Brontë, Charlotte, 1816-1855; Authors--English;
Women--Biography; Brontë, Charlotte, 1816-1866. Jane Eyre.
46 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Charlotte Bronte and Jane Eyre, as the title implies,
combines biographical information about Charlotte
Bronte, a thorough summary of the novel Jane Eyre,
and points out the similarities between the two. Three
insets give additional historical information to
provide a background to the rest of the text. A
chronology of the life of Bronte is included.
The illustrations include full-page oil paintings and
pencil drawings. The paintings are rich and colorful
showing both the beauty of the English moors and the
austerity of Victorian life.
Stewart Ross states in his author’s note that his
purpose in writing Charlotte Bronte and Jane Eyre is
two-fold. He is providing biographical information
for the reader who has already discovered Bronte’s
Jane Eyre and is summarizing the novel for the
reluctant reader who has not. The text is packaged in
a semi-picture book form and appears to be aimed at
a middle school audience. The novel being promoted,
however, is not at an appropriate reading level for the
average middle school student. This book would
have been more effective if presented in a form
appropriate for high school and college students.
Karla Kessell
C. S. Lewis : Christian and Storyteller, by Beatrice
Gormley. LCCN 977860. Grand Rapids: Wm. B.
Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 0802851215, HBB, $15.00.
921 (823). Lewis, C. S. (Clive Staples), 1898-1963; Authors--
English. 182 p. Gr. 5 - 12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
C. S. Lewis will forever be identified with his classic
children’s series, The Chronicles of Narnia, but he
was also a renowned lecturer and scholar. For those
interested in learning more about the creator of the
magical wardrobe and Aslan, Beatrice Gormley’s
biography provides an insight into the life of a man of
deep Christian faith and intelligence. C. S. Lewis
was not always a Christian; in fact, he was at one time
a self-professed atheist. Gormley thoroughly
explores the different relationships that shaped and
formed C. S. Lewis both as a Christian and as a writer,
from the troubled one with his father, to his poignant,
late-in-life marriage to Joy Davidman. Other
important influences were the Inklings, a writing
group to which he belonged, one member of whom—
J.R.R. Tolkien—did not like the “Narnia” books at all.
Quotes from C. S. Lewis, his family, and friends
enhance the text, and many black and white
photographs add interest to a very readable
biography. Students who love The Chronicles of
Narnia will enjoy seeing a photo of the intricately
carved wardrobe that inspired its namesake in his
series. The list of suggestions for further reading at
the end of the book includes not only a complete
listing and brief description of all the books that C. S.
Lewis wrote, but also an excellent list of others
written about him. Lillian A. Heytvelt
The Righteous Gentiles, by Victoria Sherrow. (The
Holocaust Library.) LCCN 9736191. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 156006093X, HBB,
$22.45.
940.53. Righteous Gentiles in the Holocaust; Holocaust,
Jewish (1939-1945); World War, 1939-1945--Jews--Rescue; .
112 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
The Resistance, by Deborah Bachrach. (The
Holocaust Library.) LCCN 9726844. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060921, HBB,
$22.45.
940.53. Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945); World War, 1939-
1945--Jewish resistance; World War, 1939-1945--Jews--Rescue;
Righteous Gentiles in the Holocaust . 112 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
The Final Solution, by Earle Rice, Jr. (The
Holocaust Library.) LCCN 9710847. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060956, HBB,
$22.45.
940.53. Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945). 112 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
The Death Camps, by William W. Lace. (The
Holocaust Library.) LCCN 9736192. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060948, HBB,
$22.45.
940.53. Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945); World War, 1939-
1945--Concentration camps. 112 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
The Nazis, by William W. Lace. (The Holocaust
Library.) LCCN 9721376. San Diego: Lucent
Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060913, HBB, $22.45.
940.53. Germany--History--1933-1945; National socialism;
Hitler, Adolf, 1889-1945; . 112 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Nazi War Criminals, by Earle Rice, Jr. (The
Holocaust Library.) LCCN 979811. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060972, HBB,
$22.45.
940.53. Nuremberg Trial of Major German War Criminals,
Nuremberg, Germany, 1945-1946; War crime trials. 112 p. Gr.
6 - 12.
The Survivors, by Eleanor H. Ayer. (The Holocaust
Library.) LCCN 9727260. San Diego: Lucent
Books, 1998. ISBN 1560060964, HBB, $22.45.
940.53. Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945); Holocaust survivors;
Refugees; Jews--History--1945- . 96 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Readers will find information on all aspects of
Hitler’s plan to exterminate European Jewry and
those he considered society’s “misfits” in The
Holocaust Library. Volumes begin with a summary of
the times and the political scene before Hitler’s rise to
power continuing with the war years through the
Nuremberg Trials and later where applicable. A time
line of the events follows. Volumes are heavily
illustrated with period photographs, some of which
appear in more than one volume. The images along
with quotations from primary source materials and
survivors make a powerful impact on the reader. The
material presented is by no means new, but having
access to the information in separate volumes will
make it easy for students and teachers to find material
for research projects. There is some overlap of
material from volume to volume.
This is a grim, serious look at a period of time when
it seemed that human decency was lost. Information
about the Righteous Gentiles, resistance groups, and
groups within Nazi Germany and Axis Europe show
that many people followed their consciences in
opposing Hitler and the Nazis, and the price they
paid. More unsettling is the stand of the United States
and some church groups. An index, chapter notes,
glossary, and suggestions for further reading are
included in each volume.
A good summary for the age intended but very
sobering to read. Photographs of the naked corpses of
men, women, and children are upsetting and
unsettling even though they have been used often.
More unsettling to young readers may be the faces of
the prisoners and the photographs of naked people
lined up waiting to be executed. Writing seems
uneven in the different volumes of the series. These
volumes would be additionally powerful with
information from the Holocaust Museum in
Washington, D.C. Consider carefully, keeping in
mind other library holdings.
Righteous Gentiles, a name given by the Jewish
people to those non-Jews who at risk to themselves,
helped Jews during World War II. Many of the stories
told are familiar: Anne Frank; the Danes helping
Jews escape to Sweden, which provided the basis for
Lois Lowry’s Newbery winning book Number the
Stars; Jacob’s Rescue, and others. Raoul
Wallenberg’s story is told here though not in as much
detail as the Milton Meltzer book. This is the volume
that provides a ray of hope in a otherwise dark topic
and would be a good beginning look at this aspect of
World War II.
Lest we believe that the Jewish people and others
totally accepted Hitler’s Final solution, The
Resistance tells the story of those who chose to
oppose him, the consequences faced, and the
punishments meted out to those who chose to follow
their beliefs and consciences. Many of these stories
have provided the basis for other fiction and nonfiction
for young readers as well as many movies.
Here they are summarized and organized by
geographic area. Readers can go to other sources for
a more detailed account of individual incidents.
When all other methods of persecution failed to kill
enough Jews, the death camps were put into
operation. The Final Solution allows readers to see
that, while the escalation was gradual, once it gained
momentum there was no turning back. Harder to
answer is the question how so many people seemed to
be unaware of what they heard, saw, or smelled. Will
raise many discussion questions.
First person accounts from the survivors and people
who liberated the camps makes The Death Camps a
very depressing yet hopeful book. Depressing in that
so many suffered so much. Hopeful in that many
prisoners within the camps and a few of the people in
charge did what they could to help others. Hopeful
too, since after the camps were liberated, many of
these people were determined never to allow such a
thing to happen again and to get their lives back to
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normalcy, if normalcy can be used when all your
family, friends, and people from your village have
been killed and you are the sole survivor. The power
of the human spirit stands out here.
Just who were the Nazis is answered, at least in part,
in The Nazis. The names and faces we know from
other materials on World War II, but here they are
profiled briefly. Readers are shown different facets of
their lives, not just their role in the army. Their
development from the early years between the World
Wars and Hitler’s rise to power is traced. This should
shed more light on a topic that is briefly covered in
textbooks. With all that has been written the authors
conclude this volume with a question: Who was to
blame? The conclusions reached are that guilt must
be shared by many people and groups, including
those who chose to do nothing. This could be used as
a good basis for discussion with more mature
students.
The Nuremberg Trials and their outcomes are
presented in Nazi War Criminals with information
about the Nazi War criminals who went into hiding
and were subsequently found, tried, and convicted.
With each passing year not only are there fewer
survivors to bring evidence against those involved but
fewer perpetrators as well. Same format as other
volumes and brings out the idea that there is a price to
be paid for wrong-doing and that even though fifty
plus years have passed people are still being held
accountable. Mention is made here as in other
volumes that war crimes and persecution of certain
groups has gone on for years and is still going on
today.
The time line in The Survivors differs from the others
since it begins in 1944 and ends in 1954 with Jewish
immigrants being granted citizenship by the Knesset
in Israel. The struggle for acceptance of the Jewish
State of Israel is shown as is the struggle of displaced
Jews from all over Europe, bereft of family, many ill,
with no means to earn a living to get to Israel. The
displaced persons camps are mentioned and the
groups who tried to find family members. Leslie
Greaves Radloff
If I Forget Thee, O Jerusalem, written and
photographed by Bernard Wolf. LCCN 9811106.
New York: Dutton Children’s Books, 1998. ISBN
0525457380, HBB, $17.99.
956.94. Jerusalem--History. 64 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 3
Bernard Wolf’s color photography of Jerusalem
brings the city to life—the places and the people—
from archaeological sites to today’s soldiers. This
photojournalist presents Jerusalem’s story from
ancient to modern times, incorporating the history of
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Wolf relates the bare facts of Christ’s life, including
his crucifixion at Golgotha. But he writes:
“Historians disagree with theologians that Jesus and
Pilate ever met. Pilate was known to be a cruel,
impatient, and corrupt man, who would, most likely,
not have wasted his time over the mere disposal of
another troublemaking Jew.”
The author presents a rather detailed account of
Muhammad’s life and includes the assertion that
Muhammad’s “footprints can still be seen embedded
on the rock’s surface” [from which he supposedly
rose to heaven.] One of Wolf’s last statements is “If
God exists, whose God is He?”
The photographs would benefit from captions.
Sometimes the accompanying text clarifies the
subject. Other photos cannot be easily recognized.
The title of the book comes from Psalm 137. Jeanette
Hardage
Clash of Cultures, Prehistory-1638, by Christopher
Collier and James Lincoln Collier. (The Drama of
American History.) LCCN 9631859. Tarrytown,
N.Y.: Benchmark Books, 1998. ISBN 0761404368,
HBB, $28.50.
970.00497. Indians of North America--History; United States--
History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775; Culture conflict--
North America; Indians of North America--First contact with
Europeans. 96 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
The Paradox of Jamestown, 1585-1700, by
Christopher Collier and James Lincoln Collier.
(The Drama of American History.) LCCN
9634998. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761404376, HBB, $28.50.
973.2. Virginia--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775;
United States--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775;
Slavery--Virginia. 94 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
Pilgrims and Puritans, 1620-1676, by Christopher
Collier and James Lincoln Collier. (The Drama of
American History.) LCCN 9649382. Tarrytown,
N.Y.: Benchmark Books, 1998. ISBN 0761404384,
HBB, $28.50.
973.2. Pilgrims (New Plymouth Colony); Puritans;
Massachusetts--History--New Plymouth, 1620-1691. 96 p. Gr.
5 - 8.
The French and Indian War, 1660-1763, by
Christopher Collier and James Lincoln Collier.
(The Drama of American History.) LCCN
9644063. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761404392, HBB, $28.50.
973.2. United States--History--French and Indian War, 1755-
1763; United States--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775.
96 p. Gr. 5 - 8.
The American Revolution, 1763-1783, by
Christopher Collier and James Lincoln Collier.
(The Drama of American History.) LCCN
9645440. Tarrytown, N.Y.: Benchmark Books,
1998. ISBN 0761404406, HBB, $28.50.
973.3. United States--History--Revolution, 1763-1783. 96 p.
Gr. 5 - 8.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Clash of Cultures points out the cultural
difference between the Indians or Native Americans
and the Europeans. It explains why there was conflict
when the Europeans began settling North America.
The Paradox of Jamestown was that it was the
beginning of a government that would lead the way to
equality and freedom for ordinary people. But it was
also the start of an economy dependent of slavery,
which would lead to the oppression of many.
Pilgrims and Puritans explains the reasons these two
groups came to America and the differences between
them. Most important, it offers an even-handed
treatment of the religious faith that motivated them.
The Colliers explain such negatives as the Salem
witch trials in the context of the time period. The
impact of the Puritans on American government,
education, and ethics is covered. The book concludes
“...a great deal that is best about the American nation
was handed down to us from those Puritans who
struggled so hard to build a godly and charitable
society.”
The French and Indian War is difficult to understand,
perhaps because of the misleading name given to it.
This book has only two maps, and more would have
been helpful.
The American Revolution is excellent. Several maps
help illustrate where the battles took place. The
authors speak eloquently about George Washington,
explaining that his greatness as a leader was due to his
incorruptible character.
The series is attractive and well written. In the
preface, the authors express their goal of telling the
big picture of history, leaving out much of the details
which tend to overwhelm many students. On a
whole, they have done exactly what they set out to do.
The books are attractively illustrated with famous
paintings, engravings, political cartoons, and
photographs from Williamsburg, Jamestown, and
Plimouth Plantation. Each book has a bibliography
and index. Cathleen Sovold Johnson
Come All You Brave Soldiers : Blacks in the
Revolutionary War, by Clinton Cox. LCCN 9744198.
New York: Scholastic Press, 1999. ISBN 0590475762,
HBB, $15.95.
973.3. United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783,
Participation, Afro-American; Afro-American soldiers--History-
-18th century. 182 p. Gr. 6 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Clinton Cox retells the story of the Revolutionary
War, taking the reader into chillingly inadequate
quarters occupied by the Continental Army. Never
challenging the hypocrisy of a nation set on fighting
for freedom while enslaving some of its people, Cox
simply presents racial attitudes of the period. He
peppers his book with portraits of some of the
thousands of Negro soldiers who by choice or by
force fought alongside whites to free the land from
the British. Crispus Attucks, believed to be the first
person killed in the Revolutionary War, is mentioned.
So is Prince Whipple, the black man who traveled
with George Washington and was with him at the
crossing of the Delaware. Some lesser known men
are also portrayed, such as a man known only as
Black Sampson, about whom a poem was written and
Jude “Old Rock” Hall, who first heard sounds of
battle at Bunker Hill.
Cox gathered old drawings, and copies of documents
from the Library of Congress, New York Public
Library, WPA National Archives, Negro History
Association and other sources to bring reality to his
work. Both a detailed index and comprehensive
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bibliography add to the importance of Come All You
Brave Soldiers.
Young adult readers will find it difficult to put down
this book. They will be shocked, horrified, yet
thrilled as they read of this difficult period in
America’s history. The richness of the information,
along with the starkness of the illustrations make this
a welcome addition to any library. Dell Smith Klein
McCarthy and the Fear of Communism in American
History, by Karen Zeinert. (In American History.)
LCCN 9743162. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998.
ISBN 0894909878, HBB, $19.95.
973.9. Anti-communist movements--History; McCarthy,
Joseph, 1908-1957. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Industrial Revolution in American History, by
Anita Louise McCormick. (In American History.)
LCCN 9723479. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998.
ISBN 0894909851, HBB, $18.95.
338.0973. Industrial revolution--United States; Industrial
revolution--England; Industries--History. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Lincoln Assassination in American History, by
Robert Somerlott. (In American History.) LCCN
9723480. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0894908863, HBB, $18.95.
973.7. Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865--Assassination; Unites
States--Politics and government--1861-1865. 128 p. Gr. 5 -
10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Watergate Scandal in American History, by
David K. Fremon. (In American History.) LCCN
9730897. Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1998. ISBN
0894908839, HBB, $18.95.
973.924. Watergate Affair, 1972-1974; Nixon, Richard M.
(Richard Milhous), 1913-1994; Unites States--Politics and
government--1969-1974. 128 p. Gr. 5 - 10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Oregon Trail in American History, by Rebecca
Stefoff. (In American History.) LCCN 977271.
Springfield, N.J.: Enslow, 1997. ISBN
0894907719, HBB, $18.95.
978. Oregon Trail; Overland journeys to the Pacific; West
(U.S.)--History; Froniter and pioneer life--West (U.S.). 112 p.
Gr. 5 - 10.
Quality- 4Acceptability - 4
The Fight for Women’s Right to Vote in American
History, by Carol Rust Nash. (In American
History.) LCCN 9718043. Springfield, N.J.:
Enslow, 1998. ISBN 089490986X, HBB, $19.95.
324.6. Women--Suffrage; Women’s rights--History. 128 p. Gr.
5 - 10.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Enslow is able to take significant periods, events, and
people that influenced our country’s history and
present the information in a comprehensive manner
for middle grade and older readers. Such is the case
in their In American History series. Although these
are well-represented subjects, Enslow understands the
needs of beginning researchers and showcases the
material with consideration and relevant pertinence.
The books are also helpful for adult researchers in
need of a quick, but thorough overview.
Each book begins with a action highlight then moves
into a slow progression that recaps the life and history
of the featured subject. The books often weave in
small windows of information which allows for a
more intimate, personable approach to the subject.
Early life and career, and important dates are covered,
and the books include applicable source documents,
photographs, and illustrations. Other notable features
are timeline, chapter notes, further reading
suggestions, index, and where relevant, a list of
internet addresses. Considering the books are under
two hundred pages they adequately cover important
historical aspects. Librarians looking for a practical
historical series for upper elementary and junior high
might consider these books. Pam Webb
Life Among the Indian Fighters, by James P. Reger.
(The Way People Live.) LCCN 9728776. San
Diego: Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063491,
HBB, $22.45.
978. Pioneers--West (U.S.)--History; Pioneers--West (U.S.)--
Biography; Frontier and pioneer life--West (U.S.); West (U.S.)--
Biography; Indians of North America--Wars--West (U.S.). 128
p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Life During the Crusades, by Earle Rice, Jr. (The
Way People Live.) LCCN 9727994. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063793, HBB,
$22.45.
909.07. Crusades--Influence; Europe--Social life and customs;
Civilization, Medieval. 96 p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Life During the Great Depression, by Dennis Nishi.
(The Way People Live.) LCCN 9733030. San
Diego: Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063815,
HBB, $22.45.
973.91. Depressions--1929; United States--Social life and
customs--1918-1945. 96 p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Life During the Renaissance, by Patricia D.
Netzley. (The Way People Live.) LCCN 9739781.
San Diego: Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN
1560063750, HBB, $22.45.
940.2. Renaissance. 96 p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
This series introduces the reader to the variety of
living through the centuries, providing stimulating
information for today’s people. Each volume follows
a similar outline. They all have a common foreward
explaining the aim of the series: understanding
ourselves. Each book starts with an introduction to
that book’s individual study. Avoiding stereotypes,
the meat of the study is lucently explained through
historical data; quotations from contemporary writers
and individuals; pictures from and about the era;
details about living through that era’s events;
introductions to interesting people and the common
person from that period; and details of engrossing
sidelights. Helpful study material ends each volume:
chapter notes; suggested books for further reading,
with a short review of each book; also with short
reviews, a bibliography; a very usable index; and,
picture credits. Where important, as in Life During
the Crusades, a chronological list of events is
included. Each book closes with a brief, interesting
article about the author. For example, some of the
direct ancestors of James P. Reger, author of Life
Among the Inidian Fighters, experienced frightening,
exciting confrontations with Indians; hence, Reger’s
great interest in Indian lore.
The volumes of The Way People Live make helpful
companion reading. For instance: Life During the
Great Depression adds substance to incidents
mentioned in the Thoene’s Shiloh Autumn; Life
During the Renaissance gives background to much of
our contemporary life. The narratives in these
volumes flow chronologically. Interesting detail
appears in attention-drawing sidebars. All difficult
words are explained in parenthesis within the text.
The additional helps assist research. Common,
everyday people and their events receive sympathetic
but truthful treatment; as does good and bad. The
reader gets to know individuals in depth. Where
possible, the various facets of a story are compared.
Sturdily bound, the volumes will last through much
use. Donna J. H. Eggett
Destination Duluth, by Martin Hintz. (Port Cities
in North America.) LCCN 9614740. Minneapolis:
Lerner, 1997. ISBN 0822527839, HBB, $16.95.
977.6. Duluth (Minn.). 80 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Destination Los Angeles, by Dianne MacMillan.
(Port Cities in North America.) LCCN 9637407.
Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN 0822527863,
HBB, $16.95.
979.4. Los Angeles (Calif.). 80 p. Gr. 6 - 8.Destination
Montreal, by Janice Hamilton. (Port Cities
in North America.) LCCN 9638694.
Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN
82252788X, HBB, $16.95.
971.4. Montréal (Québec). 80 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Destination New Orleans, by Martin Hintz. (Port
Cities in North America.) LCCN 9616306.
Minneapolis: Lerner, 1997. ISBN 0822527847,
HBB, $16.95.
976.3. New Orleans (La.). 80 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Destination New York, by Linda Tagliaferro. (Port
Cities in North America.) LCCN 9710570.
Minneapolis: Lerner, 1998. ISBN 0822527936,
HBB, $16.95.
974.7. New York (N. Y.). 80 p. Gr. 6 - 8.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Without leaving home readers can tour several
important cities in Lerner’s Port Cities of North
America series. Although these books are targeted at
the junior high level, the density of material covered
is more appropriate for high school students and
adults.
Continued on p. 98.
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 6 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWS
ADULT FICTION
Jonathan’s Journey, by Katherine Bell;
illustrations by Steve Miller. Mukilteo, Wash.:
WinePress, 1998. ISBN 1579210783, PAP, $9.95.
F. Mentally handicapped children--Fiction; Christian life--
Fiction. 144 p. Gr. 6 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Ever wish you could walk with Jesus along the beach,
your hand in his, asking questions about life and
death, sin and forgiveness, and hear the Savior’s
answers?
In Jonathan’s Journey, Katherine Bell’s work of
inspirational fiction, such a fantasy materializes in a
tenderly told tale whose central character is a sixyear-old
boy born with severe mental and physical
disabilities. One night while asleep in his mother’s
arms, Jonathan is awakened by Jesus and invited to
travel through time and space with him. As Jonathan
and his Creator begin their travels, the profoundly
disabled youngster is startled to find he can see, walk,
and talk just like other children. But he discovers that
on this particular night (unlike other children) he can
also tread the rainbow and sail the moon.
As the journey unfolds, Jonathan witnesses important
events in the lives of Noah, Moses, Abraham, and
Jesus himself. The Lord’s answers to the little boy’s
questions reflect God’s love and grace and man’s
need for a Savior.
The author brings a lyrical quality to her gently paced
book that at times gives you a sense of “you are
there.” In spots, though, the story loses some of its
drama and risks becoming a lesson. The appeal of
Jonathan’s Journey is in part Steve Miller’s black and
white illustrations and the incorporation of verses
from well-known hymns of the church. Each chapter
opens with a drawing and a hymn. Nancy B. Clarke
A Note from the Editor: by Mary McKinney
The Greatest
Story . . .
Have you ever
noticed those
long lines in
shopping malls
or bookstores as
people wait
excitedly to get a personally signed
copy of the best seller they tightly
grip? The author quickly scribbles a
name, and occasionally a small note
for the delighted fan. Now, the book’s
value has been increased significantly
because it carries the personal touch of
the author.
How much more value must the
greatest book of all, the Bible, possess
as every page, every word is
personally written to impart life and
light to the reader. The Bible reveals
the very core purpose of our existence
— the why’s and wherefores, the how
come’s and becauses of every
significant question humanity has ever
asked. This word is living and active,
assuring the reader of ever-increasing
knowledge and an ever-growing
relationship with its author — God
Almighty himself!
The following story, related to me by
a missionary, shows the life-changing
power of the Bible. A small Russian
child of six named Mishna sat wideeyed
with wonder as he heard the
Christmas story being related to him
for the first time. Later, the group of
children were given precious colored
paper (unavailable in their city),
cardboard, and felt so they could make
their own little manger scenes.
Mishna carefully cut out yellow strips
to make the hay for the baby Jesus.
Then he placed the little felt figure he
made in his caradboard manger. But
when the missionary came by he
noticed that Mishna had placed two
tiny figures in the cradle. “Mishna,
why do you have two babies?” the
missionary asked. ‘Did you
understand the story we told you?”
Mishna nodded and began to retell the
Christmas story, detail by detail. But
when he got to the manger he only
told of the baby Jesus. “So who is the
other little figure?” the missionary
asked again.
Little Mishna’s eyes filled with tears
as he explained, “I wanted to give the
baby Jesus a gift, like everyone else
had done, but I had nothing to give.
Jesus looked at me and told me I
could stay with him, and I wanted to
so much, but I had to have a gift.
Finally, I thought that if I could keep
him warm that would be a good gift.
So I asked Jesus, ‘If I keep you warm,
will that be a good enough gift?’ And
Jesus told me, ‘If you keep me warm,
that will be the best gift anybody ever
gave me!’ So I got into the manger
and then Jesus looked at me and he
told me I could stay with him for
always.”
Shaking with sobs by this time, little
Mishna knew he had finally found a
safe place where he could be
welcomed and loved no matter what.
This simple story should give us
incentive to keep this greatest book at
hand as number one on our best-seller
list!
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 7 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

ADULT
FICTION
The Courtship of the Vicar’s Daughter, by Lawana
Blackwell. (The Gresham Chronicles; 2.)
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556619480, PAP, $10.99.
F. England--Fiction; Romance fiction. 412 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Can people truly change? This is the question posed
in the ongoing saga of Vicar Andrew Phelps and his
lovely young daughter Elizabeth. While Elizabeth is
being courted by a steady, handsome young Anglican
priest, the man she once loved comes back into her
life wanting to prove he is not the same person he
formerly was. Can she and her father trust this man
who once broke her heart? He learns it will take more
than words to redeem his love.
Set in a 19th century English village, this tale
continues the unfolding drama of the young widow
Julia Hollis who runs the Larkspur Inn. Gresham
may be a sleepy country village, but author Laura
Blackwell keeps the pace up as she delves into the
lives and loves of its inhabitants. This sequel to the
Widow of Larkspur Inn portrays its characters in a
depth and richness that holds the reader’s interest.
Life in all its complexities and challenges sharpens
and shapes the choices made by these characters
attempting to live out their faith in Christ. Defeat as
well as victory is confronted. Though set in an earlier
time, the reader will identify with the emotions and
dilemmas of the characters. Mary Jarvis
Red Dove of Monterey, by Stephen Bly. (Old
California; 1) LCCN 9816580. Wheaton, Ill.:
Crossway Books, 1998. ISBN 1581340044, PAP,
$10.99.
F. California--History--To 1846--Fiction. 216 p. Gr. 11 -
Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Alena Louise Tipton finds herself all alone in Old
California after the unexpected death of her father.
Despite her loneliness, she won’t return to Boston.
She loves the Spanish mission and its people in
Monterey too much. Taken in by a well-known
family, this confident nineteen-year-old makes the
choice to take over her father’s hide and tallow
business. She travels with the family to San Juan for
trading.
When rancher Wilson Merced arrives in San Juan to
sell hides, he finds himself dealing with Alena. Alena
is not at all impressed with the man. But first
impressions are often deceiving and she soon learns
that not one of her many Spanish admirers can
compare with this rugged, fellow-Americano. It
doesn’t take long for Alena to see that Wilson’s
compassionate spirit and love for his Lord sets him
apart.
Tragedy strikes back in Monterey, and Wilson escorts
Alena back to the mission. He admires her fortitude
and conviction in the midst of adversity, wishing he’d
met her years ago—before his own misfortune. She’s
more than curious about his secretive past and why
he’s vowed to never marry. Together they must find
a way to help each other.
Stephen Bly has a wonderful way of bringing his
characters to life. Readers will find themselves
locked into the story with these real characters. Red
Dove of Monterey is an excellent example of “show,
don’t tell,” making it a real page-turner. Spiritual
elements are down-to-earth and applicable. Beth
Loughner
Sweet Carolina, by Stephen A. Bly. Wheaton, Ill.:
Crossway Books, 1998. ISBN 0783804105, PAP,
$10.99.
F. City and town life--United States--History--19th century--
Fiction; Merchants--West (U.S. West)--History--19th century--
Fiction; Orphans--West (U.S. West)--History--19th century--
Fiction; Women--West (U.S. West)--History--19th century--
Fiction; Western stories. 325 p. Gr. 9 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
“Sweet” Carolina Cantrell is more independent,
business-like, and stubborn than sweet, but these
traits enable her to deal competently with the murder
of her brother and the settling of his affairs in
Montana Territory. Carolina is more than a match for
his incorrigible, saloon-owning partner Starke, and
her pride will not allow her to be defeated into
returning home to her cultured life in the eastern
states.
But Carolina has an inexplicable romantic streak as
well, which complicates her need to be in total
control. Her heart is irresistibly drawn to a Godfearing,
drifting cowboy, Ranahan. With his help and
that of July, a young boy she befriends, Carolina
successfully establishes a store literally in the middle
of nowhere and tackles the challenges presented
when a nearby gold strike promises to turn her
business into a growing town. She also encounters
difficulty when she discovers that Jacob, her former
beau, is in the area, and wants to renew their
relationship. Carolina is shocked and angry when she
meets the actress Isabel Leon whom Jacob dumped
her for, but she becomes sympathetic and forgiving
when she learns how terribly Jacob treated Isabel.
The two women establish a tenuous but promising
friendship and together prevent the illegal wiles of
Jacob from ruining the budding town.
Sweet Carolina, first in the Heroines of the Golden
West series, is a fast fun read. Author Stephen Bly has
written a delightfully engaging and romantic story.
Carolina’s character is well developed, though some
of the other characters are not. Gunfights and threats
occur with casual regularity and are trivialized as the
easy solution for dealing with people you don’t like.
(Even the Christian characters take this approach.)
Also, love at first sight is the order of the day,
although Carolina and Ranahan’s relationship is
ultimately based on their strong commitment to God.
Readers will especially enjoy the irony and humor of
the inward conversations Carolina carries on with
herself and God, as her strength and faith are
challenged. Sherri Beeler
Like Abigail, by Millie Barger. LCCN 9814074.
San Antonio: Langmarc, 1998. ISBN 1880292580,
PAP, $12.95.
F. Orphans--Fiction; Marriage--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--
Fiction. 196 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
“What? I’m too young to get married and to someone
I don’t even know ...” But, Gail, seventeen years old
and an orphan, has no choice. She has no where else
to go. Mrs. Steele, the Superintendent of the
Orphanage, assures Gail that Leo Hogsdon is a “nice
christian man” and one who will provide well for her.
It doesn’t take long for Gail to realize that Leo’s heart
belongs to neither her nor God but to his land and
possessions. As Leo’s verbal communication to her
becomes abusive, Gail learns on whom she can
depend and trust.
The author, Millie Barger, has written a “modern day”
novel that parallels the story of Abigail and David in
the Bible. The style of writing is similar to Grace
Livingston Hill. It is a bit slow moving and void of
any climatic happenings. I found it difficult to relate
to the characters and to become involved in their
circumstances. Tammy Williams
To the Ends of the Earth, by T. Davis Bunn.
Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1996. ISBN
0785278982, HBB, $22.99.
F. Constantinople--History--Fiction. 335 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Travis, Son of Cleatus battles poison, pirates, pagan
gods, and a perilous sea voyage to Carthage, where
his father wants him to seek financial help from his
half-brother. Should this prove unsuccessful, Travis
must seek a foothold for the family in the
economically prosperous Constantinople, and
uncover the political corruption affecting his family.
In his travels, Travis is joined by Hannibal, a
Christian trader, and his daughter Lydia. Travis and
Lydia fall in love, but cannot marry, since Travis is
not a believer. Travis is perplexed by the divisions
within the Christian community—the Gnostics, the
Donatists, and the followers of Arius. But Hannibal
gives Lydia wise advice: “He will see the flaws in our
religion....and unless we refuse the convenient cloak
and instead meet him with open honesty, he will use
what he learns to condemn and criticize...we must
seek not to shield ourselves but rather disarm him
with the truth.”
Having little success with his corrupt, younger halfbrother,
Travis continues on to Constantinople, only
to be kidnapped by his power-hungry older brother
and enslaved in the mines. There, under the tutelage
of an old priest, he accepts Christ’s gift of salvation.
With his life spiritually transformed, Travis is finally
freed from the mines to confront his brother’s
corruption, establish business prospects with
members of the Christian community, and ask Lydia’s
hand in marriage.
To the Ends of the Earth, by T. Davis Bunn, is an
intriguing story which starts off strongly, but becomes
somewhat disjointed and less compelling towards the
end. Set in a time of great political upheaval and
spiritual unrest, the story is a vivid portrayal of the
struggle to establish basic elements of the Christian
faith which we now take for granted: Was Jesus truly
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 6 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULT
FICTION
God and yet fully man? Was God the Father the same
as Jesus the Son? Other questions revolving around
salvation were fiercely debated: When believers were
under severe persecution, should they stand and be
martyred for their faith, or was it permissible to go
into hiding? Could they go through the motions of
worshipping the emperor, and still claim to follow the
One True God in their hearts? Could they purchase
false certificates of sacrifice from the priests and not
deny their faith with such actions? Could penance
atone for one’s sins? To the Ends of the Earth follows
one man’s struggle to find the truth promised to those
who earnestly seek Christ with all their heart. Sherri
Beeler
Homeward, by Marilyn Carlson. LCCN 9711833.
Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah Women’s Fiction, 1998.
ISBN 1576730298, PAP, $10.99.
F. Christian fiction. 338 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Meg, fleeing a broken engagement, arrives in
Crandale with mixed emotions. Her late
Grandfather’s cranberry farm bring many warm
memories of summers spent helping him. But
crowding these aside come the harsh memories of
Sunny, her eccentric mother who never really was a
mother, and of Grandmother, whose approval Meg
was never able to gain, but who now is slowly dying.
At thirty-five, Meg has long ago made her own way
in the world and would never have foreseen returning
to this family whose ties she had mostly severed.
Maybe it was now time to forgive and forget even if
it means taking the blame.
Homeward is a story of healing bruised emotions
between estranged family members. Past
assumptions and judgments made are discovered to
be based on misunderstandings that only the maturity
of adulthood can fathom. Skeletons tumble out of the
closet that shed light on reactions to situations that
shaped growing up years.
Melody Carlson includes much information on the
delicate methods of cranberry farming as the main
character strives to restore the bogs from years of
neglect. This parallels the gradual restoration of
family relationships and returning to the commitment
made to God as a teen. Debbie Lindsay
Arabian Winds, by Linda Chaikin. (Palisades
Premier.) LCCN 9653685. Sisters, Ore.:
Palisades, 1998. ISBN 1576731057, PAP, $11.99.
F. World War, 1914-1918--Medical care--Fiction; World War,
1914-1918--Egypt--Fiction. 391 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Lions of the Desert, by Linda Chaiken. LCCN
9727848. Sisters, Ore.: Alabaster Books, 1998.
ISBN 1576731146, PAP, $11.99.
F. World War, 1914-1918--Medical care--Fiction; World War,
1914-1918--Egypt--Fiction. 458 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Valiant Hearts, by Linda Chaikin. LCCN 9813065.
Sisters, Ore.: Alabaster Books, 1998. ISBN
1576732401, PAP, $11.99.
F. World War, 1914-1918--Egypt--Fiction; Espionage--Fiction.
376 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
A four day holiday from her work aboard a mission
ship was just what Allison Westcott needed. What
she did not expect was to be caught in the middle of a
murder mystery that involved agents from warring
countries. Set in Egypt and Turkey in 1916, Arabian
Winds is the story of a young nurse named Allison.
While on her “archaeological holiday,” a member of
the team is discovered dead. When Allison discovers
her cousin, Leah, in the hut of the dead man, she
unwittingly becomes a messenger in a world she does
not understand. In the process, Allison meets a
British agent—Bret Holden—and during one of his
rescues, finds herself very attracted to him. Will she
and Bret survive this mission? And will she
remember that she has a “fiance” waiting back in
Egypt for her?
In Lions in the Desert, we find Allison serving as a
nurse on the war front along with her “unofficial”
fiance, Wade Findlay. She has not heard from Bret in
twelve months, although he promised he would be in
touch with her once he returned from England.
When, on the front, both she and Wade are in need of
being rescued, Bret once again appears and whisks
her off to safety. It appears that Bret has no desire to
become committed in any relationship. But then why
does he keep showing up each time that she needs
him? He would be a lot easier to forget if he would
just stay away.
In Valiant Hearts, Allison is told that Bret has
betrayed the Intelligence Agency and has lost his
position. Allison disregards this information and is
determined to trust in the man who had recently asked
her to marry him, even if that was months ago, and
she hasn’t heard from him since. When Allison does
see Bret again, it is on a cruise on the Nile, and there
is a rich and attractive woman on his arm. Has he
betrayed his country and her? What should she
believe?
Linda Chaikin has once again written a series that
readers will not want to put down until they have
finished book three. As usual, Chaikin has chosen an
exotic and creative location/time period for the series
and has woven historical events with the fiction. The
novels contain mystery, romance, and a picture of a
heroine who will sacrifice all for those she loves and
her country. Both the heroine and hero have a strong
relationship with God and they seek him to guide
them in their adventures. One will read this series and
know why I consider Linda Chaikin one of the best in
the Christian field of fiction writing. Tammy Williams
Where Love Calls, by Donna Fletcher Crow.
LCCN 989951. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,
1998. ISBN 089107988X, PAP, $10.99.
F. The Cambridge Seven--Fiction; Missionaries--England--
Fiction. 304 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Hilda Beauchamp not only knew exactly what she
wanted, but also what would best suit the other
members of her family. But all of Hilda’s careful
planning goes awry as those in her circle of family
and friends are caught up in the evangelical
awakening that breaks out on the university campuses
of England in the 1880s. One by one the wealthy,
promising young men of her acquaintance abandon
their lives of indolence, privilege, or position for the
hardships of missionary life; a call that Hilda, though
a Christian, does not share or completely understand.
Bewildered by the changes in those around her and
the direction of her own heart, Hilda turns repeatedly
to Kynaston Studd, whose deep desire to serve on the
mission field seems always thwarted. Both Hilda and
Kynaston watch and pray for their dear friends and
relatives as love of a higher sort calls them all to lives
they had never dreamed.
Where Love Calls is a noble attempt to recreate the
atmosphere and personalities of the great revival in
late nineteenth century England. Crow’s subject is a
worthy one, as so much of what Christians believe
about foreign mission work and how it should be
done was formed by the men known as the
“Cambridge Seven” who answered God’s call in
those days. Donna Fletcher Crow has done
considerable research into the lives of the Seven and
has written a book that, while fiction, attempts to
portray these giants of the faith as flesh and blood
men. Her decision to do this in conjunction with a
romance, though, is unfortunate, for both the
romantic aspects and the spiritual self-examination of
each member of the Seven suffer as a result. In
addition, the number of characters and their various
friends and relatives becomes problematic as the
reader tries to keep track of who is who. In the
process, Hilda Beauchamp’s spiritual growth goes
undeveloped throughout most of the story until near
the end, leaving the impression of a petulant young
woman rather than a maturing one. The glimpses into
the life of C. T. Studd and the others of the
“Cambridge Seven” are well worth the reading of this
book. It is long past the time that these great men of
God should be re-introduced to a new generation. If
Ms. Crow’s book encourages its readers to delve
further into the lives of these men, she will have done
a great service. Pamela A. Todd
Spirits, by Peggy Darty. LCCN 9829214. Sisters,
Ore.: Palisades, 1998. ISBN 1576734609, PAP,
$9.99.
F. Great Smoky Mountains--Fiction; Mystery fiction. 245 p.
Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Michael, a private investigator, and his wife Elizabeth
are searching for a missing woman in a remote area of
Tennessee that has been left in the dustheap of time.
The missing woman, who has seemingly vanished
into nothingness, is the fiancee of a young, very
wealthy business man who has yet to receive a
ransom note for her return. The people are a tight
lipped, protective group and Michael must move
slowly to gain their confidence and much needed
information, especially since the local search and
rescue and sheriff are unable to unearth any clues.
Spirits is by Peggy Darty, who has created through
this plot a glimpse into the life of the people who have
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chosen seclusion in the midst of modern America.
She touches on the history of the Cherokee nation and
their contribution to the area. There is evidence in the
story that previous books by Ms. Darty have
introduced the main characters, but enough
information of the past is included to become
acquainted with their history. Debbie Lindsay
The Martyr’s Chapel, by D. J. Delffs. (Father Grif
Mysteries; 1.) Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 0764220861, PAP, $9.99.
F. Mystery fiction. 319 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Father Reed Griffin is the Episcopal rector (senior
pastor) of a large cathedral-like church located on the
beautiful campus of Avenell University, “a southern
Ivy League kind of school,” nestled in the foothills of
the Cumberland Mountains in Tennessee. Dudley J.
Delffs has provided a remarkable authenticity to
Father Griff, an Episcopal priest comfortable in his
calling to serve God in the small college town and
campus he’s known since boyhood. Gentry Truman,
a wealthy famous American playwright, is murdered
in an isolated college chapel, bringing in the national
news media and show business personalities to upset
Avenell’s tranquillity.
The twists and turns of characters and plot kept me
intrigued, guessing vainly at which character was the
murderer. I particularly liked the portrayal of the
kind, gentle characters who were Father Griffin’s
family, friends, and acquaintances in this charming
setting. What detective novel begins with a quote
from Matthew 16:25-26! The thrust of our Lord’s
words are actually carried through as the lesson of this
story. Humor is mixed with pathos and intrigue in
this delightful novel. After reading this book, I’m
sure that any Episcopal parish seeking a new priest
will be clamoring for “Father Griff” to be their rector.
But I suspect that they will be unable to lure him away
from his beloved Avenell. That’s all to the good, as I
hope Delffs will take us back again many times more
to Avenell for further adventures with Father Griff.
This story gets a happy thumbs up! Mike Jarvis
A Ship Possessed, by Alton Gansky. (J. D. Stanton
Mysteries.) LCCN 9845221. Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 1999. ISBN 0310219442, PAP, $12.99.
F. Mystery fiction; Submarines--Fiction; Spiritual warfare.
329 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Present day San Diego and its clear, warm waters is
the setting for the arrival of a World War II submarine,
the USS Triggerfish, unannounced and unmanned.
Retired Navy captain J.D. Stanton is at first excited
beyond belief to be in charge of research for this
mysterious sub, but soon unusual and life-threatening
events begin to happen that turn his eagerness into
caution and apprehension.
Alton Gansky takes the reader from active duty in the
Atlantic during World War II, to the current lives of
those assigned to discover how the Triggerfish can
look brand new after having disappeared fifty years
earlier. Unexplained happenings and an eerie, almost
tangible evil have some believing the sub is haunted,
and others determined to prove that the supernatural
doesn’t exist.
A Ship Possessed is a page-turner that is guaranteed to
give the reader chills and a deeper appreciation for
their Christian faith. Gansky is quite expert at filling
the pages with interesting details combined with
excitement and a sense of mystery. This is an
excellent read for anyone who enjoys exploring the
possibilities of supernatural activity in the light of
biblical text. Mary McKinney
Tarnished Image, by Alton L. Gansky.
(Barringston Relief Chronicles; 2.) Colorado
Springs: Waterbrook Press, 1998. ISBN
1578560462, PAP, $7.95.
F. Mystery fiction. 370 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Dr. David O’Neal, the director of Barringston Relief,
is arrested for skimming money from the organization
and smuggling illegal aliens into the country. The
proof of David’s guilt on one charge lies in a video
that shows him turning over a briefcase full of money
to the leader of a smuggling syndicate. Greg, a
college student, demonstrates to David how the
incriminating video is a fake by showing him a spot
where a shadow is pointing in the wrong direction.
When Greg finds other misdirected shadows and
images of mosquitos on some of the money in the
video, he leaves a message on David’s answering
machine unaware that his phone is bugged. This
results in Greg’s death and an unsuccessful attempt on
David’s life. David’s name is cleared, and Dr. Elaine
Aberdene, a highly respected scientist and the person
responsible for the frame-up, escapes.
Alton L. Gansky has written a suspense story in
which a man is framed for crimes he didn’t commit
and has to prove his own innocence. Through
David’s personal resolve, support of his lawyer and
girlfriend, and trust in God, he is able to discredit the
conspirators and reestablish his own credibility.
Tarnished Image is a story about a man whose anger
and frustration over the recent disastrous events in his
life cause him to rely on his own devices instead of
his faith in God until his girlfriend intervenes. Then
David puts his faith back in God to resolve his
predicament. Dianne Woodman
Honor’s Price, by Kristen Heitzmann. (Rocky
Mountain Legacy; 2.) Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1998. ISBN 0764220322, PAP, $9.99.
F. Colorado--History--Fiction; Western fiction. 303 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Honor’s Price by Kristen Heitzmann is the second in
a series, Rocky Mountain Legacy. Abbie Martin, the
feisty young woman who lives in Rocky Bluffs,
Colorado, is courted by and marries Montegomery
“Monte” Farrel, successful rancher. But someone is
attempting to rustle his livestock, at times killing the
animals in gruesome ways. Each of the characters,
relatives, hired hands and townsfolk alike must come
to terms with the price Honor exacts. The challenges
include how to deal with a handicap that threatens
your livelihood, who will care for the children when
the director of the orphanage dies and the workers are
dispersed to other positions, and why the cattle are
being killed.
Heitzmann has an uncanny ability of letting the reader
accompany the characters, think what they think,
observe what they see and hear. Careful attention is
paid to detail. For instance, in describing Farrel’s
land, the author says, “Despite its appearance, the
grass—Sand Drop See, Buffalo, and Gramma—was
as excellent as the lush green pastures of the East.” (p.
16)
Honor’s Price is part of a series that can stand alone,
but would be more satisfying if read in sequence. Su
Hagerty
The Treasure Seekers, by Patricia Hickman. (Land
of the Far Horizon; 5.) Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1998. ISBN 1556615450, PAP, $9.99.
F. Australia--Fiction. 364 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Treasure Seekers, a novel set in an English
farming community in 1844, tells the story of Annie
Caraway, her mother Constance, and four siblings.
Constance, recently widowed with five children, is
unable to keep the family farm. When Annie suggests
a move to New South Wales where free land is given
to new settlers, Constance objects because it is a
convicts’ colony.
Uncle Abbot, a magistrate, with four children of his
own, purchases their farm and says his family will
relocate to New South Wales with them. Annie
wonders why; this isn’t like her uncle.
New South Wales doesn’t become the land of
opportunity for the Caraways. Disasters from
weather, fire, failed crops, and Constance’s death,
make them penniless orphans. The Abbots reluctantly
take them in. Annie meets Rogan, an impoverished
architect, charged with embezzlement, and
imprisoned in a private jail on the Abbots’ estate.
Annie delivers his evening meal while, Isabelle, her
younger sister, whose duty it is, meets secretly with
Charles Lafferty, their half-sister’s fiance.
The introduction of characters in the first chapter is
difficult to follow, but the story takes over. The
struggles the main characters face are easy to identify
with. Rogan doesn’t come back to God until the final
chapters.
Patricia Hickman weaves romance through the
entanglements of the sisters. Kidnapping, running
away, and a life and death chase through the
wastelands add suspense. The character development
shows spiritual growth through family separation and
the death of both parents. Though part of a series, the
novel can stand alone. Gail Welborn
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Cloth of Heaven, by B.J. Hoff. (Song of Erin; 1.)
LCCN 9726669. Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House,
1998. ISBN 0842314784, PAP, $9.97.
F. Irish Americans--Fiction; Ireland--Fiction. 382 p. Gr. 10 -
Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Proud, but penniless and abandoned, Terese Sheridan
is forced into thievery and manipulation to survive in
hurricane-devastated Ireland. Her goal is to obtain
passage to America, where she will join her brother
and start a new life. She is attracted to Brady Kane, a
handsome, roving Irish American painter. Thinking
he can be of some use to her in reaching her goals, she
becomes pregnant with his child.
Brady’s brother, Jack, is a wealthy newspaper owner
attempting to bring the plight of the Irish into the
homes of Americans by publishing Brady’s travel
notes and illustrations. Embittered by the death of his
wife, and the prejudice against Irish-Americans, Jack
is encouraged by Terese’s brother Cavan to seek the
answers in a relationship with Christ. This is
reinforced by the godly Samantha Harte, a young
widow Jack has come to love. But even she has her
own dark past of an abusive marriage to overcome.
She believes she will never be able to love a man.
When Cavan nearly dies protecting Jack from an
attempt on his life, Jack and Samantha’s friendship is
strengthened, and Jack is forced to take a serious look
at his spiritual standing.
Cloth of Heaven is an appealing book because it
describes real people with real hurts and needs, and
doesn’t give simplistic answers to the problems
author B.J. Hoff raises. Terese, bitterly estranged
from Brady, makes her way to America, carrying his
child under false pretenses—a child she almost
aborted. Cavan is recovering from two grievous
wounds; Jack is not yet convinced to entrust his life to
Christ; Samantha still must face the pain of her past;
and Brady wanders Ireland, restlessly seeking for
something to fill him without tying him down. But B.
J. Hoff has set the stage for the books that will follow
in this series with wonderfully developed characters,
and the hope of certain redemption for at least some
of them. Sherri Beeler
Charles Towne, by Angela Elwell Hunt. (Keepers
of the Ring; 5.) LCCN 9732270. Wheaton, Ill.:
Tyndale House, 1998. ISBN 0842320164, PAP,
$11.99.
F. United States--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775--
Fiction. 401 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Reared in an upper-class home with all the trappings
and servants of the wealthy, Rachelle Bailie discovers
from her dying mother that she is part Indian—a race
shunned and enslaved by the settlers at Charles
Towne as much as the Negroes who work the rice
plantations. Engaged to be married to the handsome,
slave-owning Lanston Wragg, Rachelle insists on
traveling to Boston to find Mojag Bailie, missionary
to the Indians—the father she never knew. Rachelle
has learned firsthand some horrifying things about
Lanston and how he “manages” his slaves. If she
confirms that she truly is part Indian, Rachelle fears
that Lanston will break their engagement—or worse.
Rachelle’s Boston-bound ship is attacked by the
notorious pirate Bettencourt, who offers freedom to
all the Indian and Negro slaves aboard. Rachelle
escapes Lanston by insisting that Bettencourt take her
on board and help her find her father. As they search,
Rachelle falls in love with the gentlemanly
Bettencourt, who opens her eyes to the evils of
slavery. Ultimately Rachelle is united with her father,
though not without great cost of life and freedom for
his Indian friends, and she and Bettencourt flee
Lanston with Mojag, and get engaged.
Charles Towne, book five in the Keepers of the Ring
series, is a well-researched book written by Angela
Elwell Hunt, who provides a list of her historical
sources at the end of the book. Charles Town is a
good read, although the story-line appears less than
credible in places, including the exaggeratedly
villainous Lanston, the overly chivalrous Pirate
Bettencourt, and Rachelle’s choice to sail with a
pirate rather than remain behind in relative safety.
The book speaks powerfully of the spiritual bondage
of sin as well as the physical bondage of slavery.
Sherri Beeler
Journey, by Angela Elwell Hunt. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1997. ISBN 1556616090, PAP,
$10.99.
F. Egypt--History--Eighteenth dynasty, ca. 1570-3120 B.C.--
Fiction; Bible, O.T.--History of Biblical events--Fiction. 384 p.
Gr. 9 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Manasseh and Ephriam, sons of Joseph, vizier to the
Egyptian pharaoh, are grown young men who are
eager to find their places in life. Manesseh and
Ephriam are called to their grandfather Jacob’s death
to receive his blessing. Jacob crosses his hands so
that his right hand falls on the younger son, Ephriam,
instead of the older son. Jacob pronounces that the
younger son will be greater than the older. Ephriam
takes full advantage of this opportunity to lord
himself over Manesseh. He then returns to Egypt to
pursue what appears to be a promising relationship
with the pharaoh’s daughter. Ephriam imagines that
marrying into the royal family will be God’s way of
making him a great man of power.
Manesseh meanwhile remains behind with his uncles,
Joseph’s brothers, and hears the incredible tales of
Jacob’s life and God’s faithful relationship with his
chosen people. Manesseh commits himself to the
Lord, and God speaks to him in a dream telling
Manesseh that people of God should leave Egypt and
return to conquer the land of Canaan. But Manesseh
is in love with Jendayi, a beautiful Egyptian harpist
who is a slave in the pharaoh’s court and none of
Joseph’s brothers are willing to believe that God truly
spoke to him. Manesseh struggles with confusion and
doubts. If he follows God’s call to prepare an army to
conquer Canaan, he will go against his father’s
counsel and earn the scorn of his brother and uncles.
If Manesseh’s plans are discovered by the pharaoh, he
will lose any chance of marriage to Jendayi—and will
perhaps lose his own life. Manesseh ultimately
decides to follow the vision of God rather than the
counsel of men. And while the Lord does not answer
Manesseh’s prayers in the way he expects, the
outcome shows Manesseh that the Lord is faithful to
those who follow him.
Journey, by Angela Elwell Hunt, is the third book in
the Legacies of the Ancient River series. While not
the strongest book of the trilogy and perhaps a bit
more speculative than the other two books, Journey is
a biblically-based story that explores the relationship
of two brothers divided in their sincerity in following
God. Through Manesseh’s example Ephriam is faced
with the realization that he must make a choice. He
cannot continue to remain on the fence claiming to
follow God while paying lip service to Pharaoh and
the Egyptian gods in order to establish a future for
himself that will leave him powerful in the eyes of
men. Manesseh demonstrates that following God
must be done unreservedly and whole-heartedly.
Sherri Beeler
The Prayer Tree, by Annie Jones. Sisters, Ore.:
Alabaster Books, 1998. ISBN 1576732398, PAP,
$11.99.
F. Women--Fiction; Prayer--Fiction. 374 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
In the small town of New Bethany, Tennessee, there
has been a tradition for many years of women coming
together to plant trees and committing themselves to
a year of prayer for their community. Time has taken
its toll on this tradition, however; this year only four
women step forward to take on the challenge. Naomi,
divorced and middle-aged, leaves an unsatisfactory
life in Maine for her home town only to discover that
she must become her elderly mother’s caregiver.
Rose, a fifty-six year old widow, is struggling to find
where she fits in now that her children are grown.
The biological clock of Mary Lucille, a daycare
owner, is ticking, and everyone knows that her
boyfriend has no intention of marrying her.
“Superwoman” Gayle lives in fear that someone will
discover the secret that haunts her past and keeps her
from responding to the love of her husband.
The Prayer Tree follows the sweet joys and shattering
sorrows that fill the lives of these women as they
spend a year arguing, eating chocolate, and praying
together. Annie Jones lost her mother just as she
began writing this novel, and in a note at the end she
shares that she determined that this experience would
be reflected in the lives of her characters. She has
indeed written “a love story about women becoming
friends” and succeeded in telling a story that reflects
the comradeship that often develops between women
as they face together the pivotal moments that mark
every life. Lillian Heytvelt
The Iron Lance, by Stephen Lawhead. (The Celtic
Crusades; 1.) New York: HarperPrism, 1998.
ISBN 0061050326, HBB, $24.00.
F. Crusades--Fiction. 499 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
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Sponsored by inept and often corrupt church clergy,
atrocities are often inflicted on the innocent as the
Crusaders leave a bloody trail behind in the pursuit of
their “holy war.” Murdo Ranulfson, the youngest of
three sons, is left at home to work the land and guard
his family heritage, but when a takeover occurs,
Murdo escapes and joins the Crusades. His goal is to
find his father and brothers and return to reclaim their
home lands, but on his long voyage, Murdo becomes
involved in the lives of three monks on a holy quest
of their own.
In a complicated array of clans, kings and infidels,
Murdo finally finds himself in the heart of Jerusalem
facing the bloodiest and most dangerous battle of his
life. Can he locate his family and convince them to
leave the collected riches and promises of new
empires? Even more dire is the question if Murdo can
escape with his own life. In an unexpected turn of
events, he is able to claim the richest of all treasures
sought in the war, as well as fulfill the holy monks
search for the ancient sacred relic.
Stephen Lawhead, a master at weaving a tale of rich
intrigue and history, gives the reader a detailed
picture of the complex and often mislead war of the
Crusades. The reader can gain a better understanding
of this part of our history and an overview of the
political scene starting in the year 1065, as well as
find an exciting, adventure-filled storyline.
There are parts that are rather graphic in their
depiction of the battle field and its victims. This is not
a book for the squeamish, but if the reader enjoys
historically significant events and battles, he/she will
appreciate reading the first in the Celtic Crusades
series, The Iron Lance. Mary McKinney
Love on the Run, by Shari MacDonald. (The
Salinger Sisters; 1) Colorado Springs:
Waterbrook Press, 1998. ISBN 1578560845, PAP,
$6.95.
F. Romance--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction. 245 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
At thirty-one, still single and beautiful, Cat is now the
president of her late father’s advertising agency.
Thanks to her own dedication and perseverance she
surveys the results and experiences extreme
satisfaction. There is only one glitch which has been
an ongoing project; that of her younger, free-spirited,
spontaneous sister, Daphne. To top this off, Cat is
perplexed with the news of a certain Jonas Riley and
his ad agency moving back to the area. Once dead
thoughts of this ex-love of her life from twelve years
past has suddenly been haunting not only her waking
hours, but even her dreams. Is Jonas to become a
serious enemy rival to her business? Will her sister,
Daphne, ever become a responsible adult?
Love on the Run is the first book of The Salinger
Sisters series by Shari MacDonald. It is stamped with
the “giggle guarantee” that if it fails to elicit a smile,
giggle, or laugh, it may be traded for another book in
ATime for Laughter...and Romance line. The plot
may generate a few smiles, but the character
interaction takes on a more serious tone, rather than
being outright humorous.
Cat learns to be more accepting of personality
differences and that a little spontaneity will not be
detrimental to that which counts most in life. She also
realizes that jumping to conclusions without checking
all the facts was what brought her much emotional
pain and loss in her relationship with Jonas. Debbie
Lindsay
Snow : A Novel, by Calvin Miller. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 0764221523, HBB,
$11.99.
F. Christmas--Fiction; Mothers and daughters--Fiction;
Romance fiction. 159 p. Gr. 9 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Snow begins falling over King of Prussia,
Pennsylvania, in December 1929. Mary Withers, a
pretty young widow, dreads the cold winter. She has
little money to pay for the coal to heat her house and
her six-year old daughter Alexis has asthma, which
always gets worse in the cold. While delivering coal
for his injured father, Erick Mueller a professor at the
university, becomes attracted to Mary. When
Christmas Eve brings a snow storm, Erick delivers
medicine for Alexis’ asthma attack. While helping
Mary nurse her daughter through the night, Erick
discovers that he loves Mary and also that his long
lost brother has been living in the closed up part of her
house.
The theme that we are all children of God is woven
throughout the story. Mary watches over Alexis and
God watches over them all. He not only answers
prayers, but also gives good gifts, providing
Christmas miracles and a few surprises. Well written,
Snow by Calvin Miller will fill several winter (or
summer) hours pleasantly. The book’s small size and
lovely cover art would make it a great gift selection.
Elizabeth A. Coleman
AVessel of Honor, by Margaret Miller. LCCN
9793383. Westhampton, N.Y.: Heritage, 1997.
ISBN 0965738957, HBB, $23.00.
F. Airplane--Design and construction--Fiction; Terrorism--
Fiction; Woman engineers--Fiction. 265 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Two women, both highly educated engineers working
together on the development of a nuclear powered
aircraft, find themselves battling tremendous
physical, emotional and spiritual issues. In Margaret
Miller’s intrigue and suspense laced thriller, AVessel
of Honor, Tisha O’Brien and Audra Shields, while
working toward the same professional goal, approach
their paramount challenge from different moral
foundations. Going from the bustling work field of
home with its desperate race against the clock, to the
pit of the enemy’s stronghold, these two women find
their faith, values, and basic principles of life
challenged to the very core; and the outcome is
dramatic and even chilling to the reader. Truth and
right prevail, but only after severe testing and
sacrifice.
AVessel of Honor is well written, fast paced, and
thought provoking. It deals squarely with
contemporary subject material, balancing the
religious and spiritual mores of the centuries with the
issues and philosophies so embraced by today’s
generation. The book is written, though, with a more
mature audience in mind. Necessary to the plot of the
book, issues dealing with a violent and sexual nature
are included, though they are handled with honesty,
integrity, and discretion as much as the story allows.
There are places, though, where the subject matter is
somewhat intense.
Margaret Miller has written a powerful and
provocative novel. It challenges and even strengthens
the beliefs and values of the reader with its extremely
interesting and intriguing plot and substance. Gayle
Chessman Haberman
Among the King’s Soldiers, by Gilbert Morris and
Aaron McCarver. (The Spirit of Appalachia; 3.)
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556618875, PAP, $9.99.
F. United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction.
300 p. Gr. 9 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Among the King’s Soldiers is a slow paced tale, told
from multiple viewpoints. It is the third book in The
Spirit of Appalachia series co-authored by Gilbert
Morris and Aaron McCarver. The story is complete
in itself, although readers who have completed the
first two books in the series will find it easier to sort
out the many characters. There is a family tree in the
front of the book, but it can be inconvenient to have
to flip to a chart to figure out who is who.
Seth Donavan is out to revenge the death of his
younger brother, Isaac. The two Scottish boys joined
the British cause in the American Revolution. Then
Isaac is felled by an American Ranger bullet and Seth
vows his brother’s death will not be forgotten. His
vow carries him to the Appalachian frontier to spy out
a shipment of arms.
He is soon torn between his loyalty to the king and the
kindness of the Martin family who takes him in when
he becomes ill. Can he betray Will Martin? Which is
more important, avenging his brother’s death or
seeking the love of the beautiful Sarah MacNeil?
Myrtlemay Pittman Crane
Riches Untold, by Gilbert Morris and J. Landon
Ferguson. (The Chronicles of the Golden
Frontier; 1.) LCCN 9817250. Wheaton, Ill.:
Crossway Books, 1998. ISBN 1581340141, PAP,
$11.99.
F. Marriage--Fiction; Newspapers--Fiction; West (U.S.)--
Nevada--Fiction; Nevada--Fiction; Mining--Fiction. 360 p. Gr.
10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Jennifer DeSpain learns quickly after marrying her
Union soldier husband that she can’t convert him
from his rough ways to Christianity. After a shoot-out
on a riverboat results in her husband being unjustly
charged and sentenced to jail, Jennifer finds work
with a local newspaper. While trying to escape from
prison, her husband is shot and succumbs to infection.
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Before dying, he reveals to his wife that he won
ownership of a small newspaper in Virginia City,
Nevada, while playing poker. Jennifer decides to
move her family to Nevada and make a go of the
newspaper business on her own. She soon discovers
that the editor, Jason Stone, has a great deal of talent,
but is beset with a drinking problem. Tragic
circumstances lead him to accept the Lord as his
Savior and Jennifer sees him in a new light. Her
attempt to expose the corruption of the local mine
owners results in the newspaper office being burned
to the ground. The authors leave the two main
characters still unwed, but making plans to move to
Colorado.
Riches Untold, the first book in Gilbert Morris and J.
Landon Ferguson’s new series, The Chronicles of the
Golden Frontier, is a fairly predictable romance set in
the turbulent period following the Civil War. The
pace of the plot keeps one reading, however, and it is
easy for a modern reader to identify with Jennifer’s
struggles to raise her children while running a
newspaper. Lillian A. Heytvelt
Sound the Trumpet, by Gilbert Morris; read by
Wayne Shepherd. (The Liberty Bell; 1.)
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1995. ISBN
1556618255, AUDIO, $14.99.
F. Revolutionary War--Fiction. 2 cassette tapes, 180 minutes.
Adult.
Song in a Strange Land, by Gilbert Morris; read
by Wayne Shepherd. (The Liberty Bell; 2.)
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1996. ISBN
155661828X, AUDIO, $14.99.
F. Revolutionary War--Fiction. 2 cassette tapes, 180 minutes.
Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The first two books in the Liberty Bell series recount
the history of two virtuous orphans forced into the
harsh streets of London. After their father’s death,
Daniel and Linna Bradford’s mother struggles to hold
the family together until she succumbs to illness. Her
dying words to her children are to believe in Jesus as
their salvation according to John 3:16 and seek God’s
will. They are accidentally separated for more than
twenty years, and then joyfully reunited and learn that
each has kept the faith and lead Christian lives.
Wayne Shepherd reads this smooth abridgment with a
bright, friendly voice. He handles frequent, lengthy
physical descriptions of characters without appearing
to take a breath. However, his upbeat voice does not
adjust when the material is tragic, failing to convey
appropriate empathy. Also, the packaging is too tight,
making it a frustrating exercise to handle the tapes.
Anita Goldman Horning (Adapted with permission from
AudioFile Magazine)
Wind from the Wilderness, by Gilbert Morris. (The
Liberty Bell; 5.) Minneapolis: Bethany House,
1998. ISBN 1556615698, PAP, $9.99.
F. United States--History--Revolution, 1776-1783--Fiction;
Spies--Fiction. 284 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
“I wonder if I’m doing the right thing,” Joel laments
to Mr. Dante. Joel is recovering from being tarred and
feathered due to acting the part of a patriot turned
loyalist. He is in the process of becoming a spy for
the American cause under Mr. Dante, General
Washington’s chief intelligence officer. Without any
explanation, Joel must leave behind family and
friends to go to New York and glean any important
information to send back from British General
Howe’s ranks.
To accomplish his mission, Joel resorts to his natural
acting and mimicking abilities by disguising himself
in order to keep suspicion to a minimum.
Gilbert Morris, author of the House of Winslow
series, has written Wind From the Wilderness, the fifth
book in The Liberty Bell Series. He includes a touch
of romance, a bit of history and a portion of spiritual
insight. The plot is methodical and the characters
interact with historical figures leading up to the Battle
of Brandywine which took place in Pennsylvania,
September, 1777.
This story illuminates the hardships and dangers of
the life of a spy rather than on the actual battle itself.
A common thread in this series is the effect of a war
that has members of the same family on opposing
sides. It begins at the point from which the previous
volume ended, but enough history of the characters is
included that it can be read without being familiar
with the former titles. Debbie Lindsay
In the Twilight, In the Evening, by Lynn Morris
and Gilbert Morris. (Cheney Duvall, M.D.; 6.)
LCCN 9733844. Minneapolis: Bethany House,
1997. ISBN 1556614276, PAP, $9.99.
F. San Francisco (Calif.)--History--Fiction; Hospitals--Fiction.
315 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Dr. Cheney Duvall finds a position at the St. Francis
de Yerba Buena Hospital in San Francisco in the
1800s. Her interview and references are strengthened
by her quick actions after a carriage collision when
she treats the hospital administrator and his son
without knowing who they are. She is a remarkable
woman, far ahead of her time, and fighting for respect
and acceptance by other doctors and nurses at the
hospital. When she tries new, updated procedures, the
doctors give her grudging deference.
Her good friend and assistant, Shiloh Irons, is in love
with her but she does not know if she loves him or
not. He has been loyally protective of her, but does
not press his suit of her as he is an orphan and has no
idea of his parentage, is not wealthy, and he feels he
must seek more information about his background.
Cheney is a promoter of offering medical care to
minorities, a highly unpopular stand. She also trains
her black maid in some medical procedures as no
medical training center will accept her.
An interesting character is crafted by authors, Lynn
and Gilbert Morris, father and daughter. Because
there is such prejudice and downright superstition
towards a woman doctor, it makes fascinating
reading. Descriptions of Cheney’s medical
procedures, learned in New York, are some of the best
parts of the book. Cheney is a moral person, who tries
to rely on herself until she gets into trouble, and then
she remembers to place her trust and her patients’ care
into the hands of the Lord. A good paperback set in
the post gold rush days of San Francisco. Barbara G.
Taenzler
Island of the Innocent, by Lynn Morris and Gilbert
Morris. (Cheney Duvall, M.D.; 7.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1556616988, PAP,
$9.99.
F. Hawaii--Fiction. 318 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In Island of the Innocent, we find Shiloh Irons in
Hawaii, searching for answers to his parentage and
history. He is soon joined by his friends, Cheney
Duvall and Dr. Walker Baird. In Hawaii, Shiloh
meets Bain Winslow’s mother, Denise, and his sister
Brynn. After precious momentos that hold the keys to
his past disappear, Shiloh wonders if once again, his
search will be in vain. Hope seems lost, but then the
large mountain on the Island begins to rumble ....
The writing team of Lynn and Gilbert Morris once
again write an episode of Cheney and Shiloh that is
exciting and mysterious. The main characters are
strong, noble and sacrificing. Cheney’s reliance on
the Lord in each circumstances is clear and
challenging to the reader. As Book Seven in this
series, although it would still provide a good story
line, too many important details are missing. As a
reader who has followed this series since Book One,
my only question is: When is the poor guy going to
get the girl? Tammy Williams
The Invitation, by Nancy Moser. LCCN 985569.
Sisters, Ore.: Alabaster Books, 1998. ISBN
1576731154, PAP, $11.99.
F. Christian fiction. 425 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Julia is a middle-aged former state governor now
ready to retire from the pressures of politics. Natalie
is eighteen and pregnant, with an aspiring dream of
becoming a famous published author of romance
novels. Walter, in his mid forties, is an egotistical,
cynical, television news producer. Kathy is a young
mother of two with a salesman husband who is
usually absent from the family. Del, former priest
turned homeless bum, is atoning for a past mistake in
a macabre way. Arthur is a young punk in the fast
lane to delinquency and crime.
Though strangers to each other, all but two are sent
the same mysterious invitation to come and
experience Haven, Nebraska. Del finds Walter’s
discarded invitation while rummaging through the
trash. Arthur just happens to make a stop in Haven to
steal money to get him farther down the road.
Surprises are in store for each person along the way
and during their stay in the small town of Haven.
The Invitation by Nancy Moser is a riveting allegory
of the process of salvation and God’s desire to direct
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lives and utilize the talents he has given each person
to touch the lives of others. The story is a strong
encouragement to place oneself into the capable
hands of God. The fictional characters are a
representation of people in various stages of life and
from various backgrounds with idiosyncrasies that
readers may relate to. The plot moves quickly and the
literary style makes this book difficult to put down.
Each chapter is prefaced by a scripture that pertains to
the incidents that unfold. At the back of the book is a
topical index with references of the verses that are
used throughout the story. Debbie Lindsay
Thread of Suspicion, by Jane Peart. LCCN
988818. Grand Rapids: Revell, 1998. ISBN
0800756762, PAP, $11.99.
F. Mystery fiction. 218 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Looking forward to a new
adventure and wanting to
help the ailing Allegra
Selkirk, Nell Winston
assumes the position of
companion. Allegra has
been unable to speak or
walk since the terrifying
accident which killed her
parents. Nell soon finds out
that her help is not wanted at
Hope’s End, Allegra’s
home. For some mysterious
reason, Allegra’s uncle and
doctor prefer her to remain
an invalid. Nell must work
against these powerful men
if she is to help Allegra and
discover the reason for
Allegra’s illness, even at the
risk of her own life.
Jane Peart has written a
thrilling mystery full of
suspense and a few romantic
surprises. Thread of
Suspicion is the fourth title
in The Edgecliffe Manor
Mystery Series which is set
in late nineteenth century
England. Readers will find
Jane Peart’s mysteries
compelling and refreshing
to read as well as spiritually
uplifting. Susan Robinson
Passage into Light, by Judith Pella. (The Russians;
7.) Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556618697, PAP, $10.99.
F. Russia--History--Fiction. 298 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Anna Fedorcenko and her family have given up.
There seems no hope that Andrei could still be alive.
Even so, Anna continues trusting God—in the midst
of World War, the Russian Revolution, and...in spite
of her missing son. Anna’s other son, Yuri, is filled
with guilt and can not seem to find God in the chaos
and heartache around him. Talia Sorokin has loved
Andrei since childhood—in spite of his ties to
Stephan Kaminsky and Lenin himself. It is a dark
time for Russia and their exiled Tsar. Across town, in
a small one room hovel, lay a wounded young man—
unsure of his identity—willing to allow a woman
named Sonja to call him “son.” He must belong to
someone. Where and to whom does he really belong?
Judith Pella concludes the Russian series with this
gripping novel. It is filled with historical events and
an exciting fictional story line as well. The faith of
Anna that began in Book One of this series continues
and is passed on to her offspring in this final chapter.
Passage Into Light is interesting reading alone, but
there are too many “loose threads” for it to stand
completely on its own. Tammy Williams
Controlling Interests, by Tracie Peterson.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
0764220640, PAP, $8.99.
F. Business--Fiction; Grandfathers--Fiction; Mystery fiction.
256 p. Gr. 12 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
Although she is a successful and moderately wealthy
young woman, Denali Deveraux has always longed to
know the secrets of her past. Neither her loving aunts
nor her estranged grandfather—the owner of the
company Denali works for—will speak of her
parents: either who they were, or what happened to
them. They simply ask Denali to resign herself to
living with the mystery of her past.
But Denali is restless. When she is transferred to
Dallas, where the main headquarters of her
grandfather’s company is located, Denali sees an
opportunity to finally confront her grandfather. But
the stubborn, elderly Richard Deveraux has no
intention of revealing anything. He pays Michael
Copeland, a handsome but deeply bitter young man,
to “distract” Denali from her self-appointed mission.
Denali is determined to unlock the past, but she has
no idea that she will uncover insanity, murder, and a
year-old guilt that has eaten away at her grandfather’s
mind.
In Controlling Interests, Tracie Peterson weaves a tale
of intriguing mystery and romantic tension. The story
tends to get rather slow in
places, and it becomes
increasingly annoying
that every single
encounter between
Denali and Michael turns
into either a catfight, or
an episode in which
Denali lectures Michael
about anything and
everything. Still, it’s a
riveting read; and the
first romance that has
interested this reviewer
in months. Tara Sigler
The Garden at the Edge
of Beyond, by Michael
Phillips. Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998.
ISBN 076422042X,
HBB, $11.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction.
158 p. Adult.
Quality - 4
Acceptability - 5
Suffering a heart attack in
his sleep, Mike author
awakes in a beautiful
garden. Each flower is
more fragrant, more
colorful, and larger than
any on earth. While
meeting with Jesus, he is
told he cannot know his
final destination until his eyes are fully opened. Only
then will he be able to see his true Self. Various
mentors like C.S. Lewis, George McDonald, Mary
mother of Christ lead Mike through different parts of
the garden. Discussions with his hosts and the very
scents of the flowers themselves cause Mike’s eyes
begin to open. As his Self is revealed, he falls asleep
in the garden. Mike awakens in the hospital, much to
the relief of his concerned family.
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The Garden at the Edge of Beyond by Michael
Phillips is a well-written first person fantasy account
of a near death experience. While there are not many
pages, this is not light reading. Footnotes and
references to other literary works add depth to the
story. C.S. Lewis and George McDonald figure
prominently in this tale, not only as characters, but
clearly as strong influences for the author. It is not
required of readers, however, that they be Lewis and
McDonald experts to take much away from this
thought provoking book. The beautiful cover art and
petite size of the book would make it a great gift.
Elizabeth A Coleman
Say Uncle... and Aunt, by Suzy Pizzuti. Colorado
Springs: Waterbrook Press, 1998. ISBN
1578560446, PAP, $6.95.
F. Humorous stories; Romance--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction.
248 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
At twenty-seven, Julia is happily single and a
successful business woman who has found fulfillment
through her work. Just recently transferred to another
town in Vermont, she seeks temporary residence in
Hattie Hopkin’s boarding house and soon finds
herself among an hilarious hodgepodge of fellow
boarders. One especially piques her interest, Sean
Flannigan, business man, handsome, and single.
Sean has just been “volunteered” at the last moment
to babysit his nine-month-old niece for two weeks
and Julia becomes his number one assistant. The
intensity of the two weeks causes both of them to
reconsider the priorities they have chosen. Is there
room in their lives for a significant other?
Say Uncle...and Aunt is a delightfully humorous
romance that has a “giggle guarantee” which states
that if the book fails to cause a smile, giggle, or laugh,
it may be exchanged for another book in the “A Time
for Laughter...and Romance” line.
Suzy Pizzuti has skillfully developed this entertaining
piece of comedy. The eccentric actions and resulting
misunderstandings of the characters add to the story’s
amusement. Sean and Julia learn that seeking balance
between work and relationships with people is what
helps to bring contentment in life. Debbie Lindsay
Enough! by Gayle Roper. Sisters, Ore.:
Multnomah Women’s Fiction, 1998. ISBN
0576731855, PAP, $10.99.
F. Hunorous stories; Family life--Fiction; Christian
life--Fiction. 203 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The job of wife and mother to a family of adolescents
can cause a mother to feel unappreciated; more like
the chauffeur, maid, and servant, in her desire to
create a smooth functioning family. Especially at an
age of turmoil from bodily changes, how does a
mother encourage her children to participate and
contribute to the family well-being without undue
confrontation?
In Enough! Gayle Roper has presented an amusing
solution to the problem that Molly, a phlegmatic
mother, has prayerfully considered and implemented
with the full endorsement of Dad. Molly announces
during family council that from this point on for a two
week period due to lack of respect and constant
harassment, the maid has quit. She lets them know
that with the exception of Dad, the rest of them are on
their own to get their meals, do their laundry, clean up
after themselves, and find their own transportation.
Though chaos takes temporary control, the young
people soon perceive the importance of their
contribution to the smooth function of a household.
Molly realizes how much she enabled her children to
dishonor her and strengthens her own character by her
resolve to follow through when tempted to cave in as
she sees the children struggle.
Included at the end of the story is the family contract
with the biblical principles, household rules, and
duties listed for each member of the family modeled
after the author’s own experience as wife and mother.
Debbie Lindsay
A Haunting Refrain, by Patricia H. Rushford.
(Helen Bradley Mysteries; 3.) Minneapolis:
Bethany House, 1998. ISBN 1556617321, PAP,
$9.99.
F. Mystery fiction. 254 p. Gr. 9 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
When Helen Bradley receives a phone call asking her
to come for a family get-together on Paradise Island,
she has no idea about the extent of the mystery she’ll
end up solving. Rushford weaves into the intriguing
story a possible threat to the life of Helen’s uncle,
missing money and jewels, the disappearance and
probable death of Fabian, her cousin’s husband, and
stolen roses that later appear in their original bouquet.
What do these bizarre and frightening events, plus
others, have to do with the resident ghost in Uncle
Patrick’s island mansion, Werner Castle? Helen
doesn’t for a minute believe in the ghost, but yet, does
someone really want Uncle Patrick dead? Did Fabian
steal Claire’s car and her money? Did he also rob
Uncle Patrick? The answers unravel at last, but not
until complications pile onto complications that make
the reader hang on for the duration.
The story moves forward with enticing chapter
endings, and as the situations develop, they flow
naturally one into the other with nothing contrived. In
her usual good writing style, Rushford’s characters
become good friends of the reader. Her descriptions
of the setting—the San Juan Islands—create good
visual images that make the reader feel a part of the
action.
A Haunting Refrain, third in the Helen Bradley series,
reads quickly and leaves behind the hopes for a fourth
book starring the sometimes-retired detective. Betty
M. Hockett
The Reaper’s Song, by Lauraine Snelling. (Red
River of the North; 4.) LCCN 9745443.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556615795, PAP, $9.99.
F. Dakota Territory--Fiction; Farm life--Fiction. 299 p. Gr. 10
- Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Reaper’s Song is a well-written novel set in the
late 1800’s in the Dakota Territory. The story of the
Bjorklund family continues as they build their lives
“out west” in the town of Blessing. As the town
grows, the settlers are faced with many hardships as
well as decisions that will effect the entire population
of Blessing. Ingeborg and Haaken Bjorklund are
large property owners and they carry a great deal of
influence with the residents. As their family grows,
and others immigrate from Norway, Ingeborg feels
the weight of responsibility for her family. Ingeborg
makes choices while her husband is absent that will
affect her family for a life time.
Lauraine Snelling tells an interesting story that is also
unusual in the fact that all of the characters have
immigrated from Norway and most of the characters
in the novel are related in one way or the other. The
characters are alive and definitely “take the reader in”
once one sorts through the numerous characters and
figures out who is who. This is somewhat difficult if
one has not read the previous books in this series as
the author offers little background information.
Overall, it is a spiritually uplifting novel that reminds
us how much we must depend on God and how he is
always there and has our best interests at heart. This
reader only wishes that she had read books one-three,
as that would have made the reading much easier.
Tammy Williams
Web of Intrigue, by Susan Taggart. (Portraits.)
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
0764220691, PAP, $8.99.
F. Romance fiction; Sisters--Fiction. 256 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
An up to the minute computer thriller, Web of Intrigue
draws the characters into the dark side of the WWW.
What horrors wait at the click of a mouse? Who’s
taking over the lives of the people in Dallas? And
what can Morgan do about it?
Susan Taggart has hit on a hot topic. The invasive
computer is taking over more and more of our lives.
But can the many good benefits be out-weighed by
the potential harm? She certainly gives us something
to think about. For three and a half years Morgan
Carruthers has carried on an affair with Kevin
Whitney. Now he tells her he’s in love with another
woman. Reeling from his news she flees to her
mother’s home in Texas. But her trauma has only
begun.
A well-written romance/suspense you’ll keep reading
to see if Morgan gets her man and if she can find the
computer-terrorist responsible for her sister’s death.
Myrtlemay Pittman Crane
A Place Called Morning, by Ann Tatlock.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556619227, PAP, $10.99.
F. Christian life--Fiction; Grandmothers--Fiction. 281 p.
Adult.
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Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Mae Demaray, a widow and a grandmother, has a full
life. She is active in her church, has a wonderful
volunteer ministry at the Children’s Hospital, and a
grandchild that is the “apple of her eye.” Then one
tragic day, an accident occurs in her home that takes
the life of her grandson. Suddenly, Mae’s life is
destroyed as she refuses to forgive herself and find
joy in life any longer. Mae’s daughter, Ellen, remains
close and offers her mother forgiveness, but Mae
finds it impossible. Since Mae was a child, her family
had befriended a boy named Roy. Roy, a little older
than Mae, is “slow,” but his heart is large, generous
and loving toward his old friend Mae. Through Roy,
and the unlocking of some family secrets, Mae once
again finds the joy of the Lord—that sometimes
comes after darkness and rain.
Ann Tatlock has written on a topic that is a bit unusual
and therefore proves interesting. The style is honest
and down-to-earth. The character of Roy is very
touching and one can not help but sympathize for him
and hope for the best. This novel would appeal to an
older audience because of the “life reflections” of the
main character and because of the relationships she is
involved in. Tammy Williams
Of Men and Angels, by Bodie and Brock Thoene.
(The Galway Chronicles; 2.) Nashville: Thomas
Nelson, 1998. ISBN 0785280685, HBB, $22.99.
F. Ireland--History--Fiction. 320 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Set in 1843, Bodie and Brock Thoene’s Of Men and
Angels describes a volatile time in history when
England’s heavy fist rested upon Ireland, and the Irish
strove to repeal English rule to gain the freedom to
govern themselves. Joseph Conner, landlord of the
Irish tenants in Ballynockanor, has experienced great
suffering in his life. With his life’s dream just within
his grasp, Joseph is reluctant to join the Repeal
efforts, fearing for his safety and the disruption of the
fragile peace he has found. Persuaded by Father
O’Bannon that there is no safety for himself or
Ireland as long as there is no justice, Joseph agrees to
support his friend Daniel O’Connell’s efforts by
promoting the Repeal in western Ireland.
The English, of course, oppose Joseph’s work, and set
out to ruin him when they find they cannot bribe him
or persuade him to cease his Repeal work. He
survives an “accidental” avalanche, and attempted
poisoning. He is fined outrageously for operating an
illegal school for the Irish tenant children, and is
ordered to pay five years worth of back pay in rent
and interest due to a “mistake” found in his payment
records. The worst attack is made directly upon the
village people whom he loves so well, when smallpox
is deliberately introduced into Ballynockanor and
the town is put under quarantine before a doctor can
be sent for.
Although he is careful to keep his Repeal efforts
within the law, Daniel O’Connell is ultimately framed
and arrested for treason. Joseph is fortunate enough
to escape a prison sentence, but when he returns
home, his manor is burned to the ground. Despite the
personal attacks on Joseph, the failure of the Repeal,
and the loss of his money and home, Joseph does not
give up hope. The numerous trials provide
opportunities for his spiritual growth, for the
reparation of his broken relationship with his
sweetheart, and for hope of a new life in America.
The Thoene’s have written a well-researched novel
filled with intriguing characters, including the lovable
but wise Mad Molly, introduced in the first book of
the series. Although the story ends rather abruptly,
the authors provide a series of questions about issues
the book raises, which can be used for personal
reflection, or discussion in a book club or classroom.
The reading of book one, The River Runs Free, is
necessary for a full understanding of this sequel, Of
Men and Angels. Sherri Beeler
Some Wildflower in My Heart, by Jamie Langston
Turner. Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. ISBN
1556614934, PAP, $9.99.
F. Friendship--Fiction. 368 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Margaret Tuttle is the supervisor for the cafeteria at
Emma Welty Elementary School. She runs the
kitchen and program with meticulous precision,
accounting for money and food with great order and
regimentation. She lives her life with husband
Thomas in a like manner. Life must be orderly and
precise, no deviation from routine and little
interaction with others. Excellence of workmanship
and expression of life are an obsession for her.
Into her life and work enters Birdie Freeman, who
challenges her perameters and the core of her very
being. Birdie is an enigma to Margaret. Competent
in her work, but transforming the environment of the
cafeteria and school with her love. Birdie manages to
break down the barriers of Margaret’s carefully
protected heart. Margaret has never known anyone
like Birdie and gradually she lets go of some of her
own pain because of this plain little woman who loves
so much. Margaret’s healing begins as she realizes
that Birdie’s beautiful spirit flows from pain that she
too has experienced. Margaret realizes that she is not
alone in her suffering. There are others close to her
that carry a burden of pain.
Jamie Langston Turner deals with the tragic
consequences of sexual abuse in Some Wildflower in
My Heart in a perceptive and sensitive manner.
Written in the first person, the book reads like a diary.
At times it becomes somewhat tedious because of the
inhibited character portrayed here. This restriction
and tedium though certainly brings reality to the
character of Margaret Tuttle and results in the book
reading more like autobiography than fiction. The
metamorphis of Margaret unfolds gradually as it
would in real life. An understanding of why people
react the way the way they do is developed with great
finesse.
The Christian message of redemption is woven into
the book subtley, but with truth and clarity. The
struggles of the characters with their faith comes
across in a realistic way. No easy answers or bolts of
lightening flash across these pages. Real life
stubbornness and temptation are dealt with, yet the
victory of a loving life submitted to Christ shines
through the character of Birdie. Birdie’s character is
almost hard to believe at times, yet the transforming
power of Christ in a life can be just as unbelievable.
This is a thought provoking book that one will not
easily forget. Mary Jarvis
The Warriors, by Jim Walker. (The Wells Fargo
Trail; 1.) LCCN 974734. Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1997. ISBN 155661702X, PAP, $8.99.
F. Western fiction; Mexico--Fiction. 336 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Julian Cobb has lost his memory, and General
Escobar is keeping him prisoner until he divulges a
treasure’s hiding place. Joe and James Cobb, plus
Chupta, a White Mountain Apache scout, travel with
the General’s wife and party along a hazardous route
dominated by Mescalero Apaches, ophidians, and
parched watering places. Zac Cobb and Pablo, an
orphan boy, surreptitiously dog them. After safe
arrival at the General’s hacienda, Joe, James, and a
friend aid in Julian’s escape, unknowingly pursued by
the General and his men. When Chupta is killed, Zac
joins his brother’s party. After unearthing the
treasure, they are captured by the General and barely
escape with their lives. Then Julian trades a map with
the treasure’s location for a presidential pardon of all
erstwhile malefactions.
Jim Walker has written a story about a criminal
brother held prisoner in a foreign country and the
deep-rooted familial ties that motivate siblings to
undertake a hazardous rescue mission.
The Warriors is an adventure story with an underlying
theme of familial ties and forgiveness. Familial ties
lead to the saving of Julian’s life, and Julian’s turning
his life over to God leads to Zac’s forgiveness for his
past misdeeds. Dianne Woodman
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000’s - Generalities
Developing Christian Fiction Collections for
Children and Adults : Selection Criteria and a Core
Collection, by Barbara J. Walker. LCCN 985881.
New York: Neal-Schuman, 1998. ISBN
1555702929, PAP, $35.00.
025.2. Libraries--United States--Special collections--Christian
fiction; Childrens’s libraries--United States. 224 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
A Note from the Editor: by Ray Legg
Librarians serving in public libraries are the primary
target for Developing Christian Fiction Collections
for Children and Adults; Selection Criteria and a
Core Collection. The first chapter defines the term
“Christian fiction” and presents a rationale for its
inclusion in a public library. The next chapter
discusses selection criteria and provides a listing of
print and electronic review resources. Core
Collection Recommendations make up most of the
book, with chapters on titles for children, young
adults, and adults--subdivided into genres such as
general fiction, mysteries, romance novels, historical
fiction, fantasy and science fiction, and westerns. The
over 300 titles listed have descriptive annotations of
varying length, and often evaluative quotations from
standard review sources. Several entries mention
Forgotten Pages
At some point during
nearly every one of the
classes I teach, I try to
impart to the students
what I call tricks of the
trade. These are helpful study habits I have
developed along the way which can, if put
into practice, go a long way in helping
individuals get the most from their college
experience.
Many of these hints arise in the second
semester of Freshman English where I teach
research methods. Simply choosing a topic
for a research paper can prove unnerving for
freshmen so I try to provide help in hopes of
making the process as painless as possible.
To their amazement, among the first bits of
information I share is how to weed out most
of the books, magazines, and journals hit
upon in a general topic search without
reading each one. I tell the students to read
what I call the “Forgotten Pages” of most
books. Those are the Forward, the Preface,
the Table of Contents, and the Index. Every
time I see a student leaving the library with a
great arm load of material, I wonder silently,
“Did (s)he read the Forgotten Pages first?
How helpful they might have been.”
My reason for encouraging students to read
these pages is two fold. First, the time they
have to complete the project is short so they
must be about the business as quickly as
possible. Second, and maybe most
important, they need to learn that this is a
project they can complete and complete well.
Doing research on, say, a Christian
perspective on single parenting or for a paper
on Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter can prove
overwhelming because of the sheer volume
of materials available on the subject.
Students do not need to read everything
relative to their assignment and the quickest
way to discover which sources are most
useful is to skim the Forgotten Pages.
The process I share with students is simple.
As they uncover possible sources for their
papers, before copying the article or
checking the book out of the library, I tell
them to read the Table of Contents and the
Index. If these do not mention the subject or
are not immediately relevant, put the source
aside. If the subject is there, read the
Forward and Preface to discover the author’s
intent for the source. By that time it should
be obvious even to the novice researcher
whether of not the source will be helpful. If
it is, keep it; if it is not, put it back on the
shelf.
Recently, I was reminded of the usefulness of
this hint. While doing reading for a study on
Postmodernism, I was fascinated by one
author’s comment that two of the most
significant influences responsible for
inauguration of the modern era were the
flight of the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk,
and the publication of Portrait of the Artist
As a Young Man by James Joyce. According
to that writer, these two events released man
from all previous restraints and gave him a
freedom then unknown. As I thought about
these events, I was challenged to learn more
about both. The first I know something of
and the second I am reading about now.
What an interesting account of coming of
age Joyce’s Portrait has given us. Though I
have known the novel for some time, this
reading of it is special in some way. I have
found myself impressed anew with how
significantly books can impact lives of
people if they are given a chance regardless
of time or place. However, in a day when
many could-be readers are waiting for the
movie to come out rather than read the story
for themselves, or are content to be planted
before the TV where they do not have to
think at all, I find myself struggling for ways
to help them appreciate the joys of reading
because I know how challenging and
informative that can be.
Maybe, just maybe, the way to tease wouldbe
readers to read more is with comments
such as those I found in the Forward —
among the Forgotten Pages — of the book I
was reading. I can’t wait for the semester to
begin so I can share what I discovered with
the students in my classes.
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unidentified additional titles in their series. Another
chapter suggests related recommended videos. Short
biographical sketches are provided for a few selected
authors.
Librarian Barbara Walker has produced a useful,
current work which fits into a unique niche. With
many new Christian fiction titles constantly coming
on the market, and often many fine books going out
of print, nearly 90% of the titles listed have imprints
in this decade (including reprints of a few older
classics). Some readers may wish that certain older
publishers were better represented. Others may look
in vain in the core collection listing for a few authors
or titles mentioned in the introductory chapters.
Donna W. Bowling
100’s - Philosophy and Psychology
Healing the Bereaved Child : Grief Gardening,
Growth Through Grief, and Other Touchstones for
Caregivers, by Alan D. Wolfelt. Companion Press,
1996. ISBN 1879651106, PAP, $49.95.
155.9. Children and death; Grief in children; Beareavement in
children; Children--Counseling of. 328 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
This book’s complete title is Healing the Bereaved
Child: Grief Gardening, Growth Through Grief and
Other Touchstones for Caregivers and the author,
Alan Wolfelt, says that he sees himself “... not as a
counselor, but as a counselor-gardener... Grief
gardeners do not cure the grieving child; instead we
create conditions that allow the bereaved child to
mourn. Our work is more art than science, more heart
than hand. The bereaved child is not our patient but
instead our companion.”
The book itself is part textbook and part workbook.
In it, Wolfelt encourages the reader to ask herself
questions about such grief myths as “Parents don’t
have to mourn for their children to mourn.” and “We
should help children get over their grief.” Chapters
include places for answers to be recorded and
considered, as well as tests to rate understanding and
worksheets to fill out. For quick reference, a two
page watercolor in the center of the book and a
section at the very end (entitled “Wolfelt’s Grief
Gardening Model”) sums up the book’s philosophy.
Throughout the book, Wolfelt includes lists of
organizations and recommended reading that would
be helpful to an adult walking a child through a time
of mourning.
His approach is an interesting one and although he
does not write from a Christian point of view, his
comments on topics such as “Caring For the Mentally
Retarded Bereaved Child,” “When a Classmate
Dies,” and “The Grief Gardener’s Gazebo: The
Importance of Self-Care” will give the reader much to
think about. Betty Winslow
In Whose Image : Faith, Science, and the New
Genetics, edited by John P. Burgess. Louisville,
Ky.: Westminster, 1998. ISBN 0664500250, PAP,
$14.00.
174. Human genetics--Moral and ethical aspects; Human
genetics--Religious aspects--Christianity; Medical ethics;
Christian ethics; Free will and determinism; Bioethics. 140 p.
Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 3
In Whose Image? : Faith, Science, and the New
Genetics, is a collection of essays by Reformed
pastors, scientists, and theologians prepared for the
Presbyterian Church (USA). Its intent is to explore
the influence of science, particularly the new
genetics, on traditional Christian theology. Perhaps
no branch of science has the potential to impact
Christian faith more than genetics, influencing, as it
does, our understanding of what it means to be
human.
The book is divided into three parts: Interactions
between science and religion; Genes, Environment,
History; and What God created us to be. It is a book
of explorations—not offering hard and fast answers,
but exploring possibilities. Some authors adhere
more closely to traditional theology than others. The
authors do not agree with each other on all points.
There is a general acceptance of evolution as the
formative mechanism of humanity.
The essays are thought provoking, although uniform
agreement is far from being reached on many of the
issues. Because of the multiple authorship, In Whose
Image seems to lack an overall coherence. This
doesn’t impair its readability, but means it should be
approached as a collection, and not as a unified
whole. The chapters are non-technical enough for the
average reader, and each chapter contains study
questions for further discussion. Andrew M. Seddon
200’s - Religion
Celtic Christianity : A Sacred Tradition, A Vision of
Hope, by Timothy J. Joyce. Maryknoll, N.Y.:
Orbis Books, 1998. ISBN 1570751765, PAP,
$14.00.
209. Celts--Christianity. 180 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Celtic Christianity, which flourished in the British
Isles in the Dark Ages (the fifth through eight
centuries), has experienced a resurgence in recent
years. With its emphases on love of creation,
holiness, the leading of the Holy Spirit, and
pilgrimage, Celtic Christianity offers unique insights
into the Christian faith. According to Joyce, the
church of saints like Patrick, Aidan, Columba, and
Hilda has much to offer today.
Though many books on Celtic Christianity have been
written from the Anglican perspective, Joyce, a
Benedictine monk, brings a Catholic voice to his
examination of the Celtic tradition. That is not to say
this book is only for Catholics; anyone with an
interest in Celtic Christianity, no matter the
denomination, will find much of value in Joyce’s
work.
Writing from an Irish perspective, Joyce studies the
coming of Christianity to the Celts, the development
of the Celtic church, its conflict with Rome and
subsequent decline, and its contemporary resurgence.
Celtic Christianity is perhaps overly heavy on Irish
history through the 16th to 20th century, to the
exclusion of Celtic traditions in other countries such
as Wales. This aside, however, Joyce’s book provides
an excellent, non-technical introduction to this
fascinating heritage. Not all about the Celtic Church
was sweetness and light, and Joyce doesn’t hesitate to
point this out. There is a useful bibliography, as well
as a listing of organizations of Celtic Christians.
Andrew M. Seddon
★
Holy Bible. New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill.:
Tyndale House, 1996. ISBN 0842340505, HBB,
$19.99.
220. Bible. New living translation. 1289 p. K - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The New Living Translation is a revision of the Living
Bible. It is not, however, just a revised paraphrase, it
is a “dynamic equivalence” translation which goes
back to the original Hebrew and Greek, using the
Living Bible as a guide.
In the past, numerous translations were attacked by
those who felt that the translators were attempting to
water down essential doctrines such as the blood,
virgin birth, or deity of Christ. No such charges can
stand against the NLT. In Isaiah 7:14 and Luke 1:27,
we read that Jesus is born of a “virgin.” The “blood”
of Christ is preserved in Col 1:14, 20, Heb 10:19, 1
Pet 1:19, Rev 1:5, Mt 27:24, Acts 20:28, Rom 3:25;
5:9, and Eph 2:13. And the deity of Christ also comes
through very clearly in Jn 1:1, 18; Acts 20:28; Rom
9:5; 2 Thess 1:12; Titus 2:13; Heb 1:9; and 2 Peter
1:1. While the accuracy of these translations may be
challenged, the theological conservatism of the
translators is beyond question.
Of course any Bible translation is open to criticism,
and the NLT will be no different. Although
technically a translation, the New Living Translation
still contains a considerable amount of paraphrasing.
For in-depth Bible study it may be better to stick with
a Bible that is closer to the original wording than the
NLT, for example NAS or NKJV. But for a Bible that
is fun to read and easy to understand, the New Living
Translation is one of the best on the market! Dennis
Ingolfsland
Seven Reasons Why You Can Trust the Bible, by
Erwin W. Lutzer. Chicago: Moody Press, 1998.
ISBN 0802484441, HBB, $19.99.
220.1. Bible. 200 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
The Bible, as well as being the most published book
in the world, has also likely been the most attacked.
While the Bible has always been considered the
central writing of Christianity, our century shows an
increasing reluctance among people—Christians
included—to attach relevance to and confidence in
the Bible. Is the Bible God’s word? Why should we
trust these ancient writings in today’s culture?
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Writing from a conservative viewpoint, Lutzer (senior
pastor of Moody Church in Chicago) gives seven
reasons why Christians should accept the Bible as the
word of God. The book is organized around these
reasons: logical, historical, prophetic, Christcentered,
scientific, providential, and personal.
Seven Reasons is written in a clear, straightforward
manner and at a fairly basic level. This makes the
book suitable for new Christians, young people, and
those seeking to learn more of Christian beliefs.
Lutzer does not go into scholarly detail or present
controversies regarding the interpretation or position
of scripture. Andrew M. Seddon
Truth & Power : The Place of Scripture in the
Christian Life, by J. I. Packer. Wheaton, Ill.:
Harold Shaw, 1996. ISBN 0877888159, HBB,
$14.99.
220.6. Bible--Criticism and interpretation. 251 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Truth and Power by well-known theologian J.I.
Packer is an introduction to the place and importance
of the Bible in Christian life. Packer begins the
discussion with the issue of authority—what is it that
provides authority for the Christian? His answer, for
Protestants, is the Bible. From there, he discusses the
relationship of the Church and Bible, how that
relationship has altered over the centuries, and how
various traditions differ regarding Biblical
interpretation.
After a very readable beginning, the central portion of
Truth and Power slows down. Packer discusses
approaches to interpretation and a discussion of
sermons, both from the speaker’s and the listener’s
perspectives.
The final chapter, Life and Health and Peace, reverts
to the style of the opening chapters and focuses on the
reality of the Bible in the Christian life. Christians,
Packer says, cannot afford to ignore or dismiss the
Bible, for the words that it contains form the
foundation of our faith. He says to neglect the Bible
results not only in the detriment of the Church, but the
detriment of Christians as well. Life and health and
peace are what the Bible promises, and delivers.
Truth and Power, although difficult going in places,
would be valuable both to new Christians seeking to
understand the place of the Bible, and to established
Christians desiring a closer acquaintance with it.
Andrew M. Seddon
The Acts of the Apostles : A Socio-Rhetorical
Commentary, by Ben Witherington III. Grand
Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1997. ISBN
0802845010, PAP, $50.00.
220.6. Bible. N.T. Acts--Commentaries. 923 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
As the title suggests, this book is a commentary on the
social and rhetorical aspects of the book of Acts. The
title, however, is somewhat misleading since the book
does not focus on socio-rhetorical aspects alone. It
also does an excellent job of covering geographical,
historical, political, and legal aspects. To be sure, the
readers will learn about Luke’s rhetorical interests in
structuring the book of Acts, but they will also learn
about the political and historical background behind
the events described, the geographical and historical
background of significant cities, and the legal aspects
of the various trials.
Particularly helpful are the numerous essays that are
scattered throughout the book in appropriate places.
In these essays, the author provides a more detailed
discussion of various issues relating to the book of
Acts. “Luke’s Christology,” “Lukan Eschatology,”
the “Hellenists,” “Synagogues,” and “Luke, Josephus
and Historical Reliability” are just a few examples.
Witherington interacts with a large body of significant
literature relating to Acts, both ancient and modern.
He convincingly refutes various arguments against
the reliability of Acts, showing that Acts is an
accurate historical work. While Witherington does
not neglect discussion of significant theological
issues, theology is not particularly the focus of this
book. Devotional material and practical application
are also outside the scope of the book.
While this commentary shows evidence of deep
scholarship, it is well written and should be relatively
easy to understand even for those with limited
background in Bible. The book contains some
pictures, extensive footnotes, an excellent
bibliography and thorough indices of the modern
authors and ancient literature cited.
Ben Witherington is a professor of New Testament
Interpretation at Asbury Seminary and is emerging as
one of evangelicalism’s foremost experts in the field
of New Testament studies. His commentary on Acts
is surely destined to become a standard in the field.
Dennis Ingolfsland
The Bones of Joseph : From the Ancient Texts to the
Modern Church, by Gareth Lloyd Jones. Grand
Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN
0802845967, PAP, $16.00.
220.9. 206 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The subtitle of The Bones of Joseph : From the
Ancient Texts to the Modern Church—might lead a
reader to expect a dry, theological tome. That would
be a mistake. Gareth Lloyd Jones has selected twelve
texts from the Old and New Testaments (and one
from the Apocrypha) as bases for reflections. He
discusses the meaning of the story and then relates it
to contemporary life (hence “ancient texts” and
“modern Church”). The title refers to Joseph’s wish
to have his bones transported to the holy land when
the children of Israel left Egypt. This, Lloyd Jones
uses as the basis for an essay on tradition.
The Bones of Joseph is fluently written and eminently
readable. Gareth Lloyd Jones is Canon Chancellor of
Bangor Cathedral in Wales, and so the book has an
Anglican flavor. Its appeal, however, should extend
beyond an Anglican readership. His approach is
broadly conservative; he does not hold to a
fundamentalist, literalist view of scripture (the Bible
is “God’s Word in man’s words) and so he accepts
some (but not all) of the products of modern biblical
scholarship.
The texts Lloyd Jones has selected are not ones
commonly found in devotional material, and neither
are the insights he offers. The Bones of Joseph is
intriguingly different. Andrew M. Seddon
The Bible: What’s in It for Me? : The Complete
User-Friendly Guide to the Bible, by J. Stephen
Lang. Colorado Springs: Chariot Victor, 1997.
ISBN 1564766128, HBB, $16.99.
220.9. Bible--Study and Teaching. 316 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Browse the shelves in any bookstore and it won’t take
long to notice that they are filled with books
attempting to explain the Bible. Even so, The Bible:
What’s in It for Me? by J. Stephen Lang occupies a
unique and wonderful niche. Written in a humorous,
offbeat manner, the aim of the book is to be a “userfriendly”
guide to the Bible. It covers everything
from biblical inerrancy and infallibity to the Books of
the Old Testament and parts of them “you might want
to skip.” Other subjects include the New Testament
Books, interpreting the Bible, devotional reading, and
memorization. A mini-encyclopedia and a Bible
chronology are also included, as well as “In a
Nutshell” summaries of each book of the Bible.
Written in a style similar to DOS for Dummies or The
Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Internet, Lang
combines humor and lightheartedness with the
serious and important business of understanding the
Bible. The combination is fresh and appealing
whether the reader is a newcomer to the Bible or
someone simply desiring to become reacquainted
with it. Kerri Cunningham
Jesus and the Victory of God, by N. T. Wright.
LCCN 9219348. Minneapolis: Fortress Press,
1996. ISBN 0800626818, PAP, $39.00.
225.6. God--Biblical teaching; Bible. N.T.--Theology; God--
History of doctrines--Early church ca. 30-600; Christianity--
Origin. 741 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Jesus and the Victory of God is the second volume in
a series entitled Christian Origins and the Question of
God by N.T. Wright. Wright begins his second
volume by tracing the quest for the historical Jesus
from Reimarus (1694-1768) to the present, arguing
that the current “Third Quest” for the historical Jesus
which is the first “real attempt to do history seriously”
and to “be guided by first-century sources.”
Wright’s historical methodology involves proposing a
hypothesis to answer the major questions posed by
“Third Quest” writers, and then testing that
hypothesis by pre-selected criteria. The majority this
attempts to show in great detail how the parables,
teachings, and actions of Jesus recorded in the
Gospels, as well as the structure of the Gospels
themselves, support his hypothesis and meet the preestablished
criteria.
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Wright has proposed a refreshing new model for
doing New Testament historical studies. His work is
thorough, detailed, and thoughtful. It lacks the
unwarranted skepticism of many historical Jesus
books on the market today. The picture of Jesus that
emerges from Wright’s analysis, though controversial
in places, is one that finally attempts to do justice to
all the New Testament data.
Wright is an Anglical canon who was a professor for
twenty years at such prestigious institutions as
Cambridge and Oxford Universities in England. He
is now Dean of Lichfield and a Canon of Coventry
Cathedral. His book is very well written and contains
an extensive bibliography and indices. Dennis
Ingolfsland
All You Need to Believe, by C. Donald Cole.
Chicago: Moody Press, 1998. ISBN 0802430538,
PAP, $8.99.
230. Christianity. 210 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
All You Need to Believe is a volume in a new series
from Moody Press called Foundations of the Faith.
The series is designed to explore the essentials of
Christian faith; other volumes deal with the
Beatitudes and the Lord’s Prayer. All You Need To
Believe was originally published in 1983 as I Believe.
In a few short lines, the Apostles’ Creed sums up the
central beliefs of the Christian faith. Some churches
recite the creed in worship, others don’t. But
regardless of denominational differences, Christians
can agree on these cardinal doctrines.
Cole explains the meaning of the Creed phrase by
phrase and line by line, from what it means to believe
in God, to believing in the life everlasting. But more
than explaining what the framers of the Creed meant,
he also applies the truths of the Creed to life today.
He says that The Creed is not an outworn document,
but a living statement of our living faith.
The chapters are short and well-written and the book
should appeal both to established Christians wishing
a refresher on the basics, and to new believers and
seekers wondering what Christianity is all about. All
You Need To Believe contains a study guide by James
Bell Jr. appropriate for either individual or group
study. Andrew M. Seddon
What Christians Really Believe and Why, by
Stanley J. Grenz. Louisville, Ky.: Westminster,
1998. ISBN 0664257321, PAP, $12.00.
230. 159 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Religious pluralism in our time has reached new
heights. People have a bewildering variety to choose
from—traditional religions, newcomers to the scene,
and ‘personal’ do-it-yourself versions. Even the
Christian Church has been affected by this, as well as
by society’s secularizing influences, to the point
where many people, Christians included, may not
know what Christianity really teaches. The Church
doors have been left open to outside influences and
non-Christian elements and properties have entered
in.
For both inquiring non-Christians and Christians
unsure about their faith, Stanley Grenz has written
What Christians Really Believe and Why. Grenz,
who holds professorships at Carey Theological
College and Regent College has written widely. This
book follows in the footsteps of such classics of
Christian explanation as John Stott’s Basic
Christianity and Walter Martin’s Essential
Christianity.
Grenz’s exposition is fresh and relevant to today’s
religious situation. Grenz deals not only with the what
of Christian belief, but the why. What makes
Christianity different from and superior to other
religious alternatives? What beliefs are historically
Christian and which are more recent deviations?
Grenz explores such topics as “Which God?,” “Who
is Jesus and what did he do?,” ‘Is the World—am I—
Going Anywhere?” and others from a conservative,
fully orthodox position. As a concise introduction or
refresher to the Christian faith it would be hard to beat
this book. Andrew M. Seddon
I Was Just Wondering, by Philip Yancey. Grand
Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN
0802846122, PAP, $12.00.
230. Christian life--1960-. 232 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
I Was Just Wondering is a collection of essays initially
published in Christianity Today, and revised for this
edition. Yancey relates that he doesn’t write his
column until the deadline arrives. This gives his
essays a spontaneity, which is tempered in this
published edition by further reflection and reader
comments.
Yancey’s reflections are wide-ranging in the fields of
the humanities, science, philosophy, theology, and
practical Christian living. He groups them into six
sections: The Human Animal, In the World, Among
the Believers, Necessary Voices, Life With God, and
Another World. Yancey is not content to seek pat
answers to difficult questions. Rather, his reflections
are designed to encourage deeper inquiry. Despite the
penetrating nature of his queries, the essays are
remarkably easy to read.
Yancey’s essays frequently take unusual twists, not
ending up where they seem they might. And
sometimes they leave the reader with a sense of
uneasiness. Perhaps there is more to this business of
being a Christian than we’ve realized. Yancey is not
out to answer questions, but to pose them. And this
he does well. Agree or disagree, I Was Just
Wondering contains many points worth pondering.
Andrew M. Seddon
Jesus as God : The New Testament Use of “Theos”
in Reference to Jesus, by Murray J. Harris. Grand
Rapids: Baker Books, 1998. ISBN 0801021952,
PAP, $19.99.
232. Jesus Christ. 384 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Murray Harris took his Ph.D. from the University of
Manchester and was professor emeritus of New
Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
His book Jesus as God was possibly the most
comprehensive, in-depth, and scholarly treatment of
the New Testament passages attributing deity to Jesus
in print.
There are a total of sixteen passages in the New
Testament have been interpreted at one time or other
to attribute deity to Jesus Christ. Harris examined
each one in detail. Textual, linguistic, grammatical,
contextual, historical, and theological issues were all
taken into consideration. Various translations and
conjectural emendations were discussed. Even the
Hebrew text and Greek Septuagint were analyzed for
those passages which alluded to or quoted from the
Old Testament. Pro’s and con’s were listed for each
view and Harris’ conclusions were given in degrees of
probability.
Harris’ conclusions were that it is certain that John 1:1
and John 20:28 applied the title God to Jesus Christ.
Harris believed that it was very probable that Romans
9:5, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:8 and 2 Peter 1:1 applied
the title God to Jesus and that it was probable that that
John 1:18 did as well. Harris believed that it was
possible, but not likely that that Acts 20:28, Hebrews
1:9 and 1 John 5:20 called Jesus God. Harris
concluded that it was not at all likely that Matthew
1:23, John 17:3, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 5:5,
Colossians 2:2, 2 Thessalonians 1:12 and 1 Timothy
3:16 applied the title God to Jesus (Harris, 1992 171)
Jesus as God is scholarly, well written, and very
through in its analysis. The book is a must for anyone
involved in ministries to cults which deny the deity of
Christ, or who have friends or family in such groups.
Dennis Ingolfsland
Meditations on the Cross, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer;
edited by Manfred Weber. Louisville, Ky.:
Westminster, 1998. ISBN 0664257550, PAP,
$12.00.
232.5. Jesus Christ--Passion; Jesus Christ--Crucifixion; Jesus
Christ--Resurrection; Easter. 128 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was one of the 20th century’s
most respected theologians. During WW II, he
opposed Hitler and died in a concentration camp
shortly before the war’s end. Perhaps because of the
situation in Germany, themes of the Cross, suffering,
and resurrection form an integral part of Bonhoeffer’s
writing.
Meditations on the Cross is a collection of excerpts
from Bonhoeffer’s books, sermons, and prison letters
that revolve around the events of Easter and the
Passion. They are, however, not abstract
intellectualizing; Bonhoeffer is concerned with how
the events affect contemporary life. He is concerned
with what being a Christian means? What difference
does being a Christian make? “Jesus calls us not to a
new religion,” Bonhoeffer writes, “but to life.”
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The meditations are short (the longest is seven pages),
but they are full. There is no fluff. Meditations on the
Cross is not a book to be read—it is to be pondered,
absorbed, digested, and lived. For those unfamiliar
with Bonhoeffer, this would provide a good jumping
off point for his more challenging and weightier
works. Andrew M. Seddon
Love Set Free : Meditations on the Passion
According to John, by Martin L. Smith. : Cowley,
1999. ISBN 1561011533, PAP, $7.95.
232.5. Jesus Christ--Passion; Jesus Christ--Crucifixion; Jesus
Christ--Resurrection; Easter. 72 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Love Set Free is a short book of six meditations on the
Passion according to St. John by Martin Smith, an
Episcopal monk. They carry the titles: embodiment,
vulnerability, intimacy, desire, union, and silence.
The book arose out of Good Friday messages. Most
Easter devotionals end with the Resurrection, but
Love Set Free does not, and this is why. It is a Good
Friday devotional. Smith’s intent in writing from St.
John’s gospel is to draw out some of the nuances that
set it apart from the other gospels. He attempts to call
forth the images that John creates, not engage in
biblical interpretation. That is, he wants the story to
come alive, for the images and scenes to resonate
within us.
Despite their brevity these well-written meditations
require thought and reflection. They could be used
throught Lent or as a series on Good Friday. The
apostle John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, tells us
more about love than possibly any other New
Testament writer. Love Set Free helps us to
comprehend the immensity of God’s love. Andrew
M. Seddon
The Case for Christ : A Journalist’s Personal
Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus, by Lee
Strobel. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN
0310226465, HBB, $18.99.
232.9. Jesus Christ--Person and offices; Apologetics. 336 p.
Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Lee Strobel was an atheist. A graduate of Yale Law
School. An award-winning legal affairs editor. When
his wife accepted Christ as her Savior, Strobel began
an intensive two-year spiritual journey investigating
another case—Christianity. Was Jesus really who he
claimed to be? The result is an absorbing and
persuasive work: The Case For Christ: A
Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence
For Jesus.
Strobel pursues and interviews thirteen top scholars,
most with doctorates and years of study, in areas of
expertise such as Bible history, archaeology,
psychology, and medicine. He doggedly presses for
answers to tough questions: Were Jesus’ biographies
reliably preserved? Evidence for Jesus outside the
gospels? Does archaeology confirm or contradict
Jesus’ biographies? Was Jesus convinced he was the
Son of God or was he crazy? Did he fulfill the
attributes of God? Really die? Was the resurrection
a hoax? The author quotes from other skeptics as he
cross-examines relentlessly.
The reader will delight in Strobel’s technique—
beginning each chapter with an attention-gripping
legal piece, which parallels the biblical topic he
subsequently addresses. Using a fast-paced fictional
style, he draws the reader into the scene and the
conversation. The skeptic finds answers to his
favorite theories; Strobel’s probing challenges the
Christian to deliberate on beliefs more intensely.
Personal or group study questions and additional
resources appear at each chapter’s end. In the back is
a list of citations, notes for each chapter, and a helpful
index. A must read for believers and nonbelievers
alike. A most important and engaging treatise in
popular apologetics.
The reader is a juror on The Case For Christ. And
Strobel’s verdict? The evidence is overwhelming: he
is currently a teaching pastor at Willow Creek
Community Church outside Chicago. Rhonda Marie
Lackey
Power of the Cross : Real Stories, Real People, a
Real God, by Tim LaHaye. LCCN 9745539.
Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah, 1998. ISBN
1576732126, HBB, $19.99.
232.96. Crosses; Conversion; Christian biography; Christian
life. 256 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
The Power of the Cross is basically a book of
conversion stories, designed to demonstrate the
saving efficacy of Christ’s death in the face of the
worst human sin and degredation. LaHaye presents
stories of people rescued from skepticism, crime and
violence, alcoholism, drug abuse, depression,
homosexuality, and guilt. Each person reached the
end of human resources and ability, but received new
life by accepting Christ as savior. These stories are
prefaced by a discussion of the Cross as being more
than a mere symbol; the message of the Cross for
salvation; and the story of the Apostle Paul’s
conversion. LaHaye (who writes from a conservative
evangelical position) concludes with a brief chapter
on multiculturalism and the foolishness of godless
wisdom.
The Power of the Cross suffers from frequent
repetition of stock phrases. While the dramatic
stories LaHaye presents form the point of the book,
they create a one-dimensional focus. He doesn’t
mention the hidden, quiet, but equally effective
working of the Holy Spirit in less-troubled lives.
Also, the untutored might mistake a “conversion
experience” for the culmination, rather than the
beginning of new life. There’s a risk that readers
whose conversion experience was less startling might
doubt the validity of their own experience.
The Power of the Cross is thus a starting point for an
examination of the meaning of the Cross. It would
best suit new Christians, seekers, or hesitant inquirers.
This is not a book of theological reflection, but
designed to inspire and to stress the need to present
the Cross of Christ to unbelievers. Andrew M. Seddon
Contemplating the Cross : A Pilgrimage of Prayer,
by Tricia McCary Rhodes. LCCN 9733855.
Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1997. ISBN
0764220497, PAP, $15.50.
232.96. Holy Week--Meditations; Jesus Christ--Biography--
Passion Week--Meditations; Devotional literature. 189 p. Gr. 7
- Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Contemplating the Cross is a forty day devotional on
the last hours of Jesus’ life, from the Garden of
Gethsemane to the resurrection. Rhodes’ intent is for
us to look at the Crucifixion as if we were physically
present, seeing it in all its brutality and horror. Each
meditation is laid out with a quiet time of reflection,
scripture readings, a narrative focusing on an event in
Jesus’ life, a response, and a closing prayer.
Facing the Cross is not an easy proposition, and
Rhodes’ narratives take us through the details of an
inhuman death. The trip can be painful and
unpleasant. But there are other moments, moments of
tenderness, repentance, and finally victory. The
Crucifixion should not become a sanitized,
emotionless picture. Rhodes takes care to point out
what was actually happening—behind the scenes of
soldiers, priests, the machinery of Roman-Jewish
politics—was deciding the redemption of humanity.
Contemplating the Cross is a book to dispel
complacency and pretty pictures of the past. It brings
us to face our sin and the immensity of God’s
response. Rhodes encourages journaling as a way to
deepen the effect and document our journey through
the final hours of Jesus’ earthly life. Writing narrative
about such a sacred event is frought with hazards, but
in general Rhodes does this fairly well, and doesn’t
over-elaborate far beyond what the scriptures record.
Andrew M. Seddon
The Cleansing of the Heavens : The Accuser Cast
Down, by Mark C. Roser. Shippensburg, Pa.:
Treasure House, 1998. ISBN 1560433116, PAP,
$10.99.
235. Satan; Sin. 246 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In the Old Testament (Job 2) Satan stood before the
throne of God as the accuser of men. Is he still there?
When was he cast out of heaven? What difference
does it make? What is his role today? If he does not
accuse men before the throne of God, how does he
accuse people today?
Not many people, including myself, have given much
thought to any of these questions. It is obvious in The
Cleansing of the Heavens that Mark C. Roser has
given the topic a great of thought and study. Roser
presents the argument that Satan was cast out of
heaven when Christ died on the cross in part one of
the book. Then he systematically “exposes his
(Satan’s) background, explains his defeat, and
clarifies the position that he has occupied ever since.”
In part two Roser explains how we overcome Satan
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by the blood of Christ and our testimony. Roser
believes it is only when we understand where and
how Satan operates now that we can cease to live in
fear and guilt.
Each chapter is followed by extensive endnotes that
must be read concurrently with the text to fully
understand Roser’s position. Because the author is
presenting new insights, the reader may find
scriptures combined in a new way. Roser is very
good at connecting scriptures and explaining
sequences of events, such as what was accomplished
at Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension, in a way
that clarifies and simplifies the information. The
author includes an excellent bibliography. Barbara
A. Bryden
Your Eternal Reward, by Erwin W. Lutzer.
Chicago: Moody Press, 1998. ISBN 0802441920,
PAP, $8.99.
236. Heaven. 171 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The word “judgment” tends to send shivers down us,
but to think we must all be judged before Christ can
seem a most fearful prospect. Erwin Lutzer presents
a thorough and thought-provoking account of the
Judgment Seat of Christ in his book Your Eternal
Reward. The bottom line is that each and every
Christian will be rewarded or experience loss for
eternity for his works, good or bad.
Lutzer writes an intriguing account of this “certain”
event. He is diligent to pepper the pages with
appropriate and thought-provoking scriptures that
help drive home his point. Every believer should
become acutely aware of this moment in eternity
when they must stand before God. Our eternal future
and all that it entails is pivotal to what happens at the
judgment seat and ultimately how we lived life on
earth.
Lutzer points out that rather than be fearful and think
God harsh, we should be driven by the love of Christ
to do all and give all to His Kingdom work. Matthew
Henry sums this up saying, “It ought to be the
business of every day to prepare for our last day.”
This book should be a “must read” for all who want
to find incentive and drive to be about Christ’s work.
Chapter ten is specifically written for the unbeliever
or those unsure about their salvation. This is pointed
out early on in the book so that the reader won’t feel
confused or condemned, but can immediately find an
avenue to truly accept Christ and feel confident in
their stand. This is a well-written account that treats
this little known subject with forthrightness and
honesty. Mary McKinney
The Last Days According to Jesus, by R. C. Sproul.
LCCN 9830139. Grand Rapids: Baker Books,
1998. ISBN 080101171X, HBB, $16.99.
236. Jesus Christ--Prophecies; Second Advent--Biblical
teaching; Bible. N.T. Prophecies--Second Advent. 253 p.
Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
R.C. Sproul writes a scholarly account of
eschatology, the study of end time events. Citing
many sources, and presenting many differing views,
he finds balance in the scriptures themselves.
However, when such a subject is studied there are
inevitably unknown factors to ponder. By presenting
a variety of viewpoints, the reader is able to come to
his own conclusions or at least possibilities of the last
days scenario.
The Last Days According to Jesus keeps one abreast
of popular beliefs, and compares them to scriptural
accounts rather than conjecture and “pet theories.”
There is an extensive bibliography at the end of the
book, a useful glossary, as well as index of scriptures,
notes and names. An interesting appendix on the
Olivet Discourse comparing each Gospel account is
also included.
This study gives a wealth of information, historical as
well as futuristic, that can be a valuable tool for the
serious Bible student. Mary McKinney
Renewing Your Mind : Basic Christian Beliefs You
Need to Know, by R. C. Sproul. Rev. ed. of Basic
Training, 1982. LCCN 9751406. Grand Rapids:
Baker Books, 1998. ISBN 0801058155, PAP,
$10.99.
238. Theology, Doctrinal--Popular works; Apostles’ Crees.
216 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Popular author, and ordained Presbyterian minister,
R.C. Sproul brings out his third edition of Renewing
Your Mind. Using The Apostle’s Creed as the
foundation for his book, Sproul offers a contemporary
explanation of the creed’s teaching, not to give a
historical exposition of each point, but to apply its
basic tenets to contemporary faith-issues. He returns
to the fundamentals, dealing with such questions as,
Who is God? What about the virgin birth? Is the
resurrection for real? Will Christ return?
The author says there are “three dimensions to
renewing your mind through faith: (1) faith has an
intellectual dimension; (2) faith touches the human
will profoundly, (3) faith is intimately bound to our
emotions.”
Using each phrase of The Apostle’s Creed, starting
with “I believe . . .,” Sproul expounds on living the
Christian life. “The Christian life is nothing if not
challenging. It is not the fun life, nor the easy life. It
is life. This book is about living that life to the fullest,
about renewing your mind so that your thinking
conforms to the mind of Christ.”
A scholarly work, the writing is made reader-friendly
by using many subheads, often making sections less
than a page in length. Myrtlemay Pittman Crane
Seven Myths about Christianity, by Dale and Sandy
Larsen. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity, 1998.
ISBN 0830819096, PAP, $9.99.
239. 140 pp. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Christianity has often been accused of a variety of
evils: forcing its morality on others, suppressing
women, being unscientific, destroying the
environment and native cultures, to name only a few
of the attacks. The authors of Seven Myths about
Christianity attempt to tackle these attacks or “myths”
head on. They point out the inaccuracy, circular
reasoning, and other logical fallacies used by non-
Christians in their attacks. The authors however, do
not take a head-in-the-sand approach to these
“myths.” They acknowledge that these myths
unfortunately, have a basis in fact. They point out, for
example, that Christian men have indeed suppressed
women, that professing Christians have sometimes
used violence, deception, and intimidation to support
their causes, that some Christians have contributed to
the destruction of the environment, and that
Christians often show more compassion to the unborn
than to the poor or those with AIDS. The book,
therefore, makes a distinction between what some
professing Christians practice, and that which is the
“essence” of Christianity itself, that is, “the authentic
way of Jesus as he meant it to be.” (8)
The authors try hard to be objective in their arguments
and the book is very easy to read and understand. It
does not have an index, but is well documented and
contains a list of books for further study. Dennis
Ingolfsland
Teaching for Moral Growth : A Guide for the
Christian Community, Teachers, Parents, and
Pastors, by Bonnie Clouse. LCCN 932316.
Colorado Springs: Bridgepoint, 1993. ISBN
1564760782, PAP, $16.99.
241. Christian ethics--Study and teaching; Moral development;
Youth--Conduct of life; Christianity--Psychology. 416 p.
Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In an age when our society has seen an explosion of
crime and dysfunction amongst young people, there is
a growing need for clear instructions on how to teach
morals to children. Bonnidell Clouse, Ph. D., is a
professor of Education and School Psychology at
Indiana State University, and she intends for her book
to show “that parents, educators, and church leaders
can impact the lives of children and adolescents so
that moral development is more likely to occur.” In
the first section of the book she discusses the
traditional approaches to moral development: the use
of stories, the Bible, and character education. In the
second section she surveys four psychological
approaches to moral development (psychoanalytic,
learning, cognitive, and humanistic). Each
examination is in turn followed by three sub-sections
containing guidelines specific to teachers, parents,
and pastors. In the final section Clouse looks to
Scripture to evaluate the four psychological
approaches and summarizes everything in a short
conclusion titled, How Shall We Then Teach?
While academic in tone, this book is fascinating to
read and provides one with a thorough understanding
of the different approaches to teaching moral
behavior. Although written from a Christian
perspective, all caring citizens can profit from the
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ideas this book provides. Clouse concludes that we
are to look to Christ as the ultimate example of what
it means to be and to teach morality. “He is our
model; He is our teacher.” Lillian A. Heytvelt
Human Cloning : Religious Responses, edited by
Ronald Cole-Turner. Louisville, Ky.: Westminster,
1997. ISBN 0664257712, PAP, $15.00.
241. Human cloning--Moral and ethical aspects. 128 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
With the production of the cloned sheep Dolly, the
issue of cloning has captured the imagination of
scientists, journalists, and lay people alike. The
question that leaps to the forefront in the thinking of
most people is, assuming the technology becomes
acceptable, should we clone human beings? What are
the ethical, religious, and societal implications of
cloning?
As usual with any scientific advancement, there are
no easy answers. Opinions vary. In his introduction
to Human Cloning, Cole-Turner says, “For society to
make its way blithely into the practice of human
cloning without having heard the concerns of
Christians would be a great failure on the part of the
church... it is imperative that Christians respond in
faith, even if they find themselves disagreeing with
other Christians. There is something worse than
theological disagreement, and that is theological
silence.”
The twelve authors of this book bring a variety of
perspectives and theological backgrounds to the
discussion of human cloning, with opinions from
Roman Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, Lutheran,
Baptist, and United Church sources. The opinions
range from “no” to “maybe” to cautious “yes.” While
some authors feel that technical difficulties may
preclude human cloning, others believe that it is only
a matter of time. It is imperative that Christians
educate themselves and contribute to the discussion.
Agree with all the authors of this book or not, Human
Cloning presents an excellent introduction to the
complexities of the task ahead, and the multiplicity of
positions available to thinking Christians. Andrew M.
Seddon
He Hears Your Prayers : Simple Steps to God, by
Ron Auch. LCCN 9866302. Green Forest, Ark.:
Green Leaf, 1998. ISBN 0892214236, PAP, $10.99.
242. Prayer. 158 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Emphasizing prayer as the key to developing an
intimate relationship with God, Ron Auch inspires
every Christian to make prayer a priority. He Hears
Your Prayers begins by showing the importance of
prayer, with teaching founded on biblical principles.
Auch goes on to address the believer’s call to prayer,
obstacles to prayer, spiritual warfare, and intercessory
prayer.
The last two chapters offer practical advice on how to
establish one’s own prayer life. Never accusatory,
Auch challenges Christians not to settle for just
having prayer in their lives. Instead, he encourages
believers to intentionally work toward establishing a
regular prayer life that results in knowing God.
The author uses an easy to read, conversational style,
as if he is visiting with the reader around the coffee
table. Straightforward instruction, based on the Bible
and Auch’s experiences as a seminar leader, support
his arguments. However, paragraph breaks and
subheadings are inconsistent and sometimes
confusing when following specific points.
Especially helpful for a new believer, He Hears Your
Prayers speaks to anyone exploring what it means to
have a meaningful relationship with God. Christians
will benefit by using this book for personal study or
as a springboard for small group discussion. Karen
Brehmer
I’m Lonely, Lord, How Long: Meditations on the
Psalms, by Marva J. Dawn. Grand Rapids: Wm.
B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN 0802844715, PAP,
$14.00.
242. Bible. O.T. Psalms--Meditations; Loneliness--Religious
aspects--Christianity--Meditations. 256 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Psalms have struck a responsive chord among
believers from the earliest days of Christianity. The
cries of David and the other psalmists meet us at our
most basic emotional levels. In I’m Lonely Lord—
How Long? Marva Dawn has drawn on those psalms
that reflect one of the most painful emotions—
loneliness.
This book, newly revised, was written when Dawn
was suffering profound loneliness in the wake of
desertion by her husband. As such, it is a personal
book. Dawn, like David, is not afraid to reveal the
dark paths her soul followed. And, like David, she
realizes that God does care, that he is present with us.
And only God can meet the soul’s deepest needs and
longings.
There are thirty-one meditations in this book, making
it suitable for monthly use. But it doesn’t have to be
restricted to those in the throes of loneliness; Dawn’s
searching meditations would be suitable for anyone
wishing to penetrate deeper into the Psalms. Each
chapter includes questions for reflection and there is a
helpful list of resources at the end. Andrew M.
Seddon
Armed and Dangerous : Praying with Boldness, by
Jane L. Fryar. : Concordia, 1998. ISBN
0570049970, PAP, $10.99.
242. Prayer. 176 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Jane Fryar emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare
and that Christian warriors, armed with God’s Word
and prayer, are dangerous to the forces of the devil.
Each of the ten chapters in Armed and Dangerous
follows the same format: biblical example, teaching,
preview of the next chapter, discussion questions, and
practical prayer tips. Topics covered are praise,
confession, intercession, the Holy Spirit’s role in
prayer, praying when angry or discouraged, praying
in God’s will, the importance of God’s Word in
prayer, and more.
A quick read, the book is practical and easy to
understand. It is not deeply theological but covers
powerful, scripturally-based concepts. Over forty
pages of appendices strengthen the book and include
suggestions for teaching children to pray, planning a
personal and group prayer retreat, examples of other
believers’ prayers, tips for effective prayer, and a
sample prayer journal. Information about the author
is not included. Readers who want to strengthen their
prayer life will appreciate this book. Lydia E. Harris
Single Moments, by Lynda Hunter. LCCN
96047495. Colorado Springs: Focus on the Family
Publishers, 1997. ISBN 1561795321, PAP, $10.99.
242. Single mothers--Prayer-books and devotions--English;
Single parents--Prayer-books and devotions--English;
Devotional calendars. 298 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
This book is part Bible study, therapy, and diary that
may relate more to women rather than to men. The
chapter devotionals are short anecdotes from
situations in the author’s life and the scriptures she
used to help her through the situations she recounts.
Hunter seeks to encourage other singles to live a life
devoted to God. She alludes often to her marriage
and the trials she has being a single mother to three
children. At the end of each chapter she provides
insightful questions and action points for the reader to
apply in his/her life. Following the questions is one
scripture verse for the week. She is evangelical in her
theology. She avoids placing blame or providing
opportunities for self pity; rather, she offers single
people an opportunity to see themselves as whole
without having to have a spouse.
There are a few areas of concern. There appear to be
no specific unit headings for her essays. Grouping
them in units would have improved the readability of
the book. When she tells one story, the next may be
many years in the future or past. Her moves through
time are hard to follow. She repeats her stories at
times but with a different emphasis which might not
have happened had she been more organized
regarding her units or chapters. There may be topics
that do not connect to every single but most should be
applicable. She skirts the issue of remarriage. Bianca
Elliott
Song of a Woman’s Soul : A Book of Prayers,
compiled by Miriam Mindeman. LCCN 9810676.
Wheaton, Ill.: Harold Shaw, 1998. ISBN
0877888221, PAP, $12.99.
242. Women--Prayer-books and devotions--English; Prayers;
Women--Religious life. 143 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Song of a Woman’s Soul is a compilation by Miriam
Mindeman of prayers written by women throughout
history. The prayers vary in length from one sentence
to a full page. The prayers are arranged in general
subject categories, such as hungering for God,
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seeking forgiveness, and speaking honestly. The
prayers are written by a wide range of women,
including Mary Queen of Scots, Mother Teresa, Amy
Carmichael, Corrie ten Boom, Eugenia Price, and
Kathy Troccoli. The book includes a biographical
index of the writers which indicates not only the page
where their prayer can be found, but also gives a brief
description of each woman’s career or ministry.
This book of women’s prayers provides a wonderful
look into the hearts of women and their relationships
with God. This is a truly ecumenical collection. It
can easily be used as a daily devotional or prayer aid.
Women who read it will be encouraged to hear the
words of other women expressing the same emotions
and struggles that they face. Karla Kessell
Your Father Loves You, by J.I. Packer. Wheaton,
Ill.: Harold Shaw Pub., 1986. ISBN 0877888752,
HBB, $14.99.
242. Devotional calendars. 381 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
J.I. Packer is a well-known evangelical theologian,
prolific author, and speaker. Your Father Loves You is
a year’s worth of daily devotionals culled from
Packer’s published writings and taped addresses by
Jean Watson. The main theme is “the life of the
Christian family” which is examined under sixteen
related topics. Each devotional is preceded by a verse
of scripture and followed by a question for further
reflection.
The theme of the Christian family provides a very
helpful unifying concept. Just as a human family has
its foundations, lifestyles, standards, and wisdom, so
does the Christian family. Human families have
heads and members, as does the church. Human
families undergo trials and attacks, as does the
Christian family.
Packer’s writing is incisive, practical, and thought
provoking, never obscure. The theme of “life in the
family” appeals on various levels—to the intellect,
the emotions, and the spirit. Packer writes from a
conservative evangelical position. Your Father Loves
You is written at a level accessible for high-school to
adult age groups. Andrew M. Seddon
A Season for the Spirit, by Martin L. Smith.
Cowley, 1991. ISBN 156101026X. PAP, $9.95.
242. Christian life. 167 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Lent, the forty days leading up to Easter, is used by a
number of traditions as a time of discipline and
preparation. Devotionals for this period frequently
focus on the central experiences of Jesus’ life leading
up to the Crucifixion.
Martin Smith, author of A Season for the Spirit, is an
Episcopal monk, and his book consequently has an
Anglican flavor (although this should not preclude its
use by those of other denominations). His intent is to
lead us into prayer, to draw us closer to the Spirit of
God.
Each of the forty devotions (which end on the
Saturday before Easter Sunday) consists of a
reflection, then a prayer, and finally scriptures for
further meditation. Martin is particularly concerned
with love, and how we as Christians express the
Gospel both with fellow believers and with those who
are unbelievers. He is concerned that we set aside our
differences and love our fellow believers of all
Christian denominations, even if we might not agree
with them on all points.
Readers might wish to know that he does not adopt a
completely literal view of scripture, and accepts an
evolutionary history of human origins. Andrew M.
Seddon
Addicted to Mediocrity : 20th Century Christians
and the Arts, by Franky A. and Francis A.
Schaeffer. Wheaton, Ill. : Crossway Books, 1981.
ISBN 0891073531, PAP, $9.99.
246. Christianity and the arts. 128 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In an intellectual, yet understandable fashion, Franky
Schaeffer makes a clear case for the way Christians
should relate to the arts in our world today in his book
Addicted to Mediocrity. Chapter titles in Part One of
the book include topics such as “‘Spirituality’ and
‘Secularism’” and “True Spirituality (Revisited).” He
also addresses the question “What Can We Do?”
Part Two, which is half of the book, answers
questions most frequently asked of the author during
lecture and seminar tours as well as in personal
conversation and correspondence. He emphasizes
that “there is no secular or Christian world. There is
only one world, the whole world as God made it.”
His answers are clear and practical and a challenge to
Christians on how to truly appreciate the arts.
In response to the final question asking for
suggestions for further reading, Schaeffer gives an
annotated bibliography of books he recommends for
further consideration. The humorous, thought
provoking sketches of artist Kurt Mitchell add to this
Christian classic which should be on the must-read
list of every Christian adult. Esther Knaupp
Simply the Savior : A Woman’s Search for Simple
Joy, by Nancy Parker Burmmett. : Chariot Victor,
1998. ISBN 1564767523, HBB, $9.99.
248. Home economics--Religious aspects--Christianity;
Women--Time management--Religious aspects--Christianity.
128 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Too much “stuff” complicates life. The Shakers sing,
“‘Tis a gift to be simple.” Our contemporaries who
have discovered the truth of that statement have
generously shared how to achieve simplicity—how to
get rid of extraneous stuff, how to cut back on
working so you have more time for your family (or
for yourself), how to determine priorities and
eliminate everything that detracts from those
priorities.
Nancy Parker Brummett takes simplicity one step
further by showing us how to achieve spiritual
simplicity—by focusing on Jesus and eliminating
anything that interferes with our communion with
him. Fifteen short chapters with titles like “Simply
Believe,” “Simply Pray,” and “Simply Say No” detail
how to sort out spiritual clutter and enjoy intimacy
with God.
Brummett uses anecdotes from her own life and
others’ to illustrate her points. She bases her content
on scripture and quotes from twenty-some other
sources. Simply the Savior is beautifully produced
with a padded cover and purple print. Although it is
often displayed with the gift books, the text is meaty,
articulate, and substantial. Andrea R. Huelsenbeck
Tea with Patsy Clairmont, by Patsy Clairmont.
Ann Arbor, Mich.: Servant, 1997. ISBN
1569550395, HBB, $14.
248. 112 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Reading Tea with Patsy Clairmont is like having a
friendly chat with Patsy over a cup of tea. A popular
author and speaker, Patsy Clairmont writes with
humor and nostalgia on twenty-nine subjects—
mostly personal stories with a sprinkling of poems,
recipes, scriptures, and prayers-all beginning with the
letter “t.” This 7 1/2 by 6 1/2 inch gift book includes
color photographs displaying her teacups, teapots,
and sentimental treasures.
For Patsy, tea speaks of a time to relax, reflect, and
nurture our souls. “Tea is a sip of yesterday when
times were less frantic and more family, when Polly
put her kettle on, and we all had tea.” Teatime is a
comforting interlude reminding Patsy “in quietness
and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15b).
Sometimes Patsy Clairmont’s sharing is serious and
thought-provoking: “...women relate to feeling
fragile and broken. Yet...we are strengthened when
we are honest... and receive one another, cracks,
chips, and all.” Other times, she’s humorous and
transparent. Comparing a teapot’s spout to her own
spout (mouth), she warns, “When I’m brewing, watch
out!” Sometimes she shares tender moments of love
and romance; other times, she’s practical, listing teas
with medicinal benefits. Mostly, Tea with Patsy is
steeped with warmth and friendship, because “tea and
friends are timeless treasures that revive and
encourage the heart.”
An attractive book that will make readers smile, tea
lovers will want to add this charming book of
inspiration and tea tips to their collection, or buy it as
a gift for a friend. Lydia E. Harris
Solid Answers : America’s Foremost Family
Counselor Responds to Tough Questions Facing
Today’s Families, by Dr. James Dobson. Wheaton,
Ill.: Tyndale House, 1997. ISBN 0842306234,
NBB, $19.99.
248. 576 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
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As parents flounder in a culture lacking absolute
truth, Dr. James Dobson steps forward to provide the
solid answers today’s families need. A respected
psychologist, author, radio host, and
founder/president of Focus on the Family, Dr. Dobson
has been answering parents’ questions for over
twenty-five years. His reliable advice is based on
firm biblical principles and time-tested information.
In this comprehensive resource, he answers almost
five hundred questions covering a wide range of
family-life subjects including discipline, education,
spiritual life, money matters, marriage, single
parenting, and many more.
Written in a conversational question/answer format
and organized by subject, it is easy to read and use as
a reference. The last chapter is an unexpected bonus
and offers 117 principles and concepts from Dobson’s
other books and statements. The extensive end notes
and subject and scripture indexes are a valuable
addition to this excellent resource that belongs in
every home and library. Lydia E. Harris
Meditations for Mothers : Moments with God
Amidst a Busy Nest, by Elisa Morgan. Grand
Rapids: Zondervan, 1999. ISBN 0310226546,
HBB, $14.99.
248. 175 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In her new release Elisa Morgan, president and CEO
of Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), includes thirtyfive
brief devotions to nurture busy “mother birds” in
their roles of nest-building. She invites moms to learn
from the swallow in Psalms 84:3, who built her nest
near God’s altar. Similarly, moms need to build safe
nests on the rock of God and spend time with him.
Divided into seven sections, Meditations for Mothers
encourages moms in the challenges of raising their
young. Each devotional intertwines scripture,
personal experiences, interesting bird facts, questions
to ponder, and a prayer. Meditations cover helpful
topics such as resting in God’s presence, asking others
for help, surviving life’s tough spots, and planning for
the future.
The author’s empathetic tone offers comfort and
understanding with a gentle nudge towards spiritual
growth. Relevant and refreshing for mothers with
young children, this devotional book directs moms to
focus on God, their marriages, and families. A brief
explanation of MOPS is included. Short and simple,
the meditations will fit into moms’ busy schedules
and are sure to be read and reread for inspiration.
Lydia E. Harris
Amazing Grace : A Vocabulary of Faith, by
Kathleen Norris. New York: Riverhead Books,
1998. ISBN 1573220787, HBB, $24.95.
248. Christian life. 384 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Kathleen Norris continues the saga of her conversion,
which she considers a lifelong process. She follows
her popular Dakota and Cloister Walk with eighty
short soul-baring essays on her struggle, using her
mastery of the English language to explore the
mystery of the language of faith, the “scary” words.
Norris says, “In the suspicious atmosphere of the
contemporary Christian church, it is good to know
one’s ground. When others label me and try to
exclude me, as too conservative or too liberal, as too
feminist or not feminist enough, as too intellectual or
not intellectually rigorous, as too Catholic to be a
Presbyterian or too Presbyterian to be a Catholic, I
refuse to be shaken from the fold. It’s my God, too,
my Bible, my church, my faith.”
Years of study have given Norris a great grasp of
church history and theology. She quotes liberally
from scripture, scholars and saints, historians and
theologians, priests and poets, monks and ministers,
both current and ancient writers. She believes that
Christianity can really be lived only in community, in
the turmoil of daily living. Thus, she views regular
church attendance as essential to faith’s growth.
Her stance on grace is, “If God did not choose to work
in ways that confound us, grace would not be
amazing.” She frequently refers to her dependence
on Benedictine lectio divina, or holy meditative
reading of the Bible, and she is concerned about
decreased Bible reading today by individuals and in
churches.
Many may reject Norris’s theses out of hand. To
those who question, she counters that not all questions
require answers. She asks that we deal with each
other in mercy. Probably most will find her writing
stimulating, thought-provoking and inspiring.
Jeanette Hardage
One Home at a Time : Restoring the Soul of
American Through God’s Plan for Your Marriage
and Family, by Dennis Rainey. : Focus on the
Family, 1997. ISBN 1561795453, HBB, $16.99.
248. 267 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Dennis Rainey, executive director of FamilyLife, has
a passion for restoring families, one home at a time.
He describes root causes of family problems and
offers hope through four pillars of family
reformation: personal repentance, embracing the
marriage covenant, accepting God-ordained roles,
and leaving a spiritual legacy for the next generation.
When Christians apply these biblical truths, families
and neighborhoods are strengthened.
In One Home at a Time, Rainey’s goal is to help
readers establish solid Christian marriages and
families, develop moral courage, and recognize the
need for the Christian community to unite. The
community “bricks” needed to rebuild families
include not only Christian couples and churches but
parachurch organizations and Christian leaders in
education, business, the media, and politics—all
working together.
While addressing a serious subject with zeal, Rainey
offers practical steps to restore homes, beginning with
each reader’s family. Appendix, notes, and resources
are a bonus in this excellent resource which is
valuable for families, pastors, and libraries. Lydia E.
Harris
501 Practical Ways to Teach Your Children Values,
by Bobbie Reed. LCCN 9737079. St. Louis, Mo.:
Concordia, 1998. ISBN 0570049946, PAP, $12.99.
248.8. Christian education of children; Values--Study and
teaching; Children--Religious life. 239 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
501 Practical Ways to Teach Your Children Values is
written for Christian parents who want to encourage
their children to abide by a Christian lifestyle. The
introduction includes ten steps to follow in teaching
values, four steps children undertake in learning, and
hurdles parents may encounter. Chapters One and
Two list twenty-five activities to help parents select
values and twenty-five for how to pass them along.
Chapters Three and Four list seventy-one activities
for defining values in behavioral terms and seventy
for sparking children’s interest. Chapters Five and
Six list sixty activities for teaching children how to
exemplify parents’ values and sixty-four that tie into
Bible stories. Chapters Seven and Eight list sixty-six
activities for helping children apply values in their
own lives and thirty-nine games for reinforcement.
Chapters Nine and Ten list sixty activities for
rewarding appropriate behavior and twenty-one for
memorable circumstances. The epilogue encourages
parents to never give up on passing their own values
along to their children.
Bobbie Reed has written an excellent resource for
teaching children Christian values. The real life
illustrations and helpful hints at the beginning of the
introduction and chapters are beneficial for using the
book. The activities are appropriate for school age
children, and ones that target either younger or older
children can be reformatted. Some of the activities
require little preparation, while others require a great
deal. As there is not an index, it can be difficult to
locate an activity if you don’t mark it when reading
the book. Dianne Woodman
When Prince Charming Falls Off His Horse :
Keeping the Happily Ever After in Your Marriage,
by Jerry and Judy Schreur; with Jack Schreur. :
Chariot Victor, 1997. ISBN 1564766284, PAP,
$10.99.
248. Marriage. 223 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Using a fairy tale analogy of Cinderella and Prince
Charming, the Schreurs replace the myth of romantic
ideals with truth. Their thirty-three years of marriage,
combined with case illustrations from twenty-five
years of pastoral counseling, result in refreshing,
insightful teaching based on reality, not fantasy. The
first portion covers unrealistic expectations, intimacy,
love busters, the lure of an affair, boredom, and more.
The last portion discusses choices that lead to mature,
lasting relationships: choosing understanding,
obedience to God, commitment, creativity, and love.
Aimed at women, When Prince Charming Falls Off
His Horse is also applicable for husbands, marriage
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counselors, and pastors. Although the authors don’t
promise a fairy tale ending, applying their
psychological, biblically-based instruction provides
practical help and hope to keep the happily-ever-after
in marriage. Married couples of all ages will benefit
greatly from completing the exercises at the end of
each chapter. A valuable resource to strengthen
marriages, it encourages couples to remain committed
and contented in their marriage. Lydia E. Harris
TeamMates : Building Your Marriage to Complete,
not Compete, by Bob and Yvonne Turnbull.
Kansas City, Mo.: Beacon Hill, 1998. ISBN
0834117177, PAP, $14.99.
248. Marriage. 221 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Bob and Yvonne Turnbull write with humor and
honesty in TeamMates, a book designed for couples
to read aloud together and for group discussion. The
content is based on the Turnbulls’ marriage and
family seminars taught across the United States and
Canada. Using dialogue, they show couples practical
ways to work as a team in marriage instead of
competing. The five marital building blocks
discussed are unity, roles and expectations,
communication, spiritual growth, and changes. Some
chapters are specifically for husbands, others for
wives. Although written for married couples, singles
could also benefit from their excellent teaching on
communication and handling conflict.
Filled with illustrations, personal stories, and
scriptural principles, the book is helpful and
interesting. Each chapter ends with team-building
questions and action steps. Couples who desire a
winning marriage will find plenty of practical tools
and wisdom to apply. Lydia E. Harris
The Practice of Prayer, by Margaret Guenther.
(New Church’s Teaching Series; 4.) : Cowley,
1998. ISBN 1561011525, PAP, $11.95.
248.3. Prayer. 148 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
At its simplest, prayer is communication with God.
At its deepest level, it is a complex, multifaceted
relationship. To discuss prayer in a single,
manageable volume is thus a daunting task. Margaret
Guenther, recently retired professor at the General
Theological Seminary in New York, has chosen to
write a book on prayer that is practical and readable
(one might say “neighborly”) rather than a
dissertation. It is personal, intimate, as well as
profound.
In Part One of The Practice of Prayer Guenther
surveys different ways Christians have prayed
through the centuries. She also relates practices that
people have adopted as aids to prayer. Part Two is
called Praying in the Midst of Life, and brings prayer
off the shelf and into the ordinary routine of life. This
is the heart of the book. Such chapters as “Your
kitchen will teach you everything,” “How do I pray
when the baby is keeping me up?” and “‘Tis the gift
to be simple, ‘Tis the gift to be free” remind us that
God is not a God far off, but a God close at hand.
While the New Church’s Teaching Series is produced
for an Anglican readership, prayer is for all. The
Practice of Prayer calls us to a deeper life in
communication with our God. Andrew M. Seddon
On Our Knees and In His Arms, by Peter Lewis.
(Foundations of the Faith.) Chicago: Moody
Press, 1998. ISBN 0802430511, PAP, $9.99.
248.3. 210 p. Gr. 11 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
On Our Knees and In His Arms is another volume in
the Moody Press Foundations of the Faith series.
These books examine the cardinal doctrines of the
Bible and the Christian faith. In this volume, Peter
Lewis tackles the Lord’s Prayer. His forty-four
chapters work their way through the sections of the
prayer, discussing not only surface implications, but
deeper aspects of our Lord’s teaching.
The format of the text is application of the Lord’s
Prayer to contemporary living. It ranges from the
nature of God and our response to him; to the
relationship of God, Christians, and the world; to
practical issues such as temptation, anxiety,
forgiveness, contentment, and discipleship. Lewis is
an evangelical pastor, and this is reflected in the
book’s content.
Lewis writes clearly and forthrightly, using many
scriptural references. At times, I felt his sections were
too long, and could have been said more concisely
without loss of information. But this is a small price
to pay for a detailed examination of this important
section of scripture. The book has a study guide by
James Bell Jr., which will be helpful for group study.
Andrew M. Seddon
Lectio Divina : Renewing the Ancient Practice of
Praying the Scriptures, by M. Basil Pennington.
LCCN 9745159. New York: A Crossroad Book,
1998. ISBN 0824517792, PAP, $13.95.
248.3. Bible--Reading; Bible--Devotional use; Spiritual life--
Catholic Church. 164 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
In the world of contemporary Christian spirituality
silence, contemplation, centering prayer, and lectio
divina have retaken ground lost for want of the
Church’s attention to the individual’s spiritual need
for a personal sense of communion with God. M.
Basil Pennington, a Roman Catholic monk and
teacher, introduces us to the ancient church practice of
lectio divina—divine reading, or praying the
Scriptures. His orthodoxy is impeccable. “First and
foremost is the disposition of faith, a firm belief that
the Word of God is the Word of God...”as we
faithfully hear the Word, the Word strengthens and
renews our faith... this actual experience of the Word
brings us to the point where we can say with St. Paul:
‘I know in whom I believe’”
“To the extent we truly “hear” that Word, receive that
Word into our being and into our lives, we participate
in the Divine Being, Life, Love, Joy. Made in the
image of God, we have an unlimited, an infinite
potential to be like unto him.” “Lectio Divina is
letting our Divine Friend speak to us through his
inspired and inspiring Word...it includes our response
to that Word...in intimate prayer and in the way we
take that Word with us and let it shape our lives.”
“Hearing this Good News is one of the most essential
acts of our being.”
Chapter after chapter was a joy to read, to ponder, and
to find encouragement in reading and believing and
praying the Scriptures deeply and meditatively. This
book is a profound model for our daily quiet times.
Lectio is a wholesome method for entering into
communion with God through the Bible. Pennington
provides practical guidance for an individual,
families, and groups to do that. No longer do we have
to feel uneasy about Eastern methods of mysticism
creeping into our Christian attempts at renewing our
own spirituality. The Church’s own prayer life with
Scriptures for almost 2,000 years is there to renew
and be renewed in such practices as lectio divina.
I was unused to speaking of the Holy Spirit as “Holy
Spirit” (without “the”). Pennington does not use
Holy Spirit as a description of the third person of the
Trinity. He uses it as a name, just as we use Jesus or
Jesus Christ without a “the” for a prefix.
One jarring note was in Appendix Four, a letter from
Fr. Bernardo Olivera, a Trappist monk, who referred
to the Holy Spirit as “she” in two sentences.
Pennington does not use this new, politically correct
pronoun in his book, himself, but still I was
disquieted with its inclusion from another author in an
otherwise noteworthy book. To all who would draw
aside with their Bibles, listen to God, and commune
with him in prayer, there is much to learn from this
monk. Mike Jarvis
Your Life, God’s Home : Knowing the Joy of His
Presence, by Nancie Carmichael. LCCN 9819635.
Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 1998. ISBN
1581340176, HBB, $15.99.
248.4. Spiritual life--Christianity; Presence of God;
Carmichael, Nancie; Temple of God. 207 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
“Think of it—as you allow God to become more and
more at home in your life, you become His house, His
dwelling place in this world!” Nancy Carmichael,
who many readers may recognize from her columns
in the magazines Virtue and Christian Parenting
Today, uses the metaphor of building a house to
illustrate the principles necessary to live with Godgiven
purpose. From the first chapter, The
Foundation, to the last, House Beautiful, she lays a
blueprint for constructing the home of one’s heart
according to God’s plan. Filled with personal
anecdotes of her own struggles as a pastor’s wife and
the mother of four sons and one adopted daughter,
Carmichael invites readers inside her own life to
explore the importance of allowing God to be at the
heart of all that one does.
For Christian women feeling overwhelmed by
responsibilities and tired of living a life without joy,
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Your Life, God’s Home provides direction for cleaning
up the clutter and getting rid of the garbage that gets
in the way of experiencing the joy of God’s presence.
Each chapter ends with a point to ponder, suggested
scriptures for further study, a short prayer, and
varying amounts of space to write personal
reflections. Scattered throughout the text are bits of
scripture and short selections of poetry. Carmichael’s
book is a reminder that “our lives—no matter how
impossible or run-down—with the touch of the
Master’s hand, can become new and beautiful once
again.” Lillian Heytvelt
Inside Out, by Larry Crabb. LCCN 9811333.
Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1998. ISBN
1576830829, PAP, $12.00.
248.4. Christian life; Spiritual life--Christianity. 245 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Every believer in the Christian walk of life comes to
a realization of being a spiritual being living in a nonspiritual
world. Dr. Larry Crabb has written of the
journey to discovering this reality. And, once
discovered, how we can change from the Inside Out
to deal with this fact until we reach our spiritual
home.
Dr. Crabb writes in an expanded outline format
making three major points. First, all people thirst for
peace, fulfillment, and the experience of truly loving
and of being loved. Second, we all respond to others
in a self-protective manner stemming from the
disappointments/abuse we’ve experienced in the
world. Finally, real change is possible through the
grace of Jesus Christ.
In examining these points the author gives practical
tools for lasting change. He successfully interfaces
psychology’s counseling techniques with the
promises given to us in God’s word. Dr. Crabb
emphasizes that in our desire to deal with life’s pain,
we’ve falsely assumed that total fulfillment is
possible in this world. Our instinct is to strive for
fulfillment through hard work, more “good works”
for God—more faith. But throughout this journey of
discovery comes a bottom line message: have hope—
joy awaits us. Carol Shearer
To Walk and Not Faint : A Month of Meditations on
Isaiah 40, by Marva J. Dawn. Grand Rapids: Wm.
B. Eerdman, 1997. ISBN 0802842909, PAP,
$15.00.
248.4. 202 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Marva Dawn originally wrote this devotional study of
Isaiah Chapter 40 eighteen years ago, but has
completely revised it for this new—and welcome—
edition. The fortieth chapter of Isaiah is scripture
with many applications and insights for daily life that
are as important now as when first penned by the
prophet. Dawn examines this chapter in thirty-one
meditations, making To Walk and Not Faint suitable
for a monthly study.
Isaiah 40 is a series of cries—cries of, for, against,
and to—and the range of topics Isaiah covers is
remarkable. The chapter is chock full of needed
messages, for we are each of us little Israels, loved by
God but straying... straying from each other, and from
God.
Although Dawn is a highly educated scholar, the book
is not a dry academic tome; on the contrary, Dawn is
clear and lucid, and her knowledge of ancient
language and scripture enhances her exposition. She
has an ability to delve beneath the surface and mine
the wealth of riches that lie beneath. She
communicates in a forthright and readable manner.
To Walk and Not Faint is a book of encouragement
that should meet many needs. Andrew M. Seddon
Right or Reconciled? : God’s Heart for
Reconciliation, by Joseph L. Garlington.
Shippensburg, Pa.: Destiny Image, 1998. ISBN
0768420040, PAP, $9.99.
248.4. Reconciliation; Christian life; Spiritual life--
Christianity. 185 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Joseph Garlington urges believers to imitate Christ’s
model of reconciliation. “First you and I must be
reconciled to God, to be brought back to His original
intent for our lives and our local churches. Then we
must be reconciled to one another in bonds of
unconditional love, ‘loving our neighbor as
ourselves.’” Right or Reconciled? challenges The
Church to be the leader in eliminating stereotypes of
racism, social discrimination, and gender bias.
Using II Corinthians 5 as a foundation, this book
emphasizes that the ministry of reconciliation is part
of our obedience to God. When a Christian becomes
a new creation in Christ, he is to “recognize no man
according to the flesh.” He is to tell the world that
God died for all men and women, and God is “not
counting their trespasses against them.” When facing
issues that threaten to divide, Garlington asks, do you
want to be right or reconciled?
Frank and to the point, the author shares his own
experiences and uses humor to awaken a new way of
thinking. Supportive Scripture texts are written out in
their entirety, and reprinted for subsequent points.
This, and logical arguments that build on one another,
make for easy reading.
This is an important book for all believers, to reflect
on their own attitudes toward those who are different.
Although not written as a Bible Study, a church group
would benefit by using this book to examine beliefs
and practices in their own lives and within their
church. Karen Brehmer
Reasons for Believing : A Seeker’s Guide to
Christianity, by Frank Harber. LCCN 9866301.
Green Forest, Ark.: Green Leaf, 1998. ISBN
0892214228, PAP, $10.99.
248.4. Thought and thinking--Religious aspects--Christianity.
192 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
“Every intelligent design indicates a designer. The
greater the design, the greater the designer,” writes
Frank Harber in Reasons For Believing. He
addresses tough questions about Christian faith, and
shares answers in tables and charts, based on
extensive research. Five of seven chapters form the
premise about who God is, why he exists and why the
Bible is true. Harber uses evidence from prophecy
stating the Bible is 100% accurate in forecasted
prophecy. No other book can claim this.
He shows how archaeology supports biblical
creationism rather than evolution, with dates, times,
and where evidence was found. A compiled userfriendly
chart on cuneiform tablets details cultures
and times from the time of Abraham. All tablets,
though non-Christian, support the Bible.
“The resurrection is not a philosophy that evolved,
but a fact,” states the author. The evidence is the
empty tomb and the dedicated apostles willing to
sacrifice their lives for Jesus and their Christian faith.
He documents post-resurrection sightings found in
ancient, non-Christian writings telling of the empty
tomb. Harber says, “Christianity is different from
other religions because it is the story of God’s search
for man, rather than man’s search for God.”
Harber closes with a chapter titled Intellectual
Objections. Although he raises questions and
explains the problem, he doesn’t address the issues he
raises. Overall, a worthwhile read giving answers to
questions many Christians are unable to answer.
Included also is an extensive bibliography. Gail
Welborn
This Was Your LIfe! : Preparing to Meet God Face
to Face, by Rick Howard and Jamie Lash;
foreword by Jack Hayford. LCCN 9817424.
Grand Rapids: Chosen Books, 1998. ISBN
0800792599, PAP, $9.99.
248.4. Reward (Theoloty); Christian life; Judgment Day. 189
p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
This Was Your Life is an introduction to the concept of
the Judgment of Believers and how it impinges on the
everyday life of the Christian. Using scripture (1
Corinthians 3:9-15, etc.), their own and others’
experiences, and quotes from devout Christians,
Howard and Lash guide the reader into an
understanding of the relationship between the
Christian’s hope of God’s special blessings and God’s
expectations of the individual Christian. Different
aspects covered include: building on the foundation
of salvation, bearing spiritual fruit, developing a
servant’s heart, and healthy fear of the Lord.
Because they personally experienced changed lives
from meditation on the Judgment Seat of Christ, Rick
Howard and Jamie Lash felt it necessary to write This
Was Your Life. Believing this is a little studied
concept among Christians, they present this book as
an in-depth yet easily read, scriptural study. A feeling
of intimacy between reader and authors is fostered by
personal anecdotes and the use of ‘you’ and ‘I’. This
technique holds the interest of the reader. Several
helps are included at the end of this book, like a guide
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to being sure we will go to heaven when we die, a
vision received by William Booth, study guides for
each chapter to foster individual and group study, and
chapter notes including expansion of some ideas and
books referenced. Audio and video tapes of This Was
Your Life are also available. Donna J. H. Eggett
The River Within : Loving God, Living Passionately,
by Jeff Imbach. LCCN 9810837. Colorado
Springs: NavPress, 1998. ISBN 1576830454, PAP,
$15.00.
248.4. Christian life. 277 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
It has been said that many people, Christians among
them, live lives of “quiet desperation”—lives devoid
of joy, excitement, interest. Perhaps our secular,
materialistic culture contributes to this problem for
non-Christians. But shouldn’t it be different for
Christians? Jeff Imbach would answer “yes,” and
The River Within is his call to live life passionately.
Passion doesn’t mean a life focused on lusts and
desires. Rather, a passionate life is focused so intently
on God that all aspects of life are filled with the
presence of God. By loving God, we do as God
pleases, which brings true joy to life.
Imbach has functioned as a spiritual director for many
years, and brings these experiences to bear, with
vignettes of people caught up in unsatisfactory lives.
Soul-weariness is a trap for many people, but one that
Imbach believes we can escape.
I suspect that this could well be a disturbing book for
many people, who may have spent years quelling
emotions and repressing desires. Opening to passion
could be a frightening experience. On the other hand,
Imbach rightly warns against the dangers of excess.
This is not a book of license, but a book urging
openness to God and freedom in Christ. God, for
Imbach, is mainly a God of love—not a tyrant
looking for excuses to punish us, but a gracious parent
seeking ways to bless us.
My only quibble is that the book occasionally seems
to be a little repetitious, as Imbach reiterates points
relating to passion more frequently than is perhaps
necessary. Andrew M. Seddon
Family Fragrance : Practical, Intentional Ways to
Fill Your Home with the Aroma of Love, by J. Otis
and Gail Ledbetter. (Heritage Builders.) LCCN
984469. Colorado Springs: Chariot Victor, 1998.
ISBN 1564766969, PAP, $9.99.
248.4. Family--Religious life. 168 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Family Fragrance is part of the “Heritage Builders”
series and is designed to enlarge on the concept of
fragrance discussed in The Heritage. Husband and
wife, J. Otis Ledbetter and Gail Ledbetter, use the
acrostic AROMA to explain how to create the sweetsmelling
fragrance of love in the home. AROMA
stands for affection, respect, order, merriment, and
affirmation. The authors share stories, helpful
principles, and numerous ways to carry out the five
qualities of fragrance. Affection is the foundation of
AROMA and includes unconditional love, modeling
a servant’s heart, and asking forgiveness. Parents can
express affection simply by how they tuck their
children in bed or awaken them.
Respect is shown by honoring each other in the ups
and downs of life, valuing a child’s privacy, and
giving second chances. Order involves balance
between freedom and boundaries. Guidelines for
order include establishing appropriate rules,
communicating through family meetings, and
following a schedule. Laughter and enthusiasm are
part of merriment; the authors share numerous ideas
for year-round family fun. Affirmation blends
affection, respect, order, and merriment. It is shown
through touch, positive reinforcement, and by
eliminating hurtful name calling.
This easy-to-read resource concludes with pointers on
leading a child to Christ, recommended books and
magazines for parents, and songs to teach young
children. Parents will value the practical suggestions
and guidance offered to fill their homes with the
appealing fragrance of love. Lydia E. Harris
The Heritage : How to Be Intentional About the
Legacy You Leave, by J. Otis Ledbetter and Kurt
Bruner. Colorado Springs: Chariot Victor, 1997.
ISBN 1564766942, PAP, $10.99.
248.4. Family--Religious life. 271 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Why do so few parents leave a solid legacy for their
children? The authors believe it is not incompetence,
dysfunctional family background, or lack of desire—
but lack of intentional planning. They offer practical
suggestions to ensure leaving a legacy that meets the
spiritual, emotional, and social needs of children.
The Heritage is the cornerstone book for “Heritage
Builders,” a series designed to help families pass on
strong heritages to future generations. J. Otis
Ledbetter is the chairman of Heritage Builders
Association and Kurt Bruner is executive editor.
Both draw from their experience as fathers and their
ministries to families—Ledbetter as pastor and
Bruner at Focus on the Family.
This excellent resource brims with insight and advice.
Part one teaches the importance of leaving a strong
legacy. It also includes self-evaluations for parents to
determine strengths and weaknesses of the heritages
they received. Part two provides tools for
establishing a lasting heritage: a family fragrance of
love, impression points (instructive events), right
angle (standard of normal, healthy living), and
traditions. Inventories and projects are included for
personal assessment.
Part three discusses issues that affect parents’ ability
to pass on healthy heritages and includes steps to
break the negative generational cycle of past hurts.
The authors offer hope, saying although we can’t
choose the heritages we receive, we can control the
legacies we pass on. A final chapter helps readers
chart their courses to leave positive heritages.
A worthwhile appendix includes creative ideas to use
the principles learned. Parents wanting to leave
strong legacies will appreciate the assistance in this
series. Lydia E. Harris
Flirting with the World, by John White. Wheaton,
Ill.: Harold Shaw, 1994. ISBN 0877881561, PAP,
$7.99.
248.4. Christian life. 152 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Christians are in the world, but are they also of it?
That is, are they influenced by the attitudes, desires,
and worldviews of the prevailing secular culture?
John White, psychiatrist and pastor, says, yes. He
says the attitudes and positions of the world have
found their way into the Church and that the Church
has become worldly.
But what is worldliness? For White, worldliness is
not as much actions associated with the world
(smoking, playing cards, etc.) as it is the popular
attitudes of it. He says, “We are like the world when
we share the world’s values.” These include
hedonism, materialism, carnal lusts, and pride. White
says that Christians become worldly when they cling
to its pleasures or passions. He asserts that by
focusing on what he calls “gnats” (particular actions)
the church swallows “camels” (the values that
underlie the actions).
White’s book was originally published in 1982 and
revised in 1990. But the situation it describes has not
changed. Perhaps it has worsened—perhaps the
church is more like the world than ever before, at both
the individual and corporate level.
White places the blame on inadequate biblical
teaching and an emphasis on size as a measure of
success for the church. His solution to the problem of
worldliness includes repentance, a commitment to the
Christian worldview, deeper Bible teaching, and a
return to the church as small communities.
Flirting With the World is not as well written as
White’s other books. There’s a sense that he follows
tangents, and plenty of places where more could have
been said. But in a day when the church and the
world often seem indistinguishable, it is worth
remembering that there is another and better way, if
the church is to perform its God-appointed work.
Andrew M. Seddon
Glimpses of Christ in Everyday Lives, by Karla
Worley. Birmingham, Ala.: New Hope Publishers.
1998. ISBN: 1-56309-253-0, PAP, $13.95.
248.4. Christian life. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
In this Christian Growth Study Plan book, Karla
Worley combines interviews with Christian women,
both well-known and not widely-known, and author
questions intended to spark growth in, and inspiration
for, women’s lives. In the well-known category,
interviewees include Rosalynn Carter, Gloria Gaither,
and Jeanette Clift George, the actress who portrayed
Corrie Ten Boom in The Hiding Place.
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The chapters are organized into such topics as
compassion, grace, simplicity, and submission with
three or four conversations given in each. The
interviews are done in transcript style, with author
questions italicized, and the text of the book is framed
with illustrations, Bible verses, and author comments
on the outside edges of each page with additional
space for reader notes. The author also makes
devotional applications within the body of the
interviews. Footnotes are given at the end of each
chapter.
While the effort to provide an informal forum for the
sharing of Christ’s influence in women’s lives is
laudable, unedited (one assumes) conversations can
make for unyielding reading. Consequently, the
narratives vary in impact due to the women’s
individual talents in oral communication and not
necessarily the depth of their spiritual insights.
In spite of this, these faith stories of women of God
are uplifting and memorable. Certainly, some of the
more vivid storytellers relate messages, like that of an
unfortunate spider and the four-year-old girl who
would become Gloria Gaither, will stick like putty to
the reader’s memory. Marcy Stewart Froemke
Loving Monday : Succeeding in Business Without
Selling Your Soul, by John D. Beckett. Downers
Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1998. ISBN
0830819266, HBB, $15.99.
248.8. Business people--Religious aspects--Christianity;
Business ethics. 176 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
John Beckett has been loving Mondays ever since he
decided to run his oil burner business for the glory of
God. He says, “I had seen clear evidence that the
Lord had a vital interest in my work. I concluded it
would be utterly foolish for me to somehow partition
my life into one way of thinking and conduct on
Sundays and another during the work week. There
needed to be a much fuller integration of my two
worlds.”
Three areas of focus make the R.W. Beckett
Corporation notable. The first, he says, is
extraordinary service. Management and employees
alike strive to do their best. All are constantly looking
for ways to improve their products so that they are
always on the cutting edge of excellence. Examining
their manufacturing process, they search for
techniques that will enhance productivity and quality.
They demonstrate their integrity in their contacts with
customers and fulfillment of orders.
Second, Beckett says, is commitment to employees.
Company policies such as twenty-six weeks of
maternity leave at quarter pay enable employees to
put their families first. Management watches out for
the best interests of labor, providing training needed
for employees to be successful or to be promoted to
the next level. Beckett has been so successful at
forging caring employee relations that the plant voted
to remain union-free.
Third, Beckett’s success has put him in a position to
give back, to give something to benefit the
community. One of his projects is Advent Industries,
which trains a workforce of disadvantaged people—
who, because of criminal records, substance abuse,
incomplete education, or lack of skills are
employment risks.
So exceptional is management style at the R.W.
Beckett Corporation, that Peter Jennings included a
story about it on ABC News. Loving Monday
explains in greater detail the biblical principles that
Beckett follows every day in running his business.
Andrea R. Huelsenbeck
More Than a Conqueror : Winning in the Face of
Adversity, by Howard Bell. Shippensburg, Pa.:
Destiny Image, 1997. ISBN 1560433027, PAP,
$8.99.
248.8. Bell, Howard; Physically handicapped. 158 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Howard Bell, born with spinal muscular atrophy in
1972, was expected to live only five years,
nevertheless recalls the story of his life of twenty-four
years in More Than a Conqueror. Bell, whose father
was a Pentecostal Holiness Preacher, believes in the
prayers of healing and finds it hard to take his son to
a physician and ask for help.
Defying the odds, Bell lives past his expectancy,
undergoing numerous hospital stays and surgeries.
He attends a Christian school, public school, and
public college. He endures not only numerous
physical problems, the pain of moving from a familiar
neighborhood, but also the divorce of his parents.
Though restricted to a wheelchair, Bell manages to
develop worldly friends and succumbs to their
influence until God becomes real in his life.
More Than A Conqueror, forward by Marilyn Hickey,
is a story of a young man growing up in the
Pentecostal tradition. The author spends much time
on detail when describing ordinary situations and
events and thus, spends more time telling his story
than applying God’s principles of spiritual growth.
The story lacks depth of writing, moving from event
to event, yet is easily read in an evening. Carolyn L.
Hearing
How to Find Your Mission in Life, by Richard N.
Bolles. Berkeley, Calif.: Ten Speed Press, 1991.
ISBN 0898154235, PAP, $4.95.
248.8. Vocation; Vocational guidance; Work--Religious
aspects--Christianity; Job satisfaction. 55 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Richard N. Bolles is a well-known career counselor
and the author of the annual What Color Is Your
Parachute? How to Find Your Mission In Life started
out as an appendix in Parachute.
Bolles writes that each of us has a three-fold mission:
“to know God, and enjoy Him forever, and to see His
hand in all His works... to do what you can, moment
by moment, day by day, step by step, to make this
world a better place, following the leading and
guidance of God’s Spirit within you and around you
... to exercise that Talent which you particularly came
to Earth to use—your greatest gift, which you most
delight to use, in the place(s) or setting(s) which God
has caused to appeal to you the most, and for those
purposes which God most needs to have done in the
world.”
The remainder of this little book (only 55 pages)
expounds on this three-point plan. Bolles talks about
cycles of learning and unlearning as we fine-tune our
lives. Bolles suggests that we existed in heaven
before our own births and knew then what God
planned for us to do; now we just have to reclaim that
memory.
The book is illustrated with pictures reminiscent of
woodcuts. It also includes a bibliography for further
reading. Andrea Huelsenbeck
A Spiritual Guide Through Pregnancy, by
Margaret L. Hammer. Minneapolis:
Northwestern Pub. House, 1997. ISBN
0806633441, PAP, $10.99.
248.8. 144 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The introduction to this group of devotions for
pregnant women begins with questions many people,
women in particular, have asked. Those question are,
“What does it mean to carry a child within your
womb? What will bringing a new child into the world
mean for you and your way of life?” While not
claiming to have all the answers, the author shows
that the Lord does, and that he provides help along the
way. The devotions, or meditations, use the same
format: a Scripture verse or two to begin, the
meditations, short prayer and questions on which to
reflect.
Reading through these devotions and thinking about
the questions they pose, readers can’t help but wonder
about the women pregnant for the first time who were
surprised by a pregnancy, or who were pregnant after
years of wanting a child, the older pregnant woman,
and how these devotions would affect them. The
meditations cover so many of the questions pregnant
women have. And many meditations have points
worth pondering even if you are not pregnant. They
ask for a closer relationship to God, to those we love.
They ask for forgiveness for weak moments of faith.
Because the writing is clear and beautiful—never is it
condescending to the reader—I wasn’t prepared for
was the effect the devotions had on me, a non-parent.
The analogy of pregnancy to faith was one that is
easily understood. A pregnant woman waits in
expectation for the birth of her child to see that person
face to face, the believer lives in expectation of the
culmination of faith, seeing Christ face to face in
heaven.
This would make an especially good gift for the first
time mother, or a woman going through a difficult, at
risk pregnancy. Leslie Greaves Radloff
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Near to the Heart of God : God’s Words of
Encouragement for Women, by Terry Anne
Meeuwsen and Jake Rake Thoene. Nashville:
Thomas Nelson, 1998. ISBN 0785270604, HBB,
$17.99.
248.8. Women--Conduct of life; Women--Christian life. 256 p.
Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Written by former “Miss America” and Wisconsin
native now living in Virginia, the devotions in this
book show a spiritual journey and growth of personal
faith. The topics covered in the book are arranged in
five parts beginning with the foundation of God’s
promises, his word, followed by “Living the Christian
Life,” “Relationships,” “In Difficult Times,” and
“Closing.” Each subtopic is followed by a section
entitled “My Journal Page” that could be used by
readers to write their own reactions to what has been
read, and keep a prayer diary.
The format of each section is the same: scripture text,
a meditation written by the author, closing prayer, and
salient Scripture texts taken most often from the New
King James Version, or the Amplified Bible. Each
meditation, though different in format, goes straight
to the heart of matters of concern to readers, and,
through the Scripture, tells them what God tells them
about their daily living and dealings with people.
Readers will be able to make applications to their
lives.
The author’s strong faith and reliance on God’s word
in her life are clear. While she alludes to a spiritual
battle in her own life that caused her to consciously
put on the armor of God, she does not tell the reader
what it is. We learn that her first marriage ended in
divorce, made more painful by the fact that she was a
Christian in the public eye. What she learned is
important for us too; the Armor of God needs to be
worn to fight against the temptations of the world, and
that we need to stand firm as Christians in the faith.
The closing scripture text is from Hebrews 13:20
“Now may the God of peace who brought up our
Lord Jesus from the dead, the great Shepherd of the
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
make you complete in every good work to do his will,
working in you what is well pleasing in his sight,
through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and
ever. Amen.” Leslie Greaves Radloff
An Unexpected Hope : Finding Satisfaction When
Life Disappoints, by Rober C. Palms. LCCN
9740401. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 1998.
ISBN 0891079785, PAP, $9.99.
248.8. Consolation; Christian life. 160 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
Palms, a long-time staffer with Billy Graham
Evangelistic Association, has gathered reasons to
have hope in all situations. He has mixed in personal
anecdotes to show that Christ is really alive and
working in his life, so this is not just theology from
afar.
With unique style, Palms describes how a personal
relationship with Christ has been a source of stress
also, especially when he did not want to heed God’s
call to go into the seminary. He asks pointed
questions throughout the text and ends each chapter
with a few thoughts for reflection. Throughout, he
stresses that Christ is enough and we are enough in
Christ.
Aimed at any age Christian who is soul-searching for
a leg to stand on amidst depression, doubt and
sadness, this book will reaffirm your faith and love
for the God behind it. Anita Goldman Horning
The Art of Tradition : A Christian Guide to Building
a Family, by Mary Caswell Walsh; illustrations by
Helen Caswell. Denver: Living the Good News,
1998. ISBN 1889108340, PAP, $17.95.
248.8. Parenting; Family life. 178 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
Collaborating with her mother, Helen Caswell, Mary
Caswell Walsh has compiled a comprehensive book
about family traditions. From the attractive dusty
pink cover all the way through, her love of family
shines through. A large book, almost workbook size,
it covers the major stages in adults’ lives and the
traditions they can create to enrich their memories of
that time.
After a slow start in the singles chapter, the book
takes off. The book is rich with suggestions regarding
everything from holiday bread recipes to candles and
songs complete with music. Drawing from her
Catholic and Jewish backgrounds, she details special
occasions such as feast days, baptisms, and the like.
Walsh also explains some Native American and some
Eastern traditions.
Although some of the things offered may not be for
everyone, like making a bread sculpture to celebrate
an engagement, most are relationship-enriching. This
is an enjoyable resource for anyone starting a family
or desiring to add to their traditions. Anita Goldman
Horning
What Works When Life Doesn’t, by Stuart Briscoe.
LCCN 9823468. Wheaton, Ill.: Harold Shaw,
1998. ISBN 087788854X, PAP, $10.99.
252. Bible. O.T. Psalms--Sermons; Sermons, American. 170 p.
Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Stuart Briscoe has chosen twelve Psalms to explore in
What Works When Life Doesn’t. The book, originally
published in 1976, is being reprinted by Harold Shaw
Publishers. Briscoe’s treatment of the Psalms is a
result of a year-long series of sermons preached to the
Elmbrook Church in Wisconsin. He is the author of
more than forty books.
Chapter titles show how each Psalm relates to
problems we all face. Chapter one, When Happiness
Eludes You, uses Psalm 1 to show that one reason so
many people are unhappy is that, though they are
busy pursuing happiness, they aren’t sure what
happiness is. Brisco points out that the Bible shows
happiness is not necessarily related to happenings,
and it is possible to be happy in difficult and
unpleasant circumstances.
Other sample chapters deal with: When the World Is
Falling Apart, Psalm 2; When All You Know Is
Discouragement, Psalm 11; When Fear Calls and
Won’t Go Away, Psalm 27; When Stresses Are
Greater than Strengths, Psalm 46.
The Psalms are always a good place to start reading
for all of life’s problems and Stuart Briscoe helps us
understand how clearly the Psalms speak to the issues
of our day. Myrtlemay Pittman Crane
A Primer on Postmodernism, by Stanley J. Grenz.
Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1995. ISBN
0802808646, PAP, $12.99.
261. Postmodernism--Religious aspects--Christianity;
Contemporary, The; Sociology, Christian. 211 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Postmodernism is the prevailing view of
contemporary western society, a view which has to a
large extent replaced the modernism which
dominated western thought for centuries.
Postmodernism is the non-rational, relativistic
successor to the rationality of the Enlightenment.
Postmodernism disposes with absolute truth, the
existence of an external knowable universe, and the
ability of language to describe our experiences.
In this book, Stanley Grenz, professor at Carey
Theological College, attempts to explain (in concise
terms) postmodernism in terms of its history,
characteristics, and advocates. To a large extent he
succeeds, but the going is still difficult; while
postmodernism affects us all, it is hard to grasp
without training in philosophy. The vast majority of
the book is explanation without commentary, but in
the all too short last chapter, Grenz discusses the
relationship between postmodernism and the Gospel.
A Primer on Postmodernism is not bedside reading;
but if Christians are to be aware of and sensitive to the
changing cultural paradigm, this would be a useful
starting point. Postmodern values are not confined to
philosophy books, but show up in popular literature,
television, and movies. If Christians are to stand
against a movement that attempts to diminish the
relevance of the Gospel, then an understanding of that
movement is essential. Andrew M. Seddon
The Media-Wise Family, by Ted Baehr. LCCN
9729005. Colorado Springs: Chariot Victor, 1998.
ISBN 0781403014, PAP, $11.99.
261.5. Mass media--Religious aspects--Christianity; Motion
pictures--Religious aspects--Christianity; Family--Biblical
teaching. 423 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Media-Wise Family provides parents with “A
Christian family guide to making morally and
spiritually responsible decisions about movies, TV,
and multimedia.” The need for discernment is the
consistent focus in this vigorous presentation of
media literacy from a Christian perspective.
Topics in the early chapters include: public concern
for morality and family entertainment, principles of
learning as they relate to the results of viewing sex
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and violence; relationship of stages of cognitive
development to children’s behavior and attitudes,
functions and needs affecting literary elements,
shortcomings in the rating systems, and bias and
advocacy groups; and opportunity for Christian and
moral influence in the entertainment industry. Later
chapters summarize and contrast various worldviews
with a Christian worldview, suggest a number of
questions for preparation beforehand. Included also
are a number of graded activities for families as they
access, analyze, interpret, and create media, as well as
a challenge for positive involvement.
Writer, producer, director, and scholar, Dr. Theodore
Baehr serves as head of the Christian Film &
Television Commission and publishes the bi-weekly
MOVIEGUIDE—to which he frequently refers. His
graphs and charts and extensive documentation add
clarity and credibility to his well-organized
presentation, although a few significant assertions
lacked supporting documentation. Discussions of
specific characteristics of various media are scattered
throughout the book, so the lack of an index can be
frustrating. Some readers may question a few of
Baehr’s comments on fantasy and prophecy—
frequently controversial topics. Donna W. Bowling
Remember Creation : God’s World of Wonder and
Delight, by Scott Hoezee. LCCN 9735120. Grand
Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1998. ISBN
0802844707, PAP, $14.00.
261.8. Human ecology--Religious aspects--Christianity;
Creation--Biblical teaching. 115 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Scott Hoezee, minister of preaching and
administration at Calvin Christian Reformed Church,
Grand Rapids, Michigan, asks the question, “Why is
it that many Christians find a theological-scientific
debate about creation’s ancient origins far more
engaging than a speech about how to live responsibly
in the creation today?” The book is Hoezee’s answer
to the question. Focusing on the breadth of the
biblical text, Hoezee paints a picture of a God who
delights in his creation, and calls each one of us to do
the same. Based on a solid theological foundation,
this book also presents practical ways in which we as
individuals and as the church-at-large can take part in
God’s “ecology of praise.” Hoezee challenges us to
slow down, listen, smell, observe, and generally
delight in creation. He asks us, as biblically and
theologically informed Christians, to look at our
relation to the environment within a consistent
framework. The central three chapters are a good
overview of his message, and the final chapter, a
meditation, pulls all the author’s reflections into a
thoughtful whole.
While not written at a popular level, Hoezee’s style is
reminiscent of a well-presented sermon series. A
section of notes, as well as subject and scripture
indexes round out this well-conceived package. Ted
Goshulak
For the Love of My Brothers, by Brother Andrew;
with Verne Becker. Minneapolis: Bethany House,
1998. ISBN 0764220748, PAP, $10.99.
266. Missions--Iran; Missions--China; Missions--Latin
America. 252 p. Gr. 7 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Anyone who loves to hear a good missions story will
enjoy this book! Brother Andrew tells story after
story about suffering Christians around the world and
Open Doors’ efforts to take the Bible to them. His
stories cover Eastern Europe, China, Africa, Russia,
Latin America, the 10/40 Window—every corner of
the world. Interspersed with the stories are ten
“steps” that will make evangelism most effective,
including: “Become persistent in prayer,” “Penetrate
every devil-inspired boundary or barrier,” “Maximize
your opportunities by being present,” “Become part
of a permanent presence wherever you are,” “Use
your platform to proclaim God’s message,” and
“Allow God’s power to flow through you into a needy
world.”
Discussion questions at the back of the book would
make For the Love of My Brothers an ideal book for
a study group with a heart for missions. The
appendices include ten prayers to accompany the ten
steps, Open Doors’ addresses and vision statement,
and ideas for ways that an individual or church can
get more involved in evangelism.
The name Brother Andrew will be familiar to many
because of his former book titled God’s Smuggler.
For the Love of My Brothers brings the reader up to
date on Brother Andrew’s efforts around the world,
allows the reader to hear Brother Andrew’s heartbeat
for the suffering church—and especially those in the
Muslim world—and fills the reader with Brother
Andrew’s excitement for the future. Barbara Beyer
Heirs of the Covenant : Leaving a Legacy of Faith
for the Next Generation, by Susan Hunt. LCCN
9821044. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 1998.
ISBN 0581340117, PAP, $12.99.
268. Reformed Church--Doctrines--Study and teaching;
Covenant theology--Study and teaching. 237 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
To complement her other books for women, Susan
Hunt wrote about the importance of teaching God’s
promises to the children in our churches. Hunt says
the church is losing its covenant children, the
offspring of believers, who are supposed to be the
main source of new believers. The world calls to our
children and they will capitulate if we do not have a
detailed plan to claim them for our own.
Among the book’s strengths is the excellent scripture
timeline of the covenant in the first section. Starting
with Adam in Genesis through John’s words from
Patmos at the end of Revelation, she lists verses that
describe God’s promises. Each chapter begins with a
compelling testimonial illustrating the importance of
dedicated Christian educators. These add a touch of
humanness to the scholarly body of the book. The
chapters end with a take-away point, a few questions,
and a Christian education idea. My favorite is the
whole-church Bible verse memorization plan.
The book is heavy on background information and
light on quick tips. It appeals more to directors or
pastors than Sunday School teachers trying to glean
ideas for their next lesson. Although teachers need
this background to comprehend the solemnity of their
role, unfortunately many of them are too busy to
complete this lengthy study. Karla Kessell
Living with History, by Fredrica Harris
Thompsett. Cowley, 1999. ISBN 1561011606,
HBB, $11.95.
270. Christian church--History. 200 p. Gr. 10 - Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Living With History is the fifth volume in the New
Church’s Teaching Series, a series designed to help
Anglicans in their understanding of the Christian
faith. Though at times we might like to think that
history is the boring relics of dead people and past
events, the truth is that an understanding of where we
have come from and the forces that have shaped us is
important both for how we live today and for where
the future might take us.
Living With History is not a book of history, but a
book about it. Thompsett says that she has “selected
a number of themes that I find important in
understanding the Christian faith today, including the
connection between tradition and change, how we
envision the ministries of all the baptised, ways of
dealing with conflict and disagreement, and
theological sources that can be “recycled” to inform
the pressing concerns of our own day.” To be sure,
Thompsett uses examples of people and events from
the past, but always to understand their conenction
with and relevance for today.
Each denomination has its own history and related
perspectives, and Living With History is written from
a particularly Anglican slant. It should prove to be a
valuable resource for Anglicans interested in the
forces that have shaped the denomination, as well as
reminding us that history is relevant. Andrew M.
Seddon
The Doubleday Christian Quotation Collection,
compiled by Hannah Ward and Jennifer Wild.
LCCN 9748809. New York: Doubleday, 1998.
ISBN 0385489943, HBB, $22.00.
270. Christianity--Quotation, maxims, etc. 502 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
The Doubleday Christian Quotation Collection
contains a wealth of quotable quotes from interesting
Christian thinkers and writers through history. It
begins with some brief quotes from the first century
AD and continues up to the present time. Obviously,
there are many more quotations available from recent
centuries than there are from earlier times, but the
compilers make a valiant attempt to include what is
available from ancient times. The twentieth century
is divided into two periods, before 1950 and after
1950 because of the wealth of material available.
The compilers state that one of their purposes is to
present material from all around the world, especially
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from writers in the Third World. Another important
purpose of theirs is to offer quotations from the
writings of women from around the world. Some
speakers and writers are quoted more than others,
largely because some are more quotable and pithy, not
necessarily because they are more important or
influential Christian thinkers The compilers do not
judge the authors’ commitment to Christianity; all the
authors they include would consider themselves
Christian in a broad sense.
One of the values of this book is its completeness and
its inclusion of writers and thinkers from many
different perspectives with regard to Christianity.
There seems to be a greater emphasis on writers from
Europe and the international community than on
American writers, particularly American evangelical
writers in the twentieth century. There are very few
quotations from evangelicals in the twentieth century.
There is an emphasis on the Catholic and liturgical
Protestant traditions throughout the book.
Overall, this is a unique book, and I find it very useful
and interesting, and I have already found several
quotations I plan to use in my own speaking. Paul
Boling
J. I. Packer : A Biography, by Alister McGrath.
LCCN 9738734. Grand Rapids: Baker Books,
1998. ISBN 0801011574, HBB, $19.99.
283. Packer, J. I. (James Innell); Anglicans--England--
Biography); Anglicans--Canada--Biography. 340 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Labeled as an “unauthorized biography” in the
forward by J.I. Packer himself, Alister McGrath
traces in order, the life of the English theologian. Of
particular interest is Packer’s childhood, where, as a
loner and probably due to wearing protective
headgear stemming from a head injury, he may have
developed his voracious reading habits.
Packer, an ordained minister of the Church of
England, is best known today for his scholarship,
voluminous writings, especially Knowing God, and
his teaching career which spans from Oxford to
Regent College. In addition, he is widely recognized
as a constructive evangelical theologian and a
vigorous critic of its opponents.
McGrath’s book is balanced, addressing even
disputes in Packer’s career such as his signing of the
“Evangelicals and Catholics Together: The Christian
Mission in the Third Millennium.” McGrath stating
that Packer claims the assembly began as a “working
group exploring the ways” in which individual
Christians might work together on common ground,
insisting it is not a mandate for the convergence of
churches. Packer, however, is known as a strong
advocate of the role of parachurch organizations, yet
still claims this does “not imply acceptance of Roman
Catholic doctrinal distinctives.”
McGrath includes a detailed index centering on
people and places mentioned in the book, a list of
recordings of lectures by Packer, a bibliography of
Packer’s works, including books, articles and
pamphlets and extensive notes documenting his
research of five years. A good addition to the library
of the serious student of modern evangelicalism.
Carolyn L. Hearing
Quiet Places : A Woman’s Guide to Personal
Retreat, by Jane Rubietta. Minneapolis: Bethany
House, 1998. ISBN 0764220012, PAP, $9.99.
291.2. Contemplation; Christian life; Women--Meditations.
192 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Christ’s invitation to rest in Mark 6:31 is quite simply
the whole idea of Rubietta’s book Quiet Places.
Retreat from the busyness of life and refocus on
Christ for the peace you so desperately seek.
The chapters are set up to be individual retreats or
meditations but can also be use in small groups,
during retreats, or Sunday School classes. There is
much to reflect on, to contemplate, Scripture to
meditate on, prayers of all kinds, questions, and
hymns. The beginning sounds a bit too much like a
“How to do” book, but once past that the reader will
find a truthfulness that is unmistakable.
Among topics covered by the book are busyness, a
facade worn to keep from meeting the woman behind
the mask. Stress, a fact of life; in most instances we
cannot change our many stressors, we can only
change the ways we deal with stress. Transitions, a
given on this road called living. Learning to see them
not just as stressors, but as a means for God to
transcend our every-days with his all-encompassing
grace will move us on in our journey.
While many of the topics have been covered in selfhelp
books, here the help comes from the Lord and his
word. The end of the chapter quotations for
contemplation are from well-known writers, actors,
philosophers. Following those quotations are
Scripture verses for further contemplation. Included
also are well-known hymns which provide fitting
conclusions for each section.
With all the emphasis on ‘retreats’ today, and
difficulty of securing places at retreats in some areas,
this small book gives the benefits without the hassle.
Quiet time spent with this book and the Scriptures
would provide a recharging of emotional and spiritual
batteries sufficient to face the world. Leslie Greaves
Radloff
300’s - Social Sciences
The Bridger Generation : America’s Second Largest
Generation : What They Believe, How to Reach
Them, by Thom S. Rainer. LCCN 97011963.
Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1997. ISBN
0805462961, HBB, $17.99.
305. Children--Religious life; Teenagers--Religious life;
Twenty-first century--Forecasts; United States--Civilization--
1970-. 224 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Who makes up the Bridger Generation? According to
author Thom S. Rainer, it’s the seventy-two million
people born in the years 1977 to 1994. Rainer coined
the name “Bridgers” to describe the generation who
was born in the 20th century and will reach adulthood
in the 21st century thus “bridging” the two centuries.
The second largest group since their parents, “The
Baby Boomers,” “Bridgers” struggle with ten life
shaping influences including the loss of family unity,
preoccupation with rights, disappearance of moral
boundaries, the rise in violence, and devaluation of
life. Rainer dedicates a chapter to each impact,
ending with stories of churches who have responded
to the challenges.
The Bridger Generation is filled with grim statistics
about the lives of Bridgers, statistics which are
repeated for emphasis. Readers get the feeling that
the author is attempting to convince himself that
things are going to be okay for his children although
the statistics are against them. He pleads to the
churches to reach out, embrace, and evangelize this
group. It would be easy to become depressed as you
begin to read this book, but within its pages is the
promise of Christ and the hope in a dynamic group of
kids who desperately want to hear the gospel. Joanne
Haffly
When Kids Say No to School : Helping Children at
Risk of Failure, Refusal, or Dropping Out, by
Elaine K. McEwan. LCCN 9823002. Wheaton,
Ill.: Harold Shaw, 1998. ISBN 0877884064, PAP,
$9.99.
370.15. School phobia; Home and school. 110 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
When Kids Say NO to School is another in the
author’s “Guide for Parents & Educators” series. She
has combined various factors leading to refusal or
dropping out under the term “school stress.” Topics
include early warning signs, an annotated diagnostic
checklist for school stress, strategies for getting
students back to school, fifty ways to reduce school
stress, what to do if the school won’t help, and
activities that can build confidence and independence
for school success—a few of which are particularly
relevant for Christian families.
Dr. Elaine McEwan has drawn from her own personal
experience as a parent, teacher, librarian, and school
administrator to produce this practical guide for
parents—or for school personnel to use with parents.
Her observations about the school environment
suggest ways in which educators might forestall
school stress in their students. This slim book does
not answer all the questions parents and educators
might raise, but the author makes occasional
references to other books she has written on related
topics, such as learning disability and Attention
Deficit Disorder. The endnotes include several
bibliographical references for those desiring
additional information. Its generous layout with
many sub-headings make this well-organized book
easy to use, in spite of the lack of an index. Donna W.
Bowling
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★
Angry Parents, Failing Schools : What’s Wrong with
Our Public Schools and What Parents Can Do
About It, by Elaine K. McEwan. LCCN 9823773.
Wheaton, Ill.: Harold Shaw, 1998. ISBN
0877880190, PAP, $12.99.
371.01. Public schools--United States--Evaluation; Education--
Parent participation--United States; Education changes--United
States. 297 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Why are school test scores down? What is happening
in our nation’s schools that has hindered students
from learning to read and do math? Why does our
nation rank so low in education world wide? Find out
how politics and profits have taken control of
education, why students cannot read at grade level,
why tests need to be “dummied” down, and why
correct answers are no longer important. Elaine
McEwan, former public school teacher and principal,
traces the historic changes in public education that
have led to decline. Interesting and thought
provoking insights will help parents assess their own
student’s schools and education. Definitions and
evaluations are given of many current educational
innovations and trends. What is Education 2000? Is
it positive or negative?
Suggested websites and further reading suggestions
will help equip parents to make changes in the current
situation. This is a must read book from someone
with inside information for anyone involved in
education whether teacher, parent, or administrator.
Paula Stewart Marks
400’s - Languages
Webster’s American Family Dictionary. New York:
Random House Reference and Information
Publishing, 1998. ISBN 0679458018, HBB, $23.95.
423. Dictionaries; English language--Dictionaries. 1124 p. Gr.
7 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Webster’s American Family Dictionary aims to
present families with a reference book that records
American English while reflecting moral and ethical
values. It is recommended by Billy Graham for
upholding the original intent of Noah Webster.
Biblical words, hymns, and proverbs have been
included in the 116,000 entries. Folklore and
important historical events are also included. 300
small blackline illustrations expand definitions.
Dimensions of baseball and basketball courts are
illustrated. Up to the date populations are included.
Important documents such as the Declaration of
Independence, Amendments to the Constitution, and
Ten Commandments have been added. This is a
dictionary to give to children and let them explore
without worrying that they will find offensive or
objectionable language. Paula Stewart Marks
600’s - Technology (Applied Sciences)
Hope, Help, and Healing for Eating Disorders : A
New Approach to Treating Anorexia, Bulimia, and
Overeating, by Gregory L. Jantz. LCCN 9512686.
Wheaton, Ill.: Harold Shaw, 1995. ISBN
0877880646, PAP, $11.99.
616.85. Eating disorders. 200 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Jantz, a doctorate in psychology, directs an eating
disorder treatment center in Washington State. He
espouses a holistic approach that addresses four
aspects of a person, the physical, emotional,
relational, and spiritual. He states that God will be
with the reader throughout their journey towards
healing and that their healing and recovery depend
upon God.
Reminiscent of John Bradshaw, Jantz asks many
piercing questions about the readers’ childhood. He
feels that behind every eating disorder is abuse of
some kind. Often the individual is not even aware
that they have been abused. He acknowledges that
the abuse needs to be worked through and healed
before the eating disorder can be addressed. Since he
believes that the body must regain a measure of
strength to do the healing work, Jantz also produces
and sells a line of nutritional items.
Each chapter contains a list of thought-provoking
questions that are meant to be completed with a
caring professional. Thoughts from patients with
eating disorders are at the end of each chapter. In one
of the later chapters, he includes a letter that the
patient can give to family members to ask for their
assistance with recovery.
Since there are eight million people afflicted with
eating disorders, with seven million of them female,
there is a good chance we will have one in our church
or school. This book would be beneficial to give to
teachers and parents of people they suspect of having
an eating disorder. Anita Goldman Horning
Dinner’s in the Freezer : More Mary and Less
Martha, by Jill Bond. Elkton, Md.: GCB
Publishing, 1993. ISBN 0964539608, PAP, $20.00.
641.5. Cookery. 256 p. Adult.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 4
This eclectic collection of wit, wisdom, household
hints, and recipes better fulfills the cover’s tiny-print
slogan, “A Home Management System,” rather than
the title, Dinner’s in the Freezer. Busy cooks may
wish the author had focused more on the subject of
her book’s name. Jill Bond’s “mega-cooking
method” and freezing tips don’t begin until almost
halfway through the book (recipes don’t show up
until the last third), so Bond can share household
management ideas, family stories, and her son’s
illustrations in the first half. Going to the recipe
section and browsing through the main entrees, I
found three I could personally use, although there
were many more dessert ideas. Not exactly what I
expected, or needed, from a book called Dinner’s in
the Freezer. However, every family’s tastes differ.
Developing and using her own program for over eight
years, Jill Bond and her husband cook all their meals
for the next six months during a three-day weekend.
The last half of this book shows us how to do it
ourselves. The author’s program seems complicated,
but she includes all the forms needed to follow her
system. Of course, Bond assures the reader that you
can start small, like doubling up on an evening’s meal
and freezing some of it, or maybe cooking once a
week.
In her section on saving money while shopping for
food, the author does not include information on what
time of year a consumer can find the best buys on
meat or produce. Although this may vary depending
on region, general guidelines exist (for example, good
deals on turkeys at Thanksgiving or buying fruit in
season). However, nothing like this is mentioned—a
surprising oversight.
A resource page in the back lists special offers for
newsletters and catalogs related to both homemaking
and homeschooling. Jill Bond’s style is warm, chatty,
and personable, but it feels as if the author crammed
every bit of wisdom into this one book. That may
delight some readers, while others just want to get
down to business—the specifics of Bond’s megacooking
system so dinner can, indeed, make it to the
freezer. Kimn Swenson Gollnick
Teenage Boys!: Surviving & Enjoying These
Extraordinary Years, by Bill Beausay. Colorado
Springs: Waterbrook Press, 1998. ISBN
157856042X, PAP, $12.95.
649. Parenting. 245 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Is raising teenage boys something to fear? Not
according to Bill Beausay, author, counselor, and
father of two sons. He believes parents can raise
teenage sons successfully and enjoy it.
Beausay helps parents understand teenage boys,
teaching six principles of provocative parenting that
put parents in charge. He applies these principles to
areas of parental concern: communication, sexuality,
discipline, passage rites, leadership development, and
spirituality. He assures parents they are competent to
handle most of their teenager’s behavior, but includes
a chapter on crisis management for deeper problems.
The focus throughout Teenage Boys! is on shaping
boys into men who are ready for life. Beausay
advocates genuine parental interest and involvement
in every aspect of children’s lives. His sound,
practical advice builds hope and self confidence in
parents. Application exercises, called “A Closer
Focus,” are found in each chapter. Although footnotes
and parenting resources are lacking, it is definitely a
valuable resource parents and others working with
teenage boys. Lydia E. Harris
A Field Guide to Home Schooling, by Christian M.
Field. LCCN 9744913. Grand Rapids: Baker
Books, 1998. ISBN 0800756533, PAP, $12.99.
649. Home schooling--United States--Handbook, manuals,
etc.; Home schooling--Law and legislation--United States--
Handbooks, manuals, etc. 269 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
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A Field Guide to Home Schooling elucidates the
issues necessitated in home schooling children.
Chapters 1 - 4 consist of the author’s reason for home
schooling, home school vs. public school, and the
scholarly and societal intermingling of home
schoolers. Chapters 5 - 8 entail methods for home
schooling, educational genres and curriculum
selection, essentials for beginners, and the rapport
amid public and home schools. Chapters 9 - 12 deal
with the desideratum of socialization, publicizing
home schooling, support groups, and managing home
schooling as parents.
Christine M. Field has written an excellent resource
for parents contemplating home schooling. Welldocumented,
Appendix A comprises businesses
offering home school materials plus a synopsis of
their expertise. Appendix B enumerates home school
organizations for each state. Appendix C
encapsulates the laws pertaining to home schooling in
all fifty states plus the Office of Education address
and phone number. The Notes section embodies the
resources utilized in the writing of the book. Dianne
Woodman
Strategies for Struggling Learners : A Guide for the
Teaching Parent, by Joe P. and Connie J. Sutton.
LCCN 9760456. Simpsonville, S.C.: Exceptional
Diagnostics, 1997. ISBN 0964568411, PAP, $18.00.
649. Learning disabilities; Home schooling. 229 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Strategies for Struggling Learners is specifically
addressed to homeschooling parents. The first
chapter describes eight recognized forms of
exceptionality, and is followed by a framework for
teaching that emphasizes a biblical philosophy. Other
chapters provide many practical suggestions in the
areas of testing and evaluation, developing
curriculum, program practices, modifying instruction,
teaching methods, and managing behavior. End
matter includes names and addresses of
recommended resources and suppliers, references,
and Scripture, author, and subject indexes.
A veteran educator, Dr. Joe P. Sutton is the president
of Exceptional Diagnostics. He and his wife and coauthor,
Connie J. Sutton, are professors at Bob Jones
University. Each of the practical chapters includes a
number of useful tables or itemized lists of
suggestions which can be used with profit by home
educators—or classroom teachers—in their
educational planning or evaluation. Although many
of the techniques appear as one-size-fits-all, educators
should choose from among those recommendations to
meet individual needs. Students with learning
disabilities compose the largest percentage of
exceptional students, and most of the suggested
techniques seem particularly appropriate to that
population. The discussion of various reward
systems in the final chapter does not mention the
possible diminishing returns from their use.
The Suttons’ book makes no mention of the
overwhelming empirical data from the field of
neuropsychology that currently demonstrates the
plasticity of the human brain and indicates that we
should not accept the learner as a static individual, but
should recognize that the brain is open to
development at all stages of life. This book tends to
focus on changing the environment for the static
learner instead of changing the learner to adapt to his
ever-changing environment and to be successful in
different environments. Donna W. Bowling
150 Ways to Raise Creative, Confident Kids, by
Silvana Clark. LCCN 9741763. Ann Arbor,
Mich.: Vine Books, 1998. ISBN 1569550336, PAP,
$10.99.
649.1. Child rearing--United States; Creative ability in
children--United States; Self-esteem in children--United States;
Social skills in children--United States. 238 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Looking for recipes for fun? Author Silvana Clark
approaches life from a creative, playful perspective.
She encourages families to play together to strengthen
bonds and build confidence in children.
In 150 Ways to Raise Creative, Confident Kids, Clark
offers over 300 examples including how to combine
fun and fitness, create treasure hunts, comfort the
sick, and many others. Her goal is to help families
nurture the “curiosity that provokes creativity.”
Readers might feel overwhelmed by all of the choices
she provides, but the book is offered as a resource
which gives parents the freedom to chose activities
best suited for their lifestyle, yet be willing to step out
of the “safe” zone occasionally.
Clark draws the reader in by sharing personal stories
of her family and other families who have enjoyed
playing together. She is an international motivational
speaker, a recreation coordinator, and the mother of
two daughters. Joanne M. Haffly
800’s —Literature
The Complete Guide to Writing and Selling the
Christian Novel, by Penelope J. Stokes.
Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 1998. ISBN
0898798108, PAP, $14.99.
808. Creative writing--Christian fiction. 256 p. Gr. 12 - Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
For anyone hoping to write Christian fiction, The
Complete Guide to Writing and Selling the Christian
Novel is the place to begin. In a well-organized
format, Dr. Stokes takes the aspiring and experienced
writer through basics such as characterization,
plotting, point of view, etc., and relates them to the
particulars of Christian fiction.
Stating what might seem obvious at first glance, she
says that a writer of Christian fiction should be a
Christian. However, given the rapid growth of this
market and the hunger of many to be published, this
may not always be the case. Some of the distinctives
to look for in these novels include a decidedly
Christian—and most likely evangelical—worldview;
universal themes and subjects; and fully rounded
characters who are not created to serve merely as
didactic tools. Dr. Stokes warns authors eager to
proselytize that most of the readers of Christian
fiction are already converted. Instead of preaching,
the writer’s duty is to create inspiring stories of
believable people who experience growth in their
faith despite adversity. Quoting John Gardner, she
says fiction should be a “continuous, vivid dream.”
Covering the subject from query letter to how to field
those sometimes annoying fan letters, Dr. Stokes is
eminently qualified to know of what she writes. The
author of Turner’s Crossroads and other novels, as
well as non-fiction works, she has edited more than
150 books, many of which have won awards.
This beautifully-written book is itself an example of
smooth, readable style. An essential for the serious
writer’s library, the handbook has an index and three
appendices, including a sample proposal and a
suggested bibliography for further research. Marcy
Stewart Froemke
Reading Stephen King : Issues of Censorship,
Student Choice, and Popular Literature, edited by
Brenda Miller Power, Jeffrey D. Wilhelm, and
Kelly Chandler. LCCN 9734367. Urbana, Ill.:
National Council of Teachers of English, 1997.
ISBN 0814139051, PAP, $19.95.
813.54. King, Stephen, 1947- --Study and teaching
(Secondary); Horror tales, American--Study and teaching
(Secondary); High school students--United States--Books and
reading; Censorship--United States; Canon (Literature). 246 p.
Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
On October 11 and 12, 1996, the National Council of
Teachers of English held a conference at the
University of Maine entitled Reading Stephen King:
Issues of Censorship, Student Choice, and the Place
of Popular Literature in the Canon. This book is a
collection of some of the material that was presented
at the conference.
The issues of censorship, student choice, and popular
literature in the classroom are complex; educators’
opinions on these topics run from one extreme
(students should read anything and everything) to the
other (assignments should be chosen with great care
from literature of proven merit). The first few
chapters strongly favor the former point of view, as
typified by this excerpt from Stephen King’s keynote
address, giving advice to students: “...run, don’t walk,
to the nearest non-school library or to the local
bookstore and get whatever it was that they banned.
Read whatever they’re trying to keep out of your eyes
and your brain because that’s exactly what you need
to know.”
It’s not until the fourth chapter that a voice of reason
intervenes. Carol Avery, then president-elect of
NCTE, asks, “...as teachers and parents, do we know
things that students don’t know?...Are there times
when we have to guide and challenge kids to do
things they wouldn’t do on their own so that they can
adopt insights and behaviors they wouldn’t achieve
without our help?”
The essays and materials chosen for this book attempt
to cover all sides of these explosive questions.
However, many educators and parents will likely take
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 9 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

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exception to some of the opinions expressed. For
example, in chapter eight, James Albright and
Roberta F. Hammett describe a particularly brutal
scene in King’s Rose Madder, and pronounce, “These
are undeniably the acts, ideas, and values of an evil
person, and therefore presumably not admirable or
tempting to the reader to imitate...” While I agree
that’s probably true for 99% of readers, our prisons
are full of violent criminals whose inspiration for their
deeds came from explicit depictions in books,
magazines, and movies. Might adolescents who are
titillated by such material in danger of labeling
themselves aberrant or homosexual just because they
found the material titillating? Isn’t it irresponsible to
subject students to literature of this nature at the time
in their lives when they are forming their identities?
Some of the chapters advocate using horror genre and
other examples of popular literature to teach critical
thinking skills, and suggest various techniques to do
so. The appendices contain reading lists and
bibliographies, strategies for fighting censorship
attempts, and sample questions and suggested
activities relating to some of Stephen King’s short
stories.
This book is an eye-opener for those who would like
a glimpse of the beliefs of those who teach our
children. Is there a difference between censorship
and being selective about what is presented in the
classroom? I can’t help thinking of Saint Paul’s
admonition in Philippians 4:8—“...whatever is true,
whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure,
whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if
anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about
such things.” Andrea R. Huelsenbeck
900’s - Geography, History, and
Biography
A Portrait of Jesus, by Joseph F. Girzone. LCCN
9815618. New York: Doubleday, 1998. ISBN
0385482639, HBB, $18.95.
921 (232). Jesus Christ--Biography; Christian life--Catholic
authors. 179 p. Adult.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
One of the bedrock concepts of the Christian walk is
the realization of Jesus as fully God and fully man,
and while much has been written on the divine side of
Jesus’ nature, A Portrait of Jesus gives us a joyful
picture of Jesus the man.
The author begins by challenging the reader to
imagine Jesus before his official ministry begins.
References in scripture help us realize that Jesus lived
and acted as his family and neighbors acted.
Therefore, they were quite surprised when Jesus
began to reveal his divine nature. Up until that time
he did not live, act, speak or work in a manner
different than the other people of his day.
Perhaps because of this complete understanding of
what it is to be human, Jesus could be “a friend of
sinners.” Common people, with all of their physical
and spiritual flaws, could be comfortable in his
presence.
The second major focus of the book is a comparative
study of law versus grace, religion versus
compassion. Jesus personified and taught that the
Sabbath is for man and not man for the Sabbath. The
author illustrates this through biblical references. But
he also explores many present day applications of this
idea. He often references to his time spent as a parish
priest, as well as a retrospective look at the church
now that he is retired from formal ministry.
A Portrait of Jesus effectively pains a picture of Jesus
for us that is easy to imagine. The writing style is
very reader friendly. While the book is not truly
illustrated, each chapter is headed with a simple
pencil drawing to set the mood of the writing. Carol
Shearer
Why Julian Now? : A Voyage of Discovery, by
Sheila Upjohn. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman,
1997. ISBN 080284443X, PAP, $15.00.
921 (282.09). Julian of Norwich. 140 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 3
The title of Sheila Upjohn’s book Why Julian Now?
perfectly encapsulates its theme: what relevance does
a 14th century English mystic have for people in the
20th century? Certainly there is interest in Julian of
Norwich; her book Revelations of Divine Love (or
Showings), an account of visions she received and
meditated on for many years, is still widely read.
Upjohn doesn’t set out to explore Julian’s theology in
detail (although she does this to some extent) but find
areas where Julian’s spirituality addresses current
needs. Julian is relevant, she believes, not because
the 14th century (a time of war, plague, intolerance,
and ignorance) was like our own century (although it
was), but because it was dissimilar. And,
paradoxically, this dissimilarity gives Julian’s
writings meaning for today.
Writings by and about Christian mystics do not
appeal to all branches of the church. Some see
mysticism as a neglected aspect of Christian life,
while others regard it as a danger. The appeal of this
book, therefore, will be to those sympathetic towards
a mystical approach, as well as those desiring an
introduction to Julian.
Julian’s perspectives on several issues—the nature of
God, creation, sin, salvation, and the relationship of
God to humanity, for example—is unique. Upjohn
has a tendency to seem to elevate Julian’s writing to a
par with those of St. Paul. Equating Julian to the New
Testament would seem to be extreme, and one might
be forgiven for doubting whether Julian herself would
want the Revelations of Divine Love to be so
regarded.
Why Julian Now? is fluently written and offers a
concise introduction to Julian’s thoughts. Julian
herself gives thought-provoking insights, even if we
might not agree with all she says. Andrew M. Seddon
Nearer, My God : An Autobiography of Faith, by
William F. Buckley Jr. LCCN 976219. New York:
Doubleday, 1997. ISBN 0385478186, HBB, $24.95.
921 (282). Buckley, William F. (William Frank), 1925-;
Journalists--Biography. 313 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Nearer, My God by William F. Buckley Jr. is a
difficult book to characterize. Mr. Buckley explains
that his primary motivation in writing the book was
that, “I felt I owed something to God.” It is, by turns,
a personal reflection, a theological exploration, and a
rhetorical exercise. The many facets of Mr. Buckley’s
career as an author, pundit, commentator, and
political analyst are manifest in this work. Mr.
Buckley is, of course, the guru of modern American
conservatism.
Mr. Buckley’s methodology is self admittedly
polemical: he explores contentious issues within
Christianity, in general, and Catholicism, in
particular. One section of the book, that dealing with
the dialogue between then skeptic, Arnold Lunn, and
Father Ronald Knox, considers some very thorny
theological issues such as how can God be
simultaneously omniscient, omnipotent, and loving?
Mr. Buckley also submits controversial issues within
the Catholic Church such as ordination of women,
contraception, marriage annulment, and clerical
celibacy to a group he calls his “forum.” The findings
of the “forum,” which is composed of adult converts
to Catholicism, are then reported by and commented
on by Mr. Buckley.
Mr. Buckley finds that the trend towards eliminating
God from American higher education that he
recounted in God and Man at Yale, his sensational
first book published in 1951, has trickled down to the
public K-12 system—no surprise. What does astound
Mr. Buckley is that the nation’s most elite private
schools have also banished God. He also observes
that multiculturalism has become a surrogate religion
in many schools with Martin Luther King, ironically,
serving as a secular saint.
Buckley romps through boyhood reminiscences, a
consideration of miracles, Hollywood’s treatment of
Christians, a trip to Lourdes, as well as many other
disparate topics. Somehow, this holds together as the
testimony of a maturing Christian and a devoted
Catholic.
The prospective reader should know that Mr. Buckley
is fond of sesquipedalian words—keep a dictionary
handy! Also, Mr. Buckley excerpts an account of the
crucifixion by Maria Valtorta that is hauntingly
visceral. David Rash
Let Me Die in Ireland: The True Story of Patrick, by
David W. Bercot. Tyler, Tex.: Scroll Publishing
Co., 1999. ISBN 0924722088, PAP $8.95
921 (282.09). Saints; Saint Patrick. 181 p. Gr. 8 - Adult.
Quality - 2 Acceptability - 5
While everybody is familiar with St. Patrick’s Day—
green and Ireland, if nothing else—the life of Patrick
himself is considerably less well known. His life has
become so encrusted with myths that it can be
difficult to discern the real man underneath. But
Patrick was a real person, a missionary of the Celtic
Church of post-Roman Britain, and he left us two
writings that tell us of his life and thoughts.
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ADULT
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David Bercot has taken Patrick’s own writings (the
Confession and the Letter to Coroticus) and used
them as a basis for telling the story of Patrick’s life in
narrative form. Here is no mythical hero, but a real
man engaging on a difficult but God-given task.
Patrick wasn’t the first Christian in Ireland, but he did
more than anyone else to evangelize it.
While Bercot’s aim is laudable, his writing technique
is not quite adequate for the task. Let Me Die in
Ireland is in many ways amateurishly written. The
dialogue, rather than opening pathways into the
personalities of the characters, serves only as a
conduit for information, and hence comes across as
stilted and unreal. While the writing flaws detract
from the book’s value for adults, it should still appeal
to younger readers. Patrick was a true servant of God,
and his life story deserves to be better known.
Andrew M. Seddon
The ‘Hellenization’ of Judaea in the First Century
after Christ, by Martin Hengel; with Christoph
Markschies. Philadelphia: Trinity Press, 1990.
ISBN 0334006023, PAP, $9.95.
930. Hellenism. 114 p. Adult.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 4
The distinction between Hellenism and Judaism was
once used by some New Testament scholars to
imagine that Peter (the Jew) and Paul (the Hellenist)
were leading two essentially competing versions of
Christianity. These scholars then imagined that the
writer of Acts created a fictional picture of a unified
Christianity that supposedly never existed. This view
is still influencing some of the more radical writers
today (e.g. Who Wrote the New Testament by Burton
Mack).
Hengel’s study is a serious challenge to this view.
Most of Hengel’s book is a presentation of the
evidence that Judea and Galilee were strongly
influenced by Hellenism in Jesus’ time and that such
hard and fast distinctions between Hellenism and
Judaism are unhelpful in today’s scholarly
discussions. His evidence comes from inscriptions on
ancient coins and tombs, intertestamental and
Rabbinic literature, the presence of Greek style
architecture, and first century history.
Martin Hengel is a world-renowned New Testament
scholar at the University of Tubingen in Germany.
The book is generally directed to specialists in New
Testament studies, but since much of the technical
discussions are contained in the end notes (nearly half
the book), most upper level college students with an
interest in the New Testament and/or early
Christianity might profit from the discussion as well.
Dennis Ingolfsland
Picture Books Continued from p. 23.
check for mail from Devon at seven. The
accompanying artwork by Lynn Elam Bonge truly
makes the book. Detailed illustrations give each cat a
personality that elevates the text, making for an
enjoyable story-time book. Elizabeth A. Coleman
A Christmas Story, by Brian Wildsmith. LCCN
9818067. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdman, 1998.
ISBN 0802851738, HBB, $17.00.
E. Jesus Christ--Nativity--Fiction; Donkeys--Fiction;
Christmas--Fiction. 24 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
A Christmas Story, by Brian Wildsmith, tells the tale
of Rebecca, a small girl who is charged by Joseph and
Mary to take care of their baby donkey while they
travel with the donkey’s mother to Bethlehem.
Because the young donkey is sad without his mother,
Rebecca sets out to find his mother, as well as Mary
and Joseph. She travels past Herod’s palace, by some
shepherds keeping watch over their flocks, and by a
full inn. She sees the star shining over the stable and
finds Joseph, Mary, the mother donkey, and the new
baby Jesus. She leaves the young donkey with his
mother as they go with Joseph and Mary to Egypt.
Rebecca is taken home by one of the three wise men.
Even though it is obvious this story is not true, it
seems like the author is grasping for some kind of
story to go with his illustrations. Young children,
however, would probably not notice how unrealistic it
would be for a small girl to take off on her own to find
a mother donkey. The story does provide an
atmosphere of adventure that young ones would
enjoy. The illustrations are the strong point in this
book. They are paintings that are very ornate with an
abundance of gold. Many of them have an almost
stained glass effect that conveys a very majestic
event, especially in the paintings depicting the angels
and the star above the inn. This is certainly a very
beautiful book. Patricia A. Youmans
A Dozen Dozens, by Harriet Ziefert; illustrated by
Chris Demarest. (A Viking Math Easy-to-Read.)
LCCN 9715353. New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0140388192, HBB, $13.99.
E. Twelve (The number)--Fiction; Stories in rhyme; Easy
reading materials. 30 p. PS - Gr. 3.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
A Dozen Dozens, by Harriet Ziefert, uses several
paths to help children identify the concept of “dozen”.
The explanation that a dozen is the same at twelve is
introduced early in the book. The concept of “halfdozen”
is also taught. Ms. Ziefert does a wonderful
job of showing that a dozen doesn’t have to be twelve
of the same thing, such as six roses and six tulips.
The book is done in rhyme for easy repitition and the
vocabulary would all be familiar to young children
(i.e. pies, dogs, babies, apples, shoes, socks, etc).
This book is very well done and would be a useful
tool for teaching as well as reinforcing the concept of
“dozen” and “half-dozen”. The illustrations are very
colorful and simple. Every page provides an
oportunity to count. Some of the illustrations lend
themselves to addition or subtraction as well. This is
a worthwhile supplimental math tool. Patricia A.
Youmans
Rabbit and Hare Divide an Apple, by Harriet
Ziefert; illustrated by Emily Bolam. (Viking Math
Easy-to-Read.) New York: Viking, 1998. ISBN
0670877905, HBB, $13.99.
E. Math--Fiction; Division--Fiction. 32 p. K - Gr. 2.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Rabbit and Hare find a mushroom. They try to break
it in half so each can eat a piece. Disagreement
ensues. Raccoon comes along and offers to make the
two pieces equal, only he eats all of it!”Let’s find
something else to eat,” says Rabbit. They find an
apple, big and round. Hare tries to divide the apple in
half, but one piece is much bigger than the other.
Raccoon wants to help. “Oh, no.” say Rabbit and
Hare. “We will work together and divide it
ourselves.”
Rabbit and Hare Divide an Apple by Harriet Ziefert is
an entertaining read for beginning readers. Simple
and colorful illustrations by Emily Bolam emphasize
that working together is the best solution. This story
teaches cooperation in an enjoyable way with easy
text that the beginning reader can master. Mary
Jarvis
Children’s Fiction Continued from p. 35.
The Secret of the Old Well, by Eric Wiggin.
(Hannah’s Island; 5.) Lynnwood, Wash.: Emerald
Books, 1997. ISBN 1883002281, PAP, $5.99.
F. Mystery fiction. 158 p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 5 Acceptability - 5
Hannah and Walt Parmenter live on an island in
Maine with their parents and another family. The
Parmenters run a tourist lodge. While Mama and
Hannah are picking blueberries, Hannah’s dog,
Hunter, goes crashing through some boards. That
crash leads to an adventure for Hannah and Walt.
Hunter appears to have fallen into a well, but it is dry.
Walt and Papa discover a tunnel leading downward at
the base of the “well.” Hannah does some historical
research, and Walt uses his newly acquired skills in
geometry to solve the mystery of why the “well” is
there and where the tunnel leads. Hannah makes a
discovery that leads to discussion with a professor of
archaeology regarding the cause of the Ice Age; he
says Noah’s flood caused it.
Eric Wiggin has written a high adventure mystery
novel for older elementary students. He displays
knowledge of creation, evolution, and carbon-14
dating. The Christian faith of the Parmenter family is
evident throughout the book.
The Secret of the Old Well shows the value of research
and math skills, as well as the ability to think straight
in difficult situations. While the end of the story may
be somewhat predictable, the biblical and technical
explanations are a pleasant surprise. Most authors
may have thought information about carbon-14
dating above elementary students, but not Mr.
Wiggin. Jane Mouttet
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Skeeter, the Wildly Wacky Raccoon, by VeraLee
Wiggins. (Julius and Friends; 4.) Boise, Ida.:
Pacific Press Publishing Assn., 1997. ISBN
0816313881, PAP, $5.99.
F. Pets--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction; Raccoons--Fiction. 96
p. Gr. 3 - 6.
Quality - 3 Acceptability - 5
The Montgomerys down the street catch a raccoon in
a cage. She has babies so Mr. Montgomery lets her
go. When the mother leaves, she leaves a baby
behind. Chris is upset because Mr. Montgomery is
going to put the baby to sleep. Gram agrees to help
Chris take care of the baby, which he eventually
names Skeeter. Skeeter survives and grows into a
mischievous pet. James, Chris’ younger brother,
becomes jealous because Chris is not very good at
sharing his pet. When he sees a family of raccoons at
a nearby creek, James starts feeding them.
The family’s faith in God is evident throughout the
book. References to family worship, church
attendance, and Chris’s silent prayers for guidance are
scattered throughout the book. Vera Lee Wiggins has
written an enjoyable book for older elementary
students. Drawings by Linda Hawkins start off each
chapter. Illustrations for the odd numbered chapters
depict a scene in that chapter. The same drawing of
Skeeter starts the even numbered chapters. Editor
Jerry Thomas opens the book with a message about
the dangers of wild animals even if they seem tame.
Jane Mouttet
Ice Continent : A Story of Antarctica, by Louise O.
Young; illustrated by Larry Elmore. (The Nature
Conservancy.) LCCN 9713164. Norwalk, Ct.:
Soundprints, 1997. ISBN 1568995024, KIT, $19.95.
F. Penguins--Fiction; Spring--Fiction; Antarctica--Fiction. 1 36
p. hardcover book; 1 10 min. audiocassette Gr. 1 - 4.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
In Ice Continent, the ferocious beauty of the Earth’s
harshest environment is introduced to young readers
through the eyes of the emperor penguin. The
emperor penguin is a bird that flies under water,
feeding on silverfish, krill, and squid. After feeding, it
waddles across miles of windswept ice to where its
mate and young chick wait in a crowded rookery.
Hungry leopard seals hunt in the shadowy water, and
starvation lurks on the frozen land, but the emperor
penguin waltzes through life, as it has for thousands of
years.
Louise O. Young’s up-close perspective entices the
readers to leave the comfort of the known world to
explore life on another continent. His easy language
weaves scientific facts into an engaging documentary.
He includes a map to set the story in its global
position. Additional facts about Antarctica are
included, along with a fold-out identification chart of
wildlife and fish. The pastel shades of Larry Elmore’s
illustrations soften the reality of the harsh climate, and
fill each page with vivid detail. A ten-minute cassette
accompanies the book. The quality of the soundtrack
is excellent. Ocean, wind, and wave sound effects
enhance the drama of the narrative, making this the
easiest Antarctic expedition ever. Melinda Torgerson
Young Adult Fiction Continued from p. 54.
written in a mountain dialect. The issues of prejudice
toward beliefs, race, wealth, and appearances are
central to the story. These are well developed from the
different viewpoints and naivety of twelve year old
girls. Judy Belcher
Iceland Adventure, by Elizabeth Yates; illustrated
by Kathy Pflug; edited by Gloria Repp. Original
title: Climbing Higher. LCCN 9739914.
Greenville, S.C.: Journey Books, 1997. ISBN
0890849358, PAP, $6.49.
F. Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Uncles--Fiction;
Mountaineering--Fiction; Iceland--Fiction. 115 p. Gr. 5 - 9.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Adventure in the classic sense is missing here, and that
may leave readers feeling cheated once they get into
the story. There also isn’t much mystery, at least not
in the sense that young readers are used to using that
word. What this book really seems to be is a travelog
with a story thrown in to keep the reader’s attention.
Iceland Adventure grew out of a trip Elizabeth Yates
made to Iceland when she was young. Readers meet
siblings, Michael and Merry Lamb, and their uncle,
Anthony Lamb, who have come from England to
search for Jon Magnusson’s son. The adventure
during their stay consists of climbing up a mountain—
Hecla, known for its varying weather—searching for a
lost mare and foal, finding geysers, and sailing across
the sea. All pretty tame by today’s standard, but
exciting for the time when it was originally written, no
doubt.
Through their search, Michael and Merry are
introduced to Icelandic geography, topography,
culture, and people, and are given a tour of the island
nation, which in turn gives readers much information
about a country they may not be familiar with.
The cover illustration is rather flat. All in all,
disappointing fare consisting of likeable children who
seem very unsophisticated, an interesting country, and
good description, presented in a story that lacks
tension and a captivating plot. Perhaps the original,
unedited version made better reading. Leslie Greaves
Radloff
Young Adult Nonfiction Continued from p. 66.
Each book focuses on a port city by examining how
the harbor facilities are used. The books move easily
from present day operations to past history then lead
up to current status and speculation of future use of the
port city. The books also focus on some aspect of
environmental concern, a large portion being the
controversy of dredging, and keeping surrounding
wetlands viable. Of note is the valuable historic
background concerning Indians and immigrants
pertinent to that particular port city.
The books are a mass of facts, filled with sidebars of
interesting information. There are enough graphics
and photographs to complement the text without
competing with it, and the glossary, index, and
pronunciation guide provide readers with additional
research help. While the main focus is geography the
series could also be used in conjunction with social
studies, history, and economics. Pam Webb
The Watts Riots, by Liza N. Burgy. (World History
Series.) LCCN 9654585. San Diego: Lucent Books,
1997. ISBN 1560063009, HBB, $22.45.
979.4. Watts Riot, Los Angeles, Calif.--1965; Afro-Americans--
Civil rights; Afro-Americans--Social conditions; Race relations.
128 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Battle of the Little Bighorn, by Earle Rice, Jr.
(World History Series.) LCCN 979870. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560064536, HBB,
$22.45.
973.8. Little Bighorn, Battle of the, MOnt., 1876. 112 p. Gr. 7
- 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Roosevelt and the New Deal, by Adam Woog.
(World History Series.) LCCN 9727262. San
Diego: Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063246,
HBB, $22.45.
973.917. Roosevelt, Franklin D. (Franklin Delano), 1882-1945;
Presidents; New Deal, 1033-1939; United States--Politics and
government--1933-1945. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The Roaring Twenties, by David Pietrusza. (World
History Series.) LCCN 9729771. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063092, HBB,
$22.45.
973.91. United States--History--1919-1933. 96 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
Russia of the Tsars, by James E. Strickler. (World
History Series.) LCCN 9710876. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560062959, HBB,
$22.45.
947. Russia--History. 96 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The History of Slavery, by Norman L. Macht and
Mary Hull. (World History Series.) LCCN
9645640. San Diego: Lucent Books, 1997. ISBN
1560063025, HBB, $22.45.
306.3. Slavery--History. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
Greek and Roman Mythology, by Don Nardo.
(World History Series.) LCCN 977481. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063084, HBB,
$22.45.
292.1. Mythology, Classical. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 4
The Renaissance, by James A. Corrick. (World
History Series.) LCCN 9727261. San Diego:
Lucent Books, 1998. ISBN 1560063114, HBB,
$22.45.
940.2. Renaissance. 112 p. Gr. 7 - 12.
Quality - 4 Acceptability - 5
The World History Series by Lucent Books is an
excellent, well documented series that gives a concise
overview of numerous historically significant events.
The attractive, colorful, library-bound books are
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 7 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

inviting to any audience. Each volume is filled with
many pictures, illustrations, maps, and excerpts of
quotes. Each book concludes with notes, a
bibliography for further reading, works consulted, an
index, picture credits, and a word about the author.
These books are an excellent source for students
doing research. They are easy to read while at the
same time they do a great job of covering the subject.
The Watts Riot gives a day by day description of the
events as they unfolded, as well as discussion as to
why the riot happened. The book is filled with quotes
from people who were there as well as giving quotes
with reactions from people around the nation.
The Battle of the Little Bighorn covers the
background that led up to the battle and tells about the
main people involved on both sides. Quotes, maps,
and pictures help to give as detailed a view as possible
about the events surrounding this fascinating event in
history.
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1700 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC
29614, 800-845-5731, C
Boyd Mills Press, Order Dept., 815 Church St.,
Honesdale, PA 18431, 800-949-7777
Bridgepoint See Chariot Victor, C
Broadman & Holman Publishers, Order Dept.,
127 9th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37234-0143,
800-251-3225, C
Carolrhoda Books See Lerner Publ. Group
Cavendish Children’s Books See Marshall
Cavendish
Chariot Victor Publishing, Order Dept., 4050
Lee Vance View, Colorado Springs, CO
80918, 719-536-3271, C
Chelsea House, Order Dept., 1974 Sproul
Road Suite 400, Broomall, PA 19008, 800-
848-BOOK
Chosen Books See Baker Book House, C
Chronicle Books, Children’s Books, Order
Dept., 85 Second Street, 6th Fl., San
Francisco, CA 94105, 415-777-7240
Cobblehill See Penguin Putnam
Companion Press See Center for Loss &
Life Transition
Concordia Publishing House, Order Dept.,
3558 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118-
3968, 800-325-3040, C
Cowley Publications, Order Dept., 28 Temple
Place, Boston, MA 02111, 800-225-1534, C
Crossroad Publishing Co. See Publisher
Resources Inc., C
Crossway Books, Order Dept., 1300 Crescent
St., Wheaton, IL 60187, 800-635-7993, C
DeKa Press, Order Dept., 18455 S.W. Pacific
Dr., #119, Tualatin, OR 97062-8067, 503-625-
2169, C
Destiny Image Publishers, Order Dept., 167
Walnut Bottom Road, Shippensburg, PA
17257-0310, 800-722-6774, C
Dial See Penguin Putnma
Doubleday, Order Dept., 1540 Broadway, New
York, NY 10036, 212-545-0699
Dutton See Penguin Putnam
Eakin Press, Order Dept., Drawer 90159,
Austin, TX 78709-0159, 512-288-1771
Emerald Books, Order Dept., P.O. Box 635,
Lynnwood, WA 98046, 800-922-2143, C
Enslow Publishers, Inc., Order Dept., 44
Fadem Rd., Box 699, Springfield, NJ 07081-
0699, 201-379-8890
Exceptional Diagnostics, Order Dept., 220
Douglas Drive, Simpsonville, SC 29681, C
Facts on File, Inc., Order Dept., 11 Penn Plz,
New York, NY 10001-2006, 212-967-8800
Fleming H. Revell See Baker Book House,
C
Focus on the Family Publishers, Order Dept.,
8605 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, CO
80920-1051, 719-531-3400, C
Fortress Press See Augsburg Fortress, C
G. P. Putnam’s Sons See Penguin Putnam
GCB See Holly Hall Publications, C
Greenhaven Press, Order Dept., P.O. Box
289011, San Diego, CA 92198-9011, 619-
485-7424
Greenwillow See Wm. Morrow
Harcourt Brace & Company, Order Dept.,
Children’s Books Division, 525 B Street,
Ste.1900, San Diego, CA 92101, 619-699-
6435
Harold Shaw Publishers, Order Dept., P.O.
Box 567, Wheaton, IL 60189, 630-665-6700,
C
HarperCollins Publishers, Order Dept., 10 E.
53rd St., New York, NY 10022, 212-207-7000
HarperPrism See HarperCollins
Harvard University Press
Harvest House Publishers, Order Dept., 1075
Arrowsmith, Eugene, OR 97402, 800-547-
8979, C
Roosevelt and the New Deal gives an excellent
overview of the depression. It tells about all the
programs that were carried out by the New Deal and
is filled with quotes from a variety of people who
lived through that time in history. Profanity is found
in two quotes.
The Roaring Twenties is filled with personal stories of
people who lived through that decade. Politics,
economics, entertainment, and sports all give a
rounded picture of the times. Several of the quotes
used contain profanity.
Russia of the Tsars gives an abbreviated history of
Russia beginning in 988 and continuing to the 1990’s.
The rulers and their contributions are discussed and
the views of the peasants are shown as the major
uprisings are outlined.
Beginning with a discussion of slavery in the early
Mediterranean civilizations, The History of Slavery
Herald Press, Order Dept., 616 Walnut Ave.,
Scottdale, PA 15683-1999, 800-245-7894, C
Heritage Publishing House, Order Dept., PO
Box 277, Westhampton, NY 11977, 516-874-
2210, C
Houghton Mifflin, Order Dept., Children’s
Trade Books, 222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA
02116-3764, 800-225-3362
InterVarsity Press, Order Dept., P.O. Box
1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515, 630-887-
2500, C
John Knox See Westminster Press, C
Journey Books for Young Readers See Bob
Jones University Press, C
Kids Can Press, Order Dept., 85 River Rock
Drive, Suite 202, Buffalo, NY 14207, 800-805-
1083
Kids Media See Baker Book House
Langmarc Publishing, Order Dept., P.O. Box
33817, San Antonio, TX 78265-3817, 210-
822-4273, C
Lerner Publishing Group, Order Dept., 241
First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401,
800-328-4929, x366
Little, Brown & Co., Order Dept., Children’s
Book Division, 3 Center Plaza, Boston, MA
02108, 617-263-2871
Living the Good News, Order Dept., 3101 N.
7th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110, 800-824-
1813, C
Lodestar See Penguin Putnam
Lothrop, Lee & Shepard See Wm. Morrow
Loyola Press, Order Dept., 3441 N. Ashland
Ave., Chicago, Il 60657, 800-256-0589, C
Lucent Books See Greenhaven Press
Marshall Cavendish, Order Dept., 99 White
Plains Road, PO Box 2001, Tarrytown, NY
10591, 800-821-9881
Milkweed Editions, Order Dept., Suite 400,
430 First Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55401-
1743, 612-332-3192
Mondo Publishing, Order Dept., One Plaza
Road, Greenvale, NY 11548, 800-242-3650
Moody Kid’s Video See Moody Video, C
Moody Press, Order Dept., 820 N. LaSalle
Blvd., Chicago, IL 60610, 312-329-2108, C
Moody Video, Order Dept., 820 N. LaSalle
Blvd., Chicago, IL 60610, 800-8421223, C
Morehouse Publishing Co., Order Dept., P.O.
Box 1321, Harrisburg, PA 17105, 717-541-
8130, C
Morrow Junior Books See Wm. Morrow
Multnomah Publishers Inc., Order Dept., P.O.
Box 1720, Sisters, OR 97759, 800-929-0910,
C
National Council of Teachers of English
continues on to the Middle Ages. The book goes on
to talk about slavery in Africa, Indian slavery in the
America’s, and slavery in the American colonies and
the United States.
Starting with the definition and sources of myths, the
book Greek and Roman Mythology is a concise
volume on the origins of stories that are woven into
our vocabulary and culture. This is a great volume for
giving a quick overview of mythology. Numerous
nude pictures are included in the book picturing
figures in mythology.
The book The Renaissance does an excellent job of
giving a clear and easy-to-understand overview of
people and events of that time in history. Educational
advancements, church reformers, business and
commerce, rulers, explorers, artists and writers, and
science and medicine are all covered. Esther Knaupp
The following is a list of publishers who cooperate with CLJ by sending books for review. Use these addresses and phone numbers to order books reviewed by CLJ in this and all past issues.. Any of them will be glad to send you
catalogs and information about cataloging and discounts.
NavPress, Order Dept., P.O. Box 35001,
Colorado Springs, CO 80935, 800-955-3324,
C
Neal-Schuman Publishers, Inc., Order Dept.,
100 Varick St., New York, NY 10013, 212-
925-8650
New Hope Publishers, Order Dept., PO Box
12065, Birmingham, AL 35202-2065,
tspringfield@wmu.org, C
New Kids Media See Baker Book House, C
New Leaf Press, Order Dept., P.O. Box 726,
Green Forest, AR 72638, 800-643-9535, C
Northland Publishing, Order Dept., P.O. Box
1389, Flagstaff, AZ 86002-1389, 800-346-
3257
Northwestern See Augsburg Fortress, C
Orbis Books, Order Dept., P.O. Box 308,
Maryknoll, NY 10545-0308, 914-941-7636, C
Pacific Press Publishing Assn., Order Dept.,
P.O. Box 7000, Boise, ID 83707, 208-465-
2500, C
Palisades See Multnomah Publishers, C
Peachtree Publishers, Ltd., Order Dept., 494
Armour Circle N.E., Atlanta, GA 30324-4088,
800-241-0113
Peel Productions, Order Dept., P.O. Box 546,
Columbus, NC 28722, 704-894-8838, C
Pelican Publishing Co., Order Dept., P.O. Box
3110, Gretna, LA 70054, 504-368-1175
Penguin Putnam Inc., Order Dept., 375
Hudson St., New York, NY 10014-3657, 212-
366-2000
Philomel See Penguin Putnam
Piñata Books See Arte Público
Putnam See Penguin Putnam
Rainfall See Chariot/Victor Publishing, C
Random House, Order Dept., 11th Floor, 201
E. 50th, New York, NY 10022, 212-751-2600
Reconciliation Press See Trinity Rivers, C
Revell See Baker Book House, C
Richard C. Owen Publishers, Order Dept.,
P.O. Box 585, Katonah, NY 10536, 914-232-
3903
Rising Moon See Northland Publishing
Riverhead See Penguin Putnam
Scholastic, Inc., Order Dept., 555 Broadway,
New York, NY 10012-3999, 212-343-6100
Scroll Publishing Co., Order Dept., Box 6175,
Tyler, TX 75711
Servant Publications, Order Dept., 1143
Highland Dr., Suite E, Ann Arbor, MI 48107,
313-677-6490, C
Simon & Schuster, Order Dept., Children’s
Publishing Division, 1230 Avenue of the
Americas, New York, NY 10020, 212-698-
7000
Soundprints, Order Dept., 353 Main Ave.,
Norwalk, CT 06851-1552, 800-228-7839
Stoddart Kids, Order Dept., 85 River Rock
Drive, Suite 202, Buffalo, NY 14207-2170,
800-805-1083
Ten Speed Press
Thomas Nelson Publishers, Order Dept., 506
Nelson Pl., P.O. Box 141000, Nashville, TN
37214, 615-889-9000, C
Tommy Nelson, Order Dept., 404 BNA Dr.,
Bldg. 200, Ste. 508, Nashville, TN 37217,
615-902-2314, C
Treasure House See Destiny Image
Publishers, C
Trinity Press International See Morehouse
Publishing Co., C
Trinity Rivers Publishing, Order Dept., PO Box
209, Manassas, VA 20108, C
Tyndale House Publishers, Order Dept., 351
Executive Dr., P.O. Box 80, Wheaton, IL
60189, 630-668-8300, C
University of Washington Press
Viking See Penguin Putnam
Vine Books See Servant Publications, C
Waterbrook Press, Order Dept., 5446 North
Academy Blvd., Suite 200, Colorade Springs,
CO 80918
Westminster Press, Order Dept., 100
Witherspoon St., Louisville, KY 40202-1396,
502-569-5891, C
William Morrow and Co., Order Dept., 1350
Ave. of the Americas, New York, NY 10019,
212-261-6500
WinePress, Order Dept., PO BOX 1406,
Mukilteo, WA 98275, 800-326-4674, C
Wm. B. Eerdman Publishing Co., Order Dept.,
255 Jefferson Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI
49506, 800-253-7521, C
Workman Publishing, Order Dept., 708
Broadway, New York, NY 10003, 800-722-
7202
Writer’s Digest See F & W Publications
Zondervan Publishing House, Attn: Zondervan
Church Source, 5300 Patterson Ave. S.E.,
Grand Rapids, MI 49530, 800-727-3480, C
Zondervankidz, Order Dept., 5300 Patterson
Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49530, 616-732-
8013, C
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 9 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

INDEX
150 Ways to Raise Creative 94
365 Read to Me Bedtime Bible Stories 38
501 Practical Ways to Teach Your... 85
Abusing Science 2-3
Across the Wide Dark Sea 7-8
Acts of the Apostles 79
Adamson, Linda G. 7-8
Addicted to Mediocrity 84
Addiction 58
Adler, David 7-8, 25
Adventure On Klickitat Island 17
Adventures Down Under 27
Adventures of an Arctic Missionary 34
Adventures with Social Studies... 7-8
African-American Biographies 62, 63
AIDS : Choices for Life 57
Albertina the Practically Perfect 28
Alien 47-48
All God's Children 39
All You Need to Believe 80
Allan-Meyer, Kathleen 12
AllStar SportStory 46
Alphabet Riddles 17
Altman, Linda Jacobs 57
Amanda Pig...Lollipop 23
Amazing Grace 85
America as Story 7-8
American Adventures 34
American Jazz Musicians 61
American Revolution, 1763-1783 65
Among the King's Soldiers 72
Android 47-48
Andryszewski, Tricia 57
Angry Parents, Failing Schools 93
Animorphs 47-48
Annie Ashcroft Looks into the Dark 22
Apple Trees 42
Applegate, K. A. 47-48
Arabian Winds 69
Archer, Jules 56
Armed and Dangerous 83
Arnold, Caroline 42
Arnold, Marsha Diane 12
Arnold, Tedd 12
Art of Tradition 90
As I Kneel 18
Auch, Ron 83
Auld Lang Syne 44
Aunt Harriet's Underground... 7-8
Avi 25, 46
Ayer, Eleanor H. 64
Azarian, Mary 30
Bachrach, Deborah 64
Backyard Bandit Mystery 32
Bad Case of Stripes 22
Baden, Robert 39
Badger's Bad Mood 21
Baehr, Ted 90
Baicich, Paul J. 59
Baker Book of Bible People for Kids 38
Baker, Barbara 13
Ballet Slippers 28
Bandit's Moon 48
Banek, Yvette 38
Banks, Lynne Reid 25
Barbara Jordan 63
Barbara McClintock 61
Barchers, Suzanne I. 7-8
Bare, Colleen Stanley 40
Barnes, Emilie 10-11, 43
Barringston Relief Chronicles 70
Barrow, Ann 46
Baseball Saved Us 7-8
Bat 6 54
Battle of Beginnings 2-3
Battle of the Little Bighorn 97
Be Not Far from Me 55
Beacons of Light 7-8
Beausay, Bill 93
Because I Love You 32
Beck, Andrea 13
Becker, Verne 91
Beckett, John D. 89
Beckett, Sister Wendy 60
Bedtime Ba-a-alk 17
Beekeepers 16
Behe, Michael 2-3
Bell, Howard 89
Bell, Katherine 67
Benchmark Biographies 45
Bender, Esther 25
Bercot, David W. 95
Berenzy, Alix 46
Bergum, Constance R. 18
Bernardin, James 24
Berry, Eileen M. 13
Beyond the Cosmos 2-3
Bible: What's in It for Me? 79
Bibleland.COM 37
Biblical Basis for Modern Science 2-3
Biblical Creationism 2-3
Birder's Bug Book 59
Blackwell, Lawana 68
Blakeslee, Ann R. 46
Blankenship, Leroy 13
Bloodhounds, Inc. 52
Blue and the Gray 7-8
Bly, Stephen A. 68
Board, Perry 31
Boatwright, Phil 36
Bobcats 42
Bogan, Paulette 13
Bolam, Emily 95
Bolles, Richard N. 89
Bomer, Norm 13
Bond, Jill 93
Bond, Nancy 55
Bones of Contention 2-3
Bones of Joseph 79
Bongo, Lynn Elam 24
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich 80
Book Links 7-8
Book of Magic 47-48
Book of Names 47-48
Book of Signs 47-48
Bosch, Carl 57
Bourgeois, Paulette 13, 14
Bow-Wow Birthday 24
Bowen, Fred 46
Bowler, K. Christie 39
Boxcar Children Mysteries 36
Brager, Millie 68
Branch, Muriel Miller 40
Branch, Willis 40
Breakaway 32
Brestin, Dee 10-11
Bridger Generation 92
Bridges, Margaret Park 14
Bright, Vonette 10-11
Briscoe, Stuart 90
Brisson, Pat 14
Brooks, Jim 34
Brooks, Nan 18
Brother Andrew 91
Brothers and Sisters 58
Brown Bears 42
Brown, Don 7-8
Bruchac, Joseph 46
Brummett, Nancy Parker 84
Bruner, Kurt 88
Buchanan, Anne Christian 43
Buchanan, Paul 25
Buck Stops Here 7-8
Buckley, William F., Jr. 95
Bug Safari : Entomology 26
Bunn, T. Davis 14, 52, 68
Bunting, Eve 7-8
Burby, Liza N. 97
Burgess, John P. 78
Burgin, Norma 24
Burnette, Melanie M. 38
Burt, William D. 26
But is it Science? 2-3
Butler, John 16
Butler, Philippa 14
Butler, Robert W. 60
Butterworth, Nick 39
C. S. Lewis 64
Cairns, Joann 10-11
California Diaries 47-48
Cam Jansen Adventure 25
Cam Jansen...Catnapping Mystery 25
Camp, Carole Ann 61
Career Ideas for Kids Who Like 55
Carlson, Melody 69
Carmichael, Nancie 86
Carolrhoda On My Own Books 44
Carruthers, Margaret W. 41
Carter G. Woodson 63
Cartwright, Reg 16
Case for Christ 81
Caseley, Judith 14
Caswell, Helen 90
Cathedral 7-8
Cave Hill Treasure and Other Stories 35
Cave, Kathryn 15
Cell-a-bration 26
Celtic Christianity 78
Celtic Crusades 71
Century War Chronicles Freedom 50
Chaiken, Linda 69
Charge It on the Master's Card 55
Charles Dickens 45
Charles Towne 71
Charlotte 45
Charlotte Brontë and Jane Eyre 63
Chasing the Horizon 61
Chayka, Doug 16
Cheney Duvall, M.D. 73
Cheney Duvall, M.D. 73
Chess, Victoria 43
Child Welfare 56
Chinquapin Tree 30
Christian Heritage, Charleston ... 34
Christian Woman's Guide to ... 10-11
Christiana, David 21
Christiansen, Lee 22
Christmas Story 95
Christopher, Matt 26
Chronicles of the Golden Frontier 72
Chung, Chi 18
Cinderella's Rat 20
Cinnamon's Day Out 22
Circle of Magic 53
Cities and Towns 44
City of Lies 50
Clairmont, Patsy 84
Clark, Bill 38
Clark, Brenda 13, 14
Clark, Silvana 94
Clark, William S. 60
Clash of Cultures, Prehistory-1638 65
Cleansing of the Heavens 81
Cloth of Heaven 71
Clough, Sandy Lynam 10-11
Clouse, Bonnidell 82
Coalson, Glo 23
Cocca-Leffler, Maryann 15
Cody's Secret Admirer 27
Cole, C. Donald 80
Cole-Turner, Ronald 83
Collective Biographies 61
Collier, Christopher 65
Collier, James Lincoln 65
Collins, Heather 43
Colossal Book of Crafts... 42
Come All You Brave Soldiers 65
Commander in Chief 61
Complete Guide to Writing... 94
Computers 55
Constitution 56, 57
Contemplating the Cross 81
Controlling Interests 74
Cooking Up U.S. History 7-8
Coombs, Karen Mueller 63
Copley, Robert E. 62
Coral Reef 41
Coretta Scott King 63
Corrick, James A. 97
Cote, Nancy 15
Countries 44
Courtship of the Vicar's Daughter 68
Coville, Bruce 46
Cows in the House 18
Cox, Clinton 65
Cox, Vic 57
Coyle, Mark 54
Crabb, Larry 87
Crabb, Rachael 10-11
Craine, Michael 44
Creation and Evolution 2-3
Creation and Time 2-3
Creation Hypothesis 2-3
Creation Scientists Answer Their... 2-3
Creationism's Upside-down Pyramid 2-3
Creationists 2-3
Creative Hospitality 10-11
Creator and the Cosmos 2-3
Crow, Donna Fletcher 69
Cul-de-sac Kids 32
Cults 57
Curless, Allan 50
Currie, Robin 38
Dakota Dugout 7-8
Daniel, Alan 15
Daniel, Lea 15
Darty, Peggy 69
Darwin Legend 2-3
Darwin on Trial 2-3
Darwin's Black Box 2-3
Davies, Sally J.K. 15
Davis, Aubrey 15
Davis, Tim 27
Davis, Yvonne Lebrun 20
Dawn 47-48
Dawn, Marva J. 83, 87
Dawn: Diary Two 47-48
Day, Terry Jean 38
Dear America 36
Death Camps 64
DeClements, Barthe 27
Defeating Darwinism 2-3
deGroat, Diane 31
Delange, Alex Pardo 18
Delffs, D. J. 70
Dellosso, Gabriela 53
Demarest, Christ 95
Denenberg, Barry 48
Denton, Michael 2-3
Destination Duluth 66
Destination Los Angeles 66
Destination Montreal 66
Destination New Orleans 66
Destination New York 66
Developing Christian Fiction... 77
Dewey, Jennifer Owings 41
Diadem Series 47-48
DialEasy-to-Read 23
Diaz, David 55
Different Kind of Hero 46
Digby and Kate and the Beautiful Day 13
Dinner's in the Freezer 93
Dionne, Wanda 48
Discovering Geography 44
DNA Decoders : Genetics 26
Dobson, James 84
Dodson, Bert 34
Dog with Golden Eyes 54
Dolan, Edward F. 58
Don't You Know There's a War On? 7-8
Dorenkamp, Michelle 39
Doubleday Christian Quotation... 91
Downing, Julie 23
Dozen Dozens 95
Drake, Jane 43
Drama of American History 65
Draugr 47-48
Draw Dinosaurs 60
Draw Insects 60
Dream Come True 44
DuBosque, Doug 17, 60
Duffey, Betsy 27
Dugan, Karen 30
Duke, Kate 15
Durden, Robert F. 63
Durrell, Julie 28
DuTemple, Lesley A. 42
Early Bird Nature Books 42
Easter Storykeepers 27
Eating Disorders and Weight Control 58
Echoes in the Wind 51
Edith Shay 50
Education 58
Elizabeth Bryan Mysteries 28
Elliot's Emergency 13
Ellis, Gwen, ed. 39
Elmer, Robert 27
Elmore, Larry 97
Emily Just in Time 23
Emma and the Silk Train 31
Encounter 7-8
English, Karen 15
Enough! 75
Erwin, Vicki Berger 28
Escape 35
Escape from Shangri-La 33
Evolution : A Theory in Crisis 2-3
Evolution : The Fossils Still Say No 2-3
Fairfield Friends Devotional Adventure 35
Family 60
Family Abuse 57
Family Bible Challenge 37
Family Fragrance 88
Faraway Summer 30
Farnsworth, Bill 24
Father Grif Mysteries 70
Ferguson, J. Landon 72
Fiarotta, Noel 42
Fiarotta, Phyllis 42
Fiddler's Secret 31
Field Guide to Home Schooling 93
Field, Christine M. 93
Fiery Stranger 53
Fifth Amendment 56
FIght for Women's Right to Vote... 66
Figley, Marty Rhodes 38
Final Solution 64
Finders Keepers for Franklin 13
Findon, Joanne 44
Fine, Edith Hope 61
Fingerprint of God 2-3
Firehouse Mystery 36
Fireside, Harvey 56
Fischer, Leonard Everett 7-8
Fisherman and His Wife 40
Fleischer, Paul 41
Fleischman, Sid 48
Flip-Flops 15
Flirting with the World 88
Floca, Brian 25
For the Love of My Brothers 91
Forgive the River, Forgive the Sky 54
Forgotten 47-48
Foster's War 34
Foundations of the Faith 86
Fourth of July on the Plains 7-8
Fowler, Jim 28
Fowler, Susi Gregg 28
Francisco, Wendy 38
Franklin and the Thunderstorm 13
Franklin's Secret Club 14
Fredericks, Anthony D. 7-8
Fremon, David K. 66
French and Indian War, 1660-1763 65
Friendship Ring Series 47-48
Frissett, Susan 58
Fritz, Jean 7-8
Froggy's First Kiss 19
Frost, Kristi 17, 40
Fryar, Jane L. 83
Galileo 7-8
Galway Chronicles 76
Game Day 43
Gange, Robert 2-3
Gansky, Alton 70
Garden at the Edge of Beyond 74
Garland, Sherry 28
Garlington, Joseph L. 87
Garvin, Elaine 12
Gavril, David 44
Gay, Kathlyn 57
Gay-Kassel, Doreen 14
Gelman, Rita Golden 38
Genesis and the Big Bang 2-3
Genesis Debate 2-3
Genesis Flood 2-3
Genesis Unbound 2-3
Gibbons, Gail 7-8
Giff, Patricia Reilly 28
Girl Who Wore Too Much 20
Girzone, Joseph F. 95
Gish, Duane 2-3
Glimpses of Christ in Everyday Lives 88
Glory of Unicorns 46
God's Promises for Girls 39
Gormley, Beatrice 64
Grandma's Hands 30
Granger, Thom 56
Great Blue Heron 60
Great St. Lawrence Seaway 7-8
Great-Grandmother's Treasure 29
Greek and Roman Mythology 97
Green Gravy 32
Greenwood, Barbara 45
Gregory, Kristiana 49
Greig, Doris W. 10-11
Grenz, Stanley J. 80, 90
Gresham Chronicles 68
Griffin, David 18
Grindley, Sally 16
Grove, Vicki 28
Growing Things 44
Guenther, Margaret 86
Guide for the College Bound 59
Guide to the Nests, Eggs... 59
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 9 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

INDEX
Gunn, Robin Jones 49
Guns, Violence, and Teens 57
Gurley, Nan 16
Gutenburg 7-8
Hagerman, Jennifer 44
Haidle, David 16
Haidle, Helen 16
Hall, Zoe 16
Halpern, Shari 16
Hamilton, Janice 66
Hammer, Margaret L. 89
Hannah's Baby Sister 22
Hannah's Island 96
Hansen, Joyce 61
Harber, Frank 87
Harney, Paula 58
Harris, Murray J. 80
Harris, Peter 16
Harrison, Colin O. J. 59
Haunting of Drang Island 47-48
Haunting Refrain 75
Hayward, Alan 2-3
Hazouri, Sandra Peyser 58
Hazy Skies 58
He Hears Your Prayers 83
Healing the Bereaved Child 78
Heart : Our Circulation System 42
Heart of a Chief 46
Heavenly Place 56
Heinze, Mitchell 32
Heirs of the Covenant 91
Heitzmann, Kristen 70
Helen Bradley Mysteries 75
Hellenization of Judaea... 96
Hengel, Martin 96
Heritage 88
Heritage Builders 88
Hesse, Karen 28
Hest, Amy 7-8
Hewett, Lorri 49
Hewett, Richard R. 42
Hickcox, Ruth 29
Hickman, Janet 29
Hickman, Patricia 70
Hide Behind the Moon 51
High, Linda Oatman 16
Hill, Christine M. 63
Hintz, Martin 66
Hippely, Hilary Horder 17
Hired Hand 35
Hiroshima No Pika 7-8
History Makers 59
History of Slavery 97
Hodge, Charles 2-3
Hoezee, Scott 91
Hoff, B.J. 71
Holcomb, Jerry Kimble 30
Hold On Tight 49
Holocaust Library 64
Holt, Kimberly Willis 30
Holy Bible. New Living Translation 78
Homeward 69
Hong, Maria 57
Honor's Price 70
Hood, Susan 41
Hope, Help, and Healing for Eating... 93
Hopkins, Lee Bennett 39
Hopkins, Mary Rice 38
Hopkinson, Deborah 7-8
Horrible Harry Moves Up to Third... 31
Hostage 35
How Big Is God's Love? 16
How I Saved Hanukkah 31
How to Find Your Mission in Life 89
How's the Weather? 58
Howard, Elizabeth F. 7-8
Howard, Rick 87
Hubbard, Eleanor 40
Hull, Mary 97
Human Cloning 83
Hunt, Angela Elwell 71
Hunt, Mark 53
Hunt, Susan 38, 91
Hunter, Lynda 83
Hurricane! 32
Hurwitz, Johanna 30, 40
I Love You, Little One 23
I Want To Know About the Ten... 39
I Was Just Wondering 80
I'm Lonely, Lord, How Long 83
Ice Continent 97
Iceland Adventure 97
Ida B. Wells-Barnett 63
If I Forget Thee, O Jerusalem 65
If Teacups Could Talk 10-11
If You Only Knew 47-48
If you Traveled West in a Covered... 7-8
If You Were a... Ballet Dancer 42
If You Were a... Construction Worker 42
If You Were a... Firefighter 42
If You Were a... Police Officer 42
If You Were a... Veterinarian 42
If You Were an... Astronaut 42
If You Were... 42
Imbach, Jeff 88
In American History 66
In My Pocket 7-8
In the Beginning There Was No Sky 39
In the Minds of Men 2-3
In the Twilight, In the Evening 73
In Whose Image 78
Industrial Revoluation in American... 66
Inkpen, Mick 39
Innocenti, Robert 7-8
Inside Out 87
Invasion from Planet X 25
Invasion of the UFOs 52
Invitation 73
Invitation to Tea 10-11
Iron Lance 71
Isaac Asimov 61
Island of the Innocent 73
Issues in Focus 57
J. D. Stanton Mysteries 70
J. I. Packer 92
Jackie Robinson 63
Jackson, Dave 49
Jackson, Julian 49
Jackson, Neta 49
Jacques, Brian 50
Jansen, Paula 42
Jantz, Gregory L. 93
Jay, Betsy 17
Jazz Is the Word 45
Jeffrey, Laura S. 61, 63
Jellyfish 42
Jenkins, John L. 50
Jenkins, Leonard 30
Jesse Owens 63
Jesus : The Man ... 55
Jesus and the Victory of God 79
Jesus as God 80
Johnson, Dolores 30
Johnson, Lois Walfrid 31
Johnson, Meredity 34
Johnson, Phillip 2-3
Johnston, Tony 7-8
Jonathan's Journey 67
Jones, Annie 71
Jones, Gareth Lloyd 79
Jonke, Tim 16
Joosse, Barbara 17
Josephson, Judith Pinkerton 63
Journal of James Edmond Pease 34
Journal of William Thomas Emerson 48
Journey 71
Joy of Hospitality Cookbook 10-11
Joy of Hospitality 10-11
Joyce, Susan 17
Joyce, Timothy J. 78
Judson, Karen 61
Julius and Friends 96
Juneteenth : Freedom Day 40
Just Juice 28
Just Right Stew 15
Kahl, Jonathan D. W. 58
Kassem, Lou 50
Kate's Trunk 7-8
Keenan, Joy Dunn 25
Keepers of the Ring 71
Keeping Quilt 21
Kent, Peter 55
Key to the Indian 25
Khan, Rukhsana 17
Kids Campfire Book 43
Kids Can Book of Canada 45
Kids Summer Games Book 43
Kimmel, Eric A. 55
King of the Trees 26
Kinkade, Patrick 61
Kinkade, Thomas 61
Kitcher, Philip 2-3
Kitoto the Mighty 40
Kleven, Elisa 17
Kline, Suzy 31
Knopf, Bonnie 18
Koss, Amy Goldman 31
Kramer, Barbara 61
Krensky, Stephen 31
Kroll, Steven 7-8
Lace, William W. 64
Lachtman, Ofelia Dumas 18
Ladd, Karol K. 10-11
LaFaye, A. 50
LaHaye, Tim 81
Laminack, Lester L. 18
Land of the Far Horizon 70
Lang, J. Stephen 79
Langston Hughes 63
Larsen, Carolyn 37
Larsen, Dale 82
Larsen, Sandy 82
Lash, Jamie 87
Last Days According to Jesus 82
Laughlin, Mildred Knight 7-8
Lawhead, Stephen 71
Lawson, Julie 31
Layne, Steven L. 31
Lectio Divina 86
Ledbetter, Gail 88
Ledbetter, J. Otis 88
Legend of the Easter Egg 24
Lemon Tree Series 25
Lentz, Alice Boggs 18
Leppard, Lois Gladys 32
Lessac, Frané 38
Let Me Die in Ireland 95
Let's Have a Tea Party! 10-11
Leuzzi, Linda 58
Levin, Betty 50
Levine, Ellen 7-8
Lewis & Papa 17
Lewis and Clark 7-8
Lewis, Beverly 18, 32, 51
Lewis, J. Patrick 43
Lewis, Peter 86
Liar, Liar 27
Liberty Bell 73
Life Among the Indian Fighters 66
Life During the Crusades 66
Life During the Great Depression 66
Life During the Renaissance 66
Life in America 100 Years Ago 58
Like Abigail 68
Linamen, Larry 59
Lincoln Assassination in American... 66
Lions of the Desert 69
Lisandrelli, Elaine Slivinski 63
Literature Based Social Studies 7-8
Literature Connections to American... 7-8
Little Bear's Big Adventure 12
Little Buggers 43
Little Girls Bible 37
Little Rose of Sharon 16
Little, Kimberley Griffiths 32
Lives of Our Own 49
Living with History 91
London, Jonathan 19, 32, 44
Long Patrol 50
Long War Against God 2-3
Look Back, Moss 50
Lorbiecki, Marybeth 19
Lorraine Hansberry 62
Louise Takes Charge 31
Love on the Run 72
Love Set Free 81
Love, Ann 43
Loving Monday 89
Lubenow, Marvin 2-3
Lucado, Max 32
Luce, Ron 56
Lund, David 36
Lunn, Janet 45
Lutzer, Erwin W. 78, 82
Macaulay, David 7-8
Macaulay, David 7-8
Macaulay, David 7-8
Maccabe, Richard 44
MacDonald, Margaret Read 20
MacDonald, Shari 72
Macht, Norman L. 97
Mackall, Dandi Daley 33
MacMillan, Dianne 66
MacRae, Jock 45
Maggie 47-48
Magladry, Kelly 13
Mahy, Margaret 20
Mains, Karen 10-11
Making My Room Special 43
Malone, Margaret Gay 45
Mandie and Mollie & the Angel's Visit 32
Maps 44
Margaret Bourke-White 44
Margolis, Jeffrey A. 57
Mark of a World Changer 56
Markschies, Christoph 96
Marrin, Albert 61
Marsh, T. J. 20
Martin, Ann M. 47-48
Martyr's Chapel 70
Maruki, T. 7-8
Masada : The Last Fortress 52
Matchette, Katharine E. 51
Mayflower Secret 49
McCarthy and the Fear of Communism... 66
McCarver, Aaron 72
McCord, Kathi Garry 18
McCormick, Anita Lousie 66
McElligott, Matthew 20
McElmeel, Sharron L. 7-8
McEwan, Elaine K. 92, 93
McGrath, Alister 92
McLaughlin, Miriam Smith 58
McReynolds, Kathy 62
Measurements 44
Meddaugh, Susan 20
Media-Wise Family 90
Meditations for Mothers 85
Meditations on the Cross 80
Meet the Author 44
Meeuwsen, Terry Anne 89
Menick, Stephen 51
Mice of the Westing Wind : Book One 27
Mice of the Westing Wind : Book Two 27
Mickey's Class Play 14
Mik-Shrok 34
Miklowitz, Gloria D. 52
Militias : Armed and Dangerous 57
Mill 7-8
Miller, Calvin 72
Miller, Margaret 72
Miller, Steve 67
Milton, Richard 2-3
Mindeman, Miriam 83
Mine Eyes Have Seen 53
Miss Bindergarten Celebrates... 23
Missing : One Stuffed Rabbit 15
Mister and Me 30
Mochizuki, Ken 7-8
Modern Creation Trilogy 2-3
Mollel, Tololwa M. 40
Mombourquette, Paul 31
Monster in the House 17
Montagu, Ashley 2-3
Moonstones 53
Moore, James 2-3
Moose 42
More Than a Conqueror 89
Moreland, J. P. 2-3
Morgan, Elisa 85
Morgan, Stacy Towle 33
Morpurgo, Michael 33
Morris, Gilbert 72, 73
Morris, Henry M. 2-3
Morris, Lynn 73
Moser, Nancy 73
Mountain Magic 18
Mour, Stanley I. 61
Mouse Creeps 16
Mouse, Look Out! 24
Mr. Emerson's Cook 22
Mud Matters 41
Muffin Child 51
Muñoz, William 42
Murphy, Elspeth Campbell 33
Murphy, Jim 34
Murray, Marjorie Dennis 21
My ABC Bible Verses 38
My Angel Named Herman 35
My Book About Life in Jesus' Time 39
My Father's Boat 28
My Name Is America 47-48
My Name Is America 34, 48
My Name Is York 24
My Worst Friend 34
Myers, Bill 52
Myers, Stan D. 13
Mysterious Journey 36
Mystery of the African Grey 33
Mystery of the Sand Castle 33
Mystery of the Sock Monkeys 33
Mystery of the Wedding Cake 33
Nantucket Cats 24
Nardo, Don 59, 97
Nash, Carol Rust 57, 66
Nasmith, Ted 44
National Audubon Society...Birds 41
National Audubon Society...Insects 41
National Audubon Society...Rocks and... 41
National Audubon Society...Wildflowers 41
Natti, Susanna 25, 31
Nature Conservancy 97
Nazi War Criminals 64
Nazis 64
Near to the Heart of God 89
Nearer, My God 95
Neil Armstrong 61
Neo-Nazis : A Growing Threat 57
Nettie's Trip South 7-8
Netzley, Patricia D. 66
New Church's Teaching Series 86
New Zealand Shake-Up 33
Newtons' Workshop 26
NirV Kids' Quest : Study Bible 37
Nishi, Dennis 66
Noah 38
Noah's Wife 38
Nolan, Mike 56
Nordstrom, Joe 33
Norris, Kathleen 85
Northern Frights 47-48
Nothing Here But Trees 36
Now Picture This 49
Numbers, Ronald 2-3
Oak Tree 41
Odyssey 36
Of Men and Angels 76
Off the Rim 46
Oh, Suzannah 51
Oke, Janette 21, 52
Old California 68
Oliver, Marilyn Tower 57
On Our Knees and In His Arms 86
Once-a-Month-Cooking 10-11
One Guinea Pig Is Not Enough 15
One Home at a Time 85
Open Heart, Open Home 10-11
Opposing Viewpoints 56, 60
Oram, Hiawyn 21
Oregon Trail in American History 66
Origin and Destiny 2-3
Orphan Runaways 49
Osborne, Rick 39
Osiecki, Lori 17
Our Poisoned Waters 58
Packer, J. I. 79, 84
Palisades Premier 69
Palms, Roger C. 90
Papa Ob Long 13
Paradox of Jamestown, 1585-1700 65
Parker, Robert Andrew 28
Parts 12
Party Mix 10-11
Parzival 59
Passage into Light 74
Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw 42
Paterson, Katherine 59
Pawprints in Time 14
Pearson, Susan 21
Peart, Jane 74
Peck, Richard 52
Peel, John 47-48
Pella, Judith 74
Penalty Shot 26
Pennington, M. Basil 86
People to Know 61
Pepita Thinks Pink 18
Perez, Maria A. 7-8
Perloo the Bold 46
Personal Touch 10-11
Petersen, P. J. 34
Petersen, Randy 55
Peterson, Tracie 74
Petrov-Johnson, Arden 24
Pflug, Kathy 97
W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9 1 0 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

INDEX
Phillips, Michael 74
Photo Books 43
Photographic Gd to North Am Raptors 60
Picture Book of.... 7-8
Pierce Tamora 53
Pietrusza, David 97
Pilgrims and Puritans, 1620-1676 65
Pilgrims of Plimouth 7-8
Pink and Say 7-8
Pinkney, Jerry 35
Pizzuti, Suzy 75
Place Called Morning 75
Plague and Pestilence 57
Please, Please, Please 47-48
Poison-Pen Mystery 33
Polacco, Patricia 7-8, 21
Polar Bears 42
Polar Star 16
Pollution Solution : Ecology 26
Popp, K. Wendy 19
Poppy and Rye 25
Port Cities in North America 66
Portrait of Jesus 95
Portraits 75
Portraits of Creation 2-3
Power of the Cross 81
Practice of Prayer 86
Prayer Tree 71
Present Time 53
Primer on Postmodernism 90
Princess Bella and the Red Velvet Hat 14
Prisons : Today's Debate 57
Processing the Computer Conspiracy 54
Provensen, A. 7-8
Pryor, Bonnie 34
Pumpkin Runner 12
Purple Mountain Majesties 43
Puzzle Club 33
Pyramid 7-8
Queen Esther Saves Her People 38
Querin, Pamela 33
Quiet Places 92
Rabbit and Hare Divide an Apple 95
Race to Wallaby Bay 27
Rainer, Thom S. 92
Rainey, Dennis 85
Rand, Ted 28
Randall, Rod 25
Ratzsh, Del 2-3
Reaching Dustin 28
Reading Stephen King 94
Reaper's Song 75
Reason in the Balance 2-3
Reasons for Believing 87
Red Dove of Monterey 68
Red River of the North 75
Reed, Bobbie 85
Reeder, Carolyn 34
Reeves, Diane Lindsey 55
Reger, James P. 66
Reinert, Dale Robert 58
Remember Creation 91
Remkiewicz, Frank 19, 31
Renaissance 97
Renewing Your Mind 82
Repp, Gloria 34, 53
Resistance 64
Return to Harmony 52
Rhodes, Tricia McCary 81
Ricciuti, Edward 41
Rice, Earle, Jr. 64, 66, 97
Rich, Anna 15
Riches Untold 72
Riddell, Chris 15
Riggio, Anita 38
Right or Reconciled? 87
Righteous Gentiles 64
Rinaldi, Ann 53
Ringgold, Faith 7-8
River Within 88
Riverboat Adventures 31
Roaring Twenties 97
Roberts, John 13
Rocky Mountain Legacy 70
Rogers, Jacqueline 21
Roosevelt and the New Deal 97
Roper, Gayle 75
Rose Blanche 7-8
Roser, Mark C. 81
Roses on Baker Street 13
Rosie's Big City Ballet 28
Ross, Hugh 2-3
Ross, Stewart 63
Roth, Susan L. 22
Rounds, Glen 7-8
Rubietta, Jane 92
Ruby Slippers School 33
Rue, Nancy 34
Rulers of Ancient Rome 59
Ruse, Michael 2-3
Rushford, Patricia H. 75
Russia of the Tsars 97
Russians 74
Russo, Marisabina 22
Ruth Law Thrills a Nation 7-8
Saguaro Cactus 41
Sailhamer, John 2-3
Salinger Sisters 72
Sally Ride 61
Sammis, Fran 44
Sammy, Dog Detective 40
San Souci, Robert D. 35
Sandhill Cranes 42
Sandry's Book 53
Santini, Debrah 23
Saratoga Secret 53
Say Uncle... and Aunt 75
Say, Allan 40
Schachner, Judith Byron 22
Schaeffer, Francis A. 84
Schaeffer, Franky 84
Schaffer, Amanda 39
Scheader,Catherine 62
Schleichert, Elizabeth 57
Schmidt, John 53
Schomp, Virginia 42
School Prayer 57
Schools Under Siege 57
Schraff, Anne 63
Schreur, Jack 85
Schreur, Jerry 85
Schreur, Judy 85
Schroeder, Gerald 2-3
Schuett, Stacey 43
Schweninger, Ann 23
Science and Creationism 2-3
Science Held Hostage 2-3
Science of God 2-3
Scientists of Ancient Greece 59
Scieszka, Jon 35
Searching Heart 52
Season for the Spirit 84
Secret in the Old Book 28
Secret of the Old Well 96
Senter, Ruth 22
Seven Myths about Christianity 82
Seven Reasons Why You Can Trust... 78
Sewall, Marcia 7-8
Sexual Abuse and Incest 58
Shahan, Sherry 44
Shannon, David 22
Shattering the Myths of Darwinism 2-3
Shaw's Fortune 7-8
Sherrer, Quin 10-11
Sherrow, Victoria 64
Shine, Andrea 14
Ship Possessed 70
Shultz, Margaret 58
Sierra Jensen Series 49
Silver Morning 21
Sim, Dorrith M. 7-8
Simon Wiesenthal 61
Simon, Seymour 42
Simply the Savior 84
Single Moments 83
Sister Anne's Hands 19
Sister Wendy's Book of Saints 60
Skeeter, the Wildly Wacky Raccoon 96
Slade, Arthur G. 47-48
Slate, Joseph 23
Slepian, Jan 23
Smith, George 14
Smith, Jos. A. 49
Smith, Lane 35
Smith, Martin L. 81, 84
Smith, Michael W. 56
Smith, Roland 42
Sneddon, Pamela Shires 58
Sneed, Brad 12
Sneeze on Monday 50
Snelling, Lauraine 75
Snow : A Novel 72
Social Studies Through Children's Lit... 7-8
Sod Houses on the Great Plains 7-8
Sody Salleratus 15
Solid Answers 84
Soman, David 29
Some Wildflower in My Heart 76
Somerlott, Robert 66
Something Else 15
Song in a Strange Land 73
Song of a Woman's Soul 83
Song of Erin 71
Sorensen, Henri 32
Sound the Trumpet 73
Speck, Nancy 35
Speed, Toby 23
Spengler, Kenneth J. 20
Spike 13
Spirit of Appalachia 72
Spirits 69
Spiritual Guide Through Pregnancy 89
Sports 55
Sproul, R. C. 82
Spunky's Camping Adventure 21
Spurgeon, Charles Haddon 55
Stanley, Diane 45
Stars Are Waiting 21
Starting School 30
States 44
Staub, Frank 42
Steadman, Lee 39
Stefoff, Rebecca 66
Sterman, Betsy 53
Stevenson, James 7-8
Stienecker, David L. 44
Stokes, Penelope J. 94
Stone, Lynn M. 42
Storykeepers 27
Strategies for Struggling Learners 94
Strays Like Us 52
Strickler, James E. 97
Strobel, Lee 81
Summer My Father Was Ten 14
Summer Reading Is Killing Me! 35
SummerHill Secrets 51
Summery Saturday Morning 20
Summit High Series 54
Sunny 47-48
Sunsets of Miss Olivia Wiggins 18
Surprise Garden 16
Survivors 64
Susanna Wesley 62
Susannah 29
Sutton, Connie J. 94
Sutton, Joe P. 94
Sweet Carolina 68
Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt 7-8
Sweet, Melissa 14
Swimming Lessons 17
Swisher, Karin L. 60
Tafuri, Nancy 23
Taggart, Susan 75
Tagliaferro, Linda 66
Tale from Redwall 50
Tall Mexican 62
Tang, Charles 36
Tarantula Toes 32
Tarantulas 42
Tarnished Image 70
Tatlock, Ann 75
Taylor, Ian 2-3
Taylor, Leighton 42
Tea with Patsy Clairmont 84
Teaching for Moral Growth 82
TeamMates 86
Teen Crime Wave 57
Teen Issues 58
Teenage Boys! 93
Teens with Single Parents 58
Tell Me a Story 44
Thank You, Mr. Falker 21
Thesman, Jean 53
Thirteenth Amendment 57
This Was Your LIfe! 87
Thoene, Bodie 76
Thoene, Brock 76
Thoene, Jake Rake 89
Thomas 34
Thomas's Sheep...Great Geography... 31
Thompsett, Fredrica Harris 91
Thompson, Ellen 27
Thread of Suspicion 74
Threat 34
Three Cousins Detective Club 33
Tickle Stories 23
Tide Pool 41
Tiffin, Lee 2-3
Time Warp Trio 35
Time Will Tell 49
Tlhe Misadventures of Willie Plummet 25
To Save the Earth 56
To the Ends of the Earth 68
To Walk and Not Faint 87
Toddlers' Action Bible 38
Towns, Elmer L. 35
Trailblazer Books 49
Traitor Among Us 54
Trap 34
Treasure Seekers 70
Trevor's Wiggly-Wobbly Tooth 18
Trimble, Stephen 41
Trouble at Silver Pines Inn 53
Truth & Power 79
Tullos, Matt 54
Tunis, Edward 7-8
Turk, Caron 37
Turnbull, Bob 86
Turnbull, Yvonne 86
Turner, Ann 7-8
Turner, Jamie Langston 76
Turner, Nancy Byrd 23
Uncle Frank's Pit 20
Under the Cherry Blossom Tree 40
Understanding American History... 7-8
Unexpected Hope 90
Upjohn, Sheila 95
Upton, Barbara 17
Vail, Rachel 47-48
Valiant Hearts 69
Van Leeuwen, Jean 7-8, 23, 36, 44
Van Nutt, Robert 63
Van Pelt, Nancy 10-11
Van Steenwyk, Elizabeth 24, 54
Van Till, Howard J. 2-3
Van Zyle, Jon 17
Varley, Susan 21
Vathanaprida, Supaporn 20
Velasquez, Jaci 56
Vennema, Peter 45
Vessel of Honor 72
Viking Math Easy-to-Read 95
Virginia and the Tiny One 25
Voyage on the Great Titanic 36
Vultures 42
Wachter, Jerry 43
Wagon 7-8
Waite, Judy 24
Walburg, Lori 24
Waldbauer, Gilbert 59
Walker, Barbara J. 77
Walker, Jim 76
Walsh, Mary Caswell 90
Wangerin, Walter, Jr. 39
Ward, Hannah 91
Ward, Jennifer 20
Wardlaw, Lee 24
Warner, Gertrude Chandler 36
Warriors 76
Water Voices 23
Watergate Scandal in American History 66
Watkins, Dawn 24
Watling, James 25
Watts Riots 97
Way Out in the Desert 20
Way People Live 66
We Didn't Know They Were Angels 10-11
Weaver, Mark W. 50
Web of Intrigue 75
Weber, Manfred 80
Webs of Life 41
Webster's American Family Dictionary 93
Weidensaul, Scott 41
Wekesser, Carol 56
Welch, Catherine A. 44
Welcome Home 10-11
Welcome, Stranger: Welcome, Friend 10-11
Wells Fargo Trail 76
Wells, Rosemary 40
What Christians Really Believe... 80
What is Darwinism? 2-3
What Works When Life Doesn't 90
Wheeler, Brian K. 60
Whelan, Gloria 54
When Jessie Came Across the Sea 7-8
When Kids Say No to School 92
When Prince Charming Falls Off... 85
When Young Melissa Sweeps 23
Where Love Calls 69
White, Ellen Emerson 36
White, John 88
Why Did We Have to Move Here? 15
Why Julian Now? 95
Whyte, Mary 23
Wickham, Martha 36
Wiggin, Eric 96
Wiggins, VeraLee 96
Wilbur, Frances 54
Wild, Jennifer 91
Wildsmith, Brian 95
Will You Take Care of Me? 14
Willow 13
Wilsdon, Christina 41
Wilson, Mimi 10-11
Winborn, Marsha 13
Wind from the Wilderness 73
Witherington, Ben 79
Wolf, Bernard 65
Wolfelt, Alan D. 78
Wolff, Ashley 23
Wolff, Virginia Euwer 54
Women of Faith 62
Women of Hope 61
Wonderful Earth 39
Woog, Adam 97
World 44
World History Series 97
Worley, Karla 88
Wright, N.T. 79
Writing 55
Wrong Turn in the Fast Lane 54
Wu, Norbert 42
Yancey, Philip 80
Yank Among Us 48
Yates, Elizabeth 97
Yolen, Jane 7-8
Young, Louise O. 97
Young, Robert 43
Young, Selina 20
Youngblood, Ronald 2-3
Younger, Barbara 43
Your Eternal Reward 82
Your Father Loves You 84
Your Life, God's Home 86
Your Place in This World 56
Zeinert, Karen 57, 66
Ziefert, Harriet 95
C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 0 1 W I N T E R / S P R I N G , 1 9 9 9

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