New Books for Little Ones - Christian Library Journal

ChristianLibraryJ O U R N A LVolume VI No.3Summer 2001THIS ISSUE FEATURES:■From Germany to the Sudan■■■■■■■New Books for Little OnesA Few Clicks Away to FunReference Books for the SchoolClassics RevisitedGood Literature, Right StandardsRenewed VigorReviews, Reviews, Reviews...

A Letter from the EditorDear Readers,What a busy three weeks this has been, since we decided to go aheadwith putting CLJ online! Hiring a web designer, learning new software,copying, pasting, and formatting text to make it easy on the eyes. Andmost of all, finding we had accumulated enough material to put out threeissues of CLJ almost simultaneously.By now you should have received our announcement about thechange. We hope library subscribers will print out the PDF version, andmake CLJ available to their patrons. We who work on the journal feelthere is something for librarians, teachers, students, parents, homeschoolers… something for all Christians who are interested in books andreading.The response from around the world as we went online washeartening. Among the first hundred to register were librarians, teachers,and administrators from every continent. They made up almost 50% ofthe initial list, probably because both ACSI and CSI alerted their schoolsoverseas of the availability of CLJ.Would you like to play a part? Like to write an article for us, relatedsomehow to books, authors, libraries? Like to become a reviewer? Themore reviewers we have, the more titles we can review. Email me ifyou’re interested. And read our reviewer guidelines on the web site.Our prayer now is that CLJ will directly or indirectly bless God’speople and their children, and that includes you!In Christ’s love,Nancy L. HeschEditor and Publisher

The Christian Library Journalinvites prospective reviewers andwriters to write for information. TheChristian Library Journal ispublished quarterly January throughDecember by Christian LibraryServices. Subscriptions $20 per yearonline. Back issues included.Indexed in Christian PeriodicalIndex. Address correspondence toChristian Library Services, P.O. Box215, Westlake, OR 97493-0215.Copyright 2001 by Christian LibraryServices.Volume VI No.3SUMMER 2001ISSN 1097-1262ChristianLibraryJ O U R N A LPhone (541) 997-4430Fax (541) 997-4434heschclj@harborside.comwww.christianlibraryj.orgT A B L E O FC O N T E N T SThe purpose of the Christian LibraryJournal is to provide readers withreviews of both Christian and secularlibrary materials from a Christianpoint of view. About 300 titles fromboth Christian and secular publishersare reviewed each issue. Materialsreviewed may reflect a broad rangeof Christian doctrinal positions anddo not necessarily reflect the viewsof the staff of the Christian LibraryJournal.Nancy HeschAndrew SeddonRaymond LeggMary McKinneySylvia StopforthKitty LindstromPublisher & EditorEditor: ArticlesEditor: Adult NonfictionEditor: Adult Fiction,Young Adult NonfictionEditor: YA FictionDesign and GraphicsCover illustration from the videoBonhoeffer : Agent of Grace, © 1999.Reprinted by permission of Vision Video.Letter from the EditorInside Front CoverC O L U M N S a n d A R T I C L E SFrom Germany to the Sudan Andrew Seddon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2New Books for Little Ones Lydia Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4A Few Clicks Away to Fun Lisa Wroble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6School Librarian’s Corner Leslie Greaves Radloff . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Classics Revisited Sylvia Stopforth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Good Literature, Right Standards Mary McKinney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Renewed Vigor Raymond Legg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70R E V I E W SPicture Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Children’s Fiction : Gr. 2 - 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Children’s Nonfiction : Gr. 2 - 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Middle School Fiction : Gr. 6 - 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35Middle School Nonfiction : Gr. 6 - 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41High School Fiction : Gr. 9 - 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45High School Nonfiction : Gr. 9 - 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Adult Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Adult Nonfiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67Published in the U.S.A.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

AWord from the Editor: Andrew M. SeddonFromGermany tothe Sudanthe Nazi regime, the bookdocuments the church's weakcapitulation to nationalism.theological, philosophical, andcultural factors that seek toundermine society.Many people are familiarwith the books written byCorrie Ten Boom abouther experiences in World War Twohelping Jewish people escape fromNazi-occupied Holland. Eventuallycaught and sentenced to theconcentration camps, Corriesurvived, but her sister didn't.German theologian DietrichBonhoeffer likewise paid the penaltyfor his beliefs and for opposingHitler. Even now, a half centurylater, the world has yet to come togrips with the atrocities of theHolocaust or, equally as sadly,learned the lessons of that conflict.In many areas of the world peopleare still persecuted for their race ortheir beliefs.World War Two and the Nazis don'toften make their way onto myreading lists, but recently severalbooks have. One was Hitler's Crossby Erwin Lutzer (Moody 1995).This book examines the role of theChristian church in Nazi Germany;how it lost its focus and hence itspower to prevent the unfoldingtragedy. While not neglectingmention of the faithfulness of somewho stood up to oppose the evil ofThe second book to occupy me wasThe Doctor and the Damned byAlbert Haas (St Martin's Press,1984). Haas was a Jew of Frenchand Hungarian descent, and aphysician in the French Army. Heand his wife played an active role inthe French Resistance until theywere captured and sentenced to theconcentration camps. There, Haasministered to fellow prisoners underthe most degrading conditions. Bothhe and his wife survived the war,and the book unflinchinglydocuments the atrocities of theNazi's Godless regime, and the sparkof hope that enabled many tosurvive the onslaught of evil.Resurrecting the Third Reich byRichard Terrell (Huntington House,1994) discusses parallels betweenour society and that of NaziGermany. As our culture leanstowards one of two opposingpoles—the empty spirituality of thecollected "New Age" movement onone hand, and God-denying secularhumanism on the other—Terrell seescultural despair and scorn fortraditional Christian faith. Despitethe book's sensationalized cover,Terrell presents a reasoned argumentthat the Christian church mustadhere to a strong doctrinalfoundation if it is to be a stabilizingfactor in society and resist the manyIt is important to remember thatbright lights shone even in thedarkest days of World War Two.One example occurs in the bookBeethoven's Hair by Russell Martin(Broadway Books, 2000). While itmay seem strange to think that abook about the wanderings of a lockof Beethoven's hair would containChristian insights, the connectionoccurs because of the recounting ofthe response of the Danes to theintended Nazi roundup of Jews. AGerman officer alerted the DanishResistance. The Danish churchrefused to sit on the sidelines."... Pastor Kjelgaard Jensen hadread to his parishioners the letterthat had been issued by the bishopsof the Danish Lutheran church... Itwas the duty of church members, theletter instructed, to protest againstthe persecution of Denmark's Jews,because Jesus had been a Jew,because persecution was contrary tohis command to love one'sneighbors, and also simply because"persecution is contrary to theconception of justice that prevails inthe Danish people."" (p. 95). TheDanish people responded, and thevast majority of Denmark's Jewswere safely smuggled to neutralSweden.What is even more heartwarming isS U M M E R 2 0 0 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

what occurred at the end of the warwhen the exiled Jews returned home."... the welcome [the Jewish Danes]received from their countrymen wasnearly as extraordinary as theassistance they had been offeredback when they made their secretescapes. In Copenhagen andthroughout the nation, the refugeescame home to find their houses andapartments secure and clean—evenfreshly painted in some cases—theirpets and gardens well cared for, theirkitchens filled with food, their jobsand their businesses eagerlyawaiting their return." (p. 119). Itwould be hard to find a morethrilling example of Christ-likebehaviour than that of the Danes—who saw the Jews not as a differentrace, but simply as fellow Danes ofJewish persuasion.And yet, this is more than aheartwarming tale from history—itis a challenge that all Christians arecalled to emulate. As we lookaround the world, there are manyareas where persecution is the norm.One of the worst is the Sudan, whereSudanese Christians are tortured andkilled for their faith with a brutalitythat matches that of the Nazis.Millions have been killed. Ourpastor circulated a recent story fromthe Truro Family News (March 11,2001) written by a member of theStanding Commission on Anglicanand International Peace and JusticeConcerns, which tells the harrowingstory of the Sudanese Christians—the atrocities to which they aresubjected, the faithfulness withwhich they hold the gospel, and—afact which should cause us all toblush with shame—the indifferencethat the so-called "Christian"Western world shows to their plight.Here, if anywhere, is an opportunityfor the church to unite, and, ratherthan meekly acquiesce togovernmental indifference to evil,encourage our government andothers to stand against persecutionand injustice.The Western governments areunconcerned. Are Christians of alldenominations willing to take astand as the Danes did against Nazipersecution of the Jews, or will thechurch remain silent, as the churchin Nazi Germany, until it is too late?The choice is ours. This is whatbooks teach us and why we read—itis so that we can learn from themistakes of the past, and make adifference in the lives of peopletoday.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

New Books for Little Onesby Lydia E. HarrisParents, teachers, and caregivers willappreciate Baby Blessings, StandardPublishing's new book series for infantsand toddlers. The collection is designedfor four different age levels: newbornand up, one year and up, eighteenmonths and up, and two years and up.The books were created in consultationwith an educational psychologist whospecializes in early childhood cognitivedevelopment. They focus on simpleBible stories or Christian values.Newborn and UpWHERE IS LITTLE LAMB?0784711321, $7.99. This soft toy bookstimulates baby's senses of sight, touch,and hearing. Infants can touch thewoolly lamb with floppy ears and tail onthe cover and shake the book to hear therattle. Puffy pages are made of brightyellow cotton trimmed with red fabric.In the story, children search for LittleLamb in a stroller, chair, tub, and on ablanket. Instead they find teddy, kitty,duckie, and puppy. Their search isrewarded when they find Little Lamb inbed and learn Jesus is their GoodShepherd. Simple drawings by AngieSage illustrate this cheerful book.BABY'S BIBLE FRIENDS,078471133X, $12.99. A thick fabricplaytime book includes a handle andVelcro closure. Short rhyming phrasesand illustrations by Simone Abel tell thestories. Infants can crinkle the tail ofJonah's whale, move the stuffed bear inNoah's ark, and discover baby Jesus inthe manger. They also learn from Psalm104:24: "The earth is filled with God'screatures." Flaps teach objectpermanence, and textured elementsstimulate the sense of touch. Babieswill enjoy exploring this colorful, funfilledbook.BABY'S WORLD, 0784711313, $6.99.A soft, accordion-fold crib book thatunfolds into a long strip. Made in highcontrast colors of red, white, and blackthefirst colors a baby can distinguish-itis visually stimulating and helps baby'seyes focus. Simple illustrations byAngie Sage of a bear, flower, ball,hands, puppy, and face are paired withthree-word phrases. A baby-safe mirrorhelps infants identify themselves. Thebook concludes with Psalm 139:14: "Iam wonderfully made!" Velcro fastenersmake it easy to attach this book tobaby's crib.One Year and UpWritten by Lynn Moore and illustratedby Alex Ayliffe, WHO'S ON NOAH'SARK? 0784711348, $10.99. A soft tubbook made of bright turquoise, quickdryingtaffeta. Children will enjoy theshiny, crinkly stuffed turtle on the coverattached by Velcro and a string. Turtleinvites his underwater friends, a whale,octopus, angelfish, and sea star, to comeand see his new friends from Noah's ark.They see giraffes, camels, elephants, andzebras leave the ark two by two. Theback cover includes: "The waterscovered the Earth" (Genesis 7:24). Thebook was designed to develop manualdexterity, take another's point of view,and learn names and features of animals.It's fun to play with in and out of thetub.The following three sturdy board books,with soft fabric binding around theedges, are safe for babies to chew on:JESUS LOVES ME, 0784711356,$6.99. Includes lyrics of this familiarsong accompanied by photographs ofpreschoolers from different nationalitiesplaying, reading, and eating. The rhymeand rhythm of the song help developlanguage skills. The last page includes aslide-in frame to insert the child's photoand reinforces that Jesus loves baby, too.ALL THINGS BRIGHT ANDBEAUTIFUL, 0784711372, $8.99. Atouch-and-feel book illustrated byRebecca Thornburgh. With words fromthe song by that title, it can be sung orread. Children will enjoy feeling thewoolly lamb, soft flowers, shiny river,and textured garden produce. Itconcludes, "How great is God Almighty,who has made all things well." A childsafemirror allows children to seethemselves as an important part of God'screation and develop a positive selfimage.HOW BIG IS GOD'S LOVE?,0784711364, $6.99. A photo framebook with a place to slide in a familypicture. Written by Sally Lloyd-Jonesand illustrated by Moira Maclean, itteaches young children of God's greatlove. They learn God's love is biggerthan the biggest hill, taller than thetallest tree, longer than the longest river,deeper than the deepest sea, higher thanthe sky, and greater than a family's lovefor their child. It concludes with "God'slove is SO BIG!" The use of adjectivesalong with rhythm and repetitiondevelop memory and prereading skills.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

Eighteen Months and UpTwo Years and UpYoung children will enjoy the traditionaland contemporary prayers in LITTLEPRAYERS AND GRACES,0784711399, $7.99. Each cardboardpage is illustrated by Anne Kennedy andhighlighted with holographic foilpictures of familiar objects. Simplerhyming prayers teach children to bethankful and pray for themselves andothers. This shining, bright book forwill delight little ones.HOW MANY SHEEP? 0784711380,$8.99. A sturdy board book with anabacus attached across the top.Children can move the five plastic sheepas they count sheep pictured on eachpage. Favorite Bible stories are told inone-line sentences along with Scripturereferences for further reading. Toddlersare introduced to the story of creation,Noah's ark, Moses in the basket bed,Jesus feeding the crowd, and Jesusblessing the children. Written by AliceJoyce Davidson and illustrated byFrances Cony. Moving the sheepteaches the concept of grouping andcounting from one to five.Author Alice Joyce Davidson andillustrator Cathy Beylon created twoshaped board books for children two andup. Both are surprise-flap books madeof sturdy cardboard pages. A BASKETBED FOR BABY MOSES tells thestory of Moses, Miriam, a princess, andGod's plan for Moses' life. FIVELITTLE LOAVES AND TWO LITTLEFISH relates the special miracle of Jesusfeeding the five thousand with a littleboy's lunch. Both stories include shortrhyming phrases and flaps with surprisepictures and words beneath. The flapsreinforce object permanence, and thebooks help children develop languageand sequencing skills. Children willenjoy these fun books ($7.99 each) withcolorful illustrations.Lydia E. Harris, freelance writer in Seattle,Washington, enjoys reading these books to hergrandson.Written by Sue Kueffner and illustratedby Simone Abel, NOAH'S NOISY ARK,0784911402, $10.99, is a 18-page peeka-booflap book. Toddlers discover avariety of lively animals as they liftflaps on the sturdy cardboard pages.They learn the sounds of lions, ducks,pigs, crickets, peacocks, mice, anddoves. This interactive book tells thestory of Noah's ark and fostersdevelopment of language and memoryskills.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

A Few Clicks Away to Fun!FUN IS EDUCATIONALby Lisa WrobleEver hear children say learning can’tbe fun? Know any adults who thinkcomputer fun is ‘empty’–time wastedwith no educational value?Advocates of both camps need to seesome of these websites, wherefamiliar characters and programsguide children through enjoyable –and educational – leisure time fun.Noggin, www.noggin.com acollaboration between Sesame Streetand Nickelodeon, includes itemsfrom the archives of both partnersplus original stories in the form of"chronicles." Educationalconsultants advise on the contentwhich includes numerous games,word challenges, on-going stories,Noggin TV schedules, and the "Lab."Kids can make their websites, comicstrips, logo, or animation at the"Lab." The site also includes a linkto Noggin for Preschoolers.Whit’s End,http://www.whitsend.org/ from Focuson the Family, is on-line fun basedon the fast-paced adventure featuringWhit, Eugene, Connie, and the otherAdventures in Odyssey characters.Check out the soda shop, the library,or visit the Imagination Station, inaddition to reading more about thecharacters or the latest show.Pockets magazine has a fun siteproduced by the Upper Roomhttp://www.upperroom.org/pockets/It includes info on charactersregularly featured in the magazine,plus links to games andactivities–including the ArtGallery–and Capp’s Calendar. Thisincludes ideas for things to do, plus aBible scripture, for each day of themonth.Keys for Kids, the devotionalmagazine for children, has a websiteat http://cbh.smartbusiness.org/kfk/The site includes a new dailydevotional story, archives of pastissues, Quickie Quizzes arrangedalphabetically, and information aboutthe Children’s Bible Hour radioprogram.KidzPlace http://www.kidzplace.org/is a great site if you have a fastmodem and PC. It requires Flash aspart of your browser but provides adownload link if you don’t’ have it.KidzPlace has a section forChildren’s program leaders as well asa main section for children includingan interactive a "show and tell"section.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 6 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 CornerWelcome back to the School Library Corner ofChristian Library Journal.by Leslie Greaves RadloffReference Booksfor the SchoolLibraryThe United States of America: AState-by-State Guide; Millie Millerand Cyndi Nelson, 0590043749,$14.95, 64 pages, Scholastic, 2000.Middle Grades, High QualityColorful maps and along withinformation about each of the statesmakes this volume appealing toyoung readers. Entries providestandard information: state bird,state tree, and state flower along withlesser known iformation about eachstate. Middle grade students andteachers of U.S. geography will findthis useful for state reports andinformation about particular states.Students will not be deterred bypages which seem cluttered: map inthe center with informationsurrounding it. An index anddrawings of state flags makes this auseful tool.Scholastic Encyclopedia of Space,Jaqueline Mitton and Simon Mitton,Scholastic, 1999, 0590592270,$14.95MS/HS, Good QualityA slim volume, as are all of theScholastic reference works reviewedhere, the Encyclopedia of Spacegives an overview of the solarsystem and each planet. Pages arecolorful with much informationwritten in a readable style andprinted in a type face and color thatis easy for students to read. Thereading level puts this at fifth gradeand above, though much informationcan be gathered by using the picturesand diagrams. The volumes haveeye appeal, and if the subject is ofinterest, students will read what theycan. Purchase one for the referenceshelf and one to circulate; thenencourage classroom teachers to buya copy so that it is readily available.Bindings look sturdy, but with heavyuse the cover will show wear andtear.The Big Bang theory, and evolutionis presented here, as in almost everyscience book, but that does notdetract from the usefulness of thebook for facts about the solar system,planets, and the galaxy. The pageson stargazing and starmaps giveyoung readers an introduction intothe joys of astronomy.Scholastic Encyclopedia of theCivil War, Catherine Clinton,Scholastic, 1999, 0590372270,$18.95MS/HS, High QualityClinton's concise encyclopedia of thecivil war is divided into five parts:one for each of the years of the war,1861 -1865, and its aftermath.Within those pages readers findmajor events discussed with lesserknown events described or explainedin sidebars or captions. Theendpapers showing a map of theUnion and Confederacy with battlesand Sherman's March to the Seaidentified, is easy to turn to whenreading the text. While not acomprehensive encyclopedia of theCivil War, it does provideinformation beyond that which isusually found in textbooks for thisage group, and is written in anengaging style. Index, pictures withcaptions, and sidebars provideadditional information. Will need agood reader.Words That Built a Nation: AYoung Person's Collection ofHistoric American Documents,Marilyn Miller, Scholastic, 1999,059029881X, $18.95MS/HS, Good QualityScholastic has collected thedocuments mentioned in mostC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

American history textbooks into onevolume and reprinted them givinginformation about the writer orwriters, and providing a place forwhat they call "response." Forexample, after the Consitutuion, theresponse tells readers what happenedin the new country, i.e., thatratification was difficult, there wasdebate and it wasn't until NewHampshire ratified that theConsitution became the law of theland.This information is touched on insocial studies and history books, butthe authors provide a framework forthe documents and illustrate themwith pictures not usually found intextbooks. The lesser known andmore current documents will bewelcomed by teachers who want tobring the voices of different thnicgroups into the classroom, or thosefinding themselves teachingAmerican 20th century history aswell as that of the 18th and 19th.Animal Fact File: Head-to-TailProfiles of More Than 90 Animals,Dr. Tony Hare, Facts on File,0816040168, $18.95MS/HS, Fair QualityThis animal book provides muchinformation about well-known andlesser-known animals in a formatwhich younger reader will find easyto read. Each two page spread talksabout one animal, giving its name,where it lives, describing its habitatand showing the skeleton. A smallchart tells readers classification, size,coloration, and features which arethen pointed out on the drawing ofthe animal. One very nice detailshows the animal compared to anaverage human being. However, oneneeds to remember that this animal isan import. All the animals of NorthAmerica aren't found, and whenfound, the specific area in whichthey live may not be mentioned. Thewolverine was said to live in Alaska,while the wolf in North Americawith no mention of specific area.This may be a picky point, butchildren don't always grasp thedifferences between Englishpublications and those of the UnitedStates. Consider carefully weighingthe information and visual appealwith volumes which might be morepractical and specific to NorthAmerica.Children's Atlas, updated ed., Davidand Jill Wright, Facts on File,0816044333, $18.95, 96 pagesMS/HS, High QualityAttractive, full color endpapersshowing flags of countries fromAfghanistan to Zimbabwe leadreaders to pages of information oncountries and continents of theworld. A variety of illustrations andmap projections are used in eachsection. Though the color of some ofthe illustrations seems pale, theinformation given will be useful tostudents studying geography. Pagescontain a lot of information. Theyseem somewhat cluttered, but themaps themselves are very easy toread, as are their keys and legends.Political and physical maps havelines of latitude and longitude wellmarked along with a grid system ofletters and numbers which can helpyounger readers locate places. Theindex also includes directions for itsuse. A welcome addition to thereference shelf.The Children's BibleEncyclopedia, Mark Water, Baker,1995, 0801044146, $19.99Elem., Good QualityChildren will find this an easy to useencyclopedia. The table of contentsand index are divided into headingsthat are child friendly. For example,homes has four listings: caves andearly homes; living in tents; villagehouses; and town houses asoppposed to “townhouses.” Childrenthink like this. Each entry seems tohave one full page beginning withthe explanation of the word, then anexample, Bible text where the wordor idea was used, and explanation ofother words or ideas presented. Theone negative that comes to mind isthat the illustrations seem cartoonlikeand are rather washed out. Still, thiswould be a good addition to aChristian school or church library.Kid Concordance: Big Ideas fromthe Bible and Where to FindThem, Rick Osborne with EdStrauss and Kevin Miller,Zonderkidz, 1999, 0310224721,$14.95MS/HS, Good QualityDefinitions in this concordance arewritten in a chatty style that willappeal to young readers. Each wordis defined, then a Bible text is usedand explained with additionalreadings printed out for the reader.The final part of each entry is a"Didjaknow?" which has insights bythe authors into the topic discussed.It may be a question or explanation.While this provides furtherexplanation, the informality of theway in which the question is printedseems to detract from the seriousnessof the topic. The New InternationalS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

Version is used and readers should befamiliar with that.While this would be a helpfulvolume, the colors of the pages,white with purple print, are notparticularly attractive nor are the linedrawings illustrations. A plus is theindex which is patterned after thosefound in Bible concordances,showing the word followed by adescription or explanation and thenthe Bible verses where it is used,though not in as detailed a manner asthose found in Bibles orconcordances for adults.An Eyewitness to History : Slaveryin America : Fom Colonial Times tothe Civil War, Dorothy Schneiderand Carl J. Schneider, Facts on File,2000, 0816038635, $65.00HS, Good QualityThis comprehensive history ofslavery in America includes anindex, bibliography, shortbiographies of major figures in theslave trade and abolitionistmovement, as well as first personaccounts of slavery. The accountbegines in 1441 and continuesthrough the end of slavery in 1865.This is heavy reading in many ways:the volume itself is indeed weighty, alittle over 455 pages, but the contentand description of what slaveryinvolved makes this a volume forjunior high school and up. Entriesare clearly written with manyillustrations and because many of thelaws and bills are included in thesection headed "Documents," readerswill have many aspects of slaverytogether in one source.The Write Stuff: A to Z ofAmerican Women Writers, CarolKort, Facts on File, 2000,0816037272, $40.00HS, Good QualityMany, but not all, women writers areincluded in this volume. Users willrecognize well-known writers fromchildhood such as Margaret WiseBrown, Louisa May Alcott, YoshikoUchida; from young adult readingShirley Jackson and Willa Cather; aswell as poets and writers for adults.Entries contain a brief biography ofthe subject, citing major works;many include photographs of thesubject and give selections for futurereading. The selection is however,eclectic. Many of the authors youwould expect to see included aremissing, and some who are listed areminor figures in the literary world.Yet this volume does provide a startfor the student wanting to find outmore information about authors.From here you will have to guidereaders to Something About theAuthor and more comprehensivevolumes. The selection is multiculturaland spans many years ofwriting.Leslie Greaves Radloff is the Media Specialist at RondoEducation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. She has also workedin Christian school libraries, and has been a reviewer andwriter for CLJ for several years.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

Classics Revisitedby Sylvia StopforthFor those of us who love everythingabout books - from the way theylook and feel to the words andworlds they cradle between their covers -there is nothing quite like a re-issuedclassic. Nostalgia and anticipationconverge happily as we reacquaintourselves with, or introduce others to, oldfriends in fancy new jackets.There is something for everyone in thislist, from poetry to traditional fairytales todear childhood companions.So - get out your wish lists …Alice in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll,illustrated by Lisbeth Zwerger. New York:North-South Books, 1999. HBB, $19.95.103 p.Alice's adventures in Wonderland, byLewis Carroll, compiled by Cooper Edens.(A Classic Illustrated Edition) SanFrancisco: Chronicle Books, 2000. HBB,$1995. 139 p.Now, here's a quandary: we mustsomehow choose between two lavishlyillustrated,large-format editions of LewisCarroll's disorienting and oft-read tale ofyoung Alice, who falls down a rabbit holeand encounters all manner of bizarreindividuals and incidents.The North-South edition boasts thick,white paper with generously-proportionedblack type, and full-color illustrations bythe award-winning Lisbeth Zwerger. Herwork is witty and somehow restrained,almost elegant in its execution. She oftenuses unusual perspectives (Alice issometimes just leaving the frame, oroutgrowing it), encouraging readersfamiliar with the story to perhaps reenvisioncharacters and events.Her rather modern caterpillar, it should benoted, is perched on his mushroomholding a tiny cigarette in one of his manyappendages, and a wine glass in the other.This might call for some explanations forthe more observant among our youngreaders; but then, few children know what,exactly, a hookah is, so either way a briefdiscussion may be necessary.Compiler Cooper Edens has taken a verydifferent approach with his version. Hehas selected from among the work createdby some of the best Alice illustratorsduring the late 19th and early 20thcenturies, offering up a visualsmorgasbord which includes the likes ofArthur Rackham, John Tenniel (theoriginal illustrator), Margaret Tarrant, andmore than twenty other accomplishedartists. A few of these images sufferslightly from the reproduction process(resolution may lack sharpness, forexample) but the variety of vision andcolor is nevertheless highly gratifying.This text could be used to explore thechanging approaches to childrens' bookillustration between 1865 and 1929. Anindex of artists and dates is provided byEdens.Beauty and the Beast, retold by GeraldineMcCaughrean and illustrated by GaryBlythe. Minneapolis: Carolrhoda BooksInc., 2000. HBB, $15.95. unp.This book offers a re-telling as well as are-imagining of this traditional tale aboutthe transforming power of love. ArtistGary Blythe combines sweeping vistaswith deep shadows; fantastic architecturaldetails dwarf the soft, warm tones of thefaithfully captured human figures. TheBeast is properly beastly, and Beautysuitably lovely. Geraldine McCaughrean'sversion is true to the original, but is muchmore than a simple re-hashing. On thecontrary, her rendering is spare, haunting,and quite wonderful, quietly drawing thereader's attention to the important truthsunderlying this well-worn tale.A child's garden of verses: a collection ofscriptures, prayers, and poems featuringthe works of Robert Louis Stevenson, withthe artwork of Thomas Kinkade.Nashville: Thomas Nelson, Inc., 1999.HBB, $24.99. 208 p.A Child's Garden of Verses is a cherishedcollection of poetic childhood reflectionsby Robert Louis Stevenson. Every libraryis bound to have several versions of thisclassic. This edition, however, is veryspecial. For one thing, it also includesscripture passages, prayers, and treasuredpoems by Robert Browning, ChristinaRossetti, and other well-known writers. Inaddition, this lovely book features theartwork of Thomas Kinkade, devoutChristian and gifted artist.His serene, glowing paintings, oftendepicting a country lane or garden path,invite the reader to enter in, and perhapstarry awhile.Brief biographies of Stevenson andKinkade are provided, as well as usefulindices to all the paintings and poems.Franklin's classic treasury, by PauletteBourgeois, illustrated by Brenda Clark.New York: Kids Can Press, 1999. HBB,$15.95. 128 p.Now we come to a more contemporaryclassic …Franklin the Turtle made his first debut inthe 1980's. This text includes full-sized,full-color reproductions of the fourFranklin titles published between 1986and 1993, from Franklin in the Dark toFranklin Is Bossy.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

Since Franklin first found the courage tocrawl into his dark little shell - with helpfrom friends and a night-light - his variousescapades and crises have endeared him tomany a child. So much so, in fact, that wealways had a hard time keeping PauletteBourgeous' reassuring tales on the shelf inthe childrens' section of the public library.We had a similar "problem" with LudwigBemelmans' Madeline series.Madeline in America and other holidaytales, by Ludwig Bemelmans and JohnBemelmans Marciano. New York:Scholastic, 1999. HBB, $19.95. 112 p.In Madeline in America, Madeline makesher first visit to the United States. Anextravagant inheritance and whirlwind tripto larger-than-life Texas threatenMadeline's Parisian equanimity, butgrandpapa's will makes wise provision forher continued schooling, in Paris, underthe watchful eye of Miss Clavel, at leastfor the time being.This Christmas treasury features the titlestory, begun by Ludwig Bemelmans in the1950's and completed by his grandson,John Bemelmans Marciano, in the late1990's. It also includes The Count and theCobbler - a brief tale about a poor cobblerwho is able to provide a special Christmasfor his many children - a charming"Bemelmans Christmas Memory," byLudwig's daughter, and, finally, Sunshine,another joint family effort in which wemeet a curmudgeonly landlord and hisnew tenant, an elderly music teacher. It isthe Christmas season in New York and inthe end, after much to-ing and fro-ing, Mr.Sunshine and Miss Moore find that Peaceon Earth is indeed possible.Like all Madeline books, this volume willrequire extra vertical shelf space, but thisshould not pose much of a problem, as itwill spend most of its time in circulation!The Nightingale, by Hans ChristianAndersen, translated by Anthea Bell,illustrated by Lisbeth Zwerger. New York:North-South Books, 1999. HBB, $15.95.unp.A timeless fairytale, set in ancient China,The Nightingale is a simple yet powerfulstory of a bird whose song is so lovely, itcan even charm death. Hans ChristianAndersen's captivating fable also speaks tothe importance of authenticity,forgiveness, and freedom.His work is here illustrated by LisbethZwerger (see Alice in Wonderland, above)with spare, delicate watercolors whosecalm earth tones perfectly complementAndersen's uncluttered story.Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens, adaptedby Naia Bray-Moffatt, illustrated by IanAndrew. (Eyewitness Classics) London:Dorling Kindersley Ltd., 1999. HBB,$14.95. 64 p.Oliver Twist is surely one of CharlesDickens' most memorable characters.This highly abridged version of Dickens'novel - a heartrending but ultimatelyaffirming account of a young boy forcedto fend for himself in early VictorianLondon - will be accessible to some of ouryounger readers, with its large print andcolorful illustrations. The entire cast ofvivid and familiar characters springs tolife between the numerous story aids,which include archival photographs,diagrams, and explanatory sidebars.Some readers may find that these elementsinterrupt the flow of the story, but theseadditions will be welcomed by manyteachers, and by those already familiarwith the story, and interested in learningmore about the context in which Dickenslived and wrote.The Penguin book of classic children'scharacters. New York: Penguin PutnamInc., 1997. HBB, $35.00. 375 p.Sure to become a bedtime favorite, ThePenguin Book of Classic Children'sCharacters brings many of our dearestchildhood friends together in onesatisfyingly robust volume.The peace-loving Ferdinand the bull, sucha disappointment to the proud matador,rubs shoulders here with Bemelman'soriginal Madeline and many others,including Winnie-the-Pooh and some illbredbees, the ever-cheeky Peter Rabbit,and the irrepressible Pippi. It's a wonderthe book's binding doesn't burst under thepressure of having to contain all thiscreative energy.The handsome red cloth cover and goldenribbon are the perfect finishing touches,and the table of contents provides adelicious sneak peek of the fourteenwonderful tales on the menu.Peter and the wolf, by Vladimir Vagin,from the symphony by Sergei Prokofiev.New York: Scholastic, 2000. HBB,$15.95. unp.Serfei Prokofiev's symphonic folktale,Peter and the Wolf, has delightedgenerations of children and adults with itsspirited protagonist, Peter, who captures awolf with the help of a courageoussongbird.Vladimir Vagin's detailed and vibrantpencil and watercolor illustrations serve asthe ideal foil for his clean and unadornedrendition of this familiar tale. The moresoft-hearted among our readers willappreciate Vagin's finale, as the duck, whowas snapped up by the wolf, manages toshare in the happy ending.In the book's closing pages, readers willfind a brief biography of Prokofiev as wellas a helpful two-page spread providing themusical notes for the different melodiesand instruments which represent thevarious characters in the symphony. Agreat resource for music teachers.Peter Pan, by Sir J.M. Barrie, compiledby Cooper Edens. (A Classic IllustratedEdition) San Francisco: Chronicle Books,2000. HBB, $1995. 173 p.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 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

Some literary characters briefly capture areader's imagination, then move on,leaving only a faint impression to berelegated to the dim, dusty backrooms ofmemory; others move in and are there tostay, boldly staking their claim. J.M.Barrie's brilliant and unforgettable cast ofcharacters, including Captain Hook, thepersistent, ticking crocodile, Tinker Bell,Wendy, and of course, Peter Pan, belongsunquestionably in the second category.Since 1911, Peter Pan has prancedconfidently across the pages of countlesseditions of the book, and has flown acrossthe stages of numerous theater and movieproductions. It seems we cannot getenough of the boy who will never growup.As with compiler Cooper Eden's Alice(see above), this edition brings togetherthe best of the best in terms of illustrators.Once again, the work of the original artist,in this case F.D. Bedford, is featured,along with that of many other giftedindividuals who sketched, painted, andilluminated Neverland during the early20th century.Poetry for young people, by HenryWadsworth Longfellow; edited by FrancesSchoonmaker and illustrated by ChadWallace. New York: Sterling PublishingCompany, Inc., 1998. HBB, $14.95. 48p.Editor Frances Schoonmaker hasthoughtfully chosen some twenty-seven ofLongfellow's most well-known poems forPoetry for Young People, including"Hiawatha's Childhood," "Paul Revere'sRide," and "The Slave's Dream." Some ofthe shorter selections are reproduced intheir entirety, while others have beenexcerpted, to give young readers amanageable taste of the lengthier works.Chad Wallace's artwork was createdspecifically for this text; its bold, broadstrokes and deep hues convey a rusticsensibility, which suits the early 19thcentury ethos of this famous Americanwordsmith.At the close of each poem, Schoonmakerinserts a helpful miniature glossary ofunfamiliar terms. She has also penned afairly in-depth, four-page biography ofLongfellow, through which she introducesthe various poems. The table of contentsand the index of poem titles will beappreciated by readers who want tosample at random, or zero in quickly on afavorite.Pretzel, by Margret Rey, illustrated byH.A. Rey. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Co.,1997. HBB, $15.00. unp.If you didn't meet Pretzel when he wasfirst born, in 1944, you will want to makehis acquaintance now. Pretzel is a puppy,but he is not just any puppy. In the firstplace, he is a sort of younger cousin toCurious George, as both characters werecreated by the husband-and-wife team ofMargret and H.A. Rey. On top of that, hebelongs to the dachshund family, a breedof dogs known for its prodigious length; infact, soon after his birth it becomesevident that he is the longest dachshund inthe world!Unfortunately, none of this is enough toimpress Greta, a neighboring dachshundwho coolly announces, "I don't care forlong dogs." Nothing the smitten Pretzeldoes makes any difference to Greta, untilshe finds herself in danger, and realizesthat only a dog of improbable length cansave her.Young readers will be drawn to Pretzel'sindomitable spirit and to H.A. Rey'svigorous primary colors and strong, cleanimages.Rip Van Winkle, by Washington Irving,illustrated by Arthur Rackham. (Books ofWonder) New York: North-South Books,2000. HBB, $19.95. 109 p.This text combines the wit of WashingtonIrving, one of America's best-lovedwriters, with the fantastical images ofArthur Rackham, one of England's mostgifted childrens' book illustrators.The legend of Rip Van Winkle is oftenreferred to, even by those who have neverread it, for it has become a part of thefabric of our society. Imagine fallingasleep, only to wake and find that twentyyears have passed! (Some of us may feelthat way after spending a week or twoaway from our jobs.)Irving's gripping tale was first issued in1819-1820. It clearly demonstrates hislove of storytelling, as well as hisincredible gift for language.Rackham was asked to create 51 colorplates for a 1905 edition of this story;thirty-four of these extraordinarilyevocative illustrations are reproducedhere.Skippack school, written and illustrated byMarguerite de Angeli. Pennsylvania:Herald Press, 1999. PBB, $ 88 p.Marguerite de Angeli was the awardwinningauthor of many books, includingthe well-known The Door in the Wall,published in 1950.Her stories, which often revolve arounddifferent ethnic groups, allow her toexplore the underlying, profoundcommonalities which exist between allpeople.Skippack School is a gentle story, firstpublished in 1936, about a Mennonitefamily, newly arrived from Germany andbusy adjusting to life in mid-1700'sPennsylvania. The day-to-day activitiesand customs of the time are seen throughthe eyes of Eli, a good-hearted butmischievous boy who would rather beoutside playing than indoors learning hisletters. But Master Christopher is a kindand patient teacher, who quotes scripturemore often than he uses the rod. Soon hewins Eli's confidence, and Eli finds he iscapable of more than he had imagined.Angeli's descriptions of Eli's visit to thepaper mill and the printing office, as wellas references to the Penn Treaty and briefinteractions with Native Americans,furnish a rich backdrop for her narrative,S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

and her own softly tinted illustrationsbring depth to her characters.The Snow Queen, by Hans ChristianAndersen; retold by Ken Setterington andillustrated by Nelly and Ernst Hofer.Toronto: Tundra Books, 2000. HBB,$16.95. 48 p.Ken Setterington, storyteller and publiclibrarian, here retells Hans ChristianAndersen's tale about the healing andredemptive power of love.The evil Snow Queen spirits young Kayaway to her icy homeland. Determined torescue her dear friend, Gerda sets outalone, finding both help and hindrancealong the way. When a well-intentionedreindeer asks a wise woman for somemagic potion to aid Gerda, the womanreplies, "She has a pure and loving heart… There is nothing greater that I can giveher."The Hofer's cut-paper art, known asscherrenschnitt, is presented starkly, inblack silhouette against the clean, whitepaper; these amazingly intricatedecorations are the perfect accompanimentto Andersen's sometimes harsh, butultimately affirming tale. According to theauthor's note on the closing page of thistext, Andersen himself practiced thisancient form of folk art.The Stranger at home: a childhoodaccount. Grants Pass, Oregon: SATPublications, 1999. HBB, $ 76 p.The Stranger at home: an exhaustive studyguide, by Tami S. Blauser. Grants Pass,Oregon: SAT Publications, 2000. PBB, $72 p.The Stranger at Home is an anonymous,but presumably autobiographical accountof young Elvira who goes to live with hergrandparents from the age of six to the ageof twelve. Her grandparents dote on herand spoil her to such an extent that, uponher return to her own family, she finds thatthe diligent and obedient behaviorexpected of her does not come easily.Despairing of her stubbornness, herChristian parents resolve not to provideher with correction or punishment of anykind. Initially pleased with thisarrangement, Elvira soon she finds thatshe feels like a stranger in her own home.In the end, there is repentance and agrowing awareness of God's love for hiswayward children.The author of this text, which was lastpublished in 1871, employs a very simpleand straightforward narrative voice. Someof her punctuation is irregular by today'sstandards.This slim volume is handsomely turnedout in cloth binding with gold embossing.Tami Blauser's accompanying study guideis a combination fill-in-the-blanksworkbook and discussion guide. Intendedfor use by readers of all ages, it providescomprehension tests, questions fordiscussion, and scripture references foreach chapter of Elvira's account. Thelengthy commentaries included in theanswer key are thoughtful and detailed;Blauser occasionally relies on "answerswill vary" for the discussion questions, butgenerally offers some helpful suggestionsor alternatives.A useful bibliography is provided, butbecause Blauser does not make use offoot- or endnotes, it is difficult to knowwhich points are her own and which arebased on these other sources. There aresome typographical errors, as well asminor grammatical lapses.It should be noted that not all readers willagree with some of the opinions presented;for example, on p. 60 of the study guide, itis suggested that many of today's"liberals" subscribe to certain attitudes(i.e. welfare for the poor) because they arecarnally, rather than spiritually minded.White Fang, by Jack London, illustratedby Philippe Munch. New York: PenguinPutnam, 1999. HBB, $25.99. 235 p.As a young pup, White Fang quicklylearns the primary law of the wild: eat orbe eaten. When he and his half-wolf, halfdogmother are taken by an Indian tribe,he learns his next lesson: fear of man.Hardship and severe conditions breed amerciless cunning, as well as a hamperingdependence.Sold to Beauty Smith, a cruel and twistedman, for the price of a few bottles ofwhisky, White Fang is forced to work forhis survival as a professional fighting dog.Following an encounter that very nearlyends his life, he is rescued by WeedonScott, a kind-hearted man whoseboundless patience at last wins the wolfdog'sconfidence, transforming him from awild beast into a devoted and faithfulcompanion.London's gripping account, told from theperspective of the title character, serves asa fascinating window on the history of thenorth; it also allows the author to exploreand comment on the interplay betweenheredity and environment.This Whole Story edition reintroduces thecomplete, unabridged text as it wasoriginally published in 1906. Sidebars,photos, and new color illustrationscomplement the text. Some of London'scharacters are rather rough, and so there isoccasional use of mildly offensivelanguage.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

BOOK REVIEWSPICTURE BOOKS★Bless this day : toddler prayers, text byAnne E. Kitch; illustrated by JoniOeltjenbruns; cover and page design byAnnika L. Chiodi. LCCN 00710307.Harrisburg, Pa.: Morehouse, 2000. PBB,0819218275, $6.95.E. Children--Prayer-books and devotions; Prayers.Bless This Day is a delightful collection of shortprayers and an accompanying Bible verse. Theillustrations are bright, colorful, and eyecatching.Pictures are of familiarobjects/persons that may assist in teaching newwords to toddlers. The combined prayer with aBible verse is particularly well done in that thereader may instill God’s word into the heart ofthe toddler in a fun and comfortable way.Tammy Williams. Social Worker/Freelance Writer. Port Orchard,WashingtonThe boy who became an eagle, by KathrynCave; illustrated by Nick Maland. LCCN00035897. New York: Dorling Kindersley,2000. HBB, 0789426668, $15.95.E. Flight--Fiction; Carnivals--Fiction. unp.A boy discovers that he can fly and spends asummer perfecting his flying technique whilealso keeping his ability a secret from family andfriends. One winter day the boy flies to the edgeof frozen sea. At home, food is scarce and lifenot much fun for the boy. But this flight isdifferent. This time Wozzini the showman seesthe boy and quickly lifts the sleeping boy up,wrapps him in blankets and places him near thefire to warm up. Once the boy is awake, Wozzinimakes him a pair of eagle wings from wood andfeathers, and the boy becomes a part of thetraveling act. From town to town Wozzini takeshis flying boy and in each town the people areamazed and cannot believe the boy can fly.Everyone assumes it is the eagle’s wings hewears. In one city, robbers kidnapp the boy andhide him in a building with bars on the windows.They want to know the secret of flight. Finallythe boy devises a plan to trick the robbers and isable to escape and fly home without the heavywings. At last the boy realizes how much hemissed his home and family.Kathryn Cave has created an imaginative storyin The Boy Who Became an Eagle, but a storythat lacks continuity. Children will be puzzled ata story line which does not flow smoothly. It isalmost as if a page or two is missing, leaving outthe connection between one scene and the next.The story is a good illustration of the saying thatthe grass is not always greener, but the textualchoppiness makes it difficult to use. Beingfamous is not all that much fun, as the boyeventually learns.Visually, the book is beautiful. Illustrator NickMaland has created appealing watercolorpictures with interesting detail. The colors aredistinct yet at the same time have a softness thatone might associate with a fairytale or myth.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES; Monroe, New YorkCount on Pablo, by Barbara deRubertis;illustrated by Rebecca Thornburgh.(Math matters.) LCCN 98051119. NewYork: Kane Press, 1999. PAP, 1575650908,$4.95.E. Counting--Fiction; Vegetables--Fiction; Markets--Fiction; Grandmothers--Fiction; Hispanic Americans--Fiction. 32 p. Primary.On market day, Pablo and his grandmother(Abuela) are going to sell their vegetables. Sincethis is the first time that Pablo is allowed to go tomarket, he is so excited he can hardly wait. Butfirst, Abuela makes Pablo wash all thevegetables before they put their wares into thetruck. Impatient Pablo washes the vegetablesand then Abuela asks him to count the limes,onions, tomatoes, and peppers. As Pablo washesthe produce he counts by ones, by twos, by fives,and by tens. At the market he helps Abuela sellher wares plus he gives the customers a recipefor salsa.Count on Pablo is a Math Matters activity bookdesigned to help readers have fun with counting.Barbara deRubertis includes activities at the endof the book that will help K - 2 students learnwhile having fun with Pablo. For each mathconcept the numbers are in bold type. Wordslike cilantro, salsa, and herbs will need to beexplained and pronounced for readers. The storyis interesting because Pablo is actually doing thecounting plus having an adventure.Connie Weaver, Church & Reference Librarian,Newville, PennsylvaniaDo knights take naps? written by KathyTucker; illustrated by Nick Sharratt.LCCN 99035748. Morton Grove, Ill.:Albert Whitman, 2000. HBB, 0807516953,$15.95.E. Knights and knighthood--Fiction; Stories in rhyme.unp. Preschool-Primary.What does a knight do? Where does he live? Doknights eat candy? What does a knight wear?Do Knights Take Naps? by author Kathy Tuckertakes a light hearted look at these knightlyquestions and more as she explores the world ofknights. And what about bad princes?... andfiery dragons? She doesn’t leave them outeither! After all, what is a knight without a fierydragon? The young knight in your audience withgiggle over Nick Sharratt’s cartoon-like figuresdoing their knightly best to be brave. Do knightstake naps? Of course they do, right after theirmoms tuck them in and leave the light on in thehall!Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonDr. White, by Jane Goodall; illustrated byJulie Litty. LCCN 98045564. New York:North-South Books, 1999. HBB,073581063X, $15.95.E. Working dogs--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction; Hospitals--Fiction; Sick--Fiction. unp.Dr. White is an unusual physician. He is shaggyand small and often snuggles right next to hislittle patients, nudging them with his cold, blacknose. He has his routine down pat and is wellrespectedby his co-workers. The nurses ask forhim whenever they have a patient who isespecially ill. In those cases, Dr. White jumps upon the critically ill child’s bed and curls up close,gently licking the child’s hand and thumping histail for as long as he feels needed.All is well until one day the health inspectornotices the little white dog running loose in thehospital’s halls and begins screaming. Dr. Whiteis no longer allowed to see his patients. Dayafter day he sits outside the hospital kitchen’sdoor, worrying about his patients inside. Manyare getting worse.Months later the health inspector returns to thehospital. He is not greeted kindly by the headnurse. She stops talking when she sees the tearsrunning down his face. His little girl is terriblysick. The nurse promises she will do what shecan for the his daughter. That night she opensthe back door and invites Dr. White in. He racesto the room of the sick child and curls up closebeside her. In the morning when the healthinspector enters his daughter’s room, he sees thelittle, white dog lying on his daughter’s bed andthe smile on her face as she opens her eyes forthe first time in days. He understands then the"medicine" that Dr. White dispenses.Jane Goodall, the noted scientist, was inspired towrite Dr. White by the true story of a little whitedog who was adopted by a hospital in Londonmany years ago. Credit was given to the dog foraiding in the recovery of many sick children. Itis a moving story and Julie Litty’s realisticwatercolor illustrations, especially those of thesick and recovering children, add to thepoignancy of the tale.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonFifteen flamingos, by Elspeth Campbell;illustrated by Richard Bernal. LCCN00008921. Minneapolis: BethanyBackyard, 2000. HBB, 0764222015, $9.99.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 1 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSE. Birthdays--Fiction; Parties--Fiction; Flamingos--Fiction; Imagination--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction.unp. Preschool-Primary.A cute little girl is six years old today and she isabout to have a party. She thanks God for herday but what she really wants for her birthday isfifteen flamingoes as party guests. Herimagination runs wild and she parties with herfabulous flamingoes until the doorbell ringsannouncing her fifteen real friends who havearrived for her party. Too bad, the flamingoesmust go.Elspeth Campbell Murphy has told anenchanting short story about the power of a littlegirl’s imagination. She has made nice use ofalliteration with adjectives beginning with theletter "F." This causes the story to be very fun toread aloud. The illustrations by Richard Bernalare a riot of bright, brilliant colors that make thebirthday seem fantastic and festive all at once.This is a very sweet and joyous book for youngchildren.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaForever friends. (Jay Jay the jet plane.)Nashville: Tommy Nelson, ThomasNelson. Vid, $12.97.E. Children--Conduct of life; Children--Religious life;Christian life. 1 videocassette, Col., 30 min.(Elementary).A set of three animated vignettes on videotape,Jay Jay the Jet Plane: Forever Friends, depicts agroup of airplanes and their human radio trafficcontroller, Brenda Blue. The lead character is abright blue airplane named Jay Jay. He and hisfriends learn biblical lessons throughout theiradventures.The first story, "Missing You," stars Jay Jay andhis friend, Snuffy, a yellow airplane withconstant nasal congestion. They are adjusting totheir friend and mentor, Big Jake’s, an olderairplane’s, absence. He has gone away for aweek to see his brother. To ease their loneliness,the radio controller, Brenda Blue helps themlook at Big Jake’s picture, write him a letter andcall him on the radio.The Buddy System shows Jay Jay and hisfriend, Tracey, a purple airplane, the value ofsticking together the way God sticks with uswherever we are. They fly to a distant city andlose each other, but God intervenes and theygratefully reunite."Treasure Hunt" examines the value offriendship as Tracey and Savannah, a sleeksilver jet, spend special time together lookingfor treasure. However, as Old Oscar, an antiqueplane, reveals, the true treasure is theirfriendship.This video is outstanding. The animation issplendidly vivid, much improved over previousJay Jay videos, but the terrific lessons of faithand friendship remain the same. Impressivevoiceovers give the cast human qualities such asvulnerability when they are lonely or lost, joywhen they reunite or discover an exciting truth,and humility when they are wrong. The gentlebiblical instruction is effective in this format.The characters model good communicationskills, talking about their feelings and problems.Appealing to a wide range of ages, toddler toupper elementary, this superlative video willdelight the eyes and heart.Anita Goldman Horning, Freelance Writer, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaThe fourth wise man, based on the story byHenry Van Dyke; retold by SusanSummers; illustrated by Jackie Morris.LCCN 97014771. New York: Dial Booksfor Young Readers, Penguin Putnam,1998. HBB, 0803723121, $16.99.E. Christmas--Fiction. unp. (Elementary).Artaban, the fourth wise man, and his three wisefriends read stars and recognize the new starsignals the coming King’s birth. When he seesthe star, Artaban gathers gifts to take to the greatteacher born of the Jews. In his travels, Artabanaids a sick man along the road and buysprotection from soldiers for a woman and herbabe. Artaban continues his search for the Kingof Kings, and helps needy on the way. Even asthe search continues, time passes. Soon, itseems, thirty-three years have passed. Hereturns to Jerusalem for a last, he believes, vainattempt. He discovers three men are beingcrucified, including Jesus of Nazareth, whoclaims to be God’s Son. Artaban knows this astruth and fumbles to get through the crowd, onlyto be stopped by a woman who is to beimprisoned for her family’s debts. In answeringher plea, he spends the last gift he intended forthe King. In the storm of the crucifixion,Artaban is injured, and hears a voice say, "Peacebe with you, Artaban. … As often as you didthese things for the least of my children, you didthem for me."Susan Summers retelling of The Fourth WiseMan is done excellently. Readers senseArtaban’s conflict over stopping to help peoplerather than continuing his journey. Theresolution when he realizes that he has pleasedthe King in his actions brings satisfaction andclosure. Jackie Morris’ watercolors completethe story’s portrayal. The detail, lighting, andperspective serve to place the reader in eachscene. The scene of the cross gives theimpression that the reader is standing at the footof the hill.Carol M. Jones, Librarian, South Side Elementary School andMarquette Pre-K Center, Champaign, IllinoisFranklin goes to the hospital, by SharonJennings; illustrated by Brenda Clark.LCCN C99931786. Toronto, Ont.: KidsCan, 2000. HBB, 1550747320, $10.95.E. Hospitals--Fiction. unp. Preschool-Primary.In the middle of a soccer game Franklin is hit inthe chest by the ball. The next day he still has asore spot on his tummy. Franklin’s mother takeshim to Doctor Bear who discovers a crack in hisshell that must be pinned. Franklin has gone tothe doctor for checkups, colds, and cuts, butuntil now he has never gone to the hospital. Helooks at the book Doctor Bear gave him abouthospitals. Then Franklin picks out his blueblanket and stuffed dog, Sam, to take to thehospital. All of Franklin’s friends and familytell him how brave he is. Even the nurses tellFranklin he is brave. But when Doctor Beartries to take X-rays of Franklin, he begins to cry.He knows X-rays show what is inside of youand they will show he really is scared. DoctorBear gently explains that, "Being brave meansdoing what you have to do, no matter howscared you feel."Franklin Goes To The Hospital by PauletteBourgeois and Brenda Clark is an excellentbook for any child faced with a hospital stay.However, learning to do what you have to, nomatter how scared you feel can apply to manyother situations as well. All young readers willunderstand Franklin’s fear of the unknown.Brenda Clark’s delightful pictures conveyFranklin’s feelings. Enough details of the X-rayroom and operating room are shown in thepictures to help the reader understand what toexpect if they will be going to the hospital.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonGo home! : the true story of James the cat,written and illustrated by Libby PhillipsMeggs. LCCN 99041372. Morton Grove,Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2000. HBB,0807529753, $15.95.E. Cats--Fiction; Lost and found possessions--Fiction.unp.Whether the black cat found Emily andCharlotte or Emily and Charlotte found theblack cat may never quite be known, but what isknown is that a once stray, starving, andfrightened cat with a too tight collar, wanderedonto the right door step and wormed his wayinto the heart of the family. Where he camefrom, even the frightened black cat did notknow, but where he belonged everyone knew.After nursing the black cat back to health andtrying to find its true owners with no luck, thefamily decides the cat must belong to them, butwhat is his name? They try everything, butnothing seems to fit the cat just right. It isn’tuntil Halloween comes around that the black catis near the door when two young trick or treatersare leaving and one calls to his younger brother,"Hurry up, James!" that the black cat reacts, andthe family discovers that James is his true name.Libby Phillips Meggs tells this true story of herfamily’s cat, James. Her illustrations from acat’s eye view are a wonderful backdrop for herstory of love and commitment.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonGrandpa's soup, written by Eiko Kadono;illustrated by Staomi Ichikawa. LCCN99030712. Grand Rapids: EerdmansBooks for Young Readers, Wm. B.Eerdmans, 1999. HBB, 0802851959,$16.00.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

PICTURE BOOKSE. Soups--Fiction; Loneliness--Fiction; Grief--Fiction; Sharing--Fiction. 32 p.Too sad to do anything since Grandma died,Grandpa sits in his chair in the house by himself.Then one day he decides he wants to eat some ofhis dear wife’s meatball soup again. Taking atiny pot down from the shelf, he starts to makemeatball soup. When it is done three mice cometo the door. Grandpa shares his soup with them,but there isn’t much left for him. The next dayhe uses a bigger pot and remembers more thingsGrandma put in the soup. The three mice comeback and bring a cat. Each day he uses a biggerpot and remembers more things Grandma put inthe soup. The mice and the cat bring a dog.Then ten children come to the door and Grandpadiscovers the best cure for his loneliness issharing his soup with friends.Grandpa’s Soup deals with the lonelinessGrandpa experiences after the death of someonehe loves. Any child who has lost a relative or petor has had a friend move away will identify withGrandpa’s sadness and appreciate the happyending. Eiko Kadono shows readers a positiveway to express their feelings by rememberingthe good experiences and reaching out to otherswho need them. Staomi Ichikawa’s beautifulpictures include little details that illustrate howGrandpa’s feelings change. At first the flowerson the table are dead, but by the end of the storyhe has beautiful flowers in the vase. Childrenwill delight in the procession of animals andchildren that arrive at Grandpa’s door.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonHedgie's surprise, written & illustrated byJan Brett. LCCN 99020944. New York:G.P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin Putnam,2000. HBB, 0399234772, $16.99.E. Chickens--Fiction; Hedgehogs--Fiction; Trolls--Fiction; Eggs--Fiction. unp."Henny! Have you got a yummy for my hungry,hungry tummy?" Henny is tired of hearing thisgreeting every morning and she is determinednot to let the Tomten steal any more of her eggs.With help from Hedgie (the hedgehog fromBrett's book, The Hat), she tricks the Tomteninto trying different morsels of food. But afterfour days of tasting other fare, the Tomten calls,"Henny, tomorrow I want an egg for breakfastand nothing else. If I don't find one, I'll eat youup instead!" The next morning Hedgie is ready,and his surprise makes sure Tomten does notreturn again. All is well and Henny is finallyable to settle down to raise a family.Hedgie's plan takes five days to convince theTomten not to return. The implication,therefore, is that the five saved eggs are hatchedon the fifth day, much sooner than a usualhatching schedule. This, along with theconnection that the Tomten must have beeneating fertilized eggs, is a bit unsettling.Elaborate watercolor paintings with detailed,patterned borders and easy flowing text, giveHedgie's Surprise the usual elements of a JanBrett book. The author has a talent for paintingrealistic animals filled with expression andattitude. This, and the foreshadowing of eventsoutlined in the borders, provides a pleasurablereading experience for any reader. Theillustrations dominate the storyline, which lacksthe variety and strength of other favorites suchas The Hat, The Mitten, or Christmas Trolls.The feel however is one hundred percent JanBrett, and fans will want to have this book intheir collections.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,WashingtonHenry’s song, written by Kathryn Cave;illustrated by Sue Hendra. LCCN99037942. Grand Rapids: EerdmansBooks for Young Readers, Wm. B.Eerdmans, 2000. ISBN 0802851983, HBB,$16.00.E. Singing--Fiction; Animals--Fiction; Individuality--Fiction. unp. Small children.Henry lives in the forest with many othercreatures. He loves to sing but the othercreatures say he is only making noise. One daythe Maker of All Things visits the creatures ofthe forest. He reminds them how he made eachone of them special. Then he asks the creaturesof the forest an important question: "What areyour voices for?" The creatures of the forest donot know. So the Maker of All Things tells themhe will come back tomorrow. The creatures ofthe forest eventually decide their voices are forsinging. They practice a lovely song and whenHenry begins to sing, the other creatures do notwant him to have any part in their song. Theysay he just makes noise. The next morning thecreatures of the forest sing their wonderful songfor the Maker of All Things. The Maker of AllThings is sad when he hears their song. Heknows Henry is not singing with all the othercreatures. The Maker of All Things reminds thecreatures of the forest that all their voices are forsinging. Then Henry joins all the creatures ofthe forest in a wonderful song. The Maker of AllThings is pleased.The warm message that the Maker of All Thingsmade each of us special is very clear. Thecreative use of collage and color bring the storyto life.Susan K. Brown, Teacher, Noblesville, IndianaHow the cat swallowed thunder, by LloydAlexander; illustrated by Judith ByronSchachner. LCCN 00024530. New York:Dutton Children's Books, PenguinPutnam, 2000. HBB, 0525464492, $16.99.E. Cats--Fiction; Behavior--Fiction. unp.Old Mother Holly's cat is always in trouble.Deciding that it is time for him to learn to begood and make himself useful, she leaves himhome alone with a list of chores and strict ordersto behave. Mother Holly goes on her errands,with Cat promising to do all that he's been told.Quickly becoming tired, he decides he'll workbetter after a nap. As he prepares to sleep, onething leads to another and amazing thingshappen. The battered watering can causes arainstorm, goose feathers whirl into asnowstorm, and the corn pops thunderously. Ascat works to right each wrong, the surprisingresult of his troublesome actions is a cleanhouse. Mother Holly comes home and isdelighted until she realizes Cat has swallowed akernel of her magic corn. The truth of Cat's dayis revealed, and Mother Holly scolds him. Arumbling noise comes from inside the cat. Hefears the worst, afraid Mother Holly might reallybe angry. The sound is pleasing to her, however,and she promises Cat many good things, as longas he continues to make the soothing noise.This humorous tale of how the cat got its purrwill have readers anticipating Cat's next disasterand feeling the anxiety of Mother Holly'simminent return. Lloyd Alexander uses avariety of action words and descriptive languageto give this story energy. This, along with somechallenging vocabulary words, make this picturebook an appropriate choice for the olderindependent reader, with many possibilities forteachers to extend into the language artscurriculum. Also a fun read aloud for youngerchildren, adults may have to explain some of themagic of Mother Holly, a Mother Nature figuresimilar to Mother Holle, from Grimm's fairytales. Judith Schachner's whimsical pencil andwater color paintings fill the pages with activity,a perfect match to Alexander's rich text. And,for an added bonus, children will have funfinding the pair of mice drawn in each picture.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,WashingtonHurricane! by Patricia Lakin; illustratedby Vanessa Lubach. LCCN 99054839.Brookfield, Ct.: Millbrook Press, 2000.HBB, 0761316167, $21.90.E. Hurricanes--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction.unp. Preschool-.Hurricane Bob is fast approaching and a younggirl and her daddy rush around to prepare theirwaterfront home for the strong rain and windsthat will assault it. Everywhere they go they seepeople hammering, tying things down, buyingextra supplies, flashlights, and batteries. Thetown is going to be as prepared as possible!When the storm hits everyone rushes indoors tosafety. Many go to shelters, but the young girland her father stay in their home. Heencourages his daughter, "This house has stoodthrough many a hurricane."When at last the storm is over the beach isscattered with debris, broken boats and pieces ofroofing. Even Mr. Finney’s place right on thesand is gone, but he is safe in the town shelter.Now the town sets about restoring, repairing,and even planting new trees and plants so therewill be new landmarks and hope even as the oldmemories remain intact.Hurricane! by Patricia Lakin brings thetenseness of preparation for such a huge storm.The full-page color illustrations by VanessaLubach portray the emotions and fierceness ofS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 1 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSthe storm beautifully. The ending is a bit anticlimactic,but the two-page "Hurricane facts" atthe end of the book make this a usable tool forteaching terminology and answering questions.This is a book that you might want to add toyour collection if you enjoy weather-relatedstories.Mary McKinney, Writer, Editor, Former Teacher, Port Orchard,WashingtonIf Nathan were here, by Mary Bahr;illustrated by Karen A. Jerome. LCCN99039909. Grand Rapids: EerdmansBooks for Young Readers, Wm. B.Eerdmans, 2000. HBB, 0802851878,$16.00.E. Grief--Fiction; Death--Fiction. unp."If Nathan were here, we would meet in our treefort to choose which team hats to wear from ourBaseball Hat Wall of Fame. But Nathan isn’there." And so a young boy tries to rememberwhat his lost friend was like, what he wouldshare with his friend if he were here, and how heis going to fill the emptiness he feels over thedeath of his friend, Nathan. Mary Bahr followsthe grieving of this young boy with his friendsand classmates at school, his neighborhood,family, and even Nathan’s sister herself. Notmeant to try to answer questions about death, orto sweep the emotions surrounding death away,author Mary Bahr simply and gently paintsvarious aspects of grief with picture words.Accompanied by the soft illustrations of KarenA. Jerome, If Nathan Were Here is a perfectbackdrop to allow the young grieving child anavenue to express his own thoughts about hisloss.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonIf you take a mouse to the movies, by LauraNumeroff; illustrated by Felicia Bond.LCCN 99027258. New York: LauraGeringer Book, HarperCollins, 2000.HBB, 0060278676, $15.95.E. Mice--Fiction; Christmas--Fiction. unp.Laura Numeroff and her exuberant little mouseare back again in If You Take a Mouse to theMovies. If you should take the little critter to amovie, naturally he’ll want some popcorn. Thecause-effect roller coaster story takes off fromthere to offer a view of Christmas from amouse’s perspective. As in their previous title,If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Numeroff and herillustrator, Felicia Bond, have captured thewide-eyed wonder of the world through the eyesof ever-enthusiastic Mouse and hisaccommodating human friend. Felicia Bond’slovable depictions continue to engage oursympathies even as Mouse’s pleas for newexperiences become more and moreextravagant. If You Take a Mouse to the Moviesdefines joie de vivre for the child who has yet toput a name to the experience and is a sweetreminder to those adults who have forgotten.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/ Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaThe magic nesting doll, by Jacqueline K.Ogburn; illustrated by Laurel Long.LCCN 98034397. New York: Dial Booksfor Young Readers, Penguin Putnam,2000. HBB, 0803724144, $16.99.E. Fairy tales. unp.Seldom do both a story and its illustrations worktogether to produce the feast that is presented inThe Magic Nesting Doll. Jacqueline K. Ogburnhas drawn on the tradition of the fairy tale to tellthe story of young Katya, who owns amatryoshka, a Russian nesting doll. But Katya’snesting doll is unique in that it was given to herby her grandmother with the admonition that itcontained three wishes, and that Katya shouldnot open it until her need was great, and thenhelp would come when it was opened and sheremembered her grandmother.Katya goes out into the world alone with hermatryoshka in her pocket. One day she hearsabout a young Tsarevitch who has turned to ice,and thereby his kingdom is doomed to winterwithout thaw, night without moon, and darkwithout dawn. Katya determines to find theyoung prince and use her matryoshka to try tobreak this evil spell. She travels to his distantpalace and peers at his icy body through awindow where he is guarded by his hot andfearsome uncle the Grand Vizier.As she opens each doll, one at a time, itscharacter grants her the wish which she requests,and with each doll the prince becomes a littleless icy, and the Grand Vizier, becomes a littleweaker. The bear, the wolf, and the firebird eachdo their part in rescuing the kingdom from itswintery spell. But it is not until loves’ first kissthat the prince is awakened to greet his bride,and the Grand Vizier, now ice himself, isdestroyed.Those who delight in a good fairy tale will beentranced with Jacqueline K. Ogburn’s ability totell a good tale, but the greatest feast of TheMagic Nesting Doll is for the eyes. IllustratorLaurel Long’s lavish and detailed paintingscould each stand as a work of art alone. Done inRussian folk art style with decorative borders,the paintings bid you linger a little longer overeach page and explore all that she hasaccomplished with color, symbol, and design.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonMei-Mei loves the morning, written byMargaret Holloway Tsubakiyama;paintings by Cornelius Van Wright &Ying-Hwa Hu. LCCN 97026675. MortonGrove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 1999. HBB,0807550396, $15.95.E. Grandfathers--Fiction; China--Fiction. unp.Mei-Mei loves mornings. Grandfather preparesbreakfast for the two of them while Mei-Meitakes the night cover off of Bai-Ling’s cage andfeeds the little bird. Then Mei-Mei andGrandfather attach Bai-Ling’s cage to thehandlebars of Grandfather’s bicycle for the tripto the park. On the way, they stop to visit withthe cobbler who lets Mei-Mei try on a pair ofbeautiful red shoes. When they get to the parkGrandfather hangs Bai-Ling’s cage in a tree withall of their friends’ birds. Grandfather, Mei-Mei,and all of their friends do tai-chi. They pretendto be tigers and cranes. After exercising,everyone drinks tea and visits. Then Mei-Meiand Grandfather bicycle home for lunch.Margaret Holloway Tsubakiyama tells a gentleloving story of a little girl and her grandfather inmodern China. Mei-Mei Loves the Morningprovides a glimpse of family life in a Chinesecity. Three generations live in the smallapartment and Grandfather’s transportation is abicycle stored in the lobby of the building. Mei-Mei and Grandfather bicycle through the busystreets of the city to meet with their friends.Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu’sdelightful scenes of their ride down streetscrowded with bicycles carrying everything frommattresses to pigs will delight young readers.Mei-Mei and Grandfather enjoy a specialrelationship. The artists successfully capture thelove the little girl and her grandfather have foreach other in their expressions.Anyone who has been to China will recognizethe street scenes and remember the many cagesand birds for sale in the markets. Well writtenand beautifully illustrated, Mei-Mei Loves theMorning will delight readers who have been toChina as well as those who have not.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonThe missing mitten mystery, story andpictures by Steven Kellogg. LCCN99054777. New York: Dial Books forYoung Readers, Penguin Putnam, 2000.HBB, 0803725663, $15.99.E. Lost and found possessions--Fiction; Mittens--Fiction. unp.Little Annie is in big trouble! She’s just lost hermitten. That makes five in one winter. CanAnnie and her faithful dog Oscar possibly findit? They begin by retracing Annie’s snowysteps. They find other articles of clothingbelonging to her friends at a sled run and a snowfort but not the mitten. Annie’s imaginationbegins to run wild when she mistakes a cardinalfor a flying red mitten. Maybe the mitten is abird’s nest, a baby eagle’s hat, a mouse’ssleeping bag, or even a mouse’s Halloweendisguise.Her improbable scenarios end when theyencounter Miss Seltzer, who has not seen themitten but surmises that it could be in thegarden. Annie doesn’t find her mitten thereeither but once again with her great imaginationfantasizes about what could happen if a mittenwas planted and a mitten tree grew. Then shewould have enough mittens to give to everybodyfor presents on special occasions. Darkness andrain overtake her and she retreats to the house tohave hot chocolate with Miss Seltzer, whonotices that Annie’s snowman outside thewindow has a heart. Mitten found!Once again Steven Kellogg has created afanciful and engaging story for youngerC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

PICTURE BOOKSchildren. They will love following Annie andOscar on their search. As usual, his illustrationsare funny, clever, and skillfully colored anddrawn. His cover illustration even hints at theanswer to the mystery. He has very muchcaptured the "stream-of-consciousness" mannerin which a child thinks out a problem. Mostchildren will want to read this book over andover again.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaMonk camps out, by Emily ArnoldMcCully. LCCN 99023237. New York:Arthur A. Levine Books, Scholastic, 2000.HBB, 0439099765, $15.95.E. Mice--Fiction; Camping--Fiction; Parent and child--Fiction. unp.In Monk Camps Out, Emily Arnold McCullyonce again uses simple text and illustration toconvey the importance of being small. She hasa way of bringing out how great the small thingsin life really are. In this book, Monk, the youngmouse who strives to show how big he is gettingto be, requests to sleep out in the backyard. Theauthor brings a freshness to this old theme ofindependence and reluctance to let it happen.Young readers will easily empathize withMonk’s trepidation at being seemingly so faraway while just in his backyard. And parentswill delight in McCully’s poignant humor ofhow Monk’s parents handle their young son’sstep towards growing up. The combination oftext and character lines adds to the warmth ofthe bright illustrations. As with the other Monkbooks, readers will warm to the little mouse whoproves himself big in his efforts.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoThe not-so-wise man, by Alan MacDonald;illustrations by Andrew Rowland. LCCN99031745. Grand Rapids: EerdmansBooks for Young Readers, Wm. B.Eerdmans, 1999. HBB, 0802851967,$15.00.E. Jesus Christ--Nativity--Fiction; Magi--Fiction.unp.Renowned for his wisdom, Ashtar speaks tocrowds hungry for his knowledge. He tells a ofthe promise of a king sent from heaven. Whenhe discovers the new star that signifies the king’scoming, he sets off to find him. Throughout hisjourney, he meets those in need of his wisdomand shares what will meet their needs. Thougheach invites his company, he travels on alone inhis endeavor to see the new king. When hestops for the night in a small crowded town, henotices that the star is just above his window.Although he notes the presence of the star, hedoes not stop to inquire in the stable, for he is fartoo wise to seek a king in a stable. Ashtarreturns home with his "wisdom," but withoutwitnessing the birth of the king he seeks.Alan MacDonald has created an enchantinglyrenderedstory. The lesson that faith does notdepend upon wisdom rings clear in this tale ofthe wise man who narrowly misses the king.The illustrations by Andrew Rowlandimpeccably support the plot, while intimating allalong that Ashtar may not be quite as wise as heseems. The reader will notice in Rowland’sscene of the Nativity the travelers with whomAshtar crosses paths on his journey. Withsubsequent readings, readers will find more andmore pointers to the coming Christ child.Carol M. Jones, Librarian, South Side Elementary School andMarquette Pre-K Center, Champaign, IllinoisPhilipok, by Leo Tolstoy; retold by AnnKeay Beneduce and illustrated byGennadii Spirin. LCCN 99055298. NewYork: Philomel, Penguin Putnam, 2000.HBB, 0399234829, $16.99.E. Schools--Fiction; Russia--Fiction. unp.Philipok is a classic Russian tale originally toldby Leo Tolstoy. Ann Keay Beneduce has nowretold the story in a simple easy-to-read stylewhich keeps very close to the original.Philipok is a young boy who wants nothingmore than to go to school with his brother Peter.Mother says he is too young and small; he willhave to stay home with Grandmother. Philipokstays, but when Grandmother falls asleep hebecomes lonely and decides to go to school byhimself. Along the way he encounters a meandog, the cold winter winds, and many strangers.By the time he reaches the schoolhouse he isafraid to go in. What if the teacher is angry andsends him home? Philipok finally goes inside.He proves he is smart enough to come to schoolbecause he can spell his name and knows hisalphabet. The teacher agrees and from then onPhilipok goes with Peter to school.This charming story will become a classic to anew generation of children. A refreshing storyof a child who wants so much to learn that hefinds his own way to school. Gennady Spirin, agraduate of the Stroganov Institute of Art inMoscow, brings an authentic feel to the story.His illustrations are finely-detailed andexpressive of the Russian culture. A winningcombination.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, MontanaPoppleton in fall, by Cynthia Rylant;illustrated by Mark Teague. LCCN98031791. New York: Scholastic, 1999.HBB, 0590847899, $14.95.E. Pigs--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Animals--Fiction. 48 p.Poppleton in Fall, by Cynthia Rylant, is more ofthe same wry humor and illustrations found inthe previous Poppleton books. In this particularstory Poppleton invites several passing geese ontheir way south to stop and have cookies.Feeding geese whose names continually rhymereduces Poppleton to speaking gibberish, so thatCherry Sue, his level-headed friend andneighbor must tend to his weariness.In the second story when Poppleton goes to geta new coat, Zacko the tailor points out thatPoppleton is too big. Cherry Sue points out thatbeing a big pig is just fine, and big is a matter ofperspective.The last story is perhaps the most fun. WhenPoppleton takes Cherry Sue to a Lions Clubpancake breakfast he manages to convince hisreluctant friend, through some comicalwordplay, that sometimes it's not only better, butnecessary, to eat blueberry pancakes instead ofplain ones, especially when grumpy lions are thecooks.The Poppleton books carry a sophisticated wit,which might be lost on some younger readers.Rylant, most definitely shines in her other earlyreader series, Henry and Mudge. There is asimple appeal to this combo of a boy with a bigheart and his dog who is just plain big, thatyoung readers can relate to.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoThe royal bee, by Frances Park andGinger Park; illustrations by ChristopherZhong-Yuan Zhang. LCCN 98088234.Honesdale, Pa.: Boyds Mills, 2000. HBB,1563976145, $15.95.E. Education--Fiction; Schools--Fiction; Socialclasses--Fiction; Contests--Fiction; Korea--Social lifeand customs--Fiction. unp. Preschool-Primary."In the days when kings ruled Korea, only theprivileged ‘yangban’ children went to school.They wore fine clothing and carried handsomebooks. They competed in The Royal Bee at theGovernor’s palace. They grew up to be scholarsand noblemen. Song-ho was not among theprivileged. He was a ‘sangmin’ boy dressed inrags. But the distant sound of a school bellmade him dream of the day when he could readbooks and write poetry."Succinct yet descriptive, this story is based onthe authors’ own grandfather as an illiterate boyin late nineteenth-century Korea, too poor toattend school but who eavesdropped at the doorof the rich children’s school until he wasallowed to attend. This story follows the sameplot with wonderful scenes. Sung-ho wants tomake life better for his mother who works hardin the farmers’ fields. Sung-ho also wants tolearn how to read and write. One day, afterfinishing his chores, he follows the sound of theschool bell in the valley where he listens to thelessons outside the rice-paper door. The schoolmaster sees the boy’s shadow outside the doorand confronts him, yet does not send him away.Sung-ho continues listening in on lessonsoutside the door day after day. Weeks pass intowinter. Taking pity on the huddled, shiveringboy, the master invites him inside where he isallowed to stay if he can pass a verbal test on thelessons. He passes every question and is joyousto be able to sit with the other students. Sunghois later selected by his classmates to representtheir school at the annual Royal Bee, wherestudents from all over Korea are challenged byquestions. At the end, only he and one otherstudent remain. To win, Sung-ho composes apoem about what winning the competitionwould mean to him.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 1 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSFrances and Ginger Park make good use ofrepetition in their prose, making this awonderful book to read aloud to children. Themessages of family (Sung-ho’s love for hismother), learning, pursuing your dreams, anddoing your best ring true in this book.Illustrations by Zhang are acrylic paintings donein muted colors.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, IowaSaint Francis and the Christmas donkey, byRobert Byrd. LCCN 00025415. NewYork: Dutton Children's Books, PenguinPutnam, 2000. HBB, 0525464808, $15.99.E. Francis, of Assisi, Saint, 1182-1226--Fiction; JesusChrist--Nativity--Fiction; Donkeys--Fiction;Christmas--Fiction. unp. Preschool-Primary.Saint Francis and the Christmas Donkey is acharming tale in which Saint Francis, the PatronSaint of animals, meets a donkey in the forest.The little donkey is lamenting loudly about thehard work a donkey must do, and how the otheranimals laugh at his bray. Saint Francis tells thedonkey a story in answer to his lament.Francis tells the story of creation. In thebeginning, God blessed the donkey with delicateears, a tiny, tail and a beautiful voice. Thedonkey became so proud that he began to makefun of other animals. Finally the other animalsbecame so angry that they pulled the donkey’sears and tail. All the donkey could do is to crywith a loud raucous voice. God was also angryat the donkey and decreed that his laugh wouldbecome a ridiculous Hee-Haw. He would alsohave long, floppy ears and a scrawny, scragglytail. He would have to work hard and carryheavy loads. Throughout history the donkey hasworked very hard, but he has also helped tobuild the civilized world. As a crowningachievement, the donkey carried Mary toBethlehem. His warm breath comforted thebaby in the manger. Even the magnificent giftsof the Wise Men could not equal the donkey’swonderful gift of love. Thus Francis shows thedonkey that everyone has gifts to offer, each ofus is uniquely important in God’s eyes.In a note to the reader, the author gives a shortsummary of Saint Francis’ life, especiallyhighlighting his love and care for the animals.This note tells how the donkey appears in manyof the major episodes in Jesus’ life. A donkeycarried Mary to Bethlehem. The Holy Familyalso had a donkey on their flight the Egypt.Finally, Jesus rode a young donkey intoJerusalem on Palm Sunday.This book illustrates Francis’ love for all God’screatures. It is also a charming Christmas story,demonstrating the fact that love is the greatestgift anyone can give. Robert Byrd’s lavishlydetailed illustrations greatly enhance thisdelightful story, which will appeal to people ofall ages.Virginia Brown, Library Assistant/Freelance Writer/FormerTeacher, Sheridan WyomingThe Savior that God sent, by Kelly A.Rainbolt; illustrated by Roberta Collier-Morales. LCCN 2001267492. St. Louis,Mo.: Concordia, 2000. HBB, 0570070953,$8.99.E. Jesus Christ--Nativity; Christmas; Stories inrhyme. unp.The Savior That God Sent by Kelly A. Rainboltgoes beyond the holiday gift book category. Inits cause and effect story style, young readerswill be able to better comprehend theinterconnection of the traditional manger story.The sing-song text and the joyous illustrationsof Roberta Collier-Morales will guaranteemultiple readings. Each passage builds up to theimportance of baby Jesus, the Savior that Godsent.The book allows for further discussion of thisall-important cornerstone of Christian faith: thatJesus came to save us because God sent Him.Adults who desire to introduce the very youngto the miracle of Jesus’ coming will appreciatethe simplistic appeal of the rhyming repetition.A book to consider for gift giving with itsthoughtful dedication page.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoShades of black : a celebration of ourchildren, by Sandra L. Pinkney;photographs by Myles C. Pinkney. LCCN99086593. New York: Scholastic, 2000.HBB, 0439148928, $14.95.E. Afro-Americans--Fiction. unp.“I am Black. I am Unique. I am the milkysmooth brown in a chocolate bar and the goldenbrown in sugar.” The text continues in simplelanguage as it describes the various skin tones,hair textures, and eye color of black children. Acelebration of our children.Sandra L. Pinkney has found a unique way touse familiar items to describe children in Shadesof Black. From pretzels to popcorn, and cottonto rope, all describe the uniqueness of blackchildren. Myles C. Pinkney brings the bookalive with his brilliant color photographs. Thefaces of these children are priceless. From theinquisitive eyes to the happy smiles, they areenchanting. This book is a celebration of thedifferences in black children as well as a way toexplore and embrace a different culture.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, MontanaThe shaking bag, written by GwendolynBattle-Lavert; illustrated by AminahBrenda Lynn Robinson. LCCN 99016974.Morton Grove, Ill.: Albert Whitman,2000. HBB, 0807573280, $15.95.E. Generosity--Fiction; Ravens--Fiction. unp.Preschool-Primary.Winner of the 2000 Parent’s Choice SilverAward, The Shaking Bag by Gwendolyn Battle-Lavert spins a magical tale of southernhospitality and generosity, similar to the Biblestory where Elijah is miraculously fed by theravens at the Lord’s command in the KerithRavine. Colorful illustrations by AminahBrenda Lynn Robinson bring Miss Annie Maeto life. Displaying her African Americanancestry, Annie Mae appears with large brownbraids that cascade down her back. Her strong,earthy hands are filled with food for five Ravensand other wild birds. Annie Mae and her doglive in a run down cabin and share what littlethey have. One night a mysterious strangernamed Raven Reed knocks on her door. Sheinvites him in and shares a meager crust ofbread, putting the last crust aside for the birdsand her dog. When he sees this, he takes the bagfrom her, reaches in and pulls out what sheneeds most: chairs, firewood, food to eat andeven a table at which to sit. While they share ameal and talk all night she notices his eyes,"young of age, but ancient of spirit." When hedeparts, he hands her the bag and explainsbecause of her generosity the sack will neveragain be empty. His departure is as miraculousas his stay had been. When she sees the Ravensagain there are five and the eyes seem familiar.Both narrative and illustrations, each being welldone, complement one another. Thisextraordinary story will be read more than onceand remain in everyone’s memory forgenerations to come.Gail Welborn, Reporter/Freelance Writer, Everett, WashingtonSockeye’s journey home : the story of aPacific salmon, by Barbara GainesWinkelman; illustrated by Joanie Popeo.(Smithsonian oceanic collection.) LCCN99044598. Norwalk, Ct.: Soundprints,2000. HBB, 1568998295, $15.95.E. Sockeye salmon--Fiction; Salmon--Fiction;Animals--Migration--Fiction. 31 p. Preschool-Primary.Survival in the sea : the story of ahammerhead shark, written by LindaLingemann; illustrated by StevenMarchesi. (Smithsonian oceaniccollection.) LCCN 99025918. Norwalk,Ct.: Soundprints, 1999. HBB,1568997698, $15.95.E. Hammerhead sharks--Fiction; Sharks--Fiction. 32p. Preschool-Primary.The blend of facts and an absorbing story willhelp instill interest and fascination in youngreaders as they learn about the world aroundthem in the Oceanic Collection put out by theSmithsonian Institute.Sockeye’s Journey Home by Barbara GainesWinkelman, illustrated by Joanie Popeo, is partof the Smithsonian Oceanic Collection. Readerslearn through the informative, yet engaging textthe life cycle of the salmon. Without having toresort to personification, the author still adds adimension of singularity as Sockeye makes hisway from the Pacific Ocean to Cedar River. Thecolorful, real-life illustrations alone tell of thetremendous struggles this determined fish mustface before finding a mate and securing the nextgeneration of salmon.What young reader can resist a story aboutsharks, especially those that combine a stirringstory with fascinating illustrations? YoungC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

PICTURE BOOKSshark lovers will definitely appreciate Survivalin the Sea, by Linda Lingemann, illustrated byStephen Marchesi. Full of interesting details,made more vivid through the noteworthyillustrations, readers will follow a Hammerheadshark as she goes about her routine of givingbirth, feeding, escaping prey, and following herinstincts.Both these books summon an appreciation forthe world God created, evoking a respect for thenatural sequence of life. If it is the statedintention to foster an appreciation andunderstanding of wildlife and habitats in youngreaders then this has been accomplished in thesehandsome selections.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoStrega Nona takes a vacation, by Tomie DePaola. LCCN 99041362. New York: G.P.Putnam’s Sons, Penguin Putnam, 2000.HBB, 0399235620, $16.99.E. Vacations--Fiction; Bubbles--Fiction. unp.Strega Nona, Grandma Witch, is not herselflately. She is hearing the voice of her deceasedGrandma Concetta, beckoning, "Vieni,Nonalina, Come." It distracts her so that shealmost gives out the wrong remedies to thetownsfolk. She finally follows the voice andgoes on a vacation to the seashore. Bambolonaand Big Anthony are left behind to do her work.In the past Big Anthony has caused manymishaps and Strega Nona warns them not totouch the magic pasta pot. That’s not problem.When gifts arrive from Strega Nona, however,there is trouble, and this time it is Bambolonawho is the cause. Strega Nona returns and isable to set things straight, and a new lesson islearned.With the same playfulness and warmth as theprevious Strega Nona stories, Tomie dePaolauses subtle watercolor paintings and clear text totell this humorous tale. Large pictures fill thepages, often revealing the plot without words,making this book a perfect selection to read witha friend or share with a group of young children.Adding to the charm of the story, dePaola slipsin a handful of Italian words, which teacherscould use for a language mini-lesson. StregaNona Takes a Vacation is sure to evoke smiles,giggles and gasps as these familiar and lovablecharacters once again reach into the reader’sheart.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,WashingtonThe thornbush, by Michael Laughlin;illustrated by Richard Stergulz. LCCN99037002. Nashville: Tommy Nelson,Thomas Nelson, 2000. HBB, 0849959683,$12.99.E. Jesus Christ--Crucifixion--Fiction; Jesus Christ--Resurrection--Fiction. unp.The Thornbush by Michael Laughlin retells thecrucifixion by expanding upon the legend ofhow the drops of Christ’s blood transformed thethornbush flower from mediocrity to beauty.Appropriate for Easter, this book neverthelesscould remain available throughout the year sinceit portrays so well both the sorrow and joy ofChrist’s death. Young children will understandhow insignificant the thornbush felt, yet willdelight in how even at Jesus’ most demandingtime He noticed the little plant.The illustrations by Richard Stergulz addwarmth and light to what could be considered adark time. The personification of the thornbushseems somewhat overdone, yet the messagecomes across that Christ cares for all of hiscreations. The story also simplifies thiscomplicated aspect of Christ’s life, his death andresurrection, in such a way to invite discussion.Sunday school teachers, parents, and otheradults will appreciate this gentle tale as youngreaders absorb the message of how Jesus died,yet is alive.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoTimothy goes to school, by RosemaryWells. LCCN 00712050. New York:Viking, Penguin Putnam, 2000. HBB,0670891827, $15.99.E. Schools--Fiction; Raccoons--Fiction; Animals--Fiction. 32 p.It is his first week of school and Timothy, aracoon, is excited. Not only does he get to startschool, but his mother has made him a brandnew sunsuit. He is not at school long before hemeets Claude. Claude quickly informs Timothythat no one wears a sunsuit on the first day ofschool. The next day, when Timothy wears anew jacket, Claude tells him that you’re notsupposed to wear party clothes on the secondday of school. Even when Timothy wears an"in-between" shirt like Claude and a newfootball shirt the next day, Claude is still betterat everything and has all the friends. Timothydetests going to school until he meets Violet,someone who accepts him just as he is. By theend of his first week of school, Timothy nolonger worries about Claude for he has found afriend.Timothy Goes to School, written and illustratedby Rosemary Wells, is a story about being bothrejected and accepted, as well as a story aboutmaking friends. When Timothy is rejected byClaude, he responds by feeling jealous andangry. However, when he meets Violet,someone who likes and accepts him just as he is,he is able to laugh at his anger and jealousy andfocus on friendship instead. Wells cleverlyimbeds this theme in a well-told story full ofsuspense and subtle humor. Her illustrations, acombination of watercolor, pen and ink,gouache, pastel, and rubber stamps, are alsodelightful. Their bright colors attract and thehumor and emotion they depict involve thereader in Timothy’s plight. Timothy Goes toSchool is a wonderful tale of friendship andacceptance and a story that entertains as well.Kerri Cunningham, Librarian, Camano Island, WashingtonTogether teamwork. (Jay Jay the jetplane.) Nashville: Tommy Nelson,Thomas Nelson. Vid, $12.97.E. Children--Conduct of life; Children--Religious life;Christian life. 1 videocassette, Col., 30 min.This video presentation brings three short storiesto the pre-schooler, all centered around Jay Jayand his airplane friends. If your child is familiarwith Thomas the Train or Theodore the Tugboat,he/she will find Jay Jay a similar friend. Thefirst episode is called " Big Jake’s Team" andspeaks to the idea of helping a friend in need."Revin Evan’s Day" is about appreciatingsomeone’s hard work, and the third story, "HeroHerky," has Herky the helicopter rescuing astranded skier. There are songs included in eachepisode and "The Bible says" applies a biblicaltruth to each lesson.Although the graphics are good, ie. colorful,cute, and clever the way the airplanes talk, thestorylines are rather simplistic. There seems tobe an over-abundance of talking about theproblem rather than "showing" which may resultin children losing interest during the storyline.Mary McKinney, Writer, Editor, Former Teacher, Port Orchard,WashingtonTom goes to kindergarten, by MargaretWild; illustrated by David Legge. LCCN99050420. Morton Grove, Ill.: AlbertWhitman, 2000. HBB, 0807580120,$15.95.E. Pandas--Fiction; Kindergarten--Fiction; First dayof school--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. unp. Preschool-Primary.Tom the Panda walks by the kindergarten everyday with his mother and Baby. He gazes in thewindows, anxious to be old enough to join in thefun. At home he tries to play with Mother andFather but they are busy doing the daily chores,so he plays with Baby.Soon Tom is old enough to attend Kindergarten.The teacher Mrs. Polar Bear is very welcomingbut Tom is afraid and clings to his parents, soMrs. Polar Bear invites them to stay for the day.They are reluctant but have so much fun that thenext morning, even though Tom doesn’t cling,they would like to stay. But Kindergarten is forTom, not for them, and they must go, howeverthey have learned how to take time for play.Tom Goes to Kindergarten, written by MargaretWild and illustrated by David Legge, is anextremely sweetnatured book that speaksexactly to small children. Tom’s conflict overbeing ready to go to school, but nervous aboutstaying rings very true, and mostkindergarteners will like the part where hisparents want to participate but only Tom isallowed to stay. The illustrations are beautifullycolored and the characters are charminglyengaging. Wonderful book for any childpreparing to go to school for the first time.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 2 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSTurnagain, Ptarmigan, where did you go?by James Guenther; illustrated byShannon Cartwright. LCCN 00036570.Seattle, Wash.: Sasquatch Books, 2000.HBB, 1570612374, $15.95.E. Ptarmigans--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. unp.Those who delight in exploring the world ofanimal camouflage will rejoice in JamesGuenther’s Turnagain Ptarmigan! Where didyou go? A young Alaskan girl romps throughthe changing seasons and landscapes of ourfiftieth state in pursuit of finding the Alaskanstate bird, the ptarmigan, in its changingfeathers. The large print verse leads the readerwith an enticing lilt to turn to the next page insearch of the ever elusive ptarmigan. Thosefamiliar with Alaskan place names will see theextra bit of humor in the double entendre of thetitle alone. Illustrator and Alaskan, ShannonCartwright has outdone herself with her detailedand lavishly colored bird designs andfaithfulness to her subject. Children will delightin the world of the ptarmigan’s famous ability toblend in with its changing environment as wellas the discovery of how they too can blend intotheir environment. A page at the back of thebook gives a short science and history lessonabout ptarmigans, their habitat, habits, food, andhow it came to be the Alaskan state bird.Turnagain Ptarmigan! is a must have for thoseinterested in the far north of either Alaska orCanada.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonThe way mothers are, by Miriam Schlein;pictures by Joe Lasker. LCCN 92021516.Morton Grove, Ill.: Albert Whitman,2000. PAP, 0807586900, $6.95.E. Mothers--Fiction; Cats--Fiction. unp."Mother do you love me?" asks the youngkitten. His mother’s inevitable answer is yes,even when he asks "But how can you love mewhen I scream and SCREAM the way you don’tlike?" And mother’s wise answer, "I don’t loveyou all the other time just because you are notscreaming,... so why should I stop loving yousometimes just because you are screaming?" Asthe question continues throughout the day in allthe kitten’s activities, his mother’s answerremains steadfast. Written in the tone of Mama,Do You Love Me? by Barbara Joose, MiriamSchlein takes a light hearted yet sensitive look atthis age old question in The Way Mothers Are.Joe Lasker’s pictures which have the feel ofchildren’s book illustrations out of the pastprovide the setting for this timeless question.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonWhen I Feel Angry teaches children variousways of dealing with anger. The main character,a cute female bunny, sometimes becomes angry.She feels angry when she can’t draw the wayshe’d like to or when classmates make fun ofher. She gets angry when her mother makes herstop playing to clean her room. Anger makesher feel like hitting or being mean. She knowsthere is a difference between feeling like youwant to strike someone and actually doing it.The bunny has learned ways of coping with heranger. She can ride her bike very fast or justspend time away from the bunny who made herangry. Sometimes someone needs to change. Itcould be another bunny or it could be her. Somethings that make her angry can’t be changed.She can get help figuring it all out by talking toan adult. Now when she gets angry, she haslearned ways of handling her feelings.Author Cornelia Maude Spelman has written anappealing story children will relate to. Thepersonable rabbit illustrations by Nancy Cotereally make the book. The relatively simple textand fun drawings combine to effectively tacklea serious topic in a non-threatening way. Thefirst half of the book gives examples of thingsthat make the character angry. The second halfpresents ways of dealing with those intensefeelings in an appropriate way. Written from asecular perspective, other solutions, like prayingcould easily be added to the list offered.Spelman includes a note to parents making asimilar point. Designed to bring aboutdiscussion, adults could learn as much abouttheir anger management skills as children.Elizabeth Coleman, Freelance Writer, Tumwater, WashingtonWhen I feel angry, written by CorneliaMaude Spelman; illustrated by NancyCote. LCCN 99016859. Morton Grove,Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2000. HBB,0807588881, $14.95.E. Anger--Fiction; Rabbits--Fiction. unp. Preschool-Primary.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 1 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

BOOK REVIEWSCHILDREN’S FICTIONBoy of the deeps, by Ian Wallace. LCCN90825658. New York: DK Ink, DorlingKindersley, 1999. HBB, 0789425696,$16.95.F. Coal mines and mining--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction; Cape Breton Island (N.S.)--Fiction. unp.Young James is following in his father’sfootsteps by working in the turn of the centurycoal mines of Nova Scotia. It is his first day buthe feels confident in being with his father whohas worked the mines for twenty years. James’father shows him how to dig for coal until it islunchtime. James finds that his mother haspacked a few daisies in his pail to commemoratehis first day. After sharing their lunch, there is acave-in and James’ father is knocked out. Afterhe comes to, they try to dig their way out andother miners come to their aid. Soon they areheaded home with the understanding that theywill be back, because this is their job.Boy of the Deeps is loosely based on theexperiences of author and illustrator IanWallace’s grandfather, who was a coal miner inEngland. The full color illustrations are ratherdark and foreboding and give the reader a goodsense of what it is like to spend one’s daysunderground in a mine. Even though the storyends happily it leaves the reader questioning thequality of James’ life and wondering if he willsurvive a lifetime of working in the dangerousmines. This book could open up some gooddiscussions with children about other children,past and present, who had very differentlifestyles from their own, but the subject may besomewhat dark for younger readers.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaThe case of the raging Rottweiler, by JohnR. Erickson; illustrations by Gerald L.Holmes. (Hank the Cowdog; 36.) LCCN00029091. New York: Viking, PenguinPutnam, 2000. HBB, 0670893641, $13.99.F. Dogs--Fiction; Rottweiler dog--Fiction; Ranch life--West (U.S.)--Fiction; Humorous stories; West (U.S.)--Fiction. 131 p. Elementary (Middle school).Hank the Cowdog is the Head of Ranch Securityon a ranch in Texas and takes his role veryseriously. His job is to investigate every visitorand mysterious event that occurs within theborders of his domain along with his faithlesssidekick, Drover. In this latest adventure in theseries by John R. Erickson, Hank and Drovercheck out a visiting dog on the ranch, whichthey initially assume is a bear or a gorilla, but isa rottweiler. Hank is sent by Slim the Cowboyto intervene when Bruiser goes after a babyfawn. He is successful in distracting Bruiser, butthen pushes his luck when Bruiser is chained inthe back of the pickup and Hank begins tauntingand insulting the rottweiler, erroneouslyassuming he’ll never see Bruiser again.Bruiser’s new mission in life is to seek revengeagainst Hank and thus the novel begins.The charm of these books is the subtle, dryhumor of a story told from the perspective of adog who perceives himself as the embodimentof every shining, glorious doggy virtue, but is inreality, not. The language is pure fun as when hegives the following directive to sidekick,Drover, "Back to the porch, son. Go to TurboFive and don’t speak to any strangers. Let’s hitit! …" Once safely on the porch, "I wentstraight into a Code Three Barking Sequence."Gerald L. Holmes provides pen and inkdrawings throughout the book that capture thecharacters’ thoughts wonderfully in their facialexpressions. Hank is a character whoseadventures you will want to share again andagain.Sally Kuhns, Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonCrazy Jacob, by Jim Ware. (KidWitnesstales.) LCCN 2001000207. Minneapolis:Bethany House, 2000. PAP, 1561798851,$5.99.F. Jesus Christ--Miracles--Fiction; Conduct of life--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction; Demoniacpossession--Fiction; Bible. N.T.--History of Biblicalevents--Fiction. 115 p.Trouble times ten, by David Lambert.(KidWitness tales.) LCCN 00010803.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1561798835, $5.99.F. Moses (Biblical leader)--Fiction; Fear--Fiction.116 p.The worst wish, by Lissa Halls Johnson.(KidWitness tales.) LCCN 00056447.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1561798827, $5.99.F. Jesus Christ--Miracles--Fiction; Brothers andsisters--Fiction; Raising of Jairus’ daughter (Miracle)--Fiction; Jews--Palestine--Fiction. 111 p.KidWitness Tales is a new series from HeritageBuilders, a ministry of Focus on the Family.These stories have fictional children as the maincharacters and follow them through real eventsfrom the Old and New Testaments. Written bydifferent Christian authors, the intent of theseries is to "help kids become excited aboutreading the Bible on their own." Whilecharacter development is fairly limited, andsome readers may be bothered by the creativelicense taken by the authors, these three titles aresuccessful in bringing to life Bible stories thatmay be inaccessible to some children. At theend of each book is a section called Letters FromOur Readers. The questions these letters covera range from, "Is this story true? If so, where doI find it (in the Bible)?" to "Why is there somuch gross stuff in this story?" Thecombination of serious and humorous answersfurther engage readers in the Bible stories andencourage reflection and discussion.Crazy Jacob retells the story of the demonpossessedman found in Mark 4:35 - 5:20 andLuke 8:22 - 39. Jim Ware writes from theperspective of the demon-possessed man’syoung son. This fictional character, Andrew,watches as his beloved father gradually changesfrom a skilled boatbuilder to a naked, violentmadman. Andrew’s only hope is a man calledJesus, who people say has healing powers.In Trouble Times Ten, Dave Lambert revisits theland of Egypt during the time of Moses throughthe eyes of a young Jew named Ben. Ben’sbiggest fear is water. When he was quite little healmost drowned. As plague after plague comesto Egypt, however, he becomes frightened ofthings he never imagined before. Ben’s biggestchallenge comes when he must follow hisfamily and cross the Red Sea to freedom. For aboy terrified of even walking near the river,passing between the huge towers of waterproves to be an almost insurmountable obstacle.The Worst Wish retells the story of Jairus and hisdaughter. Lissa Halls Johnson creates a fictionalbrother, Seth, and builds tension by imagining avery poor relationship between he and his sisterTabitha. In fact, things are so bad that Sethwishes Tabitha were dead. Seth and his friendstrick Tabitha into drinking a broth into whichthey have put a lizard, and dirt, and all sorts ofdisgusting things, and somehow this makes Sethfinally feel that he has gotten the upper hand.But when Tabitha suddenly falls deathly ill, Sethblames himself and guilt about his behaviortowards his sister torments him. A strange rabbinamed Jesus visits the region and Seth’s father,Jairus, believes that this controversial rabbi hasthe power to heal his daughter and also his son’stroubled spirit.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonA delicate balance, written by MonicaHall; based on a teleplay by Debbie Smithand Danna Doyle; from a story byJennifer Wharton. (Touched by an angel(Television program).) LCCN 98011483.Nashville: Tommy Nelson, ThomasNelson, 1998. PAP, 0849958024, $4.99.F. Gymnastics--Fiction; Guardian angels--Fiction;Angels--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Death--Fiction. 88 p.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 2 2 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 FICTIONDoodlebugs, novelization by Monica Hall;based on a teleplay by Ken LaZebnik;Martha Williamson, executive director.(Touched by an angel (Televisionprogram).) LCCN 99010328. Nashville:Tommy Nelson, Thomas Nelson, 1999.PAP, 0849958059, $4.99.F. Guardian angels--Fiction; Angels--Fiction;Christian life--Fiction. 86 p.Gymnast Rebecca Browner seriously trains tobe an Olympic contender. However, widowedMrs. Browner is having trouble getting sponsorsfor Rebecca. Rebecca’s brother (T.J.) feels sad,alone and neglected because of their nomadiclifestyle. Enter the three Angels from the TVshow, Touched by an Angel. A Delicate Balanceretells an episode in which the Angels must helpthis family reunite, overcome T.J.’s accident,and regroup after Rebecca’s fall from thebalance beam. Doodlebugs is the adaptation ofanother Touched by an Angel episode in whichMonica, Tess, and Andrew must help an entiretown and their troubled minister. Twelve yearold Jess desperately wants her widowed Dad(the town’s minister) to marry the lovely Ada.By devising schemes to get the twosometogether, Jesse’s deviousness lands her intotrouble with the entire town. Meanwhile,several townspeople are hearing God’s voice viathe downtown phone booth. These phone callsinspire some townspeople to open a supper clubwhich unfortunately catches on fire.Monica Hall (Have You Seen Me) has rewrittenthese hour episodes into a readable tale. As withother adaptations, the entire episode is notincluded. However, the characters are skillfullycreated with just the right touch of excitementand drama. Although these two books areessentially a series, they do not need to be readin any particular order. Even those readers notfamiliar with the TV show will be able to followthe storyline with help from a character profilelist at the beginning of each book.Connie Weaver, Church & Reference Librarian, Newville,PennsylvaniaGreat grizzly wilderness : a story of thePacific rain forest, by AudreyFraggalosch; illustrated by Donald G.Eberhart. (Soundprints habitat series.)LCCN 99044597. Norwalk, Ct.:Soundprints, 2000. HBB, 1568998384,$15.95.F. Grizzly bear--Fiction; Bears--Fiction. 27 p.A grizzly bear briefly wakes from hibernation togive birth and nurse her two baby cubs in therain forests of the Pacific Northwest. AudreyFraggalosch takes the reader on a year and a halfjourney in the lives of the mother grizzly bearand her cubs. As we read about the bearsexploring their habitat, searching for food,meeting dangers, and hibernating, a picture of aunique environment, the temperate rain forest ofthe Pacific Northwest, is vividly painted.Illustrator Donald G. Everhart does this uniquearea justice with his detailed and colorfulpaintings.Although Great Grizzly Wilderness is a work offiction in its story line, the text is factual andwell researched with regards to theenvironment, climate, and habits of the grizzlybear. Included for readers wishing to learn moreis a map indicating the area of the Pacificrainforest as well as a section with more detailsabout the rain forest, and addresses to write foradditional information about the Koeye RiverValley that is depicted in the story.The end of the book includes two foldout pageswith small paintings of each animal native to therain forest mentioned in the text of the book.This book represents a good introduction to anenvironment with which many are not familiar.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES, Monroe, New YorkHow do you spell faith? novelization byMonica Hall; based on a teleplay byMichael Glassberg; Martha Williamson,executive director. (Touched by an angel(Television program).) LCCN 98051077.Nashville: Tommy Nelson, ThomasNelson, 1999. PAP, 0849958040, $4.99.F. Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction;Death--Fiction; English language--Spelling--Fiction;Guardian angels--Fiction; Angels--Fiction. 86 p.The scene is set in the high school hallway astwo sisters meet. Annie and Kate are completeopposites. Annie loves words and recites fromher treasured dictionary; Kate loves basketballand is the star of the team. Although they arevery different, their love for each other is veryevident. They are truly each other’s best friends.One Friday afternoon Annie is at school takingthe test for the Regional Spelling Bee and Kateis off for the big game. Annie is unaware ofwhat has happened until the test is over, but soondiscovers that her whole world has fallen apart.In a tragic accident, Kate has been killed. NowAnnie has lost her best friend and is left withonly her mother. A mother she has never beenable to connect with before.How Do You Spell Faith? is based on the TVseries Touched by an Angel. Tess, Monica, andAndrew are angels in the book who help bothAnnie and her mother cope with their loss.Monica Hall has taken an unfortunate situationand shown how our faith in God and His love,he can mend hurts and heal broken relationships.This book shows a beautiful and acceptingrelationship between sisters, and shows parentshow they can overcome favoritism.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, Montana★The lion and the unicorn, by ShirleyHughes. LCCN 98006499. New York: DKInk, Dorling Kindersley, 1999. HBB,0789425556, $17.95.F. World War, 1939-1945--England--Fiction;Courage--Fiction; Jews--England--Fiction; England--Fiction. unp.Lenny’s father has gone off to fight in WorldWar II, leaving Lenny and his mother to survivein wartime London. Before leaving he givesLenny a medal with a lion and a unicorn on it.After a bombing raid destroys the neighbor’shouse, Lenny’s mother decides that he must goto live in the country.After traveling on a train, Lenny and three girls,Joyce, Patsy, and Winnie, arrive at the estate ofLady De Vass. The country seems strange andLenny is lonely and frightened. He also feelsdifferent because he is Jewish. No one at hisnew school is kind to him and he has troubleadjusting. But one day he discovers a hiddengarden on the estate that contains a beautifulunicorn statue. He also discovers Mick, a youngman there who is friendly to him. But hismother’s letters stop coming and he decides torun away to London to find her. On his way out,he thinks he hears a lion coming to devour himand hides in the garden of the unicorn.Ultimately he must decide if he will always beafraid of the "lions" of the world or if he will bebrave like the unicorn.Anyone who has ever been homesick or lonelyor felt out of place will identify with Lenny andhis fears in The Lion and the Unicorn. ShirleyHughes has done a marvelous job of conveyingto the reader Lenny’s sense of isolation and fear.Her use of the analogies of the fearsome lion andthe courageous unicorn are very well done andher illustrations are beautifully warm andvibrant. A lovely book to read aloud withchildren and discuss not only an importantmoment in 20th century history but the fearscommon to us all as well.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaMy big lie, by Bill Cosby; illustrated byVarnette P. Honeywood. (Little Bill booksfor beginning readers.) LCCN 98042049.New York: Scholastic, 1999. HBB,0590521608, $15.95.F. Honesty--Fiction; Tardiness-Fiction; Afro-Americans--Fiction. unp.In this next release of the Little Bill books, LittleBill gets caught in a big lie. He has permissionfrom his parents to ride his bike to the pool topractice with his friend for the upcoming swimmeet, but he has to be home on time for an earlydinner.Little Bill rides his bike by some friends who areplaying basketball, and he decides to stop andplay with them for awhile. Finally, at seven inthe evening, Little Bill realizes he is very lateand he knows he’s going to be in trouble. Witha little of encouragement from his friends, LittleBill considers excuses he can give for notobeying. His parents meet him at the door anddemand to know where he’s been. Little Billcreates a story about getting into a car with astranger, to explain his behavior. His daddecides to call the police and Little Bill tells thetruth. To punish him, his parents have him writeout a copy of the story of "The Boy Who CriedWolf." Little Bill realizes he wants his parentsC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S FICTIONto trust him and after a moment they tell himthey do.Bill Cosby has written a light hearted bookabout a little boy who tells a lie and draws aparallel to "The Boy Who Cried Wolf." Theillustrations by Varnette P. Honeywood aresimple and colorful.In the front of the book, a letter to parents isincluded by child psychiatry specialist, Dr.AlvinPoussaint. He endorses the educationalpunishment, and explains that since Little Bill’sparents maintained their confidence in him, hewill try harder to live up to their expectations inthe future.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, TexasMystery mutt, by Beverly Lewis. (The culde-sackids; 21.) LCCN 99006754.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,0764221264, $3.99.F. Fruit of the Spirit--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction;Dogs--Fiction. 73 p.Three days before New Year’s Eve, the meetingof the Cul-de-sac Kids comes to order. StacyHenry has a great idea for resolutions. Shewould like each member to select one fruit of theSpirit and improve in that area during the year.All nine members of the club think the idea iscool except Jason Birchall. No one can figureout a way to help him join the fun. At first Stacythinks her desire to become more loving doesn’tinclude Jason, but quickly realizes loving meansloving everyone. Putting her resolution intoaction, Stacy helps Jason when he finds a dirtystray dog. He would like to keep the dog, butisn’t sure his mom will say yes. Perhaps if heand Stacy get the dog really clean, then his momwill let him. When Stacy points out that he isshowing kindness to the dog, he realizes thisfruit business isn’t so bad. At the club meetingon New Year’s Eve, Jason admits Stacy’s ideawasn’t dumb after all and announces he’s pickedall the fruits of the Spirit to work on during theyear.Mystery Mutt by Beverly Lewis is anentertaining way to present the fruits of theSpirit to children. As each fruit is listed and thenselected during the first meeting, a briefexplanation of each one is given. Each memberof the club is a nice kid, even Jason who initiallydoesn’t seem like one. Smaller lessons areinterspersed with the theme. When Jason saysStacy’s idea is dumb, another club member, EricHagel tells him, "Don’t say ‘dumb.’ It’s notcool." Black and white text illustrations byJanet Huntington add depth to the story. A goodintroduction or review to the fruits of the Spirit.Elizabeth Coleman, Freelance Writer, Tumwater, WashingtonThe mystery of the empty safe, created byGertrude Chandler Warner; illustrated byCharles Tang. (Boxcar childrenmysteries; 75.) LCCN 99056190. MortonGrove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2000. PAP,0807554634, $3.95.F. Mystery and detective stories; Parties--Fiction;Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Orphans--Fiction;Birthdays--Fiction. 121 p.When their parents died, Henry, Jessie, Violet,and Benny Alden lived in a boxcar until theywere united with their grandfather. Now theyhave a home with him and plenty of adventuresto keep them busy like The Mystery of the EmptySafe, a recent addition to The Boxcar Childrenseries created by Gertrude Chandler Warner.The Alden children are hired to plan parties in awealthy neighborhood, where every house wasbuilt with its own safe. But at each home wherethe Aldens are busily entertaining, someonebreaks into the safe and steals its valuablecontents.The children take on the task of discovering thethief. Is it Cassandra the Great, the mercurialmagician who is upset that the Aldens areinfringing on her business? After all, thehighlight of her shows is a trick where shemagically causes the items in a safe to disappear.Is it the gruff Mr. Woodruff, who happens to begood at fixing things—like the locks on safes?As they sift through possible clues, the youngsleuths struggle against jumping to conclusions.They decide to set a trap at their next party andhelp police nab the crook, whose identitysurprises everyone.As in other selections in the series, the BoxcarChildren demonstrate timeless Judeo-Christianvalues without specifically referring to religion.They treat others with respect. They are politeto adults, friendly to children, and helpful tothose facing misfortune. They are also aresourceful bunch, making the most of their timeand possessions.Children will enjoy an engrossing mystery andthe detailed descriptions of the crafts,refreshments, and decorations that the BoxcarChildren choose in planning the parties. Thisbook is a good addition to any home or schoollibrary.Sharon Berg, Freelance Writer, Bellevue, NebraskaThe mystery of the painted snake, byElspeth Campbell; illustrated by JoeNordstrom. (Three cousins detective club;29.) LCCN 00010528. Minneapolis:Bethany House, 2000. PAP, 076422137X,$3.99.F. Painting--Fiction; Cousins--Fiction; Mystery anddetective stories. 64 p.Budding artist and Three Cousins DetectiveClub member, Timothy Dawson madesomething out of papier-mache for everyone onhis Christmas list this year. Timothy carefullyhid all the gifts, especially the snake for hiscousin, Titus. When Timothy’s baby sister,Priscilla, finds the snake before Christmas, Titusgets an early present and a mystery begins tounfold. Titus’ sister Sarah-Jane notices thedesign on the back of the snake and Timothyexplains he copied the snake from a mural at theArts Center. At first the snake on the mural hadno design, then later the design mysteriouslyappeared. Timothy liked the design and decidedto add it to his papier-mache creation. Thecousins decide to visit the mural. They areshocked to see the snake has no design and hasclearly been painted over. Studying the design,they realize it is a message in Morse code. Bybreaking the code and following the clues, thecousins solve the mystery.While The Mystery of the Painted Snake isbased on Psalm 102:8, the connection betweenthe Psalm and the story is subtle. AuthorElspeth Campbell Murphy has created likeablekids who are kind, thoughtful, and genuine.This comes across most when the cousins dealwith Priscilla. While not thrilled aboutincluding her, they do so to avoid making hercry on several occasions. The mystery theysolve is believable, with a mild amount ofsuspense. Fifteen chapters long, each chapterconsists of two to three pages. Black and whitetext illustrations and color cover art by JoeNordstrom add interest. A Morse Code chart isincluded, further engaging readers.Elizabeth Coleman, Freelance Writer, Tumwater, WashingtonOliver and Albert, friends forever, by JeanVan Leeuwen; pictures by AnnSchweninger. (Dial easy-to-read.) LCCN99027593. New York: Phyllis FogelmanBooks, Penguin Putnam, 2000. HBB,0803725175, $13.99.F. Pigs--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Schools--Fiction. 48 p.Mrs. Theodora Pig’s class has a new student,Albert. Oliver and his friends noticeimmediately that Albert is different. Albert isbigger than the other pigs and he can alreadyread. Albert cannot, however, play kickball.Distracted by a caterpillar while playingoutfield, Albert shows the bug to Oliver and afriendship begins to form. Oliver invites Albertto his house to practice kicking and catching.With Oliver’s help, Albert improves. Theirmutual interest in insects and bugs continues astheir teacher displays various creatures on ascience table. To learn more about a spiderfound in the classroom, Oliver and Albert checkbooks out from the library. Since Oliver can’tread yet, Albert reads to him. When Oliver andAlbert find a grasshopper at recess, they worktogether to catch it and bring it to the sciencetable.Oliver and Albert, Friends Forever is thecontinuing story of Oliver Pig. Four chapterslong, author Jean Van Leeuwen has written ameaningful easy reader. Many children willrelate to being the new student, not being goodat an activity, or just being different. Oliverprovides a good role model. When the otherstudents begin to make fun of Albert’s kickballplay, Oliver steps in and tells them to stopbecause Albert is his friend. When Oliver helpsAlbert with his kicking and catching, a soundsolution is offered, one that readers could alsoemploy. Colorful illustrations by AnnSchweninger add to the charm and provideS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 2 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 FICTIONadditional interest. There are many lessons to begleaned from this seemingly simple chapterbook.Elizabeth Coleman, Freelance Writer, Tumwater, WashingtonSafe at home : a baseball card mystery, byRobert Skead. Grand Island, Neb.: CrossTraining, 1999. PAP, 188700291X, $5.95.F. Baseball--Fiction; Baseball cards--Fiction. 94 p.Robert Skead has written a heartwarming storyof family and baseball in Safe at Home. Trevor,is eleven years old and loves to watch baseballwith his great-grandfather. They love to discussthe plays and share the memories of when hisgreat-grandfather played baseball and stolehome on the Babe. Trevor is surprised one daywhen his great-grandfather gives him a BabeRuth rookie card valued at $50,000. Trevor hasnever seen this much money before and canhardly comprehend what that means. It doesn’tmatter though, because Trevor would never sellthe card.Things begin to fall apart, however, whenTrevor takes the card to school and it is stolenfrom his backpack. Then the man from thenewspaper wants to do an article about his greatgrandpa,and now they want him to talk at aschool assembly and bring the card with him.What will Trevor do now? How can he face hisgreat-grandpa when he doubts that he is tellingthe truth? How can he tell his great-grandpa thathe lost the card?This is a charming story of the relationshipsbetween parents, children, and grandchildren. Itwould be especially interesting to young boyswho love or dream of baseball. Trevor dependson his family and the values he has learned tocarry him through this crisis. Trevor eventuallylearns a priceless lesson about friendship, truthand forgiveness.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, MontanaThe secret of the ghostly hot rod, by BillMyers; with David Winbish.(Bloodhounds, Inc.; 7.) LCCN 00008427.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1556614918, $5.99.F. Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories. 126 p.Wealthy widow, Mrs. Sanks, hires Sean andMelissa Henry to find out who is stealing herpeaches. Brother and sister, Sean and Melissaown the detective agency, BloodhoundsIncorporated. While watching Mrs. Sank’speach trees, a 1956 Chevy nearly runs downtheir dog, Slobs. The car has no driver andmysteriously disappears. As members of theMidvale community hear about the strange car,wild theories are formed. Many believe a deadresident has returned for revenge, while a fewthink Elvis Presley is cruising through town.Sean and Melissa refuse to believe any of theseideas. By following clues and using wildinventions, Bloodhounds Incorporated is able tosolve the mystery.The Secret of the Ghostly Hot Rod has a numberof unbelievable plot points. For example,Jeremiah is a green leprechaun like characterwho is created by the Henry’s scientist friend.Jeremiah is not actually human, but described as"a bundle of nervous energy." He randomlyappears in various sizes on computer monitors,watch faces, and television screens. The readeris asked to suspend their disbelief a number oftimes and the solution to the mystery is ratherfarfetched. Sean and Melissa are good rolemodels, sticking firmly to their beliefs andtrying to help their community. They aresiblings, however, and they have moments ofslight disagreement. Overall, they get along andseem to enjoy each other’s company. Mildlysuspenseful, the title is the scariest part of thebook. Young readers will be entertained withBill Myers’ successful combination of comedyand kid-friendly writing.Elizabeth Coleman, Freelance Writer, Tumwater, WashingtonSpunky’s diary, by Janette Oke; illustratedby Nancy Munger. (Janette Oke’s animalfriends.) LCCN 00011550. Minneapolis:Bethany Backyard, Bethany House, 2000.PAP, 0764224050, $5.99.F. Dogs--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 60 p.The prodigal cat, by Janette Oke;illustrated by Nancy Munger. (JanetteOke’s animal friends.) LCCN 00011551.Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, BethanyHouse, 2000. PAP, 0764224069, $5.99.F. Cats--Fiction; Pride and vanity--Fiction. 60 p.The impatient turtle, by Janette Oke;illustrated by Nancy Munger. (JanetteOke’s animal friends.) LCCN 00011552.Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, BethanyHouse, 2000. PAP, 0764224077, $5.99.F. Turtles--Fiction; Self-acceptance--Fiction. 59 p.Spunky introduces himself and his life. That lifeincludes his family, the Dobson’s. The children,Tracy and Mark, are fun, but Mark is the specialone because he’s the one who takes care ofSpunky. Mark takes Spunky on a walk to thepark and there they find lots of other kids to playwith. Spunky wants a ball small enough that hecan carry. He looks around and finds a smallblue ball in a sand box. Mark teaches him alesson about not taking things that don’t belongto him, and Spunky returns the ball to the sandbox. One Sunday morning Spunky does notwant to be left behind, so after the Dobsonsleave for church, Spunky looks for and finds away to escape the backyard. All he wants to dois to be with his family. He uses his nose to findthem and causes a mild disturbance at church.His adventures are not yet over, though. TheDobsons take Spunky with them to a farm wherehe outdoes himself in establishing his presence.Before long fall comes and Tracy and Markreturn to school. That is when Spunky has hismost exciting adventures!Who knew finding a home would be sodifficult? Mittens is one of five kittens born toTabby. Her birth home becomes her late homeafter she and her siblings begin to break thingsin their zestful playing. The little girl, Cindy,helps carry them to the animal shelter wherethey will find new homes. Though it is scarythere, Mittens has hope that a new home awaitsher. Before long, Dorothy adopts her and bringsthe kitten home. The new home has the addedinterest of a puppy, Tabby. After school hasstarted in the fall, Dorothy and her parents go ona picnic and bring Mittens and Tabby along.The kitten decides to teach Dorothy a lesson byhiding from her, which only creates a newproblem for Mittens—that of being lost.Mitten’s life then changes in ways that she couldnot expect, and after awhile, she finds herselfministering to the residents in a rest home.Pogo hates being a turtle. In fact, he hates it somuch he spends half of his young life lookingfor ways to become different. While playingwith his friends in the water, they decided totease some ducks by nipping at their feet whichdangle below. When the mother duck leads herbabies away, Pogo looks to other amusements toadd excitement to his life. Even though heknows it is dangerous to be around the hooksthrown by fishermen, Pogo enjoys tricking themby tugging on their submerged lines. Boredomsoon gives way to other games and he talks hisfriends into sliding down a slope, just as he sawsome boys doing. The problem with that, is theturtles can’t carry enough water up the slope tomake it slippery enough, and all the turtles soontire. Soon a thunderstorm comes along, andPogo and his friends look for new adventures.Poor Pogo. Everything he wants to do is sloweddown by his shell. That is until he meets up withanother critter also looking for adventure.Spunky’s Diary, The Impatient Turtle, and TheProdigal Cat by Janette Oke are charming firstchapter books for young children. Thesentences are short, the words are simple,and thebooks are full of action. Each chapter is a lessonon what should and should not be done. NancyMunger’s illustrations are detailed and colorful,with a bit of whimsy. The covers are treated towithstand longterm use. Children ages six to tenare the target audience, but I think youngerchildren will enjoy the stories just as much.They are great read-to books, and arerecommended for every library.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, Texas★The wide-awake princess, by KatherinePaterson; illustrated by Vladimir Vagin.LCCN 99030879. New York: ClarionBooks, Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,0395537770, $15.00.F. Kings, queens, rulers, etc.--Fiction; Princesses--Fiction. 47 p.Katherine Paterson is an author who can trulyspin a yarn. The Wide-awake Princess is justsuch a story. At first the reader thinks this mightbe another sleeping beauty variation only toC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S FICTIONdiscover that it is quite different and with amuch deeper message.Miranda is a princess born to a King and Queenwho are bored with everything and have losttouch with their subjects, the peasants who farmthe land and provide the basis for all the luxuryin the palace. Even the nobles only spend theirdays arguing about useless things. But Mirandais different. Her godmother has given her thespecial gift of being wide-awake during all herwaking hours. As Miranda grows up, she isinterested in everything, never bored, andalways exploring the world around her. AfterMiranda’s parents, the King and Queen die, thenobles of the land refuse to allow Miranda toassume the throne. Miranda is after all a girl andstill young. At age twelve Miranda decides togo out into the kingdom and explore what theworld has to offer. Miranda becomes a friend ofthe peasants who do not know who she is, andsoon helps them to appreciate the value of whatthey already have in order to make changes in away of life. Eventually the peasants rise uppeacefully and take back the kingdom withMiranda as their leader.Katherine Paterson has woven into the story of aprincess, the wonder of learning to findresources within you to make change comeabout. The Wide-awake Princess is a peacefulrevolution and a polite feminist statementmaking both points quite effectively withoutneedless rhetoric. The art is pencil withwatercolor and a pleasure to look at.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES, Monroe, New YorkThe yellow star : the legend of KingChristian X of Denmark, by Carmen AgraDeedy; illustrated by Henri Sorensen.LCCN 00010602. Atlanta, Ga.: Peachtree,2000. HBB, 1561452084, $16.95.F. Christian X, King of Denmark, 1870-1947--Fiction; Denmark--History--German occupation,1940-1945--Fiction. unp.The Yellow Star does a superb job of makingdark subject matter—the Holocaust—accessibleto young readers. Readers first meet KingChristian as he rides his horse through the streetsof Nazi-occupied Denmark. When the order isgiven that a Nazi flag must fly above his palace,he defies the order. When the Nazis demandthat all Jews wear a yellow star, the king ponderswhat to do, and gazing at the night sky, isinspired by the millions of stars overhead. Thenext morning he rides through the streets with ayellow star sewn on his jacket. The Danishpeople see by example what they are to do andovernight everyone begins wearing the yellowstar."And once again, in the country of Denmark,there were only Danes." Henri Sorensen’swonderful double-page illustrations drawviewers into the events of this terrible time in away that informs without terrifying. Close-upportraits and street scenes depict the warmth andthe strength of the Danish people going abouttheir daily lives. In contrast, dark tonesdramatize the confrontation between the Nazicommander and the king.Carmen Agra Deedy’s author’s note is animportant part of the book as it explains what isknown to be true about this legend. It alsomakes clear the moral issue that is truly the mostimportant idea to bring away from the book:"What if we could follow that example todayagainst violators of human rights?"Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

BOOK REVIEWSCHILDREN’S NONFICTION200’s—ReligionThe Usborne children’s Bible : a collectionof Bible stories, retold by Heather Amery;illustrated by Linda Edwards. London,Eng.: Usborne, 1998. HBB, 0746030436,$19.95.220. Bible stories. 144 p.The Usborne Children’s Bible is a collection oftwenty-one Old Testament and twenty-threeNew Testament stories. The stories and parablesare carefully retold in simple, straightforwardlanguage by Heather Amery, in consultationwith biblical scholars and advisers. For the mostpart, the stories are organized in the samesequence as the Bible with a demarcation of theOld and New Testaments. Each story has atleast one illustration, and often more, depictingthe action and scenes.Illustrator Linda Edwards has created beautifuland decorative illustrations and borders. Herbold, bright colors will be attractive to youngchildren, as will the straightforward depictionsof characters and scenes. The illustrations helpthe world of the Bible come to life with theportrayals of people, clothes, houses, andlandscapes. Each page is surrounded by acolorful border which adds interest all pages.The combination of simple text and attractiveillustrations make this a wonderful book foryoung readers and audiences alike.Kerri Cunningham, Librarian, Camano Island, WashingtonFocus on the Family presents TheAdventures in Odyssey Bible : including thefull text of the New King James Version.LCCN 00699766. Nashville: TommyNelson, Thomas Nelson, 2000. PAP,1561798517, $16.99.220. Bible--Children’s use. 1677 p.Children familiar with Focus on the Family’sAdventures in Odyssey radio series and videoswill love this new addition: The Adventures inOdyssey Bible, a New King James paperbackfeaturing their favorite characters on a bright redcover.Designed to teach children how to study forthemselves, and to relate the Word to their lives,the Odyssey Bible enables them to movequickly through Old and New Testaments usinga reference-linked study system. In thirty-twopages of brightly-colored comics, Odysseycharacters delight readers with engaging stories.Fifty memory verses appear in special littleboxes. Extra teaching comes through Whit’sWisdom columns and from miniature Odysseycharacters, who appear 100 times to clarify theScriptures.Focus on the Family has created a Bible childrenwill treasure. Its format and illustrations entice,motivate, and instruct. One reference linksummarizes the story of Nadab and Abihu inLeviticus. "To meet a brother and sister whowere jealous, fly to page 190." The readerszoom to the next reference and learn to helptheir siblings do what God wants—avoidsinning against Him and getting each other intotrouble. In one comic insert, two brothers onstilts learn the importance of obedience.Children will grasp powerful understandingsfrom a text with high reader identity content.Nearly 1700 pages long, The Adventures inOdyssey Bible is easy to handle. It will becomea dear friend, and youngsters will exclaim withaffection, "This is my Bible!"Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer/Substitute Teacher/Former Librarian,Tukwila, WashingtonThe Old Testament : the Usborne children’sBible, retold by Heather Amery;illustrated by Linda Edwards. London,Eng.: Usborne, 1999. HBB, 0746034571,$15.95.221.9’505. Bible stories--O.T.. 72 p.Heather Amery has chosen twenty-two storiesfrom the Old Testament of the Bible for herretelling in The Usborne Children’s Bible : TheOld Testament. These stories are surely some ofthe best-loved and most important stories fromthe Bible. Our Christian history as told firstthrough the stories of the Old Testament is onethat is rich with interesting people living inGod’s world. Each story and each character isrepresented with reverence and understanding inthe easier language of our times. As a means ofbecoming familiar with the stories of the Bible,this is an excellent venue. After hearing orreading these retellings, children will certainlybe encouraged to read the originals in the Bible.Although worded and formatted for use withchildren, adults will enjoy the story essence insuch treasures as Noah and his Ark and Josephand his wonderful coat. The modern languagedoes not take away from the beauty of theBiblical stories.Illustrator Linda Edwards has provided simple,colorful pictures for each story. Most of theillustrations are small, although for severalstories there are full-page panels. Each page hasa border unique to that story. Joseph and hiswonderful coat is bordered with multi-coloreddiagonal stripes reminiscent of that wonderfulcoat. Moses leads his people out of Egyptincludes a full page illustration of one of theplagues God delivered upon Egypt prior toPharaoh permitting the Israelites to leave withMoses. Full of detail without becomingcluttered, this illustration is bound to sparkdiscussion of this important event in ourChristian history. This retelling of loved Biblestories is a pleasure to read and view.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES, Monroe, New YorkAt break of day, written by Nikki Grimes;illustrated by Paul Morin. LCCN95030389. Grand Rapids: EerdmansBooks for Young Readers, Wm. B.Eerdmans, 1999. HBB, 0802851045,$17.00.231.7’65. Creation; God. unp.This story begins once upon a time when therewas no time. There was only darkness and thewaters of the deep and a father and son whowatched over them. The book follows the daysof creation as the son speaks it into being and thefather approvingly looks on. There is greatexcitement as each new, beautiful creation isadded. When all the work is finished andeverything is perfect, both the father and sonstop and rest. They admire the work of theircreation.Nikki Grimes has found a new and creative wayto tell the story of creation in At Break of Day.The book has a bit of the traditional culture ofstorytelling. The scene is set and you listenintently as the story unfolds. Paul Morin hascreated some exquisite illustrations. The pagesare covered with colors and textures. The sunseems to almost be burning on the page. Itreflects a beautiful combination of styles. Thisbook would make a delightful addition foryoung and old.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, MontanaLove one another : the last days of Jesus,retold by Lauren Thompson; illustratedby Elizabeth Vyehara. LCCN 99025157.New York: Scholastic, 2000. HBB,0590318306, $15.95.232.9’7. Jesus Christ--Resurrection; Jesus Christ--Biography--Passion Week; Easter. unp.Throughout his ministry, Jesus teaches people tolove God and each other. Crowds are drawn tohim and his words. Jesus continues to teach thecrowds, his followers, and his disciples even ashis own death looms imminent. Although hisdisciples do not comprehend what is coming,Jesus continues to love and teach them. Afterhis trial, Jesus is crucified at the crowd’sinsistent urging. Mary arrives at the tomb, andfinds the tomb empty. She inquires of a mannearby, "Someone has taken our dear teacheraway. Can you tell me where?" When hespeaks, she knows he is alive rather than in thetomb. Later disciples gather with Jesus, andC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONlearn that they will now teach others as Jesustaught them to love God and one another.The author, Lauren Thompson, shares the Easterstory of Christ’s ministry, crucifixion, andresurrection in plan language that follows thebiblical accounts. She reveals in the author’snote that to her "the heart of the Easter miracleis this: No sorrow is so great that love cannotheal it." Her retelling of the story closelyreflects scripture. The oil on canvas paintingsby Elizabeth Uyehara are vibrant and moving.They communicate the essence of each scene,and portray the crucifixion in realistic, butloving terms. One departure from scripture isthat Jesus is painted on the cross with ropebinding him there.Carol M. Jones, Librarian, South Side Elementary School andMarquette, Pre-K Center, Champaign, IllinoisAll things bright and beautiful, text byCecil Frances Alexander; illustrated byPreston McDaniels. LCCN 99049717.Harrisburg, Pa.: Morehouse Publishing,2000. HBB, 0819218340, $17.99.264’.23. Nature--Religious aspects--Christianity;Praise of God; Nature--Songs and music; Creation--Songs and music; Hymns. unp.The hymn "All Things Bright and Beautiful" byCecil Frances Alexander is a beloved and wellknowncelebration of God’s creation. The hymnjoyfully recounts God’s handiwork as displayedin plants, animals, and the earth itself, and thenreminds the listener that God also gave us eyesto see and lips to tell "how great is GodAlmighty who had made all things well."This well-known and beloved hymn iswhimsically illustrated by Preston McDanielsand placed in a picture book format. The secondin a series of hymns to be illustrated byMcDaniels, All Things Bright and Beautiful is awonderful tool for sharing God’s creation andpower with young children. As in God of theSparrow, the first book in the series, theillustrations are fantastical and fanciful and willundoubtedly be attractive to young children.Humor is evident on most every page.However, unlike God of the Sparrow, this hymnmakes for a very straight-forward picture book.Its clarity of point and directness of theme alloweven a very young listener to understand itsmessage. Music and words to the hymn areincluded.Kerri A. Cunningham, Librarian, Camano Island, Washington★From Arapesh to Zuni : a book of Biblelesspeoples, by Karen Lewis; illustrations byAlice Erath Roder. Orlando, Fla.:Wycliffe Bible Translators, 1986. PAP,0938978071, $5.95.266. Missions; Bible--Translating. 32 p.From Arapesh to Zuni: A Book of BiblelessPeoples is an alphabet book with a difference.From among thousands of people groupswithout the Bible in their "heart language,"twenty-six people groups from various countrieson six continents are illustrated and brieflydescribed—one for each letter of the alphabet.Each letter page features a three-inch-widecolumn with simple text by Karen Lewisdescribing elements of the culture and climate ofthe people group pictured in an 8-inch by 8 1/2-inch full-color illustration. Alice Erath Roderbased her uncluttered paintings on photographsfocusing upon people from each area. Beneaththe name of each people group is a guide tocorrect pronunciation of that name. Each pageends with the refrain that "The ... people do nothave the Bible in their own language." A worldmap at the end of the book shows the locationand population of each of the people groupsfeatured.The introduction to this appealing bookencourages prayer for Bibleless peoples.Originally published in 1986, the 1994 revisionnotes progress in the translation efforts for someof the languages featured. (Some Scriptures arenow available in several of these languages.Before her recent death from cancer, Lewis hadhoped to proceed with a second book,describing twenty-six more from among themore than 3000 people groups still without theScriptures. Her partner plans to carry on withthat vision.) These snapshots of the lives ofpeople around the world remind readers thatGod loves people from all cultures. The task oftranslating the Bible into remaining languages isimmense. Readers who have Internet accessmay wish to check translation progress in thevarious languages using the online Ethnologueproduced by the Summer Institute of Linguistics(www.sil.org/ethnologue/).Donna W. Bowling, Graduate Institute of Applied LinguisticsLibrary, Dallas, TexasCrafts for Christian values, by Kathy Ross;illustrated by Sharon Lane Holm. LCCN00021805. Brookfield, Ct.: MillbrookPress, 2000. HBB, 0761316183, $24.90.268’.432. Bible crafts; Values--Study and teaching;Christian education of children. 63 p.Crafts for Christian Values offers twenty-eighteasy to make projects, each meant to reinforce aChristian character quality. A supply list, stepby step instructions, and clear simple drawingsare provided, guiding the reader through eachcraft. Believing that children need models toremind them to practice Godly behavior, authorKathy Ross has designed these projects as aconcrete way to encourage children to practiceGod’s values.Christian children’s group leaders and teacherswill appreciate the clear instructions and theconnection between each project and itscharacter quality. One scripture reference isgiven for each activity; the reader will need tolook up the text. Materials needed for each craftare commonly available and inexpensive.Projects are simple and few are made for longlasting quality. Some entries have odd materialchoices, such as using staples to secure fabricseams. This reader was continually thinking ofhow to change one or two things in eachselection, to make improvements. Experiencedteachers will find the usual material choices andtypical project ideas. Nonetheless, a creativeleader will discover selections that can be easilymodified to supplement existing ChristianSchool, Sunday School, or home schoolcurriculum; and projects that will be meaningfuland fun for kids.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,Washington300’s—Social SciencesMountain town, by Bonnie and ArthurGeisert. LCCN 99029856. Boston:Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,0395953901, $16.00.305.5. Mountain life; Cities and towns; City and townlife; Seasons. 32 p.Mountain Town is the third book in Bonnie andArthur Geisert’s series of books (River Town andPrairie Town) illustrating the lifestyles ofdiffering types of towns for young readers. Theclever illustrations cycle the reader from winterto winter through a year in small town in themountains. The book does a nice job ofdepicting life in a rural American town that ismainly dependent on mining and lumber forincome. The finely detailed illustrations areextremely fun to look at and readers will be ableto see "mini-stories" happening—from achimney that is slowly being built, to a blue carthat shows up all over town, to an attemptedbank robbery. Great book for reinforcingyounger readers’ social studies lessons.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaDo you remember the color blue? : andother questions kids ask about blindness, bySally Hobart Alexander. LCCN 99034130.New York: Viking, Penguin Putnam, 2000.HBB, 0670880434, $15.99.305.9’08161. Alexander, Sally Hobart; Blind;Physically handicapped; Blind authors--Biography. 78p. (All ages).After teacher Sally Hobart Alexander went blindin early adulthood, she wondered if she wouldbe able to continue her teaching career. Herquestion found an answer, yes, still a teacher ina new way. Sally shares with her students bothin classrooms, and now through her book DoYou Remember The Color Blue? her answersand insights into the many questions childrenand adults have asked her about blindness. Heranswers are honest, complete, and thoughtprovoking. She tells without embarrassmenthow she went blind, her feelings then and nowabout being blind, and how she lives her dailylife. Answering questions many of us may havenever had the courage to ask, she puts her readerat ease giving them a much greaterunderstanding of what it means to live in a worldwithout color or dimension.While the book is illustrated with a fewphotographs in black and white, it is meant to bea resource book on blindness, not a picture bookS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 2 8 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 NONFICTIONfor children; to be read in short sittings ratherthan all at once, and used as a guide andresource for further exploration of the world ofthe blind. The book contains resources at theend for further study, and is indexed.Judy Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonWhat is a teacher? by Barbara Lehn;photographs by Carol Krauss. LCCN00021495. Brookfield, Ct.: MillbrookPress, 2000. HBB, 0761317139, $19.90.371.1. Teachers; Occupations. unp.In this gentle follow-up to What is a Scientist?author Barbara Lehn suggests many possibleanswers to the question "What is a teacher?". Ateacher encourages, demonstrates, never givesup, shares, etc. Each attribute is wonderfullyillustrated by lovely photographs taken by CarolKrauss. The photographs have brightly coloredborders that are very appealing to the eye andportray children teaching others. At the end ofthe book are two pages summing up all thethings that teachers do.This charming book not only reinforces in achild’s mind all the incredible ways that teachershelp us, but shows the child that we all areteachers of one sort or another and that evenchildren are involved in this activity much of thetime. This would be an affirming book to readwith a young child and would be a finespringboard to discussions on how they "teach."Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaHappy New Year, everywhere! by ArleneErlbach; illustrated by Sharon LaneHolm. LCCN 99057335. Brookfield, Ct.:Millbrook Press, 2000. HBB, 0761317074,$22.90.394.2614. New Year; Holidays. 48 p."Bòn Aneé!" This is "Happy New Year" inCreole, one of Haiti’s two official languages. InIndia, it’s "Sal Mubarak" (sal muh-BAH-rahk),in Greece it’s "Chronia Pólla" (KRON-yah pole-AH), and in Germany it’s "Frohes Neues Jahr"(FROY-es NOY-ess Yar). From Belgium to VietNam, author Arlene Erlbach presents delightfuldetails covering twenty countries around theworld and how children celebrate New Year’sEve in those countries. The information isattractively arranged on double-page spreads,including the date for the New Year, the specialgreeting and how to pronounce it, and a lighthearteddescription of that country’s celebrationtraditions. A small world map appears in theupper left corner of each double-page spreadshowing the location of the country beingfeatured.A special bonus are the craft and activity ideasfor each country’s New Year traditions. Forinstance, Belgium children complete a NewYear’s letter to their parents in which theyexpress their gratitude and include theirpromises for the new year. They decorate theseletters with drawings, stickers and glitter, and onNew Year’s Day, each child stands on a chairand reads the letter to his or her parents "to showthem how much they are appreciated." Someactivities to be aware of include Germany (afortune telling game), and India (lighting lampsto invite Lakshmi, India’s "goddess of wealthand prosperity"). However, the culturalinformation is interesting and can be used tocompare or contrast with our own traditions inthe U.S. Delightful illustrations by Sharon LaneHolm appear on every page, done in a clear styleusing pen and watercolor, adding lots of charmto this well-researched book.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, IowaThe girl who spun gold, by VirginiaHamilton; illustrated by Leo & DianeDillon. LCCN 99086365. New York: TheBlue Sky Press, Scholastic, 2000. HBB,0590473786, $16.95.398.2. Fairy tales; Folklore--West Indies. unp.Virginia Hamiltonís book, The Girl Who SpunGold, is her retelling of the story of a cruel littleman who helps a woman spin fibers into gold,often known by the German title of the bestknown version of this story, "Rumpelstiltskin."Hamilton’s version is taken from a West Indianvariant, called "Mr. Titman" (meaning "littleman"), which she took from a collection ofstories by Pamela Colman Smith, published byR. H. Russell, New York, in 1899. Smith used adifficult-to-read black dialect, which Hamiltontranslated for her story into a simpler style thatshe says "is easy to read aloud and is a truerreflection of a lilting West Indian speechpattern."The book’s illustrations, painstakingly doneusing a four-color process overpainted in gold,with gold leaf borders, look as if they weresimple to do, but the illustrators (Caldecottmedal-winnersLeo and Diane Dillon) say theyweren’t. "[Although we knew] the difficulty ofpainting with metallic paint as well as thedifficulty of reproducing gold, we still chose touse it, for the story itself revolves around theconcept of gold."The human faces (including main charactersQueen Quashiba and Big King) are strong andattractive, while the villain, Lit’mahn Bittyun, isevil-looking, with yellow eyes, pointed teeth,and a long pointed tail. The costumes anddetailed backgrounds add to the strong WestIndian flavor already present in the storythrough Hamilton’s use of colloquial speech.The Dillons and Hamilton have collaborated onother books before, but this is their first picturebook together.Betty Winslow, Bowling Green Christian Academy, Bowling Green,OhioThe legend of the kite : a story of China, byJiang Hong Chen. LCCN 99028855.Norwalk, Ct.: Soundprints, 1999. HBB,1568998104, $15.95.398.2’0951’07. Kites--Folklore; Folklore--China. 32p.A boy and his grandfather try the boy’s new kiteduring the annual kite flying festival in Chinawhen the string of the magnificent dragon kitesnaps and the kite is shredded. To take hisgrandson’s mind off his disappointment, the oldman tells him the legend on which the kitefestival is based. Long ago a boy and girl grewup as neighbors in old Beijing. When theybecame of age, they thought to marry; but beforethey could the emperor heard of the youngwoman’s beauty and demanded that she come tolive at court. In great sorrow, the womanprepared to leave; but her faithful betrothedfound a way. He painted a beautiful kite in thelikeness of his beloved, and while all of Beijingmarveled at the sight of a woman flying, theyfled the city to live happily ever after.Enchanted with the story, the boy is determinedto make a new kite.The Legend of the Kite by Jiang Hong Chen isbeautifully illustrated by the author in the classicstyle of Chinese painting. Medieval China isdepicted with detail, grace, and humor as thebackdrop for this typical fairy tale of starcrossedlovers. The text is spare and, curiously,the present day part of the story is written inpresent tense; the more commonly used pasttense being reserved for that part of the storythat takes place in the past. The last severalpages provide readers with a map of thePeople’s Republic of China, some facts aboutChina and a page on the place of kites inChinese culture. The pronunciation for severalChinese words used in the text is provided, aswell as a translation. This is a gentle book thatis amenable to a variety of uses from art class, tosocial studies, to storytime.Pamela A. Todd, Librarian/English Teacher, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaThe hatseller and the monkeys : a WestAfrican folktale, retold and illustrated byBaba Wagué Diakité. LCCN 98016250.New York: Scholastic, 1999. HBB,0590960695, $15.95.398.2’096623’02. Folklore--Mali. unp. (Preschool).The hatseller is filled with happiness. He lovesto sell hats to everyone in his own andneighboring villages. He makes different kindsand colors of hats: the wide-brimmed dibri hatthat offers shade on hot summer days, and theclose fitting fugulan caps that keep the rainaway. Because he is so happy, when he entersthe villages the children run to him and singalong with him. He works extra hard for a bigfestival they are celebrating and forgets to eat.On his way to town BaMusa becomes so weakfrom hunger that he has to stop and rest underthe shade of the mango tree. There are manymonkeys in that mango tree, and they take all hishats and fall asleep high up in the tree. How isBaMusa ever going to get his hats back?When the monkeys throw mangoes down atBaMusa he decides to eat some and get hisstrength back. Now he can think clearly!BaMusa’s clever and funny antics finally trickC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONthe monkeys into throwing their hats back athim. He picks them up and hurries to thefestival where he is able to sell all of his hats.The now wiser BaMusa realizes that one thinksbest with a full stomach—"For an empty satchelcannot stand."The storyline is simple and filled with fun andunusual words. Some meanings are obvious,and others are given. The illustrations arecolorful and humorous, becoming as importantto the story as the words. The Author’s Note atthe end of the book introduces theauthor/illustrator, Baba Wague Diakite, whoexplains the tradition of hat-making and the lifelessons one learns from this simple story, TheHatseller and the Monkeys.Mary McKinney, Writer, Editor, Former Teacher, Port Orchard,WashingtonFables of Aesop, by Aesop; illustrated byTom Lynch. LCCN 00008088. New York:Viking, Penguin Putnam, 2000. HBB,0670889482, $15.99.398.24’52. Fables, Greek--Translations into English;Fables; Folklore. unp.The fables of Aesop seek to teach virtues thatwill make life better for those who choose topractice them. Loyalty, gratitude, kindness, andmodesty are some of the values common toAesop. Fables of Aesop is a collection ofthirteen fables. The clever fox and the foolishcrow, the vain peacock who learns a lesson, thelittle mouse who helps a lion are a few of thememorable characters found in this collection offables.Tom Lynch brings a fresh new-life to these tales.He has adapted the text to a crisp, one-pagedialogue. Each one is precise and to the pointwith the lesson spelled out at the conclusion. Soremember… Lynch illustrates these well-lovedtales with brilliant and colorful fabric collages.This book is a great example of how childrencould illustrate their own stories with collage.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, Montana400’s—LanguageSeeker of knowledge : the man whodeciphered Egyptian hieroglyphs, by JamesRumford. LCCN 99037254. Boston:Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,039597934X, $15.00.493’.1’092. Champollion, Jean-Francois, 1790-1832;Egyptian language--Writing, Hieroglyphic;Egyptologists. unp.In the opening years of the nineteenth century,the people of France were enthralled with theartifacts coming to them as a result ofNapoleon’s conquest of Egypt. Among themwas a young boy whose fascination for theenigma of Egypt’s ancient writing was todetermine the course of his life. Jean-FrancoisChampollion first heard of the mysteriouswritings when he was only seven years old, buteven at that age, he was determined to translatethe strange pictures. Throughout his growingyears he devoured anything he could find aboutEgypt and learned many of the ancientlanguages. Several times he came close togaining permission to work on the most hopefulkey, the Rosetta Stone, but was prevented bytumultuous conditions in France. Finally, atthirty years of age, he was given permission andsucceeded in the translation where so many hadfailed.Seeker of Knowledge returns the romance to thestudy of ancient history that used to causechildren to want to become archeologists.James Rumford’s text is deceptively simple, butperfectly suited to convey the wonder anddetermination of Champollion and the mysteryof the writing he deciphered. His pen andwatercolor illustrations are clear and inviting,but the real delight are the hieroglyphicssprinkled within the text like a rebus. Likeyoung Champollion, children will be fascinatedwith these little pictures whose meanings aremade clear in the text and sidebars. With thereturn to classical sequences of study, oneproblem has been the dearth of attractive, yetinformative resources for the youngerelementary grades. Seeker of Knowledge is bothwith the added bonus of a literary style and atone that conveys a love of the subject.Pamela A. Todd, Librarian/English Teacher, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, Georgia500’s—Natural Sciences & MathematicsNature for fun projects, by Sally Hewitt.LCCN 00043228. Brookfield, Ct.: CopperBeach Books, 2000. PAP, 0761308334,$14.95.508. Nature study; Natural history--Experiments;Experiments. 160 p.Large print, bright colorful illustrations, andphotographs will encourage both adults andchildren to try Sally Hewitt’s Nature for FunProjects. Divided into six sections, the bookcontains interesting projects that will teachyoung readers more about the world they live in.Beginning with the weather, Hewitt goes on tocover plants and wildlife living in rivers, ponds,and seashore, the backyard, life cycles, woodsand meadows, and our changing seasons. In theweather section Hewitt describes how to makean easy barometer using a balloon stretched overthe top of a jar. Some of the river and seashoreprojects would require access to the appropriatenatural area, but other projects in the sectioncould be done anywhere. In the woods andmeadows section Hewitt gives clear directionsfor making leaf rubbings and a sketchbook offlower pictures. If you don’t have access to ameadow many of these projects could be done ina yard or park.Clear, basic directions accompany the projects.Special signs tell the reader when an adult isneeded. Yellow warning signs lets you knowwhen special care must be taken. For example,never look straight at the sun and never collectshells with live creatures inside. The glossary atthe back of the book contains additionalinformation on some of the words used in thebook. There is also a good index. Thephotography of Roger Vlitos and illustrations byTony Kenyon, Stuart Squires, and MikeAtkinson are combined to produce a delightfulbook with great visual appeal. This would makea good one or two year natural science programfor schools or homeschool moms. It would alsobe a good book for parents to take on vacation oruse on those days when the children can’t findanything to doBarbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonABC nature riddles, by Susan Joyce;illustrations by Doug DuBosque. LCCN99021343. Columbus, N.C.: PeelProductions, 2000. HBB, 0939217538,$13.95.508. Riddles; Nature; Alphabet. unp.A book for children, but don’t be surprised ifadults linger! The twenty-six alphabet basedriddles provide mystery and puzzles to solve.Each double-page layout includes DuBosque’sclever illustrations that melt into Joyce’s text.Joyce’s earlier Alphabet Riddles (1998) getsfurther attention here as the passages slip intorhyme. The book’s pleasing layout and graphicsin bright color place this playful approach tolearning a sure hit with children. Primary gradeteachers can utilize the title both with individualchildren who need extra attention, and in agroup setting in creating phonemic awareness.The author’s experience of childhood dyslexiahas created sensitivity and real help to makesense of letters, sounds and words. Childrenwill likely so enjoy the experience that theywon’t realize they are growing in phonemicawareness. Highly recommended for privatepurchase and in use in primary classrooms.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaRiver of life, by Debbie S. Miller;illustrated by Jon Van Zyle. LCCN99038350. New York: Clarion Books,Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,0395967902, $15.00.577.6’4. Stream ecology; Ecology; Zoology--Alaska.32 p.River of Life is a wonderfully illustrated bookthat discusses life along an Alaskan river.Illustrated by the official Iditarod Alaskan artist,Jon Van Zyle, the portrayal of the wildlife is sorealistic that the reader can actually see thedetail of fur, feathers, and fish scales. Eachwildlife painting includes a description of theaction taking place. The reader will see thehumor of a fish splashing water into a moose’sface, a brown bear fishing for salmon, andscavengers circling a dead fish that is beingeaten by a fox.Author Debbie S. Miller describes the Alaskanwilderness with poetical words that help thereader to envision the swirling snowflakes of asnowfall, the trickle of a springtime river, thewarmth of a summer day watching a dragonfly,and the quietness of an autumn day. AlthoughS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 3 0 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 NONFICTIONmany unfamiliar words are used to describe theAlaskan wildlife, a glossary is provided in theback of the book to define those terms. Millerand Van Zyle have collaborated on severalaward winning books such as: A CaribouJourney and Disappearing Lake.Connie Weaver, Church and Reference Librarian, Newville,PennsylvaniaOak tree, by Gordon Morrison. LCCN98055148. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2000. HBB, 0395956447, $16.00.583’.46. Oak; Trees; Forest ecology; Ecology;Seasons. 30 p.The simplicity, yet detail, of this book byGordon Morrison beg for examination again andagain. There’s so much here to learn. Watchinga large oak tree through a year’s seasons, welearn about the tree itself; the animals, birds, andinsects who live and feed in it; and the the effectof the four season’s cycles on them all.Morrison’s genius is leaving white space on thepage and including brief facts in smaller type onthe sides or bottom. His skill with detail in bothtext and illustration is outstanding, allowing usto feel as if we really watched a red-tailed hawkbuild a nest in the upper branches, or thecocooning of a cecropia moth as it attaches itselfto a twig. Morrison blends science, botany,zoology, and a knack for fictionalized nonfictionthat is unparalleled. This book is best given to achild to read on his or her own so he or she canspend time examining each page, and is anexcellent choice for libraries.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, IowaThe peregrine’s journey : a story ofmigration, by Madeleine Dunphy;illustrated by Kristin Kest. LCCN99054840. Brookfield, Ct.: MillbrookPress, 2000. HBB, 0761313632, $21.90.598’.918. Peregrine falcon--Fiction; Falcons--Fiction.32 p.The Peregrine’s Journey by Madeleine Dunphyis the story, in words and pictures, of thehighlights of a peregrine falcon’s annual tripfrom Alaska to Argentina. The book begins witha line map marking the route and tying it to pagenumbers of the text. The migration was trackedfrom actual scientific data using satellitetelemetry. Her route and activities, diet, naturalenemies, and her ability to travel using hereyesight and instincts are described in a simpleand focused manner. The text closes with a page"About Peregrine Falcons," which discusses therecovery of the bird from near extinction.The illustrations play a beautiful and significantpart in the book. The falcon is shown withincredible detail from many differentperspectives and in many flight positions thatshow off her magnificence. The landscapes areaccurately portrayed in strong colors and softlines, with the exception of the boxy skyscrapersin Seattle. Many contrasts are used: realisticand soft, dark and light, grand and small, forexample. The reader might well wish to viewthe flight of this bird from a high vantage pointin Central America where she traveled withthousands of other birds.Judy Belcher, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,Washington600’s—Technology (Applied Sciences)Girls think of everything : stories ofingenious inventions by women, byCatherine Thimmesh; illustrated byMelissa Sweet. LCCN 99036270. Boston:Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,0395937442, $16.00.609.2’273. Women inventors; Inventors; Inventions;Women--Biography. 57 p.The old saying that "necessity is the mother ofinvention" certainly applies to Girls Think ofEverything by Catherine Thimmesh.Throughout history women have been fillingneeds with new inventions. Unfortunately,during most of these years women got no creditfor their inventions. If any woman chose topatent an invention, she would be forced to doso under a man’s name. In many instances, abusy woman’s invention was simply a means ofsaving time, as in the invention of the TollHouse chocolate chip cookie. Other inventionswere the result of a woman witnessing someoneelse’s need, as in the case of the invention of thewindshield wiper by Mary Anderson becauseshe felt sorry for a streetcar driver who wasstruggling to see. Some inventions describedare by women in the workplace to help withtheir jobs, such as paper bags, liquid paper, andthe computer compiler. Other women, such asNASA employees Jeanne Lee Crews andValerie Thomas, have created their inventions asa part of their work. Age is also no barrier foryoung inventers such as ten-year-old BeckySchroeder, the youngest female to receive a USpatent for her glow-in-the-dark paper.Along with stories of women inventors, GirlsThink of Everything includes a list of some ofwomen’s inventions from 3000 BC to thepresent. The author has also includedinformation on obtaining patents, contests andorganizations which encourage creative youngminds, and a bibliography for further reading.Small watercolor portraits of the inventor andbright full-page collages of the invention greatlyenhance the book. This book should be widelyenjoyed by readers regardless of age or gender,and hopefully will help creative young people torealize that anyone can be an inventor.Virginia Brown, Library Assistant/Freelance Writer/FormerTeacher, Sheridan, WyomingJohn Glenn’s return to space, by GregoryVogt. LCCN 00020768. Brookfield, Ct.:Millbrook Press, 2000. HBB, 0761316140,$22.90.629.45’0092. Glenn, John, 1921; Space flights; Spaceshuttles; Astronautics; Astronauts. 72 p.What do you get when you cross a persistent,popular man with a need to research aging? Youget seventy-seven year old John Glenn aboardthe space shuttle Discovery. The first astronautto orbit the earth in 1962, Glenn longed to returnto space and got his wish in 1998. His mission:to collect data on aging, zero gravity, and theeffects on the body. After his first mission,Glenn served as United States Senator and realestate investor, but his passion remained space.A fitting tribute to one of America’s heroes,John Glenn’s Return to Space by Gregory Vogtengagingly illustrates the life of this legend withcolor and black and white pictures, about oneevery three pages. Photos of Earth from orbit,Glenn with President Kennedy and his fellowastronauts are special treasures. Complexity ofwords and length of chapters make the bookappropriate for upper elementary students.A two-page glossary contains space terminologyalong with project and spaceship names. Alsoincluded is a two-page chronology of Glenn’slife from birth in 1921 to the present. For furtherstudy, readers will find a list of related books,magazine articles, and websites. Finally, acomprehensive three-page index directs readersto topics within the book.This chronicle of Glenn’s lifelong love affairwith the universe will delight and inform olderchildren and adults for years to come.Anita Goldman Horning, Freelance Writer, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaThe Kids Can Press jumbo cookbook,written by Judi Gillies and JenniferGlossop; illustrated by Louise Phillips.Toronto: Kids Can, 2000. PAP,1550746214, $14.95.641.5’123. Cookery. 256 p.In The Kids Can Press Jumbo Cookbook,Canadian authors Judi Gillies and JenniferGlossop set out to make cooking seem like asimple, easy, and fun thing for kids to do—andthey succeed! The book begins with veryhelpful sections on basic cooking terms andtechniques, measuring methods (both metric andimperial), safety tips, and menu planning. Itthen proceeds to the recipes, which include kidfriendlyfoods such as French Toast, GrilledCheese Sandwiches, Chili con Carne, Pizza, andPretzels, and fun foods like Jelly Aquariums andToad in a Hole. Some of the recipes, such asQuesadillas, Hummus, and Sushi, are somewhatunusual foods for children, but if a child had ahand in the preparation, he or she might bewilling to at least try one or two of them.The recipes are written clearly enough for achild to be able to read and understand themwithout much help, and each one includes theutensils and ingredients needed for it and theamount of time it takes to prepare and cook it, aswell as the instructions for producing it. Theauthors also include, in recipe margins, helpfulhints and how-to’s for things like making a hardboiledegg and how to tell if chicken is done, aswell as "Try This!" tips that let the child cookadd his or her own touch to a recipe. Last butnot least, Louise Phillips’ funny line drawingsC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 1 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONdemonstrate a few techniques while provokinggiggles along the way.Betty Winslow, Bowling Green Christian Academy, Bowling Green,Ohio700’s—The Arts and RecreationMore Christmas ornaments kids can make,by Kathy Ross; illustrated by SharonLane Holm. LCCN 00020376. Brookfield,Ct.: Millbrook Press, 2000. HBB,0761317554, $23.90.745.594’12. Christmas tree ornaments; Handicraft.64 p.Don’t throw away those old neckties, markercaps, buttons, or plastic Easter eggs. In herbook, More Christmas Ornaments Kids CanMake, Kathy Ross tells how to turn everydaymaterials into Christmas ornaments. Childrentrace their hands and feet and add sequins andpompoms to create a reindeer, string together apasta candy cane, and twist pipe cleaners into apine bough. There are twenty-nine project ideasto chose from, with a variety of Christmasthemes.Each activity has a materials list and easy tofollow, step-by-step instructions. IllustratorSharon Lane Holm provides simple, coloreddrawings which clearly show the phases of eachproject. Crafts are made from common objectsthat are found around the house, or inexpensiveto purchase. A fine resource for parents andteachers, most activities are explained simplyenough for older elementary children to do ontheir own.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,WashingtonThe story of the incredible orchestra, byBruce Koscielniak. LCCN 98043933.Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2000. HBB,0395960525, $15.00.784.2. Orchestra; Musical instruments. unp.The Story of the Incredible Orchestra is adelightful way to introduce children to thehistory of the orchestra and to the instrumentsthat together create such a wonderful sound.Written and illustrated by Bruce, a musicianwho has played the violin and jazz guitar foryears, the book can be enjoyed by both thecasual reader as well as the music lover. Thedouble-page spreads begin with a focus on aparticular period of music and are followed bystudies on the individual instruments introducedduring that period, for example, violins duringthe Baroque Period and clarinets during theRomantic Period. The text itself is engaging andwell-placed questions help focus attention onimportant points.Colorful illustrations spill across the pages,bringing the text to life and engaging the readerin a deeper understanding of what is beingdiscussed. Side-notes and smaller diagramsexplain the text further and give specificdefinitions and notes of interest. The end pagesdepict and name by group all the instrumentsthat are to be found in a symphony orchestra.Koscielniak encourages readers to makeorchestral music a part of their lives, and hisbook may well inspire a budding youngmusician to pick an instrument and join in.Lillian Heytvelt, Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonKids and grandparents : an activity book,written by Ann Love & Jane Drake;illustrated by Heather Collins. Toronto:Kids Can, 1999. HBB, 1550747843,$17.95.790.1’922. Amusements; Grandparent and child. 160p.What can children and grandparents do together,to build relationships and have fun? Kids andGrandparents offers over ninety suggestions.One will find tips for organizing familyphotographs and geneaologies, rules fortraditional games and activities, instructions forcraft projects, and a variety of recipe ideas.Authors Ann Love and Jane Drake provide easyto follow, step-by-step instructions for eachactivity. Softly shaded pencil sketchedillustrations by Heather Collins give the book anold fashioned feel. Written for children to sharewith grandparents, this book would be good forgrandparents themselves to have on hand formeaningful project ideas. Some pages haveadditional side paragraphs, providing moreinformation about the activity or promotingfurther opportunities to enjoy the project theme.Activities appeal to children and adults of allages, making it a fine choice for all aroundfamily fun.Karen Brehmer, Teacher, Sylvan Way Christian School, Bremerton,WashingtonLet’s play : traditional games ofchildhood, illustrated by Dusan Petrici´c;written by Camilla Gryski. Toronto: KidsCan, 1999. PAP, 1550748173, $6.95.796.1. Games. 48 p.Have you forgotten how to shoot marbles? Playsnake or airplane hopscotch? Puss in thecorner? Let’s Play: Traditional Games ofChildhood, an oversized paperback book byCamilla Gryski, offers children of all ages aneasy to read collection of old-fashioned games,some dating back centuries to the Greeks andRomans. Within fourteen categories of gamesare fascinating historical facts, variations ofeach game, and directions for playing all ofthem successfully.Large print and humorous watercolor and penand ink illustrations by Dusan Petricic guaranteereaders’ amusement with pictures of childrenplaying ball games, counting out, tag, hide-andseek,hunt the thimble, and leapfrog. Detailedpictures appear everywhere, some as full or twopage spreads. Close-up photos give specialinstructions and hand positions in finger games.Gryski hides charming little Pssst! messages inthe text.Who would guess that jumping rope was firstpopular with boys? That people believedjumping in the springtime would make cropsgrow high? Or that they clapped the rhyme,Peas Porridge Hot, to warm their hands on coldwinter mornings? Children will giggle withdelight at Gryski’s rich assortment of engagingfacts and capricious playmates.Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer/Substitute Teacher/Former Librarian,Tukwila, Washington800’s—Literature & RhetoricFly with poetry : an ABC of poetry, writtenand illustrated by Avis Harley. LCCN99063733. Honesdale, Pa.: Wordsong,Boyds Mills, 1000. PAP, 1563977982,$13.95.811. Children’s poetry. 48 p.Want to expose children to a variety of poeticforms and techniques? Like to savor theplayfulness of poems and let children interactwith the ideas? Fly With Poetry lets childrendiscover the possibilities that a poem offers, andis sure to delight both parents and teachers.Each poem is full of carefully made choices,which begin with the poem and continue withthe reader. The Table of Contents offers thirtythreepoetic forms, e.g., blank verse, haiku,limerick, picture poem, sonnet, uta, andzoophabet. Each form offers one actual poemon a page and the poem is laid out in anattractive manner with a full color illustration. Ilearned a lot as I went through the variouspoems, and much of it with little effort.Teachers would enrich the lives of children bymaking Harley’s title available. This is a musttitle for children’s collections.Harley lives in Canada. This book grew out ofher life-long interest in experimenting withwords, rhythms, patterns, and ideas.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Fort MyersBeach, FloridaOff to the sweet shores of Africa and othertalking drum rhymes, by UzoamakaChinyelu Unobagha; illustrated by JuliaCairns. LCCN 00008933. San Francisco:Chronicle Books, 2000. HBB, 0811823784,$16.95.811’.6. Children’s poetry--American; Americanpoetry; Africa--Poetry. unp.Poetry can be a joy to share with children andadults alike when it is truly written to be readaloud. Uzo Unobagha has provided the readerwith a book of poems written to reflect thevariety and rhythm of the African continent.The poems are as varied as the peoples of Africaand beat with the rhythm of an African drum.The names, objects, and seasons of Africapopulate each poem, creating a learning momentas well as a pleasurable read. Off to the SweetShores of Africa and Other Talking DrumRhymes provides the reader first handexperience with the diversity that the author, anative of Nigeria, conveys with the differentpoems in this volume.The illustrations are colorful watercolors. Anexcellent author’s note provides furtherbackground and a glossary helps with unfamiliarS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 3 2 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 NONFICTIONterms. This book could be used as anintroduction to Africa as well as for the beautyof the poetry.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES, Monroe, New YorkWilliam Shakespeare, edited by DavidScott Kastan & Marina Kastan;illustrated by Glen Harrington. (Poetryfor young people.) LCCN 00028489. NewYork: Sterling, 2000. HBB, 0806943440,$14.95.831’.3. Children’s poetry, English; English poetry. 48p.William Shakespeare introduces to childrenShakespeare’s poetry through a sampling of hissonnets and excerpts from his plays. Twentysevensamples are presented and include suchfavorites as Hamlet’s soliloquy, the Macbethwitches’ "Double, double, toil and trouble"speech, and the popular "Shall I compare thee toa summer’s day" sonnet (Sonnet 18). Eachsample or sonnet is preceded by a briefintroduction and the title, act, scene, and lines, ifapplicable, and is followed by a short glossaryof the more difficult words. Each page containsan illustration depicting either the scene or thetopic.Edited by David Scott and Marina Kastan,William Shakespeare is a useful tool forintroducing Shakespeare to children. Theintroduction familiarizes readers withShakespeare’s life and accomplishments. It alsoexplains in detail why Shakespeare is regardedas the greatest playwright of all time. The briefintroductions which precede the samples setthem up and explain their main ideas. Both arehelpful for children trying to graspShakespeare’s world and words. GlennHarrington’s color illustrations are beautiful andbring to life the various scenes. WilliamShakespeare is part of the Poetry for YoungPeople series which includes, favorite poetssuch as Frost, Dickinson, and Whitman. Anindex is included.Kerri Cunningham, Librarian, Camano Island, Washington900’s—Geography, History, & BiographyBeyond the sea of ice : the voyages of HenryHudson, by Joan Elizabeth Goodman;illustrated by Fernando Rangel; withmaps by Bette Duke. LCCN 99028782.New York: Mikaya Press, Firefly, 1999.HBB, 0965049388, $19.95.910’.92. Hudson, Henry, d.1611; Explorers; America--Discovery and exploration--English. 48 p. Middleschool (Elementary).Beyond the Sea of Ice is an historical account ofthe four voyages of Henry Hudson and hiscrews. There is not much biographicalinformation available about Hudson’s earlyyears before his voyages of discovery.Historians do have information from journals ofcrewmembers and Henry Hudson himself.There are also government records from 17thcentury Holland and England, the two entitiesfor whom Henry Hudson sailed searching forthe passage to the Orient that sailors,mapmakers, and governments believed existed.This scant information has been woven into ariveting account of exploration.Joan Elizabeth Goodman has compiled anhistoric and accurate record of one of our morefamous early explorers. Henry Hudson isportrayed as a complete person with a realisticlook at his skill at leadership or in many caseshis lack of strong leadership. Hudson’s lastvoyage ended in a mutiny with Henry, his son,and seven other crewmembers put into a skiffand left to fend for themselves on the open seas.These men never returned to England. Ofparticular interest is Goodman’s description ofthe winter spent in the Arctic by Henry Hudson,his ship the Discovery, and the crew on thefourth voyage. Excerpts of journals written bycrewmembers are included on several pages.Illustrator Fernando Rangel has captured theillusive quality of the search for the Northwestpassage. Rangel and Goodman have included anumber of maps and charts as well as beautifulfull color paintings. There is an index andauthor’s note, both of which assist the reader inusing this work as a reference tool.Barbara Wall, School Library System Director, Orange-UlsterBOCES, Monroe, New YorkYukon River : an adventure to the goldfields of the Klondike, written andphotographed by Peter Lourie. LCCN91077600. Honesdale, Pa.: Boyds Mills,2000. PAP, 1563978784, $9.95.917.98’6. Canoes and canoeing--Yukon river (Yukonand Alaska); Yukon River (Yukon and Alaska)--Description and travel; Yukon River Valley (Yukonand Alaska)--Description and travel; Yukon RiverValley (Yukon and Alaska)--Gold discoveries. 47 p.Yukon River takes the reader on a beautifullywritten and illustrated trip down the YukonRiver from Whitehorse, the capital of the YukonTerritory up near the Arctic Circle, to Dawson,where the Klondike River flows into the Yukon.This book combines past and present beautifullyas the author and his friend Ernie canoe 460miles down river. The author skillfully blendsfactual information about the gold rush with thenarrative of the present day trip down river. Thecombination of archival and modernphotography also highlights the experience.Yukon River enables the reader to experience thebeauty and harshness of this land as well as theexcitement and hardships of the Klondike goldrush.Yukon River is a book, which must beexperienced as well as read. It provides anexcellent introduction to the Yukon and to theKlondike gold rush. While it does not provide agreat amount of information on either topic, it isa wonderful teaser, which leaves one wanting tolearn more concerning this fascinating area andits history. Both children and adults shouldthoroughly enjoy this book.Virginia Brown, Library Assistant/Freelance Writer/FormerTeacher, Sheridan, WyomingThrough my eyes : the autobiography ofRuby Bridges, by Ruby Bridges. LCCN98049242. New York: Scholastic, 1999.HBB, 0590189239, $16.95.921 (379.2’63’092). Bridges, Ruby; Afro-Americans--Biography; School integration--Louisiana--NewOrleans; New Orleans (La.)--Race relations. 64 p.On November 14, 1960, Ruby Bridges, a sixyearold black girl surrounded by federalmarshals, walked through the segregationists ofNew Orleans and into William Frantz, an allwhiteelementary school. The next day Rubywalked through the angry crowd again and intoa now-empty school. Because of her attendanceat William Frantz, almost all of the whitechildren stopped attending the school and for theremainder of the school year Ruby was to be theonly student in the classroom of her belovedteacher, Mrs. Barbara Henry.Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges tells thestory of the historic moment in September of1960 when Ruby Bridges and three otherstudents integrated the schools of Louisiana. Itcontinues on to tell of Ruby’s strange first gradeschool year where she was driven to school byfederal marshals and was taunted daily by theangry segregationists who gathered outside theschool. Ms. Bridges also discusses many of theevents that happened to her because of herintegration. The prejudice and harassment shereceived are discussed as well as beingmentioned in John Steinbeck’s Travels withCharley, receiving a letter from EleanorRoosevelt, and being featured in a painting byNorman Rockwell.While Ms. Bridges tells her own story, she alsoadds thoughts and quotations from writers andadults who observed her during her first gradeyear. Also included are many photographswhich do an impressive job of recreating Ruby’shistoric year, and an update of Ruby’s life today.Through My Eyes carefully and impressivelyexplains an important period of Americanhistory and would be a wonderful addition toany collection.Kerri Cunningham, Librarian, Camano Island, WashingtonAfrica is not a country, by Margy BurnsKnight, Mark Melnicove; illustrated byAnne Sibley O’Brien. LCCN 00022205.Brookfield, Ct.: Millbrook Press, 2000.HBB, 0761312668, $24.90.960. Africa--Civilization; Africa--Social life andcustoms. 39 p.Children at play, at school, or at home are thefocus of stories set in their natural setting inAfrica Is Not a Country. Children come toappreciate the cultural, ethnic, environmental,and social diversity of the fifty-three countriesthat make up the African continent. The colorfulillustrations are inviting and lively. Thealphabetical listing of the countries at the end ofthe book with capital city, population, how topronounce the name of the country, nationalflag, currency, and unique facts about eachmakes it easy to highlight the variety.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONThe front inside of the cover pictures aprocession of children carrying the flags of thenations. The back inside of the cover has theprocession in reverse, this time with names ofcountries on the flags included.Parents reading this with children will surelygrow in their own understanding while childrenare treated to a subject treated with decorum.Children in school will gain a valuable insightinto this unique continent. Recommended forwide usage.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaThe wigwam and the longhouse, byCharlotte and David Yue. LCCN98028971. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2000. HBB, 0395841690, $15.00.973’.04973. Woodland Indians; Indians of NorthAmerica--Northeastern States. 118 p.This informative book reads like a novel with itsdescriptive details: "rising columns of smokefrom campfires marked the villages." TheWigwam and the Longhouse describes the livesof the Woodlands tribes before the coming of thewhite man. The first chapter covers thecommunities they lived in and how tribes gottheir names, types of houses—wigwam andlonghouse—and organization of tribes intoseveral confederacies. Later chapters focus ontravel and clashes with white settlers. The bookconcludes with a brief chapter about Woodlandspeople and land today.Creative and appealing illustrations break upeach chapter, as do subtitles. A lengthy indexand a thorough bibliography are also includedwith titles most appealing to younger readersmarked for quick reference.The Wigwam and the Longhouse provides adescriptive and appealing history of daily lifeamong people of the Woodlands tribes. Theauthors Charlotte and David Yue show respectfor this vanished way of life and instill the senseof importance for remembering the customs andculture of all Native Americans. This book issure to be as well-liked by young readers as theirbook The Pueblo (1986).Lisa A. Wroble, Library Aide/Freelancer Writer, Plymouth,MichiganSybil’s night ride, written and illustratedby Karen B. Winnick. LCCN 99062643.Honesdale, Pa.: Boyds Mills, 2000. HBB,1563976978, $15.95.973.3’33. Ludington, Sybil, b. 1761; Danbury(Conn.)--History--Burning by the British, 1777;United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Biography. unp.It’s April, 1777 and sixteen year old Sybil’sfather, Colonel Ludington, has just returnedhome from securing supplies for the Americanmilitia. A young man interrupts the gatheredfamily with an urgent message: the Britishtroops are burning supplies in nearby Danbury.The man and his horse are too exhausted tocontinue on but someone must arouse themilitia. Colonel Ludington cannot go becausehe must remain to organize the men as theycome in. Sybil quickly volunteers to go on herhorse Star. Her mother and father fear for hersafety but see no alternative. Sybil’s fathergives her instructions and off she gallopsthrough the rainy and windy night. Ridingthrough the darkness she is scared by manynoises, but she is brave and rides on. One byone she finds the right doors and rouses thepatriots. She tries to ride quietly past a loyalistfarmer’s barn and is nearly caught! Sybil ridesall through the night. At daybreak she hasaccomplished her task but now she must ridehome. As she approaches her house thegathered troops cheer for her and later GeneralWashington visits her to thank her.Sybil’s Night Ride is the recounting of one girl’sincredible bravery and endurance as she ridesforty miles in one night to muster the militia.Karen B. Winnick’s account of this historicalfootnote has a nice pace and is easy to read. Herillustrations are paintings on canvas and give thebook a colonial era look. A good volume tosupplement an interest in the Revolutionary Warand for demonstrating what the bravery of oneperson can accomplish.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaAbraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address :four score and more, by BarbaraSilberdick Feinberg. LCCN 00027660.Brookfield, Ct.: Twenty-First CenturyBooks, Millbrook, 2000. HBB,0761316108, $24.40.973.7’092. Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865--Gettysburgaddress; Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865. 79 p.On November 19, 1863, Lincoln delivered hisimmortal Gettysburg Address, and though heexpressed the idea that "the world will little notenor long remember what we say here," his briefremarks have stood the test of time. AbrahamLincoln’s Gettysburg Address is dedicated toexpanding the young reader’s knowledge notonly of how and why Lincoln wrote his speechbut also of the events that led up to the day,including a brief description of the battle and ofthe decision to establish a memorial cemetery atthe site. There is also a section relating some ofthe facts of Lincoln’s life and what led him tosay what he did. Another chapter describes howthe speech was received at the time and since.Barbara Silberdick Feinburg has done a fine jobof presenting her material in a fashion that flowseasily for younger readers, while at the sametime adding interesting details for readers of allages. This nicely indexed volume also has somewonderful photos and illustrations that bring thestory much more to life. She has included notonly her sources but has also listed othermaterials, including websites. for the reader whowould like to learn more. A wonderful additionto a social studies program covering the CivilWar or for the interested student.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaBilly Yank and Johnny Reb : soldiering inthe Civil War, by Susan Provost Beller.LCCN 99462169. Brookfield, Ct.:Twenty-First Century Books, Millbrook,2000. HBB, 0761318690, $26.90.973.7’42. United States. Army--History--Civil War,1861-1865; Confererate States of America. Army--History; Soldiers--United States--History--19thcentury; Soldiers--Confederate States of America;United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865. 96 p.(Middle school).The reasons for resorting to war and themeaning of the events that occur during it areoften a matter of perspective. Almost onehundred and fifty years in our past, the great warof 1861-1864 still challenges our understanding,adult and child alike, of what America was andis to be. Although the words of politicians andgenerals are very important in understandingpast wars, children want to know what it waslike, and that means war from the soldier’sviewpoint. Susan Provost Beller’s Billy Yankand Johnny Reb, real soldiers Theodore Garrishand Carlton McCarthy, tell their story throughquotes on their views of the major events in asoldier’s life from the day he signs up to fight,through training, deployment, engagement, theuncertainty of hospital, and life after 1864.Billy Yank and Johnny Reb joins the parade ofmany books looking at soldiering during theCivil War but with significant differences. First,it is squarely aimed at the upper elementary,middle school reader with the intent ofproviding solid information in a readable andattractive manner that does not "talk down" tothe reader. The balance between the author’spresentation of facts and the pertinent excerptsfrom soldiers’ letters is well maintained, keepingthe narrative interesting and personal. Anotherrefreshing difference is the respect with whichBeller treats the Confederate side of the story,eschewing the dangerously inaccuratesimplification of the causes of the war that is sowidespread, especially in children’s books.Neither is the war romanticized. Every pagespread includes black and white periodphotographs or reproductions of perioddocuments to illustrate the subject of the chapterand the devastation of war. Billy Yank andJohnny Reb ends with a map of the major battlesand cities involved in the war, a chronology ofevents, a chapter by chapter list of the resourcesthe author consulted, and a short list of books,CD-Roms, and internet sites for further study.Beller has gathered together a book that is wellable to provide for those students looking forresources for reports as well as those who arefascinated with the war itself.Pamela A. Todd, Librarian/English Teacher, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONpoints out the prejudices, even among the blackcommunity, that produce acceptance of lightskinned and rejection of dark skinned AfricanAmericans. Though light skinned, she proudlyrebels against this type of thinking, stating"Color me dark!"Color Me Dark by Patricia C. McKissackechoes a short story by Jamaica Kincaid called"Girl" about a little Jamaican girl listening to thevoices in her head (i.e. mother, culture, society).They repeatedly tell her she must never riseabove herself, because she was born to workhard, satisfy others, and die. Not to aspire ordream. McKissack has an amazing gift ofbringing history to life so clearly and with suchnatural flow as to take the reader on thisadventure with the protagonist. Withoutpreaching or blame she tells of the need for allraces to work together in order to obtain truefreedom.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkThe first horse I see, by Sally M. Keehn.LCCN 98015706. New York: Philomel,Penguin Putnam, 1999. HBB,0399233512, $17.99.F. Horses--Fiction. 215 p.Before Willo’s mother dies, Willo’s fatherpromises to buy her a horse. Now she isshopping for one with Granddad, with whomshe lives while her father travels on business.Granddad warns her not to fall for the first horseshe sees, but when she sees Tess, an abused exracehorse,she know what horse she wants. Herfather is not pleased when he returns home, butis leaving again and gives Willo until his returnto have the horse gentled.With the help of her friends Dove and Colin, shebegins the process of cleaning up Tess andtraining her to let Willo first ride her, then jumpher. Diana, Colin’s mom, who is a trainer,encourages Willo and tells her how to get Tess"on the bit" which means that the horsesurrenders total control to Willo.Willo continues to train her horse as she sortsthrough her ambivalent feelings about herabsent father, who is rarely home and has adrinking problem. She is also developingromantic tendencies toward Colin and he finallykisses her. Meanwhile Colin has his owndifficulties with a stepfather that he hates. It allculminates the night before a competition whenWillo is going to prove to her father that Tess isworth keeping and when Colin’s step-fathershoots Jack, his favorite horse.The First Horse I See by Sally M. Keehn dealshonestly with many issues that trouble teens—first love, death of loved ones, stepfamilies,alcohol abuse, and difficulty with parents. Itwould be good to read this with your child anddiscuss the areas that are addressed. Also froma Christian perspective, through the character ofDove there is a fair amount of blurring of thedifferences between religious superstition andgenuine faith that could be confusing foryounger readers.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaFollow the dream, by Beverly Lewis.(Girls only (GO!); 5.) LCCN 00008102.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1556616406, $5.99.F. Ice skating--Fiction; Grandmothers--Fiction;Christian life--Fiction. 117 p. (High school).Livvy’s mother has died and now Livvy must tryto reach her dream of an Olympic medal inskating without her biggest supporter, Mom.Not only that, Livvy now has her father’smother living with them and grandmother is ahandful. Livvy tries to discuss the problem ofgrandmother interfering in her training, but herfather has no real answer for Livvy. WhenLivvy discusses it with her friends, they have aGirls Only meeting and pray for Livvy.Eventually Livvy finds out that her grandmotheris fulfilling a promise she had made Livvy’smother to make sure Livvy gets a shot at theOlympics. Everyone understands now andLivvy really starts to push for her dream.This book is number five in a series dealing withissues that Christian girls face in their lives. It iswritten from a Christian viewpoint and thereforethere are many occurrences/references to prayerand Christian behavior. The characters are notwell developed and the dialogue is simplistic, asis the plot. However, a middle school girl oryoung high schooler should enjoy this book.The cover is attractive and the binding isdurable. The author, Beverly Lewis has alsowritten the Cul de Sac Kids, Summer HillSecrets, and the Heritage of Lancaster Countyseries and is well acquainted with what peoplelike to read.Bianca Elliott, Teacher, Linwood, KansasThe forty-acre swindle : GeorgeWashington Carver, by Dave & NetaJackson; story illustrations by AnneGavitt. (Trailblazer books.) LCCN99050773. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 0764222643, $5.99.F. Farm life--Alabama--Fiction; Afro-Americans--Fiction; Carver, George Washington, 1864?-1943--Fiction; Alabama--Fiction; Penn, William, 1644?-1718--Fiction. 142 p.Hostage on the Nighthawk : GovernorWilliam Penn, by Dave & Neta Jackson;story illustrations by Anne Gavitt.(Trailblazer books.) LCCN 99050774.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,0764222651, $5.99.F. Hostages--Fiction; Pirates--Fiction; Escapes--Fiction; Rescues--Fiction; Penn, William, 1644?-1718--Fiction. 144 p.Dave and Neta Jackson bring historical figureGeorge Washington Carver to the forefront inThe Forty-Acre Swindle, with illustrations byAnne Gavitt. Although fourteen year old JesseTurner and his family are free in Alabama of1898, it sure seems that things haven’t changedmuch since Grandpappy’s day as a slave. TheTurners struggle to hold their land, as eachcotton crop yields less and less. Then there is aseries of mysterious setbacks that almost totallyruin the them. Fortunately George WashingtonCarver comes upon the Turners, introducingthem to revolutionary farming techniques,saving their farm, and eventually the South, interms of crop production.Students will learn through the suspenseful plothow the son of a stolen slave woman became acollege educated man who radiates a love forGod, and the bounty God created. An inspiringstory of how circumstances do not have toprevent goals from being reached.Hostage on the Nighthawk has adventure galore,as this fast-paced story takes place in the earlyyears of Philadelphia. Captain Kidd and hisband of pirates have all but ruined GovernorWilliam Penn’s "Holy Experiment" of building acity based upon brotherly love. Thirteen yearold Theo, along with the rest of the Philadelphiatownspeople, hope Governor Penn’s return willturn around the foul play. However, Theo, hisyoung sister, and his mother are called back toEngland to help settle family matters. Their seavoyage is interrupted when they becomeprisoners of the remnants of Captain Kidd’screw.Sometimes a stretch in the storytelling, the storystill is an exciting read, appreciated by thosewho especially like tales involving pirates, withstory illustrations by Anne Gavitt lendingappropriate suspense.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoHate fighters, by Kathryn Dahlstrom.(Good News Club series; 6.) Warrenton,Mo.: CEF Press, 1996. PAP, 1559764929,$4.99.F. Detective and Mystery and detective stories;Arson--Fiction. 168 p.Volume Six in the Good News Club Seriesbegins with friends Carlos, Felipe, Mashell, andAnna deciding to be welcoming to Judy Choi,who is a visitor to the Good News ClubMeetings as well as new to the neighborhoodwhere they live in the Watts area of LA. Theynotice that many in the neighborhood are notkind to Judy’s parents and will not frequent thegrocery store they own. The kids get the idea ofputting their memory verse, John 15:17, intopractice. They form a secret group called HateFighters. They decide to secretly leave yellowsticky notes commending people when they are"caught" doing good and blue sticky notesreprimanding people when they are unkind.Meanwhile, Stan, boyfriend of Miss Lindstrom,the Good News Club leader, offers to pay forCarlos to take an obedience class with his dogPeppy. Peppy is a natural and Carlos sets thegoal of training his dog to be a competitor inobedience trial competitions, but he needs a wayof earning the entrance fees. His friends arehelping him with a car wash at the Choi’s store,when a mysterious arsonist sets the building onfire.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONKathryn Dahlstrom continues the adventures ofthe Good News Kids with this involvingnarrative that moves swiftly along. Mostchildren will enjoy reading how theneighborhood becomes more accepting of theChois and how Carlos realizes his "doggydreams." Hate Fighters does a fine job ofemphasizing how even children of differentraces and backgrounds can not only love andsupport each other, but encourage others to do soas well. The story is a wonderful illustration ofhow Jesus’ commandment to love one anothercan be lived out in practical ways even by theyoung.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaIf wishes were horses, by Natalie Kinsey-Warnock. LCCN 00031426. New York:Dutton Children’s Books, PenguinPutnam, 2000. HBB, 0525464484, $15.99.F. Sisters--Fiction; Great-aunts--Fiction;Poliomyelitis--Fiction; Horses--Fiction; Farm life--Vermont--Fiction; Depressions--1929--Fiction. 131 p.In1932 twelve year old Lily lives on theVermont family farm with her parents,grandparents, and her sister Emily who is oneyear older. Lily believes that she truly hatesEmily, who she claims is two-faced and thefavorite of the adults. Hearing that grandma’ssister, Aunt Nell, is coming home for a visitfrom India where she has been a missionarysince Lily’s birth, she plans to ingratiate herselfwith her aunt so that she can be someone’sfavorite.Aunt Nell is carefree and captivating and itseems that she may fulfill Lily’s dream ofowning a horse. Because she wants to go thecircus by herself with Nell, Lily entices Emily toa water-filled quarry and shoves her in. Thenext morning Emily does not feel well but Lilyhas a fine time at the circus, especially watchingthe performer with the diving horse. Uponreturning home she is chagrined to find thatEmily has been stricken with polio. An ironlung is moved in and life changes forever.As Emily slowly fades away, Lily is caught upin training her new horse to dive. Eventuallyshe realizes that her parents are strugglingemotionally and financially and decides tosacrifice what is most precious to herself for thegood of the family.If Wishes Were Horses is a moving book toldfrom Lily’s first person point of view. Readerswill identify with Lily’s ambivalent feelingstowards her sibling. Her change in attitude andher care for Emily is touching and well written.Engaging and easy to read for middle schoolchildren, but Christian parents will want todiscuss the issue of whether or not God answersnegative prayers and wishes. Also a possibleeuthanasia at the conclusion of the story maybring up questions that will need to be talkedover.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaJeanmarie and the FBI, by Lucille Travis.(Apple Valley mysteries; 1.) LCCN00057184. Grand Rapids: Baker Books,2000. PAP, 0801044715, $5.99.F. World War, 1939-1945--United States--Fiction;Orphanages--Fiction; Spies--Fiction; Black market--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories. 150 p.(Elementary, High school).Jeanmarie and the runaways, by LucilleTravis. (Apple Valley mysteries; 2.)LCCN 00057947. Grand Rapids: BakerBooks, 2000. PAP, 0801044707, $5.99.F. Orphanages--Fiction; Migrant workers--Fiction;Mexicans--Fiction; Runaways--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 144 p. (Elementary, High school).Jeanmarie’s parents are no longer able to carefor her, so they admit her to the Apple ValleyOrphanage. Now it is night, and the cottagewindows are covered with thick black cloth toprotect the residents from the German bomberplanes. Yet, after bed time, Jeanmarie and herbest friend, Pearl, observe two strangers withGerman accents out in the snow, meeting byflashlight. Jeanmarie and her friends—Pearl,Winnie, Tess, Maria, and Wilfred—are drawninto solving this mystery.First they discover boxes of frozen chicken aremissing from the orphanage’s freezer. An adultfriend, Luke, gets hit on the back of his head andknocked unconscious. They try to put piecestogether and stumble across an occupied cabinat Gould’s Camp, a deserted summer camp forchildren. Things go from bad to worse, and thesix friends are bound and gagged and locked upin a cabin—to be dealt with later by the meatthieves. However, the meat thieves have morein mind than just the stolen chicken. Nazi spieshave infiltrated the East Coast, and are preparingbombs to sabotage critical areas.In the second installment, Jeanmarie and herfive friends come upon two Mexican children,Juan and Serena, who have escaped from amigrant boss, Don Carlos. The children’sparents have died and Juan and Serena havebeen left in the care of the boss. He has stolentheir earnings, and lied to their grandfatherabout their being alive! Jeanmarie and herfriends go through a myriad of schemes toprovide food, blankets, coal, and clothing forthese two children. Jeanmarie resorts to lies anddeceptions in order to do what she thinks isright. In the end, she learns a valuable lessonabout honesty and trusting her authorities withher concerns.Jeanmarie and the FBI and Jeanmarie and theRunaways by Lucille Travis are quaint stories ofWorld War II vintage based on the author’s ownexperiences in an orphanage similar to AppleValley. The stories are full of action and choicesput before Jeanmarie and her friends.Ultimately they must decide what direction theyshould take—the honest, hard way, or thedishonest, easy way. Jeanmarie remembers topray, asking God for wisdom and protection. Inthe end, she does the right thing, realizing thatdeceit is not God’s way. This series is anexcellent choice for students nine to sixteen, andare highly recommended for any library.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, TexasThe journal of Jasper Jonathan Pierce : apilgrim boy, by Ann Rinaldi. (My name isAmerica.) LCCN 99026028. New York:Scholastic, 2000. HBB, 0590510789,$10.95.F. Mayflower (Ship)--Fiction; Pilgrims (NewPlymouth Colony)--Fiction; Indentured servants--Fiction; Voyages and travels--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction;Massachusetts--History--New Plymouth, 1620-1691--Fiction. 155 p.Orphans, Jasper and his brother Tom are goingto the New World; however, they becomeseparated in London. Jasper is on theMayflower, indentured to a printer and Tomremains in London. Jasper writes a diary of thejourney so that Tom will know all about thestench of the ship’s lower deck, the deplorablefood, the deaths, and the bullies. Jasper and thePilgrims have a tough first winter, but twoIndians, Squanto and Samoset, give directionson planting their gardens and which Indiantribes to avoid. The Journal of Jasper JonathanPierce ends a little over a year after the Pilgrimsleave England.Well known historical author, Ann Rinaldi (MyHeart is on the Ground!) researched this timeperiod and the effort shows in this diary formatbook. No romantic view is portrayed; Rinaldidescribes the poor living conditions, the deaths,and the terror of facing war-painted Indians. Anepilogue tells what happened to Jasper and hisbrother Tom in their adult years. The historicalsection includes black and white illustrationsdepicting the Pilgrim’s life, plus information onthe actual people who were a part of this book.Connie Weaver, Church & Reference Librarian, Newville,PennsylvaniaThe journal of Wong Ming-chung : aChinese miner, by Laurence Yep. (Myname is America.) LCCN 99028405. NewYork: Scholastic, 2000. HBB, 0590386077,$10.95.F. California--Gold discoveries--Fiction; Gold minesand mining--Fiction; Chinese Americans--Fiction;Uncles--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 219 p.The story begins on October 1, 1851, at TigerRock in Southern China. The announcementhas come. Uncle, Precious Stone, is going to theGolden Mountain of America. Gold has beenfound there and many Chinese have crossed thegreat ocean to become a guest of the GoldenMountain. Wong Ming-Chung has always beenlooked upon as the "runt." Runt spends his timereading and learning to write. He enjoys hisstudies, but he is small and weak. His brother,Blessing, however is large and strong. Blessingwants to go with Uncle to America.There is a famine in China and food is veryscarce. Many times supper is weed soup. Thenthe first letter arrives from America. Uncle hasmade the trip and has sent money to the family.Everything changes now. The family is nowC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONlooked up to as important. Uncle asks Blessingto come to America, but father refuses and sendsRunt instead. Runt is sure that his father andmother feel they will not suffer any great loss ifhe dies, but they cannot bear to lose Blessing.So Wong Ming-Chung sails to America. Hemanages to survive the trip and is of greatervalue than he ever imagined because he is theonly one who can read and write.The Journal of Wong Ming-Chung by LaurenceYep is one book in the My Name is Americaseries. These books are written in diary formwith dated entries. These books are a fast, easyread. The details included bring history to lifethrough the experiences of young boys.Yep has brought to life the horrible experienceof the ships and the inhumane treatment of theChinese. You also see the desperation of theChinese, their willingness to work hard, andtheir dedication to their family. They would donothing to disgrace the family name. You cansee how many of the advances made in miningequipment and in merchandising came from theChinese culture. This is a fascinating book withgreat insight into the Chinese culture of thattime.Marcia Snyder, Librarian, Missoula, Montana★Miles’ song, by Alice McGill. LCCN99043157. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2000. HBB, 0395979382, $15.00.F. Slavery--Fiction; Afro-Americans--Fiction;Literacy--Fiction; South Carolina--Fiction. 213 p.(High school).It’s 1851 and twelve year old Miles is the houseslave of Gency Tillery, one of the richest men inSouth Carolina. It’s a privileged position andMiles feels fortunate to have it until the mastercatches him gazing at a book. He is then takenby Bounty, an old slave who is himself a slavecatcher,to the "breaking ground" to become amore obedient slave. His fear and despair isalleviated by the friendship of Elijah, anotherslave who has been sent there.Elijah secretly teaches Miles to read and writeand how to fool the breakers by acting simplemindedand compliant. As he becomes moreliterate, Miles comes to understand the value offreedom. Soon he is deemed "broken" andmakes ready to return to the plantation. Elijahtells him to get reassigned as a field hand so hewill be ready to go with Elijah when he makes arun for the north.Once again at home, Miles must eventuallyreveal to Mama Cee, the old woman who hasraised him, his plans and convince her to comewith him. He must move carefully. One of theslaves is the master’s spy and another unknownslave is surreptitiously leaving notes for Milesfrom Elijah. Who can he trust and of whomshould he be wary? When he and Mama Cee domake their dash for freedom, he is surprised atwho their secret accomplice is. But is being ableto read and having help enough to make itnorth?Alice McGill’s inspiring and excellentstorytelling causes the reader to identify withMiles’ emotional, mental, and spiritual journeyfrom compliant slave to a bold young man whovalues freedom and literacy and is willing to diein order to obtain them. Well told and a mustread for any YA reader.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaReach for the stars, by Beverly Lewis.(Girls only (GO!); 4.) LCCN 99006717.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1999. PAP,0764220616, $5.99.F. Skis and skiing--Fiction; Single-parent family--fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 118 p.Better than best, by Beverly Lewis. (Girlsonly (GO!); 6.) LCCN 00010395.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1556616414, $5.99.F. Gymnastics--Fiction; Competition (Psychology)--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction; Korean Americans--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 120 p.Miranda Garcia is a twelve year old hopefulJunior Olympic ski contender. She and hersingle mom live in Alpine Lake, Colorado,where their lives revolve around skiing.Amanda, aka Manda, takes skiing lessons, babysits,and belongs to an exclusive Girls Only club.Exclusive because its four members arecommitted to excellence in athletics—eachmember having their own special skill. Hermom, Adelina, is a ski instructor at the AlpineSki Academy located at the base of CascadePeak.So far, life was relatively uneventful for themother and daughter team; then things cametumbling down. Manda’s mom fell and brokeher leg, putting her in the hospital for a fewweeks. In the interim, Manda takes over hermom’s ski classes, which makes Manda a verybusy teen. While her mom is in the hospital,Manda eats dinner with the families of herfriends, visits with her mom every day, attendsschool and keeps up with her school work,teaches her mom’s classes, and baby-sits, too.In fact, it’s the new babysitting job that hasgotten her attention. Tarin the Terrible is aprecocious five year old who is a child prodigy,and his father is a kind, gentle man, who is alsoa single parent. Manda is motivated by herdesire to have a dad, and seeks to bring her momand Tarin’s dad together."‘Nothing comes between gymnastics and me,’thought Jenna Song. ‘Nothing!’" Jenna’s focusis to be the best and she is determined thatnothing is going to get in her way. She is teamcaptain of her school’s All Around gymnasticsteam, and her short term goal is to be a memberof the Junior National Team. Her dad is thepastor of the local Korean church and her momis her biggest fan, always encouraging her, "Ifit’s not worth doing 110%, it’s not worth doingat all." Jenna puts so much of herself intocompeting, she forgets who she’s supposed to besolid with—her teammates and her friends.Jealousy rears its ugly head when Jennaobserves the growth spurt of a teammate andwhen a new boy appears at practices and theupcoming Sports Weekend Clinic. Her mother’swisdom combined with a sunrise chat with herballet coach, and Jenna decides to make thingsright with everyone.Reach For The Stars and Better Than Best, byBeverly Lewis, are quick reads for eight tothirteen year old girls. These are delightfulstories about contemporary teenagers, eachfacing their struggles and finding victory. Thecharacters are well rounded and desire to pleaseGod. Ms. Lewis has a talent for creating storiesthat evoke the reader’s interest andunderstanding, while allowing the characters toretain human emotions. These are excellentbooks and should find a home in any library.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, TexasReturn to Skoki Lake, by Nikki Tate.(StableMates; 6.) Victoria, B.C.: Sono NisPress, Orca Book Publishers, 2000. PAP,155039102X, $4.95.F. Diabetes--Fiction; Horses--Fiction. 192 p.Jessica Richardson is turning twelve, and hasjust received a birthday present from herpaternal grandmother. For a young girl wholives and breathes horses, this present is perfect.Aweek’s stay at Flannigan’s Trail Outfitters inthe Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada.Jessica’s parents are divorced and she lives withher mom; her dad lives in Japan with his secondwife and their new baby. Before she leaves forthe birthday present extraordinare, Jessicabegins to notice that she is thirstier than normal,having to use the bathroom more, and shedoesn’t quite have as much energy as before.She hopes it’s not a case of the flu trying to gether down.At home in British Columbia, Jessica helps outat a riding stable so she can have riding lessons.There she rides English style. On the mountaintrail she has to ride Western style. It is on thetrail that Jessica comes face to face with thecause for her "flu" symptoms. She blacks outwhile riding her horse for the week and wakesup in a hospital. Jessica has juvenile diabetes.Becoming educated on self-care is now a focusfor her and her parents. She is very angry andresentful of the serious condition she now findsherself in, and several times loses her temper ather mother, grandmother, and friends.Nikki Tate’s Return to Skoki Lake is the sixth ina series about Jessica. The story is well writtenand gives excellent detail about the self-careinvolved for a diabetic. Tate has truly donesome thorough research for this story. Any childwho has diabetes will appreciate the details andthe explanations. The anger and resentfulness ofJessica’s character may be representative of anadolescent in her position, but she isdisrespectful and rude, without contrition,especially with her mother. This book is anS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 3 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONexcellent story of the detail involved in diabetesself-care, and taking care of horses.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, TexasSamir and Yonatan, by Daniella Carmi;translated by Yael Lotan. LCCN99030705. New York: Arthur A. LevineBooks, Scholastic, 2000. HBB,0439135044, $15.95.F. Hospital--Fiction; Brothers--Fiction; Grief--Fiction;Palestine--Fiction; Israel--Fiction; War--Fiction. 185p.Samir, a Palestinian boy, injures his knee anddreads going to the Israeli hospital because hisbrother Fadi was killed by Israeli soldiers. Hefinds himself in a room with four other childrenwho have unique problems. Yonatan readsbooks about stars and speaks to Samir only inthe darkness. Razia hides under her bed, fearingher father’s visit. Tzahi jumps on his bed, eatstons of candy, and allows the others to touch hisamazing catheter bag. Samir thinks Ludmilla,who pets her stuffed rabbit and refuses to eat, isa princess. Samir develops a fever whilewaiting for the doctor from America. Withsurgery postponed, the children get acquainted.Yonatan explains the theory of evolution. Samirremembers that Allah knows everything.Through their interactions, the children grow incompassion and help each other resolveconflicts. Yonatan keeps his promise to takeSamir to Mars, pushing him in a wheelchairthrough the dark hospital to a room where heruns a computer disc. On "Mars" Samirsuddenly understands his brother’s death and themeaning of his deep friendship with Yonatan.Daniella Carmi, an Israeli author whose story istranslated by Yael Lotan, masterfully shows lifefrom a child’s point of view. Children will enjoySamir’s thoughts and escapades related in firstperson, present tense. "So maybe I won’t end upin Satan’s snake pit after all." "I hide under myblanket and try my magic sentences." "Pulldown your pants," says the doctor. Catheterfree,Tzahi and Samir escape to the hospitalcourtyard and gleefully urinate together.The text is sprinkled with a few vulgar andseveral profane words. Samir and Yonatan hasreceived honorable mention for the UNESCOprize for Children’s Literature in the Service ofTolerance.Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer, Former Teacher/Librarian, Tukwila,WashingtonThe secret of Gabi’s dresser, by KathyKacer. LCCN 2001339145. Toronto:Second Story Press, Orca BookPublishers, 1999. PAP, 1896764150, $4.95.F. Jewish children in the Holocaust--Fiction;Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945)--Fiction; Jews--Fiction; Historical fiction. 128 p.Eight year old Paul, and ten year old Vera areplaying hide and seek in their Babichka’s bigthree-story home, when one of them asks if shehad ever played hide and seek. For Babichka,the question takes her back to her ownchildhood. The setting is 1940 Eastern Europe,and Gabi Kohn lives with her father and motheron a small farm in Czechoslavokia. Life wasgood, and Gabi had not a care in the world. AsJews, the Kohns were orthodox in their religiouspractices, observing the sabbath on Fridaynights, and not working through the day of rest.Her family was big with lots of aunts, uncles,and cousins.One day a classmate announces to Gabi that shewon’t be able to attend school anymore becauseshe is a Jew. People and children who wereonce kind to her have suddenly turned cruel.One classmate even told her she didn’t do wellon a test because of her Jewishness. Gabi’s lifebegins to take turns that no one could havepredicted. Newspapers begin to give harrowingaccounts of the treatment of Jews in neighboringcountries, and then her father dies. Gabi and hermother are forced to let the farm go and beforelong their lives change dramatically. Thedresser, a storage for beautiful glasses andbowls, does double duty when the Nazi soldierscome looking for Gabi. Though cramped andstuffy, it is the dresser that saves Gabi’s life andallows her a future to enjoy her grandchildren,Paul and Vera.Kathy Kacer’s book, The Secret of Gabi’sDresser, is an evocative account of historicaltimes. Ms. Kacer’s book is even more importantbecause is it the account from her own mother’schildhood. The events from Gabi’s youth are apainful reminder of the atrocities committedagainst an entire group of people simply becauseof their ethnic and religious beliefs. This bookshares those details openly and candidly. Ms.Kacer has written Gabi’s story in a way thatprovoke thought and conversation. An excellentread for families.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, Texas★Shadows beyond the gate, by BeverlyLewis. (Summerhill secrets; 10.) LCCN99050589. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 155661876X, $5.99.F. Grief--Fiction; Twins--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 136 p. (High school).Once upon a time, Merry Hanson had a twin.Faithie died of leukemia when she and Merrywere young children. Since then, Merry has hada special sensitivity to other twins who have losttheir twin sibling. It is because of this sensitivitythat Rachel Zook, an Amish friend, asks Merryto help with a baby lamb who lost its twin. Thelamb won’t eat or drink, and Rachel is afraid itwon’t survive. Reluctantly, Merry agrees tonurse the lamb, and names her Jingle Bell. In analmost uncanny way, Merry is able to make aconnection with the lamb, and Jingle Bellthrives.Merry then makes a connection that she is notprepared for. This connection is with Rachel’solder brother, whom Merry had an child’sinterest in. The brother is consideringengagement to a young Mennonite woman, andMerry has to sort out her feelings for the brotherand the young man, Jonathan Klein, she ismaking a connection with. Through herstruggles she has a revelation and realizes thereality of the scripture that says God will neverleave her comfortless. Merry makes her share ofmistakes, and then takes responsibility for themand makes them right. She is a good friend toRachel, and to Jonathan, while helping her momwith the new business. This story is number tenin Beverly Lewis’ series, and is engaging,charming, and laced with humor. Her charactersare well-written and easy to identify with. Thesuggested ages are 11 - 14, though I think girlsas old as 16 and 17 would enjoy reading thebook. Merry is a character most parents wouldwant their daughters to befriend. An excellentstory and an excellent choice for any library.Debby Willett, Freelance Writer, Canyon, TexasThe starplace, by Vicki Grove. LCCN98040894. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons,Penguin Putnam, 1999. HBB,0399232079, $17.99.F. Segregation--Fiction; Prejudices--Fiction; Afro-Americans--Fiction; Oklahoma--Fiction. 214 p.In 1961, segregation is no longer a law, but inQuiver, Oklahoma, there are the much deeper,stronger cultural laws that govern thetownspeople. For Francine Driscoll, this hasnever been a problem, until she meets CelesteChisholm, who arrives with her father from St.Louis, Missouri, for rest and research. TheChisholms move into the town’s "hauntedhouse," which is revealed as a long time meetingplace of the Ku Klux Klan. The spilled blood,associated with the house and its surroundingfield, represents a past allowed by townspeoplewho have, through fear, turned a blind eye to theviolent murders of many area black families.Celeste becomes the first black student ever toattend the all white school in Quiver. Thoughshe is obviously wealthy and culturally wellbred,she is greeted with ignorance andprejudice. When she and Francine Driscollbecome friends, Celeste slowly gainsacceptance with some of her fellow students, butis often reminded that she is predominatelyconsidered an interloper in the community.While Celeste’s father is researching the historyof an ancestor who was once killed there, sheand Francine get locked in manacles in a nearbymining cave. These same manacles prove tobe the key that unlocks the family’s hidden past.The girls’ rescue leads to an education for all,before the Chisholms return to their home in St.Louis.The Starplace by Vicki Grove is a slow mover,but well worth sticking with. Unfortunately thestory may not move quickly enough for some oftoday’s young readers. However, due to theauthor’s attention to era related details, this bookcould work well as a group or class study ofsixties historical fiction.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONStreet games, by Kathryn Dahlstrom.(Good News Club series; 4.) Warrenton,Mo.: CEF Press, 1995. PAP, 1559768290,$4.99.F. Detective and Mystery and detective stories;Gangs--Fiction. 174 p.Sent into hiding, by Kathryn Dahlstrom.(Good News Club series; 5.) Warrenton,Mo.: CEF Press, 1996. PAP, 1559768312,$4.99.F. Detective and Mystery and detective stories;Witnesses--Fiction. 174 p.In Street Games, Carlos, his sister Anna, andfriend Mashell are part of a Christian youthgroup, who work together to prevent gangviolence from overtaking their neighborhood.But when one drive-by shooting takes the life ofa friend, and another gets Carlos shot in the leg,revenge seems the only answer. Anna andMashell discover the shooter’s identity and thatCarlos’ older brothers, Ricardo and Luis, are thenext targets. When Luis is found dead, Carlosblames Mashell for keeping the shooter a secret.Mashell runs off crying, more determined thanever to locate and warn Ricardo to leave town.On her way, she is chased by gang members,who trap her on the roof of an apartmentbuilding and plot her capture. While Mashellawaits her demise, Ricardo and friends arriveand become involved in another street war.Carlos and the police reach the scene before anydeaths occur, stop the shooting, and catch thegang members.In Sent into Hiding, Mashell, Carlos, Anna, littlebrother Felipe, and friend Bronce are asked totestify against a one of the biggest drug rings inLos Angeles. When all but Mashell arekidnapped by members of the drug ring, she andher family are separated and sent into thewitness protection program. Cat and mousechases ensue as the kids manage to stay, mostly,one step ahead of the crooks. Long desert walksand dangerous ski slopes can’t keep these kidsfrom testifying.Street Games and Sent into Hiding, both byKathryn Dahlstrom, are Good News Club Seriesbooks set in Los Angeles, California. Dahlstromprovides a good balance of fun and adventurewithin a non-denominational Christian setting inboth books. Vocabulary and literary quality areage appropriate. Concepts of crime and murderwell presented, with enough suspense todevelop an interesting story and no overkill onthe violence issues.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkmother’s bad choices in men and drugs, andCarlos, a fifth-grade Hispanic boy dealing witha school bully. The story begins with Mashellsneaking out at night to join her cousin Shawndato tag buildings, bridges, and billboards withspray paint. Mashell fights her conscience,justifying her actions since her mother breaksthe law by abusing drugs. The two girls getcaught before committing the crime, andMashell wishes for a father like the securityguard who is firm but gentle with them.Then we meet Carlos and his family preparingfor a school day. Later, he and his friend Felipetry to avoid bully Cortez and his gang at school.Both main characters deal with immediateconflicts, and both have longings for a bettersituation. Both attend a neighborhood GoodNews Club, a place where they learn aboutGod’s love for them and how to pray about theirgreatest concerns.For these things, I applaud Dahlstrom. Somereaders may find her habit of spelling out eachethnic name or choice of words disruptive to thestory’s flow (Mashell, "pronounced Muh-SHELL," Felipe, "pronounced Fay-LEEP," loco"crazy, pronounced LOE-koe," etc.), whileyounger readers may appreciate the help. Theevent described in the title, being trapped in anearthquake, occurs near the end of the bookwhen Mashell and Shawnda sneak out oncemore to tag a freeway onramp and they gettrapped under it during the earthquake. Theirfriends at the Good News Club pray for thegirls’ safety. Meanwhile, Carlos is asked toallow rescue teams to use his dog to sniff outearthquake victims in his neighborhood and heaccompanies them, only to discover his nemesisCortez buried but still alive. Cortez’ brutaltreatment of Carlos almost causes Carlos to turnaway, but the Lord convicts him and he decidesto help his enemy. In the end, both the girls andCortez are rescued; Carlos understands Cortezin a deeper way; and Mashell finally surrendersher will to the Lord. The last page includes anote to the reader with the sinner’s prayer and aphone number to find out about Good NewsClubs in the area.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, IowaTrapped by an earthquake, by KathrynDahlstrom. (Good News Club series; 2.)Warrenton, Mo.: CEF Press, 1996. PAP,1559768274, $4.99.F. Detective and Mystery and detective stories;Earthquakes--Fiction. 213 p.In Trapped by an Earthquake, author KathrynDahlstrom follows two main characters in theirdaily lives in California: Mashell, a twelve-yearoldAfrican American girl struggling with herS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 4 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWSMIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTION200’s—ReligionMaximum friendship : devotions forstudents, by Jeff and Ramona Tucker.LCCN 98054291. Wheaton, Ill.: HaroldShaw, WaterBrook, 1999. PAP,0877885834, $8.99.241’.6762. Teenagers--Prayer-books and devotions--English; Friendship--Religious aspects--Christianity.120 p.Jeff and Ramona Tucker hit the mark with theirdevotions for students book, MaximumFriendships. The authors deal with choosingandbeing-a best friend. Some devotional topicsinclude loyalty, honesty, sibling rivalry, shyness,being "dumped," pretending, insecurity, "goingtoo far," hero worship, and being friends witholder people and younger children. It ends with"The Forever Friend," Jesus.In the first devotional, "Friendship Power,"Tina’s conservative background and Chris’sliberal upbringing make them opposites, thoughthey are friends. The authors’ take the reader tothe Bible to show how unlikely friendshipsdevelop-Moses and Aaron, brothers who wereraised in different surroundings, and Elijah andElisha, who were different on social position.Following the Bible study, the authors say,"Evaluate your three closest friends. How arethey like you? Different from you?" Finally,they provide an action step, "Thank God todayfor giving you unique friends and for giving yousuch a special place in His hands."Similar to typical devotional books, MaximumFriendships has an anecdote, brief Bible story,an application, and a positive "assignment" oraction step. It differs in that for eight weeks, theauthors present different types of friendshipsand provide a place where teens can write abouttheir developing relationships.Maximum Friendships is a thin volume with abright cover designed by David LaPlaca.Photos by Jamie Marcial and Arthur Tilleydipict typical young people talking and playing.Young teens will find it attractive. Parents won’tbe disappointed in the content.Dell Smith Klein, Writer, Teacher, Catalina, ArizonaDon’t jump to conclusions without abungee cord : and other wise advice, byMartha Bolton. LCCN 99030481. AnnArbor, Mich.: Vine Books, ServantPublications, 1999. PAP, 1569550800,$10.00.242’.63. Prayerbooks and devotions; Bible. O.T.Proverbs--Meditations. 190 p. (High school).The combination of wise words and the wise galhumor of Martha Bolton make Don’t Jump toConclusions Without a Bungee Cord no ordinaryteen devotional. Brio readers will be familiarwith Bolton as the magazine’s Cafeteria Lady,while others might recognize her as a humoristwho has been around long enough to know whatfunny is all about. This 90-day devotionalcenters on a pretty heavy book: Proverbs. Yetsomehow Bolton adds a playful twist toSolomon’s solemn advice with the inclusion of aBumper Sticker for the Day, along with herquick-to-the-wit lead-in story, plus thoughts toponder. The devotions are targeted for teens, yetadults will get something out of the reading too.A great gift for graduates, or any young adultwho could use a large dose of wisdom served upwith a smile.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoSecrets of the best choice, rev. ed., by LoisWalfrid Johnson. (Let’s talk about itstories for kids.) LCCN 99006620.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1999. PAP,155661652X, $7.99.248.8’2. Teenagers--Conduct of life; Teenagers--Religious life; Christian life. 159 p.You’re worth more than you think! rev. ed.,by Lois Walfrid Johnson. (Let’s talkabout it stories for kids.) LCCN99006621. Minneapolis: Bethany House,1999. PAP, 1556616511, $7.99.248.8’2. Children--Religious life; Self-esteem--Religious aspects--Christianity. 175 p.This series deals with contemporary shortstories for pre-teens and teens on the subjects ofmaking the best choices and self esteem. Eachbook contains twenty-nine short stories whichare appropriate for this age level. Secrets of theBest Choice portrays stories such as: notobeying parent’s rules, owning up to yourmistakes, surfing the internet safely, underagedrinking, and getting revenge. You’re WorthMore Than You Think contains stories such as:being a Christian in a non-Christian group,dealing with a physical disability, beingadopted, and liking yourself. After each shortstory are discussion questions which have noright or wrong answer. The final element ofeach story is a Bible verse and a short prayer tohelp the student with the subject matter.The cover of each book has on the cover a GoldMedallion Book Award symbol. Lois WalfridJohnson (Riverboat Adventure series)encourages the reader to use the Bible in thedaily life choices that students will come across.The thought provoking questions invite studentsto discuss what they would have done in thesituation or what the character could have donebetter.Both books could be used for a book discussiongroup or a Sunday School class. Each storyinvites the reader to make a choice andhopefully will encourage students to read moreof the Bible than just the recommended verses.This is an innovative idea that is very muchneeded for this age group who must face a scaryand somewhat unkind world.Connie Weaver, Church & Reference Librarian, Newville,PennsylvaniaWise up : stand clear of the unsmartness ofsin, by Kevin Johnson. (Early teendiscipleship.) LCCN 00010397.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1556616376, $7.99.248.8’3. Sin--Biblical teaching; Christian teenagers--Religious life; Bible--Textbooks; Christian life;Conduct of life; Bible--Study. 122 p.Wise Up is a part of the Early Teen Discipleshipseries, written by Kevin Johnson. The text isdivided into parts, The Way of the Wise, UnderConstruction, Scrubbing Up Your Attitudes,Sudsing Up Your Actions, and Standing Up toSin. Each part includes five chapters and adiscussion summary. The chapters cover aparticular lesson or concept.The fragmented nature of the book continueswithin the chapters. Each divided into subcomponentswith names like "Brain Drain,""Bible Chunk," "Sticky Stuff," and "Act It Out."Each "Sticky Stuff" directs the reader tomemorize a removable Scripture Card frominside the back cover of the book.While many adults may find the "spoonfeeding" nature of Wise Up unappealing, thisbook is intended to grab and hold the attentionof junior high school students. Olderelementary/middle school kids could definitelybenefit from the Bible studies in this book.While each chapter opens with a hip, irreverentvignette, the rest of the chapter is very seriousabout directing the reader to Scripture and God.The text is focused on equipping andencouraging students to live for God.The Bible studies within this book are designedfor group or individual use. It’s easy to see ajunior high group getting maximum use of thismaterial. Groups may choose to use only part ofa lesson and defer the rest as "homework." Thememory cards are an important bonus: theyencourage internalizing Scripture.If the rest of the Early Teen Discipleship seriesis of the caliber of this book, Young groupsC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 1 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

MIDDLE SCHOOLNONFICTIONacross the country will soon be using this textand its sister volumes.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College-Business &Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaEric Liddell : Something Greater than God,by Janet and Geoff Benge. (Christianheroes: then and now.) LCCN 98030892.Seattle: YWAM Publishing, 1999. PAP,1576581373, $8.99.266. Liddell, Eric, 1902-1945; Missionaries--Scotland--Biography; Missionaries--China--Biography; Runners (Sports). 203 p. (High school).Janet and Geoff Benge bring the life and timesof this famous Scotsman, Eric Liddell, to thereader. This book starts with Eric’s win in theOlympics, traces his humble beginnings, andends with the impact his life has made after hisdeath in a Japanese internment camp. The bookquickly and simply tells how deeply committedto following Christ Eric was. The plot is easy tofollow and basically chronological with thefocus on Eric, which helps the reader to seeinside his mind. This allows the reader tounderstand the why’s and why not’s of Eric’schoices. Recurrent through the book is Eric’scommitment to do what God told him to do atthe right time. Additionally, Eric’s ability to getalong with others without being judgmental isexemplified often in the book. Supportingcharacters are handled well but are notdeveloped completely. The actions of theChinese and Japanese during the life of Eric arementioned while never being derogatory.The paperback is of high quality and theattractive cover should draw the attention ofmany middle school to lower high schoolstudents. The bibliography and map will guidethe reader to more information regarding thisremarkable Christian. This husband and wifeteam has over thirteen years of writing, and theywork with Youth with a Mission, the publisherof this book. This is just one in a series ofChristian Heroes: Then and Now. This will be awelcomed edition to any library.Bianca Elliott, Teacher, Linwood, KansasGladys Aylward : The Adventure of aLifetime, by Janet and Geoff Benge.(Christian heroes: then and now.) LCCN98019368. Seattle: YWAM Publishing,1998. PAP, 1576580199, $8.99.266. Aylward, Gladys; Missionaries--England--Biography; Missionaries--China--Biography; Women--Biography. 205 p.Gladys Aylward struggled to warm herself.With an offhanded invitation from a femalemissionary, she left her home in Englandtraveling through Germany and Russia, until shefound herself in the midst of a war in Siberia.The train she traveled on through Russia wasnow picking up dead Russian soldiers. She hadbeen kicked off the train and was now retracingher steps down the freezing railroad tracks.Janet and Geoff Benge tell an exciting tale ofGladys Aylward’s determination and frustrationas she meets obstacles blocking her missionarycall to China in their biography Gladys Aylward:The Adventure of a Lifetime.Unaccepted by the China Inland MissionarySociety for poor grades and advanced years (shewas twenty-seven), her barriers to serving inChina begin before she leaves England. Withvery little money and no missionary training,Gladys takes work as a housemaid to earn herway to China. She preaches from a soapbox inthe park to practice her oratory skills. One dayshe overhears that an elderly missionary toChina needs help. She applies for the job, thusbeginning her journey into inland China.From housemaid to innkeeper, foot inspector toadoptive mother, Gladys Aylward serves theChinese people, showing them Jesus’ love andsharing the Gospel. The authors intertwine thestory of Gladys with Chinese history and thepolitical climate of Europe. This gives thereader a fuller understanding of the struggles ofworking within China.The biography is one of fourteen books in theseries, Christian Heroes: Then and Now by thehusband and wife team. The authors provide amap of China in the front of the book with amore detailed inset of the area within whichGladys ministered. Except for a brief mentionof the 1931 New Year, the reader must wait tofind out the exact time period that Gladysserved. Flashbacks further into the book revealthe date Gladys departs from England. There isa very short bibliography at the end of the bookfor further reading.Joanne M. Haffly, Homeschool Parent/Freelance Writer, GigHarbor, WashingtonHudson Taylor : Deep in the Heart ofChina, by Janet and Geoff Benge.(Christian heroes: then and now.) LCCN98021283. Seattle: YWAM Publishing,1998. PAP, 1576580164, $8.99.266. Taylor, James Hudson, 1832-1905; Missionaries--England--Biography; Missionaries--China--Biography; China Inland Mission. 205 p.Hudson Taylor listened with feigned interest tothe biblical teaching of his father and hisminister. Resentment toward their old fashionedteachings built up until one morning, utterlybored, Hudson picked up a religious pamphletfrom his father’s store. In his father’swarehouse he accepted Christ into his heart.Hudson’s discovery that both his mother and hissister had prayed for his conversion led him to arealization that God did answer prayers. In theirbiography Hudson Taylor: Deep in the Heart ofChina, authors Janet and Geoff Benge capturethe remarkable trust this man had for God.Soon after his conversion, Hudson heard thecalling to China. So he set about to learn moreabout the Chinese language by comparing theChinese translation of Luke with the Englishversion. Inspired by the work of WalterMedhurst, Hudson was also determined toacquire medical training. Each step along theway, Hudson’s policy was to take each need toprayer and never ask anyone for money. Timeafter time, he waited and watched as the Lordled individuals to contribute to his training andministries.Upon arrival in China, Hudson adopted anotheridea from Medhurst. He dyed his hair and worethe clothes of the Chinese. His belief was thathe would be more accepted for his message ifthe people weren’t fearful of his appearance.Some of his unconventional methods alienatedhim from established missionary groups.Ultimately he formed the China Inland Mission.This biography is one of fourteen books in theChristian Heroes: Then and Now series by thehusband and wife team. The story begins withan exciting moment in Hudson’s life, thenflashes back so it immediately captures thereader. The first chapter neglects to set the exacttime Hudson left for China so the reader mustwait until halfway through the second chapter tounderstand the time frame. The authors providea map of China in the front of the book with amore detailed inset of where Hudson served.The book ends with a simple bibliography forfurther reading.Joanne M. Haffly, Homeschool Parent/Freelance Writer, GigHarbor, Washington700’s—The Arts and RecreationAll about hockey, by George Sullivan;illustrated with photographs anddiagrams. LCCN 97038125. New York:G.P. Putnam’s Sons, Penguin Putnam,1998. HBB, 0399231722, $15.99.796.962. Hockey; Hockey--History. 159 p.With engaging descriptions, George Sullivanexplores the gamut of hockey. He outlines thegame, rules, skills, the offense, the defense, theNHL, the World Cup, and star players. There isan extensive glossary with novice and advancedterminology. Black and white photography,diagrams, and figures represent the techniques,plays, and players. There are appendices of All-Time Records and Additional Resources.Sullivan succinctly outlines the game, and doesso with gusto. He makes the game exciting tonovices without being too basic for establishedaficionados. The black and white photographyand figures illustrate the concepts well, but lackthe pizzazz of color diagrams and photographs.This may be a deterrent for teen and pre-teensports fans who have become accustomed toglossy, color presentations.Carol M. Jones, Librarian, South Side Elementary School andMarquette Pre-K Center, Champaign, Illinois900’s—Geography, History, & BiographyIda B. Wells-Barnett : powerhouse with apen, by Catherine A. Welch. (Trailblazerbiography.) LCCN 99035291.Minneapolis: Carolrhoda Books, Lerner,1999. HBB, 1575053527, $23.93.921 (323’.092). Wells-barnett, Ida B., 1862-1931;Civil rights workers; Afro-Americans--Biography;Race relations; Women--Biography. 104 p.S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 4 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

MIDDLE SCHOOLNONFICTIONOnce upon a time, about 140 years ago, a littleblack girl was born into a very white world. IdaB. Wells-Barnett : Powerhouse with a Pen, byCatherine Welch, is her story.Although born after the Civil War, Ida’s lifewasn’t easy. At age sixteen she lost both parentsand a brother to yellow fever. Ida was a strong,passionate person. The prejudice that began torise up catapulted her to action. She wrote aletter to the editor of her hometown newspaperin Memphis, Tennessee. Soon another editorcontacted her to write a column for hisnewspaper, The Free Speech. Ida jumped at thechance. She wanted to rile up the blackcommunity to action. Soon she gained areputation for being gutsy; however the whitepapers called her a troublemaker.That didn’t stop her. Like any good reporter, Idainvestigated many so-called crimes the whitepapers reported and learned that the white pressoften lied about black crimes. They also liked topublicize, even sensationalize black lynchings.Although most of Ida’s friends were gettingmarried and starting their families, Ida had noheart for that. Her passion and faith drove her.Many times Ida risked her life for her cause.This book will inspire Americans even now, acentury later. Welch’s research and simplewriting style along with antique photographswill appeal to all. Black and white, young andold, will all learn from history and especiallyfrom the spitfire, Ida B. Wells.Ginger McGrath, Freelance Writer, McMinnville, OregonCal Ripken, Jr. : my story, Adaptation ofThe only way I know, by Cal Ripken, Jr.and Mike Bryan; adapted by DanGutman. LCCN 98007799. New York:Dial Books for Young Readers, PenguinPutnam, 1999. HBB, 0803723482, $16.99.921 (796.357’092). Ripken, Cal, 1960-; Baseballplayers--United States--Biography. 113 p.Cal Ripkin is best known for holding the recordof playing the most consecutive major leaguebaseball games. In Cal Ripken, Jr.: My Story,which children’s sports writer Dan Gutmanadapted from Cal’s autobiography The OnlyWay I Know, the reader follows Ripkin from hischildhood as the son of a baseball manager andcoach, through his years in the minors, to hiscareer as a major league shortstop and thirdbaseman for the Baltimore Orioles. Cal’sreflections on the fame that came when he brokeLou Gehrig’s record will be of special interest,as will his thoughts about the game in generalbreakinga slump, knowing the importance ofthe basics, and what inspired him to "play welland play every day." Ripkin comes across as adecent human being who appreciates theadvantages he has been given. He also reveals adeep sense of family, talking about what it waslike to work for his father, Cal, Sr., and play forthe Orioles alongside his brother Billy, and hisdesire to shield his wife and children from theglare of publicity.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

MIDDLE SCHOOLNONFICTIONThe simple sentence structure and narrativestyle make this book a good choice for reluctantreaders. Two sections of mostly colorphotographs illustrate the text, and some ofRipkin’s career statistics are included at the end.While baseball fanatics will find this a sure-sell,this book will appeal to a more general audienceas well.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonWow, Canada! : exploring this land fromcoast to coast to coast, by Vivien Bowers;illustrated by Dan Hobbs. LCCNC99930537. Toronto: Owl Books, Firefly,1999. PAP, 1895688930, $19.95.972. Canada. 160 p. (Elementary).Wow, Canada! by Vivien Bowers is the perfecttravel guide for upper elementary or middleschool-aged youngsters heading for any part ofthat vast country, or anyone who would just likean unconventional glimpse of it. Each provinceor territory has its own colorful chapterillustrated with snapshots, enlarged slides, and,ostensibly, kid’s drawings and cartoons of whatthey have seen. Sidebars entitled According toMom, According to Dad, Food I Was Introducedto for My Own Good, and Exceedingly Weirdare found in each chapter, lending humor to thepresentation of interesting facts. The entirebook is presented as a kid’s runningcommentary on what he is seeing, things he islearning, and people he is meeting as he travelsacross Canada with his family. All sorts ofinteresting facts are woven into his fascinatedreport scattered among a scrapbook-likearrangement of pictures, souvenirs, andcartoons. The end of the book contains a smallhandbook listing each province or territory,giving its flag, the origin of its name, symbols,size, population, etc., and finishes with an indexof the entire book. Wow, Canada! is notprimarily a source of report material, but itconveys the "gee-whiz" nature of travel to adifferent place than one’s home with pizazz andthe grandeur of Canada in a way that willcapture the interest of middlers.Pamela A. Todd, Librarian/English Teacher, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaSounding forth the trumpet for children, byPeter Marshall and David Manuel, withAnna wilson Fishel. LCCN 98043952.Grand Rapids: Revell, Baker, 1999. PAP,0800756924, $10.99.973. History--Religious aspects--Christianity;Slavery; United States--History--1815-1861; UnitedStates--Church history--19th century. 208 p.Until I opened this book and read it, I didn’trealize it was intended for middle-schoolreaders—the cover design and text have an"adult" look. This is unfortunate, because onceinside, readers discover a fascinating descriptionof events and people in our nation’s historybetween 1837 and 1860, starting with JohnQuincy Adams in his later years as Senator andending with the bitter struggle over states’rights,human rights, and slavery before the Civil War.Authors Peter Marshall and David Manuel withAnna Fishel skillfully weave narration, facts,and intriguing scenes complete with dramaticdialogue, all of which successfully bring historyalive for the reader. In fact, I was disappointedwhen I came to the last page because I wanted toread more.Sounding Forth the Trumpet for Children is toldfrom a Judeo-Christian point of view, revealingthe strong faith of America’s Founding Fathersand the important role people of faith had in theabolition movement and the UndergroundRailroad. The authors also present their strongpre-destination belief related to America’sspread across the continent from the Easterncolonies to the West coast, and the country’sfight over slavery eventually leading to the CivilWar. This is most prevalent in the first threechapters as if God planned these events, ratherthan a possible result of evil and God’s ability to"work all things together for good for those wholove God." Overall, however, this book ishistorically strong and very interesting to read.A glossary appears in the back along with aspecial section of suggested study questions foreach chapter.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, IowaAbraham Lincoln the writer : a treasury ofhis greatest speeches and letters, compiledand edited by Harold Holzer. LCCN99066551. Honesdale, Pa.: CarolineHouse, Boyds Mills, 2000. HBB,1563977729, $15.95.973.7’092. Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865; UnitedStates--Politics and government--1861-1865;Presidents--United States--Biography. 106 p.In Abraham Lincoln the Writer: a Treasury ofHis Greatest Speeches and Letters, editorHarold Holzer has arranged a compilation ofprimary source materials to allow readers to getto know Lincoln through his own words. Whilethis offering includes excerpts from his famousspeeches, inaugural addresses, and debates, thetelegrams to his family, letters written tofamilies of fallen soldiers, and rhymes jotted onthe margins of a childhood arithmetic book givereaders a more personal insight into Lincoln’sworld. Holzer has written a number of booksabout Lincoln and he does a fine job introducingeach excerpt, giving historical perspective andexplaining the text’s importance to one’sunderstanding of Lincoln.While this is probably not the only book onewould use to write a report, it is a fine resourcefor students seeking quotations and for thosewho already have some knowledge of AbrahamLincoln. The short sections, usually one to apage, include many black and whitereproductions of period photographs, drawings,and documents that illustrate the text effectively.Students will find the detailed year-by-yearchronology of important events in Lincoln’s lifevery helpful. Also included is an interesting listof "Lincoln Places to Visit" such as Ford’sTheater National Historic Site in Washington,D.C., and the Gettysburg National Military Parkin Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 4 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 REVIEWSHIGH SCHOOL FICTIONCheckmate in the Carpathians, by MaryReeves Bell. (Passport to danger; 3.)LCCN 99051013. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2000. PAP, 1556615515, $5.99.F. Antisemitism--Fiction; Prejudices--Fiction; Jews--Romania--Fiction; Romania--Fiction. 207 p. Highschool.Con and his best friend Hannah are lookingforward to an exciting ski weekend in theCarpathian Mountains of Romania. Travelingby train from Vienna, they play chess and plantheir days of skiing. When Con reads a letterfrom his elderly friend Frau Marie Rozstoski,their plans change dramatically. Frau Rozstoskiasks them to go to her childhood home inRomania. She wants to know the fate of a babywhose father was killed the night the Iron Guardraided her home searching for Jews. Beforethey can decide what to do about FrauRozstoski’s request, Con sees Hans Grunwald,the neo-Nazi who tried to kill them last year,walking past their train compartment. Refusingto admit there could be danger, they tell no oneCon has seen Grunwald.Con and Hannah discover Frau Rozstoski’s oncebeautiful estate is now a dilapidated orphanage.Poppy, an appealing little boy at the orphanage,asks Con to come back. Hannah’s ambassadoruncle sends Con and Hannah to photograph aneo-Nazi rally. Spotted by Grunwald at therally, they are on the run again. Excitementmounts as Con and Hannah try to find Poppy’strue identity and stay one step ahead ofGrunwald.Third in the Passport To Danger series,Checkmate in the Carpathians by Mary ReevesBell blends excitement and mystery with thereality of the lingering effects of World War II.Aprologue provides background. The epiloguecloses the book on a high note. The author alsoprovides additional historical information.Although the book is fiction, some of the eventsand people are real. Cheri Bladholm’s excellentcover illustration pictures Con, Hannah, andPoppy just as they are described in the book.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonDancer, by Lorri Hewett. LCCN98055501. New York: Dutton Children’sBooks, Penguin Putnam, 1999. HBB,0525459685, $15.99.F. Ballet dancing--Fiction; Afro-Americans--Fiction.214 p. High school.Stephanie’s dream is to become a professionalballerina. She thinks she has a chance, butconstantly struggles with self-doubt. Even ifshe’s good enough, how many dance companieswill accept a black ballerina? Her parents aren’tvery encouraging, either. Now that she is asenior in high school, they want her to spendless time in ballet and start preparing for college.Stephanie wonders if she should just give up herdream and follow her parents’ wishes.Then she meets Aunt Winnie, a beautiful olderwoman who once danced with Arthur Mitchell,the founder of the Dance Theatre of Harlem.Aunt Winnie encourages Stephanie to pursueher dream, and even offers to help her with herdancing. Stephanie spends even more timeworking on ballet, which causes more tensionbetween herself and her parents.Dancer, by Lorri Hewett, is a touching storyabout the trials of growing up. High schoolstudents will relate to Stephanie’s struggles asshe tries to make the right decisions about hercareer. There are times when Stephanie isextremely disrespectful to her parents. Althoughshe is sorry for things she says to them, shenever really tries to make amends. Several ofthe minor characters drink and smoke, but noneof these are Stephanie’s close friends. There isa party where there is drinking and drug use, butStephanie is very uncomfortable and soonleaves. Mild profanity is used throughout thebook. Perhaps the best thing about the book isseeing Stephanie mature. Towards the end, shebegins to see the wisdom of her parents’ point ofview. She realizes that going to college doesn’tmean giving up her dream.Robyn Wyatt, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard, WashingtonEsperanza rising, by Pam Munoz Ryan.LCCN 00024186. New York: Scholastic,2000. HBB, 0439120411, $15.95.F. Mexican Americans--California--Fiction;Agricultural laborers--Fiction; California--Fiction.262 p. High school.Esperanza Ortega begins her life inAguacalientes, Mexico, on El Rancho de lasRosas. Her father, a wealthy landowner, coddlesand spoils her and gives her pretty dresses,beautiful things, and a lovely doll. Esperanzahas many friends, including Miguel, the son ofher father’s servants. Though she is fond ofMiguel, she feels they are worlds apart becauseshe is the daughter of a wealthy landowner andhe is but the son of a servant. She expresses thisto him by saying they are on opposite sides of ariver.Tragedy strikes, when her father is killed on theeve of her birthday. Esperanza’s life changesdramatically. Frightening and mysteriousoccurrences convince Esperanza’s mother theyare no longer safe in Mexico. Esperanza and hermother escape with Miguel and his family toCalifornia in the United States. There, wearingold clothing and living in a farm laborer’s camp,Esperanza learns how to work and begins to dealwith her own attitudes about classcism. In hernew country, with the help and friendship ofMiguel and his family, Esperanza learns to crossthe river to equality.The book is rich in symbolism. Children andteens will not miss the symbolism of the hillsand valleys of the Abuelita’s knitted blanket.And, they will quickly grasp the passage of timein the fruit and vegetables that Ryan uses as thetitle of each chapter. Younger readers may havemore difficulty understanding Abuelita’s smoothstones and the angry thorn of the rose.Pam Munos Ryan has created a beautiful storybased on the mythical creature, The Phoenix,rising from ashes. Esperanza Rising is abeautifully crafted novel that brings history tolife for young readers from the eyes of oneyoung Mexican immigrant. Ryan touches onwomen’s rights, the Mexican Deportation Act,and the plight of farm laborers during the GreatDepression with a compelling, absorbing story.Dell Smith Klein, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Yarnell, ArizonaOf heroes and villains, by Mark Delaney.(Misfits, Inc.; 2.) LCCN 98036466.Atlanta: Peachtree, 1999. PAP,1561451789, $5.95.F. Cartoons and comics--Collectors and collecting--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories. 202 p. Highschool.★Growler’s horn, by Mark Delaney.(Misfits, Inc.; 3.) LCCN 99086977.Atlanta: Peachtree, 2000. PAP,1561452068, $5.95.F. Musicians--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories.232 p. High school.In Of Heroes and Villains, Byte, Jake, Peter, andMattie are high school students who haveformed a group called the Misfits. Whenanonymously invited to a comic bookconvention, they not only discover the identityof the friend who invited them but witness thetheft of valuable film canisters by a comic bookbad guy brought to life. Their investigation ofthe case uncovers a bitter comic strip creator,disgruntled employees, and a plot to destroy acomic hero who has become a householdphenomenon. The Misfits face fireworks,cleverly disguised thugs, and entrapment in aburning trailer; however, they are not dissuadedfrom their mission to solve the mystery and savethe day.In Growler’s Horn, Jake acquires a clarinet froman auction that opens the door to two forty-yearoldmysteries: 1.) disappearance of a nearlyfamous jazz clarinet player, Growler Morton,and 2.) theft of three million dollars worth ofC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

HIGH SCHOOLFICTIONuntraceable bonds. Clues found in Jake’sclarinet, a record, and some sheet music hold thekey to both mysteries. The Misfits bandtogether once again to catch the villains.Includes a fully fleshed out, believable thief,keeping the really evil guy hidden until the end.Puzzling clues, plenty of red herrings, anddialog interplay of Misfits make this quick reada treat.Of Heroes and Villains by Mark Delaney is aformula puzzler, written in much the same styleas Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys mysteries. Teensencounter funny business, face near deathdanger, win respect of local, skeptical policechief in cracking tough case, and inhale victoryas criminals are led away in handcuffs.Growler’s Horn is a major improvement overthe more canned mystery, Of Heroes andVillains. Delaney must have just been warmingup in book #2, because #3 is a winner. No needto have read previous books in series to keep upwith characters.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkHope was here, by Joan Bauer. LCCN00038232. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons,Penguin Putnam, 2000. HBB,0399231420, $16.99.F. Diners (Restaurants)--Fiction; Politics, Practical--Fiction; Cancer--Fiction. 186 p. High school.Sixteen-year-old Hope Yancey and her auntAddie are moving again, this time fromBrooklyn to rural Wisconsin, where Addie willmanage and cook for G.T. Stoop’s WelcomeStairways diner. Among the things Hope takeswith her each time they move are a scrapbook ofher young life’s mementos to bring herestranged father up to speed when they finallyfind each other, and a globe "to keep a worldview, because you can’t just live like you’re theonly person who matters." Left by her mother atbirth with just two things—the name Tulip and agift for waitressing, Hope keeps only the latterand tries throughout the book to live up to thename she has chosen for herself. G.T. serves asHope’s inspiration, for while he’s just beendiagnosed with leukemia, that doesn’t stop himfrom taking on the town’s corrupt incumbentmayor Eli Millstone in a candidacy thatsurprises everyone. As Hope gets involved inthe campaign she learns about the realities ofsmall town politics, and gets to know "grill mansupreme" Braverman, 6.7 and climbing on themale cuteness scale, also G.T.’s biggestsupporter. Hope eventually finds in G.T thefather she never had when he and Addie find alove of their own.In Hope Was Here, Joan Bauer createscharacters who experience real pain, but whosestrength, faith, and humor allow them to growthrough it, each in their own ways. AlthoughHope knows very well the feelings ofabandonment and betrayal, she is still able toconnect with her customers and laugh at herself,perhaps because she once took up boxing andpunched the anger out, or maybe because shewrites poetry to express how, sometimes, thewell just comes up dry. Teens will appreciatethat the budding romance between Hope andBraverman is more in tune with reality as theybegin awkwardly, and sometimes banter backand forth, eventually building a relationshipbased on friendship and trust. The book issprinkled throughout with funny but thoughtfulwaitressing tips and witty dialogue. Hope andAddie don’t just serve food—they serve people,and G.T.’s brave example is to do what’s rightno matter who opposes you, while you’ve gotthe time.Where Hope would always leave her mark bywriting "HOPE WAS HERE" in ink someplacesignificant at each diner they’d been, it is theWelcome Stairways that in the end leaves it’smark on her heart. This is a book that will stickto your ribs.Denise Griffin, Freelance Writer, Winston-Salem, North CarolinaA horse of a different color, by Dandi DaleyMackall. (Horsefeathers; 4.) LCCN99050885. St. Louis, Mo.: Concordia,2000. PAP, 0570070090, $6.00.F. Christian life--Fiction; Truthfulness--Fiction;Horsemanship--Fiction. 192 p. High school.In this fourth installment in the Horsefeathersseries fourteen year old Sarah Coop or Scoop toher friends is caught in a financial crisis. Sincethe death of her grandfather she has beenstruggling with the help of her aunt Dotty, herlittle brother B.C., and her friends Maggie,Carla, and Jen to keep Horsefeathers Stablesolvent.When she rescues Diablo, the runawayappaloosa of high school junior Ben Thayer, shehopes for some new business and is thrilled todiscover that his mother is the host of "Della’sPlace," a popular local television show. Benarranges for his mother to profile Horsefeathers.Maybe this "fifteen minutes of fame" will beenough to save the stable. But as her friendMaggie gets more romantically involved withBen, Scoop hears rumors about him andbecomes worried for her friend. Soon Maggieinvolves her in "little lies" to conceal therelationship and to make it appear that Scoop isperforming miracles in training Diablo for theupcoming show. Inevitably Maggie feels theconviction of the Holy Spirit. What should shedo? Can’t she just make everything right aftershe gets the needed media exposure?Dandi Daley Mackall has fine insight into thetemptations of teens. Through Scoop’s trials thereader easily sees the way that rationalizationsare used in order to justify "small sins" whichlead to bigger and bigger transgressions,ultimately pulling one away from a loving God.But the author does not leave the reader thereand goes on to portray how through the ministryof the Holy Spirit the transgressor is led backinto the merciful arms of our forgiving God.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaThe 1920’s : luck, by Dorothy and TomHoobler. (The century kids.) LCCN00020403. Brookfield, Ct.: MillbrookPress, 2000. HBB, 0761316027, $21.90.F. Afro-Americans--Fiction; Chicago (Ill.)--Fiction.160 p. High school.It’s 1927 in Pickettsville, Georgia, and twelveyear-old Lorraine Dixon’s mamma is facing ahard decision. Lorraine’s father has just beenconvicted of stealing a wallet from the whiteman whose car he was working on, and becausehe stood up for his innocence in court, they havenow heard that his accuser may come after therest of the family as well. Daddy said they wereto leave Pickettsville and move to Chicago,Illinois, where they could be safe and whereopportunities for Negroes were abundant.Nobody wants to leave Daddy behind during hisyear-long sentence, but Lorraine, her oldersister, Nancy; and little brother, Marcus, followMamma onto the train and north to a verydifferent world. Once in Chicago, Mrs. Dixonfinds work caring for the children of an Italianfamily who own one of the most popular Italianrestaurants in the city. These successfulimmigrants treat the Dixon’s more like familythan employees or "colored folk." Lorraine issoon introduced to new foods, new ideas andnew people, including her idol, the famousactresss, Nell Aldrich, who has come to Chicagoto make a movie. Invited to visit the site andwatch the movie being filmed, Lorraine andMarcus meet Miss Aldrich’s nephew, Charley,and together they become involved in trackingdown the thief who stole Miss Aldrich’sdiamond necklace.Luck by Dorothy and Tom Hoobler contains theright amount of historical references to set thisstory squarely in its time period. The popularmovie culture of the time and the setting of thestory in Chicago reflect the excitement andflavor of the time. Even Babe Ruth makes a lastchapter appearance. The plot is fast paced andexciting, the main events taking place in a merefew week.In general, Luck is a good read and exceptionalin its development of setting for readers of thisage level, but a problem arises with the fact thatthis book, and the series of which it is a part, isalso presented as an historical and sociologicallook at the decade of the 20th century withwhich each deals. It is an admirable andambitious goal, but it is here that the novel fallsshort. The "rags to riches" story of the blackDixon family is just too incredible to believe.From a poor but respectable, rural Georgiaexistence threatened by stereotypical whitetrash, they are catapulted into rubbing elbowswith movie stars and famous gangsters in amatter of days. The fact that they are "Negroes"suddenly becomes irrelevent, and by the end ofthe story they have solved a famous crime, arebest friends with the wealthy scion of the NewEngland Aldrich’s, and are spending the summerat their "place" in Maine. A more seriousS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

HIGH SCHOOLFICTIONobjection arises from references the authorsmake to the sensational trial of Sacco andVanzetti which is mentioned sympatheticallyseveral times. The reader is obviously supposedto draw parallels between their situation and Mr.Dixon’s unfair trial and sentence. The fact thatthese men are never identified as anarchistsdedicated to violence as the means to achievingtheir goals and that at least one of them wasmost certainly guilty, is glaringly dishonest.Another problem with Luck is that it glamorizesthe movie and gangster culture of the era withnever a word about the real moral and socialdilemmas these influences were causing inAmerican life and in America’s view of itself;and that, after all, is what this series purports tobe about.Pamela A. Todd, Librarian/English Teacher, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaRaising the bar, by Lauraine Snelling.(High hurdles; 9.) LCCN 99006545.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1999. PAP,0764220373, $5.99.F. Horses--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction; Fear--Fiction. 154 p. High school.It’s summer in the world of fifteen-year-oldDarla Jean (DJ) Randall and this is the busiestone yet. Between finishing ceramics class withher beloved Gran, beginning drawing class withIsabella Gant, jumping lessons on her horse,Herndon, and shows almost every weekend, DJbarely has time to think. But she continues todream about qualifying for the OlympicEquestrian Team and looks forward to thehighlight of her summer: a week-long stay at theU.S. Equestrian Team’s training camp in NewJersey.When she finds herself screaminguncontrollably at the candles on her littlestepbrothers’ birthday cake, DJ realizes that anold fear has taken control of her life and shebegins to doubt that God will deliver her.Meanwhile she is struggling to establish aconnection with her new horse Herndon andlearn all his tricks and habits. Upon returningfrom the training camp, a mysterious firethreatens not only their growing bond but thesafety of all the horses in the barn. DJ mustovercome a deep, secret fear to be able to saveher horse.The ninth book in Lauraine Snelling’s HighHurdles series focuses on God’s ability toanswer prayer and the role of adversity inbuilding faith. While a few scenes were a littletoo dramatic to be believable and characterdevelopment was weak overall, Raising the Barwill satisfy young horse enthusiasts looking foran adventure story with a godly message.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Pomeroy, WashingtonStick and Whittle, by Sid Hite. LCCN99054763. New York: Scholastic, 2000.HBB, 0439098289, $16.95.F. Frontier and pioneer life--West (U.S.)--Fiction;Orphans--Fiction; West (U.S.)--Fiction. 202 p. Highschool.Melvin Fritchett, twenty-six, is riding alone nearthe Chisholm Trail in 1870’s Texas when he is"ambushed" by orphan Melvin Smythe who issixteen. The two dub each other "Stick" (olderMelvin) and "Whittle" and decide to traveltogether.Stick has been looking for his lost love, Evelyn,who mistakenly believes that he died in the CivilWar. Whittle is looking for a purpose and adestiny. On the trail they meet Talking Walk andhis granddaughter Brings The Rain, with whomWhittle is instantly smitten.After parting company with the natives, Stickand Whittle ride into the wild town of Caldwell,Kansas, where Stick learns that a young heiresshas been kidnapped along with her governess,who turns out to be none other than his long lostlove, Evelyn. He determines to rescue her fromthe band of desperados and Whittle refuses to beleft behind.With the intervention of a tornado the pair againencounter Brings The Rain and Talking Rock,who agree to help them liberate Evelyn and heryoung charge. But their plan is a risky one andnot everyone will come back alive.Stick and Whittle is an amusing tale told withrelish by Sid Hite and is sure to entertain mostreaders. There are several twists and turns andimprobable happenings that will keep older kidsinvolved in the story. The lessons ofperseverance and loyal friendship are well told.However, Stick is first bedeviled and then led byhis dreams, and there are several discussionsabout whether all of this is because of God orbecause of luck and which is better to believe in.No definitive answer is really given and so itwould be a good opportunity for discussionbetween parents and children.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaTangled web, by Shirley Brinkerhoff. (TheNikki Sheridan series; 5.) LCCN99053733. Minneapolis: A Focus on theFamily Book, Bethany House, 2000. PAP,1561797375, $5.99.F. Christian life--Fiction; Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Divorce--Fiction. 166 p. High school.New Christian Nikki Sheridan lives with hergrandparents in Michigan and is preparing tocelebrate her eighteenth birthday when herdistant and distraught mother, Rachel, shows upwith her luggage. That night Rachel informsNikki that her father has moved in with anotherwoman. In her anger and confusion Nikkiconfides in Jeff, a neighbor for whom she hasdeveloped feelings since he helped her the yearbefore in dealing with her pregnancy and thesubsequent adoption of her baby boy, but itseems he is already involved with Shannon, agirl from the college he attends.Keesha, Nikki’s best friend, in an effort to helpher forget Jeff tries to get her involved withMitch and Steve, friends Keesha has met on theInternet. Keesha arranges to meet Steve andlater pressures Nikki to double date with her,Steve and Mitch. Nikki wisely refuses.Meanwhile Grandmother’s friend Arleta hasarranged for Nikki to share her testimony at a teawhich peers from her school will be attending.Nikki is overwhelmed with her feelings for Jeff,the pressure from Keesha, the upcoming tea andthe new softness in her mother. Through theencouragement and guidance of hergrandparents, Nikki is able to rely on the Lordfor the answers to her problems. After anargument with Jeff and against her betterjudgment, Nikki meets with Keesha and her"web friends." As she feared, things are notwhat they seem and only the Lord can save thegirls.Tangled Web is the fifth in the Nikki Sheridanseries and is sure to appeal to high school girlswith its honest and frank dealings thecontemporary issues—divorce, unwedpregnancy, peer pressure, the Internet—thatmany modern readers grapple with. ShirleyBrinkerhoff has done a fine job of plotdevelopment interwoven with Nikki’s growingreliance on Christ.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaWaiting for dolphins, by Carole Crowe.LCCN 99066548. Honesdale, Pa.: BoydsMills, 2000. HBB, 1563978474, $14.95.F. Fathers--Death--Fiction; Death--Fiction; Mothersand daughters--Fiction; Grief--Fiction. 139 p. Highschool (Middle school).Author Carole Crowe weaves rich detail andvivid sensory description throughout Waiting forDolphins. Told through the eyes of Molly, afterher father’s accidental death, the reader feels theguilt and scheming Molly feels. Molly and hermother return to the family houseboat, EmeraldEyes, after the funeral. Molly’s under theassumption they’ll sail Emerald Eyes to theCarribean, while Molly’s mother wishes to takethe boat back to Florida and sell it as quickly aspossible. To prevent her mother from sellingEmerald Eyes and moving back to New York,and to come to terms with the circumstancessurrounding her father’s death, Molly steals theboat. Concerned that she can sail the boatherself, she enlists the help of a fun and recklessnew friend, Christopher. Is he really interestedin helping Molly, though, or does he only wantto get his hands on Emerald Eyes?The narrative provides wonderful realism of lifeon a houseboat—bathing in the ocean with Joydish liquid because it lathers in salt water, thenrinsing off the saltwater using the fresh watershower on board. It’s apparent Crowe has livedon a sail boat in the Carribean. These vividdetails help the reader understand why Mollydoesn’t want to give up this life. Plagued byguilt surrounding her father’s death, and battlingthe emotions of adolescence—intensified by ashaky relationship with her mother, and theonset of Hurricane Hank—Waiting for Dolphinsprovides plenty of exciting conflict.Lisa A. Wroble, Library Aide/Freelance Writer, Plymouth, MichiganC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

BOOK REVIEWSHIGH SCHOOL NONFICTION200’s—ReligionA walk on the wild side : walking with themaster, by Dave Ens. (Devotions foryouth.) LCCN 99189437. Winnipeg, MB:Kindred Productions, 1998. PAP,0921788568, $6.95.226.3’06. Teenagers--Religious life; Bible. N.T.Mark--Meditations; Bible. N.T. Mark--Study;Devotional calendars. 160 p.AWalk on the Wild Side, by Dave Ens, is writtenin typical devotional style in that it has asuggested Scripture passage, a key verse, and anapplication. It differs in that Ens, who is a youthpastor in Winnipeg, Manitoba, writes directly tothe reader using I-you point of view. Forexample, in "Listening to What Counts," (pg 41)Ens writes, "Look at verse 12. Do you noticeanything strange about it? Does anything aboutthat verse bother you? What strikes me is...."Ens provides "journaling" space in each of thedevotions for the teen reader to write downthoughts, ideas, or questions.AWalk on the Wild Side is well written and clear.The author uses a didactic style, but never writesdown to his reader. Also, he peppers his pageswith typical teen words, but an adult, as well asa teenager, would enjoy Ens’ book.AWalk on the Wild Side has 160 pages, dividedinto 50 devotions. The cover design by MakusDesign of Winnipeg, Manitoba is attractive insage-green with pink-red print and red andwhite, and brown and white photos.Dell Smith Klein, Writer, Teacher, Catalina, ArizonaFind your fit: dare to act on God’s designfor you, by Jane Kise and Kevin Johnson.(LifeKeys 4 teens.) LCCN 00699004.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1998. PAP,0764221477, $10.99.242’.63. Teenagers--Religious life; Success--Religious aspects--Christianity; Self-Actulaization(Psychology)--Religious aspects--Christianity;Personality assessment of teenagers. 208 p.Find Your Fit: Dare to Act on God’s Design ForYou, by Jane Kise and Kevin Johnson is aLifeKeys 4 Teens publication. What is sonoteworthy about this book is that it is a minicourseon helping your teen to find theirpotential, to give wings to their dreams, and tohelp youth find their place in the world. Eachsection has several subtopics that are eachdesigned to get the reader involved with theactivities in the book.In the section titled How to Locate a Life:Talents, the authors have included areas thatchallenge teens to seriously look at and examinethe ideas they have for their future. There aresix personalities described in this section:Realistics, Investigatives, Artistics, Socials,Enterprisers, and Conventionals. Thesedifferent types are important because eachpersonality has different interests that influencewhat careers they would seek.If your teen is having a difficult time realizingwhat his/her talents are, this book will definitelyhelp. In the back are perforated tear out cardswith different scriptures, all chosen specificallyto impart wisdom for discovering talents. Tofurther enhance this book, a detailed teachingguide is available at www.thewave.org/fit.htm.Jane Kise and Kevin Johnson have done anexcellent job in creating a book that will surelyhelp your teen, or a teen you know, discoverGod given talents and give them a head start onunderstanding where they fit. This book is amust have if you have teens in your home oryour heart.Debby Willett, Teacher, Home School Parent, Canyon, TexasTrue beauty : the inside story, by AndreaStephens. LCCN 00038221. Ann Arbor,Mich.: Servant Publications, 2000. PAP,1569551634, $9.99.242’.633. Teenage girls--Prayer-books and devotions;Fruit of the Spirit--Prayer-books and devotions;Devotional calendars; Prayer-books and devotions.209 p.Developing inner beauty in young women is thesubject of Andrea Stephens’ devotional book,True Beauty : The Inside Story. In the first of tenchapters, the author contrasts our culture’sconcept of beauty with God’s definition ofbeauty, and intrigues the reader with ninebeautiful qualities-fruit of the Spirit. Each ofnine subsequent chapters offers five dailydevotionals highlighting one fruit of the Spirit.Day one defines the beauty quality, while daytwo contrasts it. Days three and four portray thequality in the lives of Jesus and a female Biblecharacter. Each day’s Beauty Builderschallenge the reader to apply what she learnedthat week. On day five she will find anintrospective quiz, a prayer to her HeavenlyFather, and an invitation to write a letter to Himin her Weekend Journal.Joy and happiness, for example, are different.Depression and sadness are its opposites. Jesusand His mother Mary exhibited great joy in theirlives. We can rejoice! Then right actionsfollow. Am I building or blasting joy? How canI change my attitudes and habits to become amore joyful person? How can I praise myHeavenly Father?Stephens soundly builds Christ esteem withpersonal encouragement and Scripture. Herdiction will delight teenage girls. The easy-toreadtext is broken by a variety of little boxes,blanks, lists, and drawings-a personal devotionalbook which smacks of a diary. The reader willfind encouragement and learn how much theFather esteems her as she is compelled to makethis book part of her very being. Stephens’message to young girls is, "You were born to bebeautiful, according to God’s definition. Youare precious to Him."Rhonda Marie Lackey, Freelance Writer, Retired Teacher/Librarian,Tukwila, WashingtonTake the plunge : journey into prayer, byBrad Huebert. LCCN 00421521.Winnipeg, MB: Kindred Productions,2000. PAP, 0921788606, $5.95.248.3’2. Prayer--Christianity; Lord’s prayer; God-Name. 89 p.Take The Plunge : Journey Into Prayer by BradHuebert teaches the basics of prayer over a threemonth period. The book is divided into threeparts containing blank pages for prayer requestsand a short devotional for each day. The firstsection uses the Lord’s Prayer as a springboardto learning more about prayer. Huebert notesthat Jesus didn’t say, "Pray this exact prayer."He said, "Pray like this...." and then gave theLord’s Prayer as kind of an outline to prayfrom." Working through the Lord’s Prayer a lineat a time he uses additional scripture to help theyoung reader understand.In the second section the reader learns to prayusing the names of God such as, "The Lord ismy Banner," "I am...the truth," and "I am theLord who heals you." Obviously a firm believerin healing, Huebert tells of times he has beenhealed and states, "Whether now or in glory,healing is God’s will for you." He presents goodmaterial on the full armor of God and how toappropriate it. The third section, Tips andTruth, covers topics that don’t fit in the othertwo chapters. How to hear God, knowing whenyou have prayed through a situation, and theimportance of praise are all included in thissection.While written to appeal to teen-agers, adults willenjoy taking the three-month plunge into prayeralso. Using an interesting and challengingformat Huebert discusses difficult concepts ofprayer clearly and simply. In the first sectionthere are pages to record your thoughts on theLord’s Prayer. The second section has a pagefor the reader’s insights into the names of God.The cover and book design by Brian Kauste isexcellent. The frog on the cover is usedthroughout the book to mark each devotional.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

HIGH SCHOOLNONFICTIONProtestants in America, by Mark A. Noll;general editors, Jon Butler and Harry S.Stout. (Religion in American life.) LCCN00027271. New York: Oxford UniversityPress, 2000. HBB, 019511034X, $22.00.280’.4’0973. Protestant churches--United States--History. 155 p.Long ignored or ridiculed into seeminginsignificance, the pivitol role of religion inAmerica is once more being taken seriously inthe Oxford University Press’ Religion inAmerican Life series. It is presented in a formthat is accessible to high school students.Author of Protestants in America, Mark Noll,takes the reader back to the beginning of theReformation, Martin Luther, and John Calvin, inorder to give a brief, but succinct overview ofthe beginnings of Protestantism in Europe. Thebeliefs, theologies, and ideas of the reformersare then traced across the Atlantic to their new,fertile home in America. Here the movementgrows, splits, and grows even more as itinfluences, and is influenced by every aspect ofthe new world’s economic, political andphilosophical growth from 1607 to the 1970s.Personalities and distinctly Americanmovements within Protestantism are discussedand illustrated with black and white drawings,photographs, and period documents, as are theinfluences on it brought by immigration, war,and secularization. The appendices ofProtestants in America include a list ofProtestant denominations and their membershiparranged by origin, a chronology of events inAmerican Protestantism beginning in 1607 andcontinuing until 1999, a chapter by chapter listof titles for further reading, and an index of theentire volume. This book is an excellentoverview of its subject for secular and Christianhigh school students alike.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, Georgia500’s—Natural Sciences & MathematicsThe Facts on File chemistry handbook,Diagram Group. LCCN 99048563. NewYork: Facts on File, 2000. HBB,081604080X, $29.95.540. Chemistry--Handbooks, manuals, etc.. 223 p.(Adult).A team of editors and contributors led byeditorial director Moira Johnston wrote TheFacts on File Chemistry Handbook. One of fourbooks in the series, four categories divide thevolume: glossary, biography, chronology, andcharts/tables.The glossary defines more than 1,400 chemistryrelated terms. The biography section givesparagraph long profiles of individuals who havecontributed to the field of chemistry.Chronology lists advances in the science ofchemistry beginning with 7000 BC and endingin 1999. The final section is a compilation ofcharts and tables including the periodic table.Black and white illustrations line one edge ofeach page in the glossary section. Frommolecular formulas to diagrams of chemicalprocesses the illustrations are greatly simplified.The illustrations in the biography section varyfrom crude sketches and ragged downloadedportraits to more skillfully drawn detailedlikenesses.Except for the biographies, most of theinformation can be found in a basic chemistrytextbook. But this book is marketed as a quickreference, not a textbook, and with the otherFacts of File handbooks students can quicklycross-reference information. Other books in theseries include Physics, Earth Science, andBiology.Joanne M. Haffly, Freelance Writer, Homeschool Mother, GigHarbor, WashingtonThe Facts on File dictionary of astronomy,4th ed., edited by Valerie Illingworth andJohn O. E. Clark. LCCN 99017788. NewYork: Facts on File, 2000. LIB,0816042837, $55.00.570’.3. Astronomy--Dictionaries. 490 p.The accuracy and usefulness of The Facts onFile Dictionary of Astronomy by ValerieIllingworth and John O. E. Clark is attested to bythis publication in its fourth edition. A sizeabledictionary of over 470 pages, it provides briefbut precise definitions for terms, objects, andtheories as well as graphs and tables to enhanceunderstanding. Mathematical formulae requiredfor understanding of astronomical phenomenaare also given along with a short explanation ofthe concept and its use. The definitions are selfreferencedwith those terms used withindefinitions and elsewhere defined in all capitalletters. A very helpful feature is the inclusion ofthe meaning of the acronyms so widely used inscientific circles.As with all the Fact on File dictionaries, "see"and "see also" references are abundant, guidingthe reader to the correct expression of the termor concept being sought. The appendix at theend of the dictionary might be considered aready reference handbook of astronomy. Tableson the characteristics of planetary satellites,names of asteroids, meteor showers,constellations, famous people in astronomy, andmore will be invaluable to the librarian as wellas the student researcher.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, Georgia900’s—Geography, History, & BiographyDavid Brainerd, by Ranelda Hunsicker.(Men of Faith.) LCCN 99006483.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1999. PAP,0764221736, $4.99.921 (266). Brainerd, David, 1718-1747; Indians ofNorth America--Missions; Missionaries--UnitedStates--Biography; Christian biography. 142 p.(Adult).David Brainerd by Ranelda Hunsickerchronicles the life of one of America’s earliestmissionaries and the momentous time in whichhe lived. Born into a Puritan, New Englandfamily in 1718, Brainerd was the sixth of ninechildren. He lost both of his parents before hewas out of his teen years and almost diedhimself from a measles epidemic. These earlyexposures to death caused Brainerd greatconcern for his soul, but their effects usuallyfaded until another death would remind him ofhis standing before God.Despite a lack of certainty concerning hissalvation, Brainerd decided to go into theministry. He studied for six months inpreparation for admission to Yale before he wasfinally brought to the realization of his own lostcondition. At last come into a saving faith,Brainerd went on to become involved in thecontroversies surrounding the Great Awakeningand devote himself to the proclamation of theGospel among the Indians of colonialPennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey untilhis own early death from tuberculosis at the ageof 29. David Brainerd’s short life and, for histime, unique mission in the service of Christ, hasserved as an inspiration to countless others.Missionaries from the 18th to the 20th centurieshave credited him with inspiring them to makethe commitment to mission work and to persistin that work against personal hardship.Ranelda Hunsicker’s short biography of DavidBrainerd must be regarded as a spareintroduction to the man and his times. A moreaccurate understanding of Puritanism and itsinfluence in the early years of America is neededto understand Brainerd and the events in his lifethan can be obtained in this work. Althoughreplete with quotations from Brainerd’s journalsand reports, the author’s narrative suffers from aflatness of language that renders her subjectheroic but distant. The bibliography at the endof the book is annotated with helpful commentson the readability of the selections and theircurrant availability.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaJohn Calvin, by William Lindner. (Men ofFaith.) Minneapolis: Bethany House,1998. PAP, 0764220055, $4.99.921 (270.6). Calvin, Jean, 1509-1564; Theology,Doctrinal--History--16th century. 160 p. (Adult).After the inspired writing of the Apostle Paul,there are few works that have had the impact orwielded the influence in the Christian worldthan those of John Calvin. His defense of thefledgling Reformation against attack from bothRoman Catholic and Radical anabaptist alike,through his monumental Institutes of theChristian Religion, gave Protestantism a solidScriptural and philosophical base from which ithas influenced religious understanding andpolitics from that day to this. In his bookentitled simply John Calvin, William Lindnerexamines the family and cultural backgroundinto which Calvin was born and how, throughGod’s Providence, he was prepared to performthe immense task of systematizing the theologyof the Bible and applying it to the socialinstitutions of his time. Throughout thiscompact biography the reader is confronted witha real, vibrant man rather than the stiff icon ofthe perennially misunderstood theology thatbears his name. Linder’s prose conveys thedanger and excitement of the early ReformationC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

HIGH SCHOOLNONFICTIONas Calvin slips out of France for safety inSwitzerland only to be confronted with God’sunexpected call thundered upon his head by thevoice of the great William Farel. From thatpoint on, the quiet scholar was transformed intobold defender, and from one city he changed theworld.Linder writes John Calvin with zest and anobvious affection for the man and his works.Readers will get a sense of the perils andcontroversies of the time as well as a taste ofCalvin’s eventful life. An appendix at the end ofthe book gives a chronological listing of allCalvin’s writings and a select bibliographyprovides suggestions for further reading.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaAnne Frank : a hidden life, by MirjamPressler. LCCN 99089604. New York:Dutton Children’s Books, PenguinPutnam, 2000. HBB, 0525463305, $15.99.921 (940.53’18’092). Frank, Anne, 1929-1945; Jews--Netherlands--Biography; Holocaust, Jewish (a939-1945)--Netherlands--Amsterdam; Women--Biography.176 p. (Adult).On Wednesday, April 5, 1944, Anne Frankaddressed her diary, "I want to go on living evenafter my death!" To the hundreds of thousandsof school children who read her story The Diaryof a Young Girl, Anne gave her adolescentinterpretation of the mayhem of her world. Foranyone who has read the diary, author MirjamPressler provides further information aboutAnne’s family, the political climate of that era,and insight into the publishing controversiesover the subsequent diary versions.This book is a commentary of events prior toAnne Frank’s death and thereafter. Thus, theauthor tackles tough philosophical questionsabout the allied troops delayed response to theissue of mass extermination of ethnic groups bythe Germans. She ties in Anne’s writings withevents that occurred using resources such as TheDiary of Anne Frank: The Critical Edition, AnneFrank Remembered, and The Diary of AnneFrank: The Definitive Edition (which Presslerco-edited with Otto Frank, Anne’s father).In the earlier versions of the diary that OttoFrank controlled, he edited out entries dealingwith Anne’s awaking sexuality and relationshipwith Peter, a boy who lived in the Annex withthem. The author discusses Anne’s confusionover her feelings and speculates on the degree ofpetting that went on with Anne and Peter. Thesemature issues make the book more appropriateto readers in high school and above.The book is fully indexed, footnoted, andcontains two bibliographies. There is aforeword by a rabbi who personally knew OttoFrank, and a note by Otto Frank’s stepdaughter.The author adds a postscript discussing thecontroversial new unpublished pages of Anne’sdiary and there is a Chronology sectionbeginning with Anne Frank’s birth and ending in1998 with the new discovery of those pages.The center of the book contains eight pages ofpictures of Anne, her family, and members ofthe Annex. For those teaching about AnneFrank or who want more information about thisyoung writer, this book is well worth thepurchase.Joanne M. Haffly, Freelance Writer, Homeschool Mother, GigHarbor, WashingtonA brief history of Central America, by LynnV. Foster. LCCN 99462120. New York:Facts on File, 2000. LIB, 0816039623,$45.00.972.8. Central America--History. 326 p.With our eyes trained on our cultural oreconomic equals, we Americans of the UnitedStates rarely attend to the small countriessharing our continent which lie to the south ofMexico. Unless there is a revolution or anearthquake, the nations of Central America arelargely ignored. Most of us are woefullyignorant of their past and have no realconception of their present.Lynn V. Foster’s A Brief History of CentralAmerica is a good first stop in rectifying thispotentially dangerous oversight. Foster’s bookbegins in the area’s ancient past, treating theregion as a whole, and traces the succession ofpeoples who have gained hegemony over it.More than a history of conquests, the author alsodelves into the social and cultural aspects of theparade of civilizations that have arisen here andexamines their influences on each other, andbrings history into the present. Formativeevents which occurred in each of the sevencountries of Central America are related, butwithin the context of the entire region. Sidebarscontaining snippets on interesting people,events, statistics, and discoveries in the regionare scattered throughout, giving the reader a feelfor the dynamic cultural, political and economicrealities contained in these small countries. ABrief History... ends with a wealth of indexes,one on each individual country in which theexpected statistics are given, a bibliography ofworks consulted, and a very generous suggestedreading list that is helpfully divided by topicswhich correspond to the book’s chapters. Thefourteen-page index is superb, as is the generallayout of the book and its black and whitegraphics.The distinct problem with any real examinationof Central America is the role that the UnitedStates has played in the region. The truth of ourinvolvement in the affairs of these countries isvery uncomfortable even when examinedobjectively, but this can be exacerbated by theleftist point of view which dominates much ofthe scholarship in this area. An honestevaluation of the situation is probablyimpossible; but that being said, A Brief Historyof Central America comes close. Its language ismeasured and it allows Central Americans thedignity of responsibility for their own livesrather than couching every problem as a resultof U.S. interference. Even so, readers should beawake to possible bias, especially in the booksrecommended for further reading. There aresimply very few books available to high schoolstudents that cover the ground so amply andcompletely as A Brief History of CentralAmerica. It is highly recommended for highschool libraries.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

BOOK REVIEWSADULT FICTIONBlood moon rising, by Eric E. Wiggin.LCCN 99047794. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2000. PAP, 0805420282, $14.99.F. Espionage--Fiction; Adventure--Fiction; Christianfiction. 429 p.Nicki Towns has a dream of creating ahomeland for her people, the Assyrians. Shebelieves it is her destiny to bring about thefulfillment of prophecies in the Bible regardingAssyria. She uses her expertise as a nuclearphysicist to steal top secret missile plans fromthe U.S. company where she is employed.Chuck Reynolds, the company’s security chief,is sent to investigate the situation. Somehow hefinds himself the target of Iraqi assassins, andNicki manages to save his life. The same groupis after her. Chuck and Nicki find it is unsafe toremain in the U.S., so they leave the countryincognito. As they travel together, Chuckdiscovers secrets about his own country thatchill him to the bone. Nicki discovers Christ,and realizes she has been wrong to try to fulfillprophecy on her own. Chuck and Nickidiscover that they are falling in love. Theybegin to work together, hoping to escape theIraqis forever and save the U.S. from the threatof nuclear holocaust.Blood Moon Rising, by Eric E. Wiggin, tries tobe a suspense-thriller but falls somewhat shortof its goal. It does have some good moments.The love story is sweet, though the twocharacters don’t really seem to belong together.The technical explanations about the neutronbomb are clear and very understandable.Violence is prevalent and sometimes graphic,but always appropriate to the story. Thehistorical connections to the prophet Daniel areinteresting, if a little far-fetched. At times theaction is very fast-paced and riveting. At othertimes the story moves slowly and is almost achore to read. Some surprising twists andrevelations at the end of the book make it aworthwhile read.Robyn Wyatt, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard, Washington★The bridge, by Lisa Tawn Bergren. LCCN00043543. Colorado Springs:WaterBrook, 2000. HBB, 0157862724,$14.95.F. Traffic accident victims--Family relationships--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction; Mothers--Fiction;Montana--Fiction. 244 p.The Bridge by Lisa Tawn Bergren combines twosearching hearts in a setting so appealing itcauses the reader to get out the map and phone atravel agency. Jared, hoping to hop off the fasttrack for a while, takes his young son Nick toMontana. In his hopes to get to know his sonbetter, and to recover from the pain of a failedreconciliation with his former wife, Jared useshis simple surroundings to sort out howcomplicated his life has become. Finding solacein the cabin his great-uncle left him, Jared alsofinds himself caught up in his past, for this wasthe place where his mother was headed whenshe died so tragically. As Jared gets his uncle’scabin in order, his relationship with his son alsoshapes up. Enter Eden, a talented young potterwho hides the pain of rejection in her clayworks. The past of both these wounded heartsbecome bound together as Jared and Eden’sfriendship develops into a reluctant relationship.Bergren writes a strong novel as she unfolds thedrama of two searching souls who mustreconcile their past hurts. The interwovendrama of Anna, Jared’s mother, adds a satisfyingdimension to an already enthralling story. Theauthor provides a credible storyline how God isthe end to the search. Written with authenticityand generous detail, the author has widened herreadership to beyond the Christian audience, asthis is a book written for those who are lookingfor true reconciliation.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, Idaho★Evening star: a novel, by SigmundBrouwer. (Sam Keaton : legends ofLaramie; 1.) LCCN 00009923.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,0764223666, $8.99.F. Laramie (Wyo.)--Fiction; Western stories. 317 p.★Silver moon : a novel, by SigmundBrouwer. (Sam Keaton : legends ofLaramie; 2.) LCCN 00009973.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,0764223658, $8.99.F. Sheriffs--Fiction; Laramie (Wyo.)--Fiction;Western stories. 319 p.Sam Keaton is a loner, just trying to survive apast he inherited upon his brother’s death. Insaving the Indian’s life, Sam kills one of thetown’s deputies, lands in jail, and acquires aclose companion. Under the direction of amysterious woman named Rebecca Montecalm,the Indian breaks Sam out of jail to be his trailguide into the Black Hills of Dakota, a land fromwhich no man returns. Sam looks for Ms.Montecalm who, while effectively eluding him,continues to feed instructions for travel throughthe Indian. He eventually discovers that theIndian is Rebecca Montecalm, and learns thatshe is the grand-daughter of the great Siouxchief, Red Cloud. Her mother, with child by awhite cavalry lieutenant, had been kidnappedand shipped to England as an unwilling memberof a traveling circus. Rebecca was given to nunsat a convent to be properly raised. Now thelovely half-breed is back, determined to find herfather and any other family that remains.Gaining acceptance as a Sioux, she and Sam areaided in tracking down a killer who holds thekey to Sam’s dark past. The truth of Sam’sinnocence is revealed, and, with it, therealization that God does, in fact, exist and hasalways protected him.Silver Moon by Sigmund Brouwer, is thecontinuing saga of Sam Keaton, cleared of allmurder charges and the new marshall ofLaramie. In this episode, Sam meets an oldlove, uncovers the double life of the sinister manin the snake-skin boots, and runs a suspiciouscircuit preacher out of town. Religious beliefs,presented in both books, form a naturalprogression of questions most people living onthe edge of life and death ask about God and theuniverse. Very gracefully and unintrusivelypresented.Evening Star and Silver Moon by SigmundBrouwer, are the first and second books in theSam Keaton: Legends of Laramie series. Fansof westerns will find both complete with a hintof the old Louis L’Amour charm, a splash ofmystery, and a touch of romance, a delightfulread. Well documented historical fiction, withcharacters that are fully developed andbelievable.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkFor whom the stars shine, by LindaChaikin. (Jewel of the Pacific; 1.) LCCN99006623. Minneapolis: Bethany House,1999. PAP, 1556616473, $9.99.F. Hawaii--History--Fiction; Love stories; Christianfiction. 320 p.Eden Derrington, nineteen-year-old daughter ofmissionaries to Hawaii, has a mystery in herpast. Her relatives claim her mother drowned,but Eden can’t remember; neither can sheremember the accident that left a scar on herforehead. No one is willing to answer herquestions.Set in the late 1800’s, For Whom the Stars Shinetells the story of Eden’s preparations to followher calling to work beside her father, seeking atreatment for leprosy, while her cousins,Zachary and Rafe, vie for her attention. It’s alsothe story of the legacy of the missionaries, andof the haole (white) plantation owners whocame to dominate Hawaii’s economy andpolitics.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 1 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

A Note from the Editor: by Mary McKinneyGoodLiterature --RightStandardsIf we avoid reading secular fiction,we miss the many fine works thatreflect the very same conflicts andjoys we face in our walk with God.Good literature comes in all sizes,styles and subjects. From TheVelveteen Rabbit to Ben Hur we canfind amazing tales of love, care, andthe lifting up of the human spirit.Sometimes we tend to reject what weconsider "secular" writing, concernedthat it will present standards that aredifferent and objectionable to ourpersonal beliefs. Yet, rejection of allsecular reading just might result inmissing powerful messages thatteach and encourage us in the realityof life itself.Deborah Rau’s article found in ThePlain Truth Online states:"While weighing sacred fictionagainst its more worldly counterpart,we should also consider this basicprinciple: a secular tale can teach aprofound spiritual truth. ConsiderChrist's stories and parables. Duringhis earthly ministry he usedstorytelling, also known as parables,as his primary teaching tool. Thesacredness comes not so much fromthe tale itself as from the application,when the story is lifted onto aspiritual plane, when all its facets arestudied through regenerated eyes.And that's the way a Christian shouldread everything -- penned by afellow believer or not."Three examples of such literaturedemonstrate a variety of styles,genres and view points, yet all revealthe vulnerability of human kind, anda similar soul-searching and need forrightness and truth.(Owen Wister, The Virginian)."Of all kicking against the pricksnone is so hard as this kick of aprofessing Christian against thewhole instinct of human man."(Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina)."'Lord have mercy on us! pardon us!aid us!' he repeated the words thatfor some reason came suddenly tohis lips. And he, an unbeliever,repeated these words not with hislips only. At that instant he knew thatall his doubts... did not in the leasthinder his turning to God. "(Oscar Wilde, The Picture of DorianGray)"It was his duty to confess, to sufferpublic shame, and to make publicatonement. There was a God whocalled upon men to tell their sins toearth as well as to heaven. Nothingthat he could do would cleanse himtill he had told his own sin."And long after we've placed J.R.Tolkien's Lord of the Rings backonto the shelf, the epic tale of goodagainst evil stays etched in ourminds."He bitterly regretted his foolishnessand reproached himself for weaknessof will; for he now perceived that inputting on the ring he obeyed not hisown desire but the commanding wishof his enemies."Here is a quick look at a well knownChristian author that had a verystartling background. C.S. Lewiswas a staunch atheist, yet he had asensitivity to truth and the humancondition. This soul-searching at lastbrought him face to face withultimate Truth. In C.S. Lewis’autobiography, Surprised by Joy, hespoke of his conversion toChristianity as the "prodigal who isbrought kicking, struggling, resentfuland darting his eyes in everydirection for a chance of escape."Despite his willful reluctance, hisChristian walk became an examplethat is worthy of carefulconsideration.*"Christianity was not for Lewis asuitcase into which he crammed thefacts of life, cutting here andsnipping there until it all fit neatlyinto the preconceived package...Lewis didn't find God; God foundhim."I mention this potpourri of literaturefor one reason, to show somepossibilities that help us understandand sympathize with the humancondition while seeing a higherpurpose that promises escape andrescue. I repeat that studying awritten work, or any other work forthat matter, with the wisdom anddiscernment God allows us, promisesrich reward.* Editors, The Plain Truth OnlineThe first two hundred pages are painfullyboring. Despite the exotic setting, descriptionsfall flat. Exposition abounds in the narrative andthe dialog, including many details that serve nopurpose in moving the story forward. Sentencestructure is passive. The reader only gets to hearabout what has happened; he never gets to seeany action.The characters lack depth. The scoundrels areunrelentingly obnoxious. Since for most of thebook the characters don’t do much besides thinkabout the history of the islands and evade eachother’s questions, the heroine and the hero areuncompelling.When the story finally picks up two thirds of theway through the book, it is as if Chaikin hasS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

ADULTFICTIONfinally determined the truth about RebeccaDerrington, Eden’s mother. Hints suddenlyappear. Eden becomes mildly likeable as shebegins to act in a credible manner. Too bad shedidn’t go back and inject some life into the firsttwo hundred pages.Chaikin is a veteran novelist, with at least sevenprevious series under her belt. For Whom theStars Shine is book 1 of the Jewel of the Pacificseries. One can only hope that subsequentvolumes will be more forceful.Andrea R. Huelsenbeck, Freelance Writer, Tempe, ArizonaFreedom’s altar, by Charles F. Price.LCCN 98055781. Winston-Salem, N.C.:J.F. Blair, 1999. HBB, 0895871777, $19.95.F. Afro-Americans--Fiction; Reconstruction--Fiction;North Carolina--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Fiction; Historical fiction. 291 p.The Civil War has just ended and the formerlywealthy southern Curtis family is struggling tobegin again when surviving son Andy returnshome to his family. Both of his brothers havedied in the war and his father has made enemiesof two local women, the Pucketts, whose familywas wiped out by marauders set upon them byJudge Curtis to save his own kin. Former Curtisslave, Daniel McFee has also returned afterfighting for the north to be near the resting placeof his wife. He and the Judge struggle to workthrough the feelings left behind by the system ofslavery and war.The Pucketts appeal to local official, NahumBellamy, whose semi-legitimate group ofvigilantes includes Daniel’s angry stepson,Hamby. He is fighting for Negro rights, andbelieves that he is "God’s avenging angel" topunish the Curtises for their part in the war.Andy contacts Oliver Price to testify, since he isa witness, but Oliver hates to leave his gentle,tubercular wife, Nancy. However, he feelshonor bound, and reluctantly goes to help.Upon his arrival he finds that someone in thevalley is killing former Confederate soldiers.The story moves rapidly to some surprisingresults as the Curtis family, Daniel McFee, andOliver Price struggle to move on and becomebetter people, despite the price they must paybecause of the war.Charles F. Price has based Freedom’s Altar uponactual historical events that involved hisancestor Oliver Price. The story is anengrossing portrayal of the complex time ofReconstruction that is too little discussed. Mostreaders will sympathize with the finely drawnand detailed characters who must deal with theresults of their life choices. The reader will alsobenefit from the healing power of forgivenessand self-sacrifice that is portrayed.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Bayhmonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaGhost writer, by Rene Gutteridge. LCCN00010081. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 0764223437, $10.99.F. Publishers and publishing--Fiction; Ghostwriters--Fiction; Editors--Fiction; Christian fiction; Suspensefiction. 396 p.One day Senior Editor Jonathan Harper picks upthe manila envelope marked RequestedMaterial. He notes it is addressed to him at hischildhood home. Stamped across the front readsAddressee Not Known. The return addressbears his name and the address of the publishinghouse. Jonathan pulls out the pages and beginsreading The Story of My Life. Within the pagesof Ghost Writer, the author Rene Gutteridge tellsa tale of mystery and suspense and ultimately ofthe greatest love.Jonathan Harper’s career at a publishing houseis dissolving. His last few books lost money forthe company. His star Western writer ClydeBaxter comes out of retirement with one lastmanuscript, and an annoying ghost writerFrancis Flowers hounds him to read his story.He barely speaks to his wife Kathy. He noticesa charming attractive co-worker Sydney andthey begin to flirt.The manila envelopes continue to arrive.Someone is writing about Jonathan’s life as itunfolds. The mystery person is watching hisevery move, even what he eats for dinner. Itscares Jonathan and he fears for his safety andthe safety of his family. He looks closely at thepeople around him. Is it Clyde? Is it God?Soon the manuscripts say he must die.The raw emotions of a fallen man catch thereader in the throat. I found myself pulled intohis depths of despair and felt his cry of anguish.Although the ultimate ‘mystery’ of the ghostwriter ends weakly, the strong development ofthe character and his reestablishment with Christmakes the book worth the read.Joanne M. Haffly, Freelance Writer, Homeschool Mother, GigHarbor, WashingtonHeaven’s road, by Judith Pella. LCCN00009844. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 0764222791, $10.99.F. Texas Rangers--Fiction; Fathers and sons--Fiction;Texas--Fiction; Christian fiction; Western stories. 331p.Heaven’s Road opens with a flashback of MicahSinclair as a battle between Mexicans andTexans rages in 1836. As a child he witnessedthe conflict that claimed the life of his beloveduncle. This event forged a desire for revengeagainst the Mexicans that would not bequenched through many years as a successfulsoldier and then as a thief, delighting in stealingfrom and killing Mexicans. When the currentescapade of the band of robbers goes awry,Micah comes face to face with Lucie and thebeginning of a change of heart.The path of Heaven’s Road is not as predictableas one might assume and keeps the readerintrigued and curious about what’s coming next.The resolution of Micah’s heart change is notimmediate and there is an unexpected twist midwaythrough the book that will truly surpriseyou. Judith Pella has done an admirable job ofweaving history, relationships, and redemptioninto a compelling read.Sally Kuhns, Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonHome to Harmony, by Philip Gulley.(Harmony series; 1.) LCCN 00008520.Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah, 2000. HBB,157673613X, $14.99.F. City and town life--Fiction; Quakers--Fiction;Clergy--Fiction; Christian fiction. 219 p.Phillip Gulley, with Garrison Keillor style,quickly draws readers into Harmony, a fictionaltown with familiar real-life people. SamGardner tells us the facts and foibles of this townwhere he grew up and to which he returns aftertime away. He unexpectedly ends up as pastorof the Quaker meeting. Some of his membersaggravate Sam and everyone else, as well.Others endear themselves.Dale Hinshaw, the leading opponent of "mosteverything new in Harmony," continually spoutsnegative comments and comes up withoutlandish ideas. Dr. and Mrs. Neely refuse tosell their house to anyone who wants to paint thedining room wall behind the drapes. Bob Miles,Jr. wishes he lived somewhere else, maybefaraway in Paris. His father, Bob Miles, Sr.thinks the church should buy him a bullhornbecause " ... this town is a powder keg. Andwhen it blows, you’ll wish you had a bullhorn."Vinnie Toricelli tricks Ellis Hodge when heplants his mounted swordfish alongside Ellis’pond. Frank, the church secretary, "wades inand gets things done," including explaining thebirds and the bees to the young people. As BillyBundle, the world’s Shortest Evangelist, drivesaway, Sam prays he will never return.This satire on small town people and church lifepicks up on the shortcomings of God’s children,even pastors: Sam and two churchmen derailthemselves by spending Friendly Women Circlemoney to attend a ball game and drink beerwhile on a mission. Although Gulley illustrateshow their sins finds them out, he does not dealwith the situation as seriously as such a lapsedeserves. Throughout the book he also paintsword pictures of good-hearted, sensible folks.Many chapters end with a solid truth. Theseshort preachments do not intrude, but instead,they add a skillful touch. He sometimes changesviewpoints, taking readers out of Sam’s headinto that of other characters.Gulley writes with restraint and humor, thoughsome may accuse him of making fun ofQuakers. Home to Harmony, his fourth book,causes smiles and at times, out-loud laughter.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Newberg, OregonThe island of Heavenly Daze, by LoriCopeland and Angela Hunt. (HeavenlyDaze series.) LCCN 00049977. Nashville:Word, Thomas Nelson, 2000. PAP,0849942195, $12.99.F. Historical fiction; Christian fiction. 246 p.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 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTFICTIONHeavenly Daze, a tiny island off the Mainecoast, is inhabited by a small group of quirkylocals—and six angels. Given the task ofoverseeing, protecting, and assisting theresidents of Heavenly Daze, the angels are sentby God to take on human form in response to aprayer request made by the founder of the islandin 1798.The aristocratic Olivia de Cuvier and her nieceAnnie, whom she reared to adulthood, haveharbored misunderstandings and bitternesstowards each other for years. Angel Calebserves as their "butler," and with his gentleencouragement helps them come to a point ofreconciliation. Annie, a researcher, plants someexperimental tomato seedlings on the island,hoping to develop tomatoes that flourish in coldweather. Her seedlings endure fierce storms,being dug up by the dog, and even somedeliberate crushing on Caleb’s part. Despite thedamage, some are salvaged for replanting andbegin to grow again. The plants become ametaphor for the fragile feelings of Annie andOlivia, and the tentative growth of their newrelationship.Island resident Reverend Wickam also has somethings to learn about pride. Upon overhearingpart of a conversation, he mistakenly believeshimself about to be ousted from his pastorateand replaced by a younger, flashier preacher.Wickam promptly buys a toupee to cover hisbald head, and plans visual aids and specialeffects to spice up his sermons. When all thesethings backfire, Wickam is humiliated, but isalso brought to the realization that he simplyneeds to be who he is, and allow himself to beused by God.Lori Copeland and Angela Hunt have combinedtheir storytelling skills to create a lightheartedtale in The Island of Heavenly Daze. Althoughthe plot line seems rather divided, and the angelsmore insignificant than one would expect, thestory combines humor, reminiscent of Liz CurtisHiggs, with a serious message.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonLord Foulgrin’s letters : how to strike backat the tyrant by deceiving and destroying hishuman vermin, by Randy Alcorn. LCCN00008460. Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah,2000. PAP, 1576736792, $16.99.F. Demonology--Fiction; Good and evil--Fiction;Epistolary fiction; Christian fiction. 305 p.There’s been a reshuffling of the Powers of theAir and the new CEO, Lord Foulgrin, has takenon the oversight of Squaltaint and hisassignments with vigor. Failure in Squaltaint’spursuit of the human souls under his jurisdictionis not to be considered or there will be Heavento pay. Therefore Lord Foulgrin brings all hisexperience and evil genius to bear in letters tohis underling, coaching him in the finer points ofhuman weaknesses and demonic temptation.Meanwhile, John Fletcher is living theAmerican Dream but finding that it hasn’tbrought him the happiness he deserves. His kidsare strangers, his wife avoids him, and thesecretary at work is very responsive. Little doeshe know that Heaven and Hell are poised overhis shoulder in a battle for his very soul.Randy Alcorn openly admits that LordFoulgrin’s Letters is greatly indebted to C.S.Lewis and especially his book The ScrewtapeLetters, written during the 1940s. A comparisonof the two reveals that Foulgrin is much wordierthan Screwtape, a result, says Alcorn in hisafterword, of the changes in the world sinceLewis’ time. In addition, Alcorn has included anarrative of the events occuring in the lives ofthe demon’s human subjects as Squaltaint andFoulgrin work all their angles to keep them fromcoming to Christ. Readers who have beenexposed to Lewis’ original will find Alcorn’s"update" disappointing and his writing styleover-blown. What Lewis said so well in a fewchoice words, Alcorn repeats again and againand again in prose that neither delights norintrigues. The human side of the story suffersfrom "evangelicalese" and the ring of formulapiety when spiritual truths arise, a problemcommon to most "Christian" fiction. Thedemonic half of the book is overfull of invectiveand unnecessary asides whose only functionappears to be to disgust the reader. LordFoulgrin’s Letters, like Frank Peretti’s novels ofdemonic activity, is written on the premise thatChristians need to be more aware of demonicattitudes and activities presenting as much oftheir horrorific evil as can be acceptablypublished by a Christian press. Given that muchof what passes for demonic in this book isconjecture, the reader must decide whether thisis a premise he should pursue.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaMaire : [a novel], by Linda Windsor. (Thefires of Gleannmara; 1.) LCCN 00009334.Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah, 2000. PAP,1576736253, $11.99.F. Women soldiers--Fiction; Ireland--History--Fiction.355 p. (High school).Fifth century Ireland is a land only recentlytouched by the light of the Gospel. It is also aland of warring clans and rival kings and isunder the sway of powerful druids. In this place,two warriors, Maire the queen of Gleannmara,and Rowan of Emrys, face each other in aconflict that can only be solved throughsurrender instead of force of arms. Captured ina raid upon his home, Rowan, a devotedChristian and skilled warrior, agrees to marrythe young, pagan queen who has defeated him insingle combat in exchange for the safety of hispeople. Both declaring the marriage no morethan political, they forge an alliance that thwartsthe designs of the High King’s druid uponGleannmara and bring prosperity to Maire’speople. Puzzled by his strange religion and itseffects upon her husband, Queen Maire isintrigued and repelled at the same time. On hispart, Rowan finds that he is falling in love withhis spirited and earnest wife in spite of theiragreement and a vow he had made to God todedicate his live to a priestly calling. Whenenemies strike, Rowan and Maire must come toterms quickly with their understanding of Godand his claim upon their lives. In doing so, theyfind that victory lies in surrender to the One whodoes all things well.In Maire, Linda Windsor does a credible job ofcreating the feel of ancient Ireland in herportrayal of the conflicting loyalties andtreacheries of the island’s rival tribes andfactions. The main characters of Rowan andMaire each have a history and a calling thatwork upon their consciences and challenge theiractions. Refreshingly, Rowan’s Christianconvictions are strong, but not pietistic; and hiswitness to his pagan wife is given in brief,pertinent moments that pique her interest ratherthan sermonize. Both characters grow andlearn, the climax of Rowan’s trial before theHigh King testing his more mature faith as wellas Maire’s new found one. The only flaw inWindsor’s story is in an unfortunate decision topersonify Ireland and give it the task of narratorat the beginning and end of the novel, completewith an attempt at Irish dialect and syntax whoseresult is stilted rather than charming. Otherwise,the story is rounded out with a very helpfulglossary of terms and a bibliography of recentlypublished works on the history of Ireland.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaMiss Fontenot, by Stephen Bly. (Heroinesof the Golden West; 3.) LCCN 98046369.Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,WaterBrook, 1999. PAP, 1581340745,$10.99.F. Montana--History--Fiction; Photographers--Fiction.222 p. (High school).Oliole Fontenot is a resident of the newlyfounded town of Cantrell, Montana. But she isnot the typical homesteader. Oliole is single anda professional photographer. This independentwoman does not seem to be in need of a man.She is involved in her small community andfeels complete in her chosen career. Alongcomes a sweet-talking cowboy named Kaid.Kaid seems to fill the hole inside of Oliole thatshe didn’t know was there. When Kaid receivesa job offer in Canada and asks for Oliole’s hand,she must decide if she is ready to give up herlove for Montana and her independence.Stephen Bly writes an interesting novel aboutthe "old west" with a twist—an independentsingle woman. Many novels of this type have awidowed heroine, but rarely have I read aboutone that was single. The characters are welldeveloped and colorful. Although this isnumber three in a series, it was fairly easy tofollow the story line—even of previouslywritten story lines. This quick-read novelcontains some surprises and proves to beunpredictable.Tammy Williams, Social Worker, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard,WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

ADULTFICTIONNewlywed games, by Mary Davis.(Palisades pure romance.) LCCN99089172. Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah,2000. PAP, 1576732681, $6.99.F. Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Humorous stories;Love stories; Christian fiction. 367 p. (High school).Erroneously learning her daughter is married,Gayle Livingston miraculously recovers from amysterious medical condition. MeghannLivingston must now invent a husband, and whobetter than her handsome supervisor, Bruce.Meghann feels she can pull off this little charadeuntil Bruce appears at the wrong time and mustbe included in her little fabrication. Bruce andMeghann continue the lie by pretending, notonly to Gayle, but also to Bruce’s family.However, when Meghann and Bruce are facedwith their lies, they must determine if theobstacles can be overcome so they can be reallymarried. Humor and much soul searching ensuein this romantic tale by Mary Davis.Newlywed Games is an entertaining love storyfor which two people are truly trying to liveaccording to God’s will, but are realisticallyhuman. Bruce and Meghann are Christians whohave real problems from which readers can seethe downfall of a snowballing lie. Humor,sadness, pain and love are all quite nicelyportrayed in this contemporary Colorado hotelsetting.Connie J. Weaver, Church & Reference Librarian, Newville,PennsylvaniaPursuit and persuasion, by Sally S. Wright.(Ben Reese mystery series; 3.) LCCN99050894. Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah,2000. PAP, 1576734161, $10.99.F. Reese, Ben (Fictitious character)--Fiction;Archivists--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories.356 p.In Pursuit and Persuasion, Ben Reese is askedby his former apprentice, Ellen Winter, toinvestigate the murder of her godmother,Professor Georgina Fletcher. Ms. Fletcherappears to have died of natural causes, but amysterious letter written to Ellen the day beforeher death opens up the opportunity that herdeath was anything but natural. Ben finds, uponjourneying to Professor’s estate, that thepossible suspects are many. Will Ben discoverthe murderer, or are the clues too hidden in themysterious past?Sally Wright’s mystery is very detailed andsomewhat confusing. The writings are a bit"dark" with little spiritual reference orsignificance. Throughout the story, there arereferences to Ben Reese’s past, but littleinformation to fill in the blanks. I found theincomplete story line of Ben Reese moreinteresting than the murder investigation.Reviews included in the inset of the book statethat she writes in the style of Dorothy Sayer andI must concur as I find Sayer novels too detailedand drawn out, also.Tammy Williams, Social Worker, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard,WashingtonRefiner’s fire, by Sylvia Bambola. LCCN00008204. Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah,2000. PAP, 1576736046, $10.99.F. Ambassadors--United States--Fiction;Ambassadors--Romania--Fiction; Christians--Romania--Fiction; Brothers--Romania--Fiction;Romania--Fiction; Christian fiction. 349 p.An inspiring story with an unusual twist andenough excitement to keep you turning pagesuntil the end of the book—what more could youask from Christian fiction? Alexander and Yuri,Romanian twins, are separated as youngchildren. Years later their paths cross during thebrutal reign of Nicolae Ceausescu in 1980sBucharest. Alex is an ambitious U.S.ambassador, Yuri, a Romanian officer in thesecret police, and clandestine member of theUnderground church. Yuri suspects Alex is hislong lost brother yet hesitates to confront himwith this information. A friendship with theambassador’s wife brings about changes in eachof them and causes Alex to evaluate what reallybrings meaning to his life. When he has to makedecisions regarding the lives of defectors;decisions that may not be politically correct andmay cause him to lose his esteemed position, hechooses the ethical path and discovers strengthand compassion that he did not know hepossessed.Besides the entertainment of a good story,Refiner’s Fire by Sylvia Bambola should alterthe thinking of readers by making them aware ofwhat Christians in other countries have sufferedand continue to suffer for the cause of Christ.This book will be enjoyed by both men andwomen and will be a well-read addition to anychurch library fiction collection.Ceil Carey, Young Adult Librarian, Plano, Illinois★A sacred place : a novel, by Bonnie Leon.LCCN 00037864. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2000. PAP, 0805421521, $10.99.F. Married women--Fiction; Alaska--Fiction;Historical fiction; Christian fiction; Love stories. 310p.Mary, an 18-year-old Aleutian, has her heart seton marrying her absent sweetheart Paul, but herparents think she should accept the proposal ofSean, a Christian. Mary acquiesces when herfather reveals to her the reason for Paul’s leavingtown. Sean is aware that his new bride does notlove him, but he tenderly woos her, hopeful thatshe will come to love and trust him in time.With the outbreak of WWI, Sean tries but isunable to join the military, accepting instead ajob wintering on Unalga, an island near the endof the Aleutian chain, to trap foxes. He andMary are dropped off by the owner of the island,believing that they are the only people there, butare surprised to find a young man named Trentalready living in the cabin intended for them.They don’t trust Trent even though they don’tyet know that he has been poaching the foxes.Trent helps Sean trap the foxes, secretlyplanning to steal the pelts, but Sean is busyfocusing on winning Mary’s love. The owner isunable to return with the rest of their suppliesand all three begin the struggle together tosurvive a harsh winter with little food.Unfortunately, Trent’s deceit finally leads to anopen confrontation with tragic results.A Sacred Place by Bonnie Leon transports thereader to WWI era Alaska. The constant loveand patience of Sean in wooing his brideparallels the workings of the Holy Spirit uponMary’s heart. The story is fast paced andexciting and the characters are intriguing. Therealistic details about Aleutian life are a finetouch and really add to the story. The themes oflove, forgiveness, repentance, and what makes atruly good marriage are well done. This is astory that will stay with you.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Bayhmonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, CaliforniaThe sacred shore, by Janette Oke and T.Davis Bunn. (Song of Acadia; 2.) LCCN99006839. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 0764222473, $10.99; HBB,764222473.00, $15.99.F. Acadians--Fition; Canada--History--To 1763 (NewFrance)--Fiction; Historical fiction; Christian fiction.268 p.Eighteen years before, an English family hadexchanged babies temporarily with a Frenchfamily to secure medical attention for the Frenchinfant, but before the babies and parentsreunited, the British expelled and scattered theFrench Acadians from what is modern day NovaScotia and New Brunswick. Little French Annieremained behind and little English Nicole fledwith the French. The families lost contact witheach other.Now Lord Charles Harrow, rich and proud,makes a perilous transatlantic crossing toHalifax, searching for his estranged brotherEdward and hoping to find a male heir for hisEnglish estate. Upon reaching the shore, hediscovers his journey has only begun. Charleslocates Edward, a village minister, living simplyand peacefully with his wife Catherine anddaughter Annie, who, he is startled to learn, isnot a blood relative. He determines to findNicole, his true niece.Janette Oke and T. Davis Bunn weave Charles’quest intricately with all other characters’searches for identity or spiritual reality. Charlessails south, then treks overland to the LouisianaBayou. But he just misses Nicole, who releasesherself from a love affair, learns of her Englishroots, and leaves quickly to find her birth family.Struggling to know God and their need for Him,they fight for survival on the same ship througha life-threatening storm, not realizing until laterthat they are related. Charles learns humility,and both he and Nicole learn to pray and receivenew faith. Two daughters meet and reunite withtheir natural mothers. The parents, Henri andLouise and Edward and Catherine, sufferemotional trauma from past memories and fearthe consequences of revealed truth. EveryoneC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTFICTIONcomes home to the shore, sacred to eachindividual because of the nature of his or herquest. The reader wonders if the story has notyet ended.The authors pen a masterful account of peoplefacing the storms of life and realizing theymirror the storms within them. Readers willlearn that their quests begin with the voidswithin as they identify with characters’ personaland physical sufferings, fears of rejection, andspiritual growth. In The Sacred Shore’s historicaccount of the French Acadians, readers glean adeeper appreciation of the sacrifices thesecolonists made for all of us in the settling of ourgreat nation.Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer, Substitute Teacher/Former Librarian,Tukwila, WashingtonSeaside, by Terri Blackstock. LCCN00049991. Grand Rapids: Zondervan,2001. PAP, 0310233186, $12.99.F. Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Womenphotographers--Fiction; Seaside resorts--Fiction;Beaches--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction; Florida--Fiction.122 p.How to be productive, useful, efficient—theseare the things that Maggie taught her daughters.To her chagrin, they learned those lessons all toowell. Unfortunately, she never taught them howto slow down, how to savor life, and how toenjoy relationships. She never taught them thatwasting time isn’t necessarily time wasted.Now, with cancer eating away at her body,Maggie gathers her daughters together for aweek at the Florida seashore to show them howto be still, to enjoy life again, and to communewith God.Sarah and Corinne, however, are so caught up intheir family responsibilities, jobs, and volunteerwork they’ve left behind, that they spend alltheir time on the phone, on the computer, andsnapping at each other, resurrecting oldjealousies and hurts. When Maggie reveals herillness to them, their perspective of life suddenlychanges as the girls realize that the world willnot fall apart without them, and thatrelationships are more important than lists andschedules.Seaside, a novella by Terri Blackstock, is easilyread in an hour, but this slim book contains welldevelopedcharacters; many of us will recognizeelements of our own lives reflected in Corinneand Sarah. Packed with truth, this storychallenges us to refocus and re-prioritize, andreminds us of the importance of a heavenwardfocus.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonShadow of legends : a novel, by StephenBly. (Fortunes of the Black Hills; 2.)LCCN 99016673. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2000. PAP, 0805421742, $12.99.F. Black Hills (S.D. and Wyo.)--Fiction; Christianfiction; Western stories. 212 p.Shadow of Legends is set in Deadwood, SouthDakota, during the Gold Rush. Todd Fortune istrying to live up to the reputation his father madeduring his first few years in the Deadwoodgulch. When the elder Fortune goes hunting andprospecting in the Big Horn Mountains ofWyoming, Todd and his family are left to copewith swindlers, stage robbers, and murderers. Inaddition, Todd is worried about his wifeRebecca’s dissatisfaction with life in theshadows of the Deadwood gulch. He is alsoconcerned about Dacee, his sixteen-year oldsister who is quickly becoming a woman, butwho rides and shoots like a man. When twostage robbers escape from custody and comeback for revenge on those who captured them,the whole family gets involved in a fast-pacedadventure that not only risks their lives, but alsotests their faith and commitment to God’s will.Shadow of Legends follows Under a DakotaCross in the Fortunes of the Black Hills series.Although reading the books in order would behelpful, Shadow of Legends stands by itselffairly well. It is filled with action and goodChristian values. In this book Stephen Bly alsodemonstrates that God only expects each personto do his best, and not to try to be someone else.Virginia E. Brown, Library Assistant/Freelance Writer/FormerTeacher, Sheridan, WyomingA shelter in the storm, by Debra WhiteSmith. LCCN 00064676. Eugene, Ore.:Harvest House, 2001. PAP, 0736902783,$10.99.F. Southern States--Fiction; Romantic suspensefiction; Christian fiction. 314 p. (High school).Taylor Delaney, Sonsee’s best friend, has justbeen framed for her father’s murder. Believingin his innocence, and loving him with all herheart despite the fact that he does not return herlove, Sonsee agrees to hide him from the policeuntil the true killer is found. Sonsee suspectsthat one of her half-siblings is responsible forthe murder; there has been little love lostbetween them, and each has much to gain fromtheir father’s wealthy inheritance—especiallywhen Sonsee discovers an old key with a crypticnote that refers to some secret family treasure.As Sonsee and Taylor unravel the mystery, theyalso unearth a number of barriers in their ownlives-Taylor’s fear of loving and then losing orbeing hurt by the one he loves, and Sonsee’srevengeful and spiteful spirit toward her siblingsand her father’s murderer. Sonsee also learns torelease her own desires for a relationship withTaylor, and to embrace a relationship with theLord as her ultimate fulfillment.A Shelter in the Storm is book three in the SevenSisters series by Debra White Smith. It is theweakest book of the three, and is not especiallywell written. Some of the minor characters aremore like caricatures-particularly the LadyMacbeth-like villain with his compulsive handwashing. The story also contains numerouscontrived metaphors, and one particularlyannoying sentence structure that is used todistraction throughout the book wheneverconflicting emotions are mentioned. While thecharacter’s relational and spiritual struggles arereal, the murder/mystery storyline is ratherunrealistic, slow moving, and relativelypredictable.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonSisters of the Confederacy, by LauraineSnelling. (Secret refuge; 2.) LCCN00010798. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 1556618409, $10.99.F. Overland journeys to the Pacific--Fiction; Womenabolitionists--Fiction; Women pioneers--Fiction;Sisters--Fiction; United States--History--Civil War,1861-1865--Fiction; Historical fiction. 303 p.Two years into the War, the Highwood family ofKentucky has been pulled apart by death and thedestruction of much they had held dear.Jesselynn Highwood has promised her dyingfather that she will take the family wealth, theirstock of blue-blooded Thoroughbred horses, to aplace of safety until the depredations of war areover. Missouri had been the designated haven,but once there, Jesselynn discovers that anyhaven she seeks will have to be further west.Disguised as a young man, she must find a wayto keep her horses from conscription into botharmies, or theft from the unscrupulous, andprovide a credible shield for her now-freedslaves who accompany her in search of a newlife. Between the loss and the weight ofresponsibility she is called upon to shoulder,Jesselynn finds that she can no longer believe inthe God of her childhood.Meanwhile, Louisa Highwood has offered herhelp in nursing wounded Confederate soldiers ata Richmond hospital, but the supply of muchneeded pain-killing morphine has run out. Theonly source is in Washington, D.C., the capitalof the enemy. A soldier might not get through,but perhaps a woman could. Against her brotherZachary’s better judgment, Louisa and he set outto acquire the medicine that will save theircharges’ lives. In Sisters of the Confederacy,both Highwood women face situations that theyhad never expected to encounter, Louisa withfaith, but Jesselynn with bitter unbelief.Sisters of the Confederacy continues LauraineSnelling’s A Secret Refuge series about theHighwood Family of High Oaks, Kentucky,examining the effects of the War Between theStates on a Confederate family. Sisters is mostconcerned with Jesselynn’s trek west in searchof a safe place for her horses and her formerslaves and her struggle with the God she nolonger recognizes. Although dependent uponher as a shield against capture or prejudice, it isthe witness of her former slaves/friends thatshows Jesselynn the way back to faith.Snelling’s story has an interesting, if rathersensational, premise, but it suffers from unevenwriting, a reliance on caricature, and a tendencytoward formulaic resolutions of conflicts.Specific incidents, such as Daniel’s arrest andtrial due to false identification, are intense andwell drawn; but Jesselynn’s inner conflicts arepredictable and their resolutions prosaic. MostS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 5 6 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTFICTIONof the book’s secondary characters are littlemore than stereotypes, and those of the broadestsort. In short, it is a readable escape, but not acompelling or particularly accurate excursioninto the past.Pamela A. Todd, English Teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaSouth Pacific journal, by David & NancyFrench. LCCN 99020024. Nashville:Broadman & Holman, 1999. PAP,0805419632, $10.99.F. Philippines--Fiction; Legacies--Fiction; Suspensefiction; Christian fiction. 217 p.Jacob Levine is the very successful Jewishpartner of a New York law firm. One day hereceives a message that will change his lifeforever. His older sister Sarah has just died inthe Philippines. This brings many questions toJacob’s mind, since he thought his sister haddied during the Japanese invasion of thePhilippines in 1941. He travels to thePhilippines, where he is given her journal. As hereads through her account of what reallyhappened in 1941, his own ideas about life andfaith are challenged and changed forever.Sarah Levine arrives in the Philippines as anambitious young diplomat, ready to make hermark on the world. The unexpected attack bythe Japanese causes her to face the worstemotional crises of her young life. Separatedfrom the other diplomats and surrounded by thehorrible realities of war, she comes to terms withher own crushing need for a savior. For herselfand millions of other Jews, that Savior has notyet come. A young soldier she meets tries toconvince her that He has come. But she cannotpossibly believe that Jesus, whom she has beentaught is the worst blasphemer ever to live, is theSavior she searches for. Or can she?South Pacific Journal is a beautiful, poignantlove story. Not a romance novel, it insteadcaptures the tender sweetness one experienceswhen coming to Jesus for the first time. Thispicture stands in sharp contrast with the story ofSarah’s flight across the war-torn island, tryingto stay ahead of the Japanese army. David andNancy French do an excellent job of describingthe conditions of war without being too graphic.Even minor characters are well developed. Thedevastation of the refugees as they see theirhome destroyed is very real. The reader feelsthe hopelessness of soldiers who march to abattle they cannot win. The characters live inconstant fear of discovery and death. Sarah’sencounter with Christ set against this backdropgives a perfect picture of the peace we have inChrist during even the worst circumstances inour lives.Robyn Wyatt, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard, WashingtonThe temptation, by Nancy Moser. (Themustard seed; 3.) LCCN 00008508.Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah, 2000. PAP,1576737349, $12.99.F. Christian fiction. 411 p.In Nancy Moser’s novel The Temptation,characters with diverse personal historiesstumble into temptation while trying in theirown strength to fulfill vows made to the Lordwhen they dedicated their lives to Him at Haven,where they had all been mysteriously invitedseveral years before. Each one’s struggle is amini-plot within two larger ones.Ben Cranois, bitter from former campaign workwith Julia Carson-now president of the UnitedStates-succumbs to Ham Spurgeon’s evil plot toassassinate her. Father Del, homeless manturned priest, collides with their sinister planwhile organizing a reunion of all Havenites.Everyone’s passionate, selfless devotion hascooled to lukewarm complacency and pride inself-achievement. Natalie Pasternak is temptedto give up her writing. Walter Prescott is selfishwith his bonus and gloats over his successful TVprogram. Crediting herself for artistic success,Kathy Bauer hides treasures in her closet andlongs for an expensive home. God gave Juliaher talents, but now she handles things verywell, thank you. When Art Graham emergesfrom jail he must choose whether to join inBen’s schemes. Spiritual warfare forces clash inthe climax of the Reunion, with goodtriumphing over evil.Third novel in the Mustard Seed Series after TheInvitation and The Quest, The Temptation issuspenseful, yet delightful reading, built on asturdy framework of biblical truth. The storyline moves at a fast pace. Moser invites readersto chuckle and think introspectively whileobserving private, emotional parleys betweenvery real people. Each chapter begins with aBible verse appropriate to upcoming action.Replete with Scripture, the text weaves Truthinto the characters’ growth in their battlesagainst temptation. The author reminds readersthat God has placed them in uniquecircumstances in life, with unique companionsand purposes to fulfill in the face of spiritualwarfare.Readers become alert to how quickly theirthinking can change, how subtly they can betempted with success, greed, or pride. Theylearn with the characters that they are not betterpeople because of what they have done, butbecause of their relationship with God.Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer, Substitute Teacher/Former Librarian,Tukwila, WashingtonThunder from Jerusalem, by Bodie &Brock Thoene. (The Zion legacy; 2.)LCCN 00028994. New York: Viking,Penguin Putnam, 2000. HBB,0670892068, $19.95.F. Israel-Arab War, 1948-1949--Fiction; Jews--Palestine--Fiction; War stories; Christian fiction. 311p.Thunder from Jerusalem—second in the ZionLegacy Series after Jerusalem Vigil—promisesa thrilling read in historical fiction. From Bodieand Brock Thoene, authors of bestselling seriesThe Zion Chronicles and The Zion Covenant,the five-day saga unfolds on Wednesday, May19, l948. Beseiged for months with a lack offood and water, Israel has just declared herindependence. Jewish patriots fight againstSyria and Egypt to the north and south, andagainst Jordanian King Abdullah’s Arab Legion.Who will control the city of Jerusalem, holy toboth Jews and Muslims?Jacob Kalner has just broken through Zion Gatewith eighty Palmach troops, carrying preciousammunition and medical supplies for thehospital where his wife Lori tends the woundedand dying with Rachel, wife of Moshe Sachar,Haganah Commander. Moshe knows the arrivalof the Arab Legion’s armored column andinfantry is imminent. What he doesn’t know isthat American pilots coming to their aid arebeing tortured and killed. Nor does he knowthat a former Nazi SS lieutenant has infiltratedhis ranks to assassinate him. An obstinate andcollaborating mayor complicates matters.The Thoenes communicate superbly the strongfaith of the Jews, who "see the Almighty’s handof protection with their hearts" and know that aslong as one of them remains alive, God will notbreak His promise to Abraham. The authorspreserve the truth of the Nazi holocaust, andemphasize God’s promises to save and providefor a remnant of His people.Almost breathtaking is the authors’ narrative offierce fighting between hundreds of armedArabs and Peter Wallich’s Gadna YouthBrigade. This small teenaged band detonatesbuildings to block roads, and valiantly hurlspetrol bombs, molotov cocktails, and grenadesat the enemy. Some graphic details of violenceand suffering permeate the fast-paced story. Insharp contrast, quotations from the Bible and theAmidah parallel the occasional appearance of amysterious rose gardener, whose palms bearlarge scars, and who encourages characters ontheir spiritual journeys. A few Old Testamentprophecies (i.e., Daniel) are clearly explained.Thunder from Jerusalem, a timely novel for bothJews and Gentiles, is a gripping tale of wartimeadventure, historic truth, pain and heartache,romance, and spiritual strength. Readers willunderstand that the true eternal battle is aboutfaith in God, and will wait eagerly for the nextinstallment, Jerusalem’s Heart.Rhonda Marie Lackey, Writer, Substitute Teacher/Former Librarian,Tukwila, WashingtonWhere freedom grows, by Bonnie Leon.(Sowers trilogy; 1.) LCCN 98015558.Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998.PAP, 0805412727, $12.99.F. Russian-Americans--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Immigrants--Fiction; Russia--Fiction. 310 p.(High school).In fields of freedom, by Bonnie Leon.(Sowers trilogy; 2.) LCCN 98048985.Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1999.PAP, 0805412735, $12.99.F. Russian-Americans--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Immigrants--Fiction; Russia--Fiction. 309 p.(High school).C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTFICTIONHarvest of truth, by Bonnie Leon. (Sowerstrilogy; 3.) LCCN 99045733. Nashville:Broadman & Holman, 2000. PAP,0805412743, $12.99.F. Russian-Americans--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Immigrants--Fiction; Russia--Fiction. 309 p.(High school).Tatyana Letinov and her brother Yuri live on asmall farm in the Russia of 1930. They don’town much but life is good. Their parents,extended family, and neighbors form a closebond where God is honored. Into their livescomes Stalin.Where Freedom Grows follows the horrors,atrocities, and terror of living under Stalin’sregime. All are dealt with realistically and notsoftened to make a "nice" story.Shortly after Tatyana’s parents are taken fromthe farm by Russian troops, Yuri convincesTatyana that she must try to escape to America.Alone and afraid, Tatyana catches a train forLeningrad where she can board a ship sailing toAmerica. It is dangerous to talk to strangers orto admit a belief in God, especially since NKVDmen (Stalin’s agents) are everywhere. On theship one of Tatyans’s cabin mates is Flora, anolder Russian woman going to live with hersister in New York. Tatyana and Flora getthrough the inspection on Ellis Island and finallymeet Flora’s sister, Augusta. Beside Augusta isher son, a large, blond man named Dimitri.Meanwhile Yuri lives on his uncle’s farm. Buthere too there is no escaping the soldiers, andsoon Yuri and his uncle are forced into the backof a truck with other prisoners. Instead of aprison, Yuri finds himself getting out of the trucknear a forest. A group of the prisoners aremarched away and soon the sound of rifle firebreaks the silence.The first seven chapters of In Fields of Freedomare devoted to Tayana and Demitri. Seeking anew job in the depression era isn’t easy. ButDemitri has been accepted by a loggingcompany in Washington State. He heads westpromising to send for his bride, Tatyana as soonas possible. A voided timber order cancelsDimitri’s promised job. Then he learns that thecoal mines are hiring. The danger Dimitri faceswhen working in the mine is multiplied forTatyana when she becomes pregnant.In Fields of Freedom picks up Yuri’s story wherehe has just entered a prison complex where thereseems to be no escape. His faith has all butdeserted him. Then he meets Alexander,imprisoned because he was caught teaching areligious class. Yuri faces starvation, isolationpits dug in the frozen ground, and the hauntingfear that God has forsaken him. While he andAlexander are being transferred to anotherprison, a train wreck sets them on a 2000kilometer trek across Russia.Harvest of Truth finishes the story of Yuri andTatyana. This third book in the trilogy does notkeep the same fast-paced action as the first two.Yuri joins his old friends from the undergroundand begins handing out Scripture portions. Hispromise to Tatyana to join her in Americaweighs heavily on him so he makes the decisionto get false papers and try to leave Russia.Tatyana struggles with her desire to return to herhomeland. She wants her child to understandhis heritage. She unrealistically believes shewould be returning to a pre-Stalin Russia sheremembers from her childhood. Problems aresolved by returning to a strong faith in God andthe help of fellow Christians.Bonnie Leon shows the struggle of keepingone’s faith amidst the evil of a communistgovernment. Her characters are believable.Even those who, because of their strong faith,work in the underground do not take the dangerlightly.This trilogy will be enjoyed best by reading thebooks in order as number two and three pick upwhere the previous book leaves off. The lifestyle of 1930’s Russia includes the drinking ofvodka and other liquors. Smoking a pipe istreated as a pleasant past time, and dancing isthe way to celebrate when people get together.A glossary in books two and three help toidentify some of the Russian words.Myrtlemay P. Crane, Freelance Writer & Editor, Alderwood Manor,WashingtonWind : a novel, by Calvin Miller. LCCN00010472. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. HBB, 0764223623, $11.99.F. Homeless families--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Pennsylvania--Fiction; Christian fiction. 159p.This enchanting sequel to Snow continues thestory of the lives of the inhabitants of King ofPrussia, Pennsylvania, during the GreatDepression. It is the spring of 1929 and springis blowing in from the east. To Isabel McCaslin,considered the town looney by her marriedbrother Peter, this portends not only the end to acold winter but to "good news" being on theway.The wind "blows" Otto Mueller and the indigentPitovsky family her way. The relationshipbetween Isabel and Otto deepens and he helpsher to view herself and others from a differentvantage point. But Otto has a secret adopteddaughter, as well as trying to recover frompersonal wounds and financial woes himself.Meanwhile Otto’s mother Ingrid and Isabelwork surreptiously on behalf of the Pitovskyswhom the miserly Peter is trying to throw off hisproperty.Calvin Miller proves once again his genuinegiftedness as a master storyteller. Isabel andOtto are flawed but appealing personalities whonot only develop a new strength of character butwho change in fundamental ways. Theunfolding interpersonal relationships catch one’sattention and carry the reader along for anenjoyable ride. The only disappointment is thatone has to wait until later this year for the storyto continue in the sequel, Summer.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Bayhmonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, California★Wings of refuge, by Lynn Austin. LCCN99051018. Minneapolis: Bethany House,2000. PAP, 0764221965, $11.99.F. Women--Israel--Fiction; Israel--Fiction; Christianfiction. 397 p.Abigail MacLeod is taking a trip of a lifetime.She is participating in an archeology dig inIsrael, and fulfilling a life-long dream. Leavingbehind a marriage destroyed by infidelity,Abigail believes that she will leave her problemsbehind in America and find distraction for herpain. When her fellow passenger, a friendlyJewish man, is murdered in the airport and diesin her arms, Abigail begins a journey that shecould never imagine. The novel is full ofintrigue and history as well as the theme thatGod’s love heals all wounds.Lynn Austin, in Wings of Refuge, weavestogether three different lives, from differenttimes, into one compelling story. Reading it,one marvels at the ability of the author to drawall the threads together in an excitingconclusion. Although the novel contains someviolence, it is presented in a low key manner thatis not disturbing. I look forward to anypublications Ms. Austin may have in the future,as her writings are one of the best in this genre.Tammy Williams, Social Worker, Freelance Writer, Port Orchard,WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 5 8 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

BOOK REVIEWSADULT NONFICTION000’s—GeneralitiesConnecting kids and the Internet : ahandbook for librarians, teachers, andparents; 2nd ed., by Allen C. Benson andLinda M. Fodemski. LCCN 99016424.New York: Neal-Schuman Publishers,1999. PAP, 1555703488, $49.95.025.04. Internet (Computer network) in education--Handbooks, manuals, etc.; Internet (Computernetwork)--Study and teaching--Handbooks, manuals,etc.; Education--Computer network resources. 398 p.book and CD-ROM.Connecting Kids and the Internet is acomprehensive handbook designed to assistadults in directing children through high schoolin the use of the Internet for school and for fun.Among the subjects covered in this book aresafety-passwords, protection from viruses, andfiltering software for computers accessible bychildren. Activities for younger children, andfun and learning activities for all ages, arefollowed by more advanced activities for teenswhich include UNIX shell accounts and telnetand ftp activities. Several chapters end with alist of resources, some include lesson plan ideas.The final section includes the text of fourteenlesson plans dealing with web addresses,evaluating web sites, bookmarking, copyright,e-mail addresses, mailing lists, creating webpages, etc.Benson and Fodemski are educators who haveworked with K-12 children on Internet projects.Their well-designed handbook is loaded withinformation for the beginner and more advancedInternet surfer. Although both Internet Explorerand Netscape are described, many of the blackand-whitescreen shots are from Netscape. Theindex does not refer to all of the many web sitesdiscussed in the text, but the accompanying CD-ROM includes in "The Link Farm" annotatedlistings of web site addresses (UniformResource Locator, URLs) in twenty-eightdifferent categories. The CD-ROM may beaccessed through a web browser, and if thebrowser is connected to the Internet, clicking onthese URLs connects directly to the Internet website. The CD-ROM also includes the text of thefourteen lesson plans, with their Internet URLlinks. As the Internet changes, many addresseschange, and more gopher and ftp sites aremoving to the World Wide Web. The Library ofCongress new web-based Voyager catalog nowprovides advanced online searching.Donna W. Bowling, Library/Educational Consultant, Dallas, TexasGoing online @ home : how to make theInternet a family activity, by Ken Reaves.LCCN 00030346. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2000. PAP, 080542136X, $14.99.025.04. Internet (Computer network)--Handbooks,manuals, etc.; Online data processing--Handbooks,manuals, etc.; Microcomputers--Handbooks, manuals,etc. 322 p.In Going Online @ Home, Baptist pastor KenReaves presents a simple, down-to-earthA Note from the Editor: by Ray LeggRenewedVigorIam in the midst of an interestingtime in my life. No, it is not a midlifecrisis or anything disastrouslike that—I plan those to coincide withthe yearly vacation to the Outer Banksof North Carolina—going wind surfingand the like (this year, a student wholives near, wants to teach me to surf!That should be interesting!). No, whatmakes this time interesting is that I amrediscovering reading. For someunexplainable reason, I find myselfdrawn to the printed word withrenewed enthusiasm. That may notseem strange to those of you whoknow I am a teacher, but it is. Therecame a time during which, preciselybecause I was a teacher, that readinglost its appeal. It was part of the job.Things are different now.I am not sure why it has happened.Maybe I have been out of school longenough to look at books asentertainment, adventure, and the likerather than texts for a course. Maybemy confidence in my skill as aprofessor is increasing, or maybe it’sthe effect of the passage of time—whoknows? What is sure is that I havebooks open everywhere: in the office,at home, in my briefcase—everywhere.And during class the students mustendure the rabbit trails I get off on as Ishare connections between stories Ihave read. My hope is they will catchsome of my enthusiasm and want toread the materials for themselves.As I write this, my attention is drawnto a poster displayed in my officewhich I got at the Civil Rights Institutein Birmingham, Alabama. It depictsthe major figures responsible forbringing about the HarlemRenaissance. On it are musicians,artists, and writers, some of whom Ihave not read or seen or heard before,but who, because of the enthusiasm Ifeel of late, I will know soon. Andmany of whom the students will get toknow as we interact in and out of theclass. Who knows? Maybe some ofthem will actually want to go to thelibrary to discover these people forthemselves. Maybe they will catch arenewed vision for reading forthemselves. Maybe we all can helpthem catch that vision through ourenthusiasm.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTNONFICTIONintroduction to the Internet geared to Christianfamilies. Beginning with basic terms, he lays outcriteria for initial selection of computerhardware and software, and then InternetService Providers (ISP) to get connected to theInternet. Safety—protecting personal privacy,protecting children from inappropriate content,and protecting the computer from viruses—isthe first major topic. Other sections providesimply expressed detailed instructions onbrowsing, e-mail and mailing lists, searchingonline, downloading and updating, andcommunicating, and joint activities with familyand friends.The layout is comfortable and the text is easy-touse,with wide margins, a number of pull-outlists, and frequent black-and-white screen shotsthroughout the book. Illustrations include bothNetscape and Internet Explorer screens.Although Reaves makes passing reference toApple’s Macintosh, he consistently assumes PCequipment with MS Windows software.He describes and recommends many web siteswithin the text. (He also mentions that theInternet is constantly changing, and some of hisInternet addresses have already changed.)Although this book is geared to the newcomer tothe Internet, several hints along the way rewardthe more experienced reader. Appendicesinclude additional terms and a useful classifiedlisting of more than 300 Web sites to visit(URLs—Uniform Resource Locators),including many specifically Christian sites.Includes a few bibliographical end notes and askeletal index. Accompanying free CD-ROMprovides access to LifeWayonline, an ISPaffiliated with the Southern Baptist publisher.The Christian focus of this book will appeal tomany and it is more appropriate for thebeginning Internet user than the morecomprehensive Connecting Kids.Donna W. Bowling, Library/Educational Consultant, Dallas, Texas100’s—Philosophy & Psyschology★Endangered minds : why children don’tthink—and what we can do about it, byJane M. Healy. LCCN 00266956. NewYork: Touchstone, Simon & Schuster,1999. PAP, 0684856204, $14.00.155.4’1315. Learning, Psychology of; Learning---Social aspects; Learning--Physiological aspects;Neuropsychology. 384 p."Kids’ brains must be different ... ," sheremarked as she graded student essays. Afterseveral years of examining results of cuttingedge brain research and many conversationswith teachers, educational psychologist JaneHealy has documented factors she thinks havecontributed to the differences in student thinkingthat teachers have noticed in more recent years.In Endangered Minds, Healy points to several ofthose factors related to children in the areas oflanguage-related learning, sustained attention,and problem solving. Beginning with theplasticity of the brain, and the impact thatenvironment has on its development, sheaddresses the way language influences howchildren think. Lifestyles in the home and theschool climate affect and are affected bychildren’s learning disabilities and attentiondifficulties. Modern cultural features such asvideo games and TV (even Sesame Street) maydivert the developing child’s brain away fromthe analytical and reflective thinking skillsneeded in schools. Haley writes that even someschool practices may be counterproductive tomeaningful learning.In this wake-up call for parents and educators,Healy warns against potential hazards tochildren’s developing brains. Among them aretoxic substances and foods, noisy environments,sedentary lifestyles, and attempts by adults toforce "learning" on children who are notdevelopmentally ready. She balances those withpositive suggestions for parents and teachers,pointing out the value of physical play forgrowing brains and the necessity ofconversation with adults to foster thought,imagination, empathy, and reflection. WhenEndangered Minds was originally published in1990, Healy received the Delta Kappa GammaSociety International Educator’s Award. The1999 edition has a new introduction with aprogress report on current research and changesin the culture, plus a reading group guide at theend of the volume. Includes extensivebibliographical end notes and index. [See alsoin this issue Healy’s Failure to Connect.]Donna W. Bowling, Library/Educational Consultant, Dallas, Texas200’s—ReligionEerdmans dictionary of the Bible, DavidNoel Freedman, editor-in-chief; Allen C.Myers, associate editor; Astrid B. Beck,managing editor. LCCN 00056124.Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2000.HBB, 0802824005, $45.00.220.3. Bible--Dictionaries. 1425 p.More than just an update of the Eerdmans BibleDictionary (1987), the Eerdmans Dictionary ofthe Bible has been totally revamped, using 600contributors from all over the U.S. and a fewother countries as well. All the maindenominational perspectives are considered.The 3000 entries cover the Old Testament(including the Apocrypha) and the NewTestament. Many terms not found in the Bibleare covered if considered important to Biblestudy such as Trinity, Gnosticism, and ApostolicFathers.Reflecting the latest scholarship in many areas,previous Eerdmans’ users may be surprised atwhat has changed. For example, the concept ofGnosticism is now defined somewhat differentlythan what many of us have been taught. Someentries, such as the one on Hell, may seem a bitacademic, but are still understandable. Byacademic, I mean that the Greek and Hebrewwords are used repeatedly and the language isabstract. The inside cover has a Transliterationand Pronunciation chart opposite TheArchaeological Periods of Palestine on the firstpage. On the review copy, these are also on theinside back cover and last page, only upsidedown.To promote additional understanding of biblicalevents and concepts, there are twenty maps,most in color; limited bibliographic works citedafter some of the definitions; and a fewphotographs.Robert M. Lindsey, Associate Library Director, Hannibal-LaGrangeCollege, Hannibal, MissouriTreasures in the Psalms, by Henry M.Morris. LCCN 00102652. Green Forest,AR: Master Books, 2000. PAP,8910512981, $13.99.223. Psalms; Bible. O.T.--Psalms. 406 p.Henry M. Morris, author of numerous books andfounder of Institute for Creation Research, wroteTreasures in the Psalms to share blessings he’sexperienced from studying Psalms. He viewsthe psalms as "far more than mere devotionalpoems for pious reading." Thus, he offers ascholarly verse-by-verse exposition of selectedpsalms and incorporates entire passages fromthe King James translation for those discussed.Not a quick read, this meaty but understandableresource covers half the psalms and is dividedinto nine parts. Each part groups psalms bytheme rather than numerical order. Morrisbegins with the message and method in thePsalms followed by themes such as propheciesof Christ in the Psalms and events of His SecondComing. One section discusses the thirteenMaschil Psalms that provide instruction,encouragement, and guidance while anotherportion relates to areas of the Christian life suchas prayer and faith. Morris skillfully includesbackground information and new insights andlinks verses from Psalms with other Bibleverses. Chapters 54-59 of the commentary,covering psalms of encouragement and blessing,were written by his oldest son.Known as an advocate for biblical creationism,Morris’ strong view is evident throughout thebook. For example, when remarking on Psalm139:13-18 that discuss the creation of the humanbody, Morris writes, "The absurd notion thatsuch a marvelous organism could havedeveloped slowly over the ages by randomprocess of evolution is a graphic commentary onman’s desire to escape from God at all costs."Beloved psalms such as the 23rd and 100th areincluded. The reference concludes withtriumphant thoughts from Psalm 150 and otherpsalms of praise. Believers who wish to deepentheir understanding of Psalms will appreciatethis volume. Although more of a commentarythan devotional book, it makes a usefulcompanion when reading Psalms.Lydia E. Harris, Freelance Writer & Educator, Seattle, WashingtonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 6 0 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONevents portrayed in Thomas’ book weredependent solely on these apocryphal sources.Second, some of Thomas’ reconstructions orconclusions would be historically questionableto many Jesus scholars. Examples include theidea that Jesus was born in 12 BC and thesuggestion that Pilate may have been a secretChristian who thought he was performing aservice for Jesus by having him crucified.Particularly troubling to evangelical scholarsmay be the idea that the gospel stories cannot betrusted with regard to their portrayal of Judas.Third, The Jesus Conspiracy is a revision of abook Thomas wrote in 1987 called The Trial.While the introduction makes reference torecent works in the field of Jesus studies, thebibliography that Thomas says he relied on forhis study of Jesus, contains nothing written after1985. A significant amount of historical Jesusresearch has occurred since 1985.For those interested in an imaginative historicalreconstruction of Jesus’ life, Thomas book isrecommended. For those who want thehistorical background to Jesus’ life without thefiction or the occasional reliance onquestionable sources, I would recommend Jesusand the Rise of Early Christianity (IVP, 1999)by Paul Barnett.Dennis Ingolfsland, University Librarian, Bryan College, Dayton,TennesseeInto the depths of God : where eyes see theinvisible, ears hear the inaudible, andminds conceive the inconceivable, byCalvin Miller. LCCN 00008429.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. HBB,0764221728, $16.99.248.4. Spiritual life--Christianity. 249 p.Delving into the depths of who God is, and whowe are in him, is the challenge presented byauthor Calvin Miller. This is not an easy road totake because it goes against the flesh andrequires discipline. Yet the rewards ofdiscovering how to rest in God’s presence arepeace and a quietude of soul that are far moredesirable than our usual harried, hurriedlifestyles. Perhaps the greatest discovery in thisdiscipline is the ability to draw nearer to Godand experience a closer, deeper fellowship withthe Lord. "Prayer... a trek for those who walkbetween worlds."Into the Depths of God promises a wealth ofblessings if the reader is willing to lay down selfand search the fathomless bounty of having anintimate relationship with God. Miller’sstatement summarizes the heart of this book."Life in Christ is the only life built from heavenearthward and from the inside outward."For the reader yearning for more of God, thisbook will take you on a thought-provokingjourney that challenges lifestyle andcommitment, and unveils a glimpse into theinner sanctuary where God dwells.Mary McKinney, Former Teacher, Freelance Writer, Editor, PortOrchard, WashingtonMaking Jesus Lord : the dynamic power oflaying down your rights, by LorenCunningham; with Janice Rogers.Seattle: YWAM Publishing, 1988. PAP,1576580121, $8.99.248.7. Christian life. 156 p.Making Jesus Lord is a call to Christian Service,and above all else, evangelism. In this book,Cunningham details highlights from the originsand history of Youth With A Mission (YWAM)and the vignettes are used to illustrate the needsfor world and local evangelism, and the meansby which Jesus enables His "Super Lambs" tofulfil the Great Commission.Throughout the book, co-writer Janice Rogersdetails God’s Providence and Provision in thelives of people who share only one thing incommon: a desire to be obedient to God’s willand direction in their lives. Again and again, thesub-title of the book, The Dying Power ofLaying Down Your Rights, is echoed in the faithand obedience of ordinary men and women. Ofcourse, anyone who truly gives themselves overto God’s will and purpose cannot remainordinary.Making Jesus Lord includes a study guide andcould easily be adapted to a small group orevangelism class. Its purpose and points areobvious and undeniable for anyone who goes bythe name of Christ. The text lacks a linear flow.Dynamic illustrations come and go without adriving theme or pattern of thought to tie themtogether. At the end of the book, the reader willfind it difficult to walk away with a single, clearidea from the text.Still the words burn in the heart. What have Igiven over to Christ lately? What have Irelinquished for His purpose? Am I willing tolay down my rights, so that He can have His? Ipray that readers are up to the challenge ofserving an eternal Lord.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College, Business& Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaTeach your children well, by Don S. Otis.LCCN 00021687. Grand Rapids: FlemingH. Revell, Baker, 2000. PAP, 0800757238,$12.99.248.8’45. Children--Conduct of life; Children--Religious life; Child rearing--Religious aspects--Christianity; Child rearing--Moral and ethical aspects;Moral education; Moral development. 191 p.Should I be my child’s best friend, or merelypolice his/her life? Is there any way to simplifyparenting? How do I help my children to makelasting connections with God?Don S. Otis approaches these and otherquestions concerning child rearing from hispersonal experiences as a dad of three sons. Hesets out guidelines for biblical parenting andpoints out that God’s truths are simple, notcomplex. Spending both quantity and qualitytime with our kids is not an option but anecessity. We need to find ways to work withour kids to build courage and conviction toprepare them for the daily struggle against thecultural flow of disposable lifestyles. Parentsneed to be living examples to their kids of whatGod expects of His followers. What ourchildren see us do will make a much biggerimpression on them than what we tell them theyneed to do. Where there are no clear limits, or‘fences,’ the word ‘no’ may mean ‘maybe’ oreven ‘just don’t get caught.’ Confusion chipsaway at stability, so it is urgent that we build afirm foundation, early, in our children. Thereare consequences for our actions. Bad choicesconsistently bring about penalties; whereas goodchoices should consistently produce rewards.Balance between mercy and discipline is crucialto the process of healthy character development.We need to teach kids to feel good about doingright.In his book, Teach Your Children Well, Don S.Otis reminds the reader of the grave importanceGod attaches to raising children. Though thetone tends to be a bit preachy at times, there ismuch sage advice given by one who hasobviously been in the throes of child rearing.These basic concepts would be most useful in agroup study.Kim Harris, Librarian, Newman Riga Library, Churchville, NewYorkArts, entertainment, and Christian values :probing the headlines that impact yourfamily, Jerry Solomon, general editor.(Probing the headlines.) LCCN 99043118.Grand Rapids: Kregel Publications, 2000.PAP, 0825420436, $10.99.261.5’2. Mass media--Religious aspects--Christianity;Christianity and culture. 191 p.In Arts, Entertainment, and Christian Values is aseries of articles which pose some challengingideas for the reader who wants to understand theimpact that Christians should have on theirculture. Beginning in chapter 1, readers are told,"Fill your mind with biblical precepts; be carefulthat you don’t respond to the surrounding worldwith cultural biases; be interactive but notaccommodating; develop a positive,revolutionary mind-set; and glorify God in all oflife."These are not easy directives to fill. Solomonand his fellow authors point out questions andsolutions that may help those who want to try toimpacting their society. Part 1 is a generaloverview of philosophical questions andcomments and includes chapters such asChristians and Culture, Culture Wars, and TheNew Absolutes. In Part 2, the authors becomemore specific, covering such leisure activities asArt and the Christian, Music and the Christian,Television and the Christian, and The Games WePlay.Part 1 may be a bit dry, but for anyone who hasever wondered if rock and roll music isinherently ungodly or argued with otherChristians about what if anything to do abouttelevision and video games in the Christianhome, Part 2 is fascinating reading. What ismore, it is bound to spark some interestingS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 6 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONdiscussions as readers find themselves driven toshare parts of it with the people with whom theyshare their lives and living spaces.All in all, the authors’ ideas about arts andentertainment and where they all fit intoChristian lives may be a bit controversial, butreaders are sure to come away with a lot to thinkabout.Betty Winslow, Librarian, Bowling Green Christian Academy,Bowling Green, Ohio★O worship the King : hymns of assuranceand praise to encourage your heart, byJohn MacArthur...[et al.]. LCCN00009490. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,WaterBrook, 2000. HBB/CDR,1581342152, $19.99.264’.23’09. Hymns--English--History and criticism.126 p. + 1 CD-ROM.In O Worship the King, John MacArthur, JoniEareckson Tada, and husband/wife team Robertand Bobbie Wolgemuth have come up with abook that lives up to its subtitle, Hymns ofPraise and Assurance to Encourage the Heart.The book covers twelve of the most lovedhymns of the Christian church (among them AMighty Fortress Is Our God, It Is Well With MySoul, and Be Thou My Vision) and it includes afully orchestrated CD of the book’s hymns.The chapter for each hymn begins with thathymn’s words and is followed by stories about itfrom three different angles. At the Heart of theHymn is personal testimony by one of theauthors about that hymn’s effect on his or herlife. In the Light of the Word covers thetheological viewpoint and scriptural referencescontained in the hymn, while >From Out of thePast briefly tells the life story of the man orwoman who wrote the hymn.Songs in the Night, another book about theinspiring stories behind famous church hymns,was written by Salvation Army Colonel HenryGariepy and covers many more hymns than thisone does. However, with the inclusion of thewords, music, and CD, O Worship the Kingallows readers and listeners who wereunfamiliar with the chosen hymns to come awaywith a new appreciation for the music and themessage.Betty Winslow, Librarian, Bowling Green Christian Academy,Bowling Green, OhioThe power of extraordinary prayer, byRobert O. Bakke. LCCN 00025256.Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,WaterBrook, 2000. PAP, 1581341547,$10.99.269. Prayer meetings; Prayer groups--Christianity;Prayer--Christianity. 191 p.The Power of Extraordinary Prayer starts withthe description of a current era "Concert ofPrayer." The first chapter gives the case for, andresults of, prayer in the modern era. AuthorRobert Bakke supports his call with examplesfrom Scripture. The text quickly rolls the clockback to 1735 and a call to prayer issued byJonathan Edwards. Chapters two and three givea thorough accounting of prayer history since1935. Three appendices, extensive notes and anexhaustive bibliography give evidence of thepreparation and care that went into this text.Chapter four is a call for prayer in the currentera. Working through individuals, small groups,and large assemblies, Bakke explains howprayer is the precursor and sustaining engine ofGod’s saving movement in any time or place.Power is first and foremost a history book. Thetext leads a reader through amply documentedand proofed accounts of prayer’s effects amongmen and women. At times the book captures theexcitement and glory of these sovereign movesof God among mere mortals. Much of the time,the history lesson overshadows the drama oflives coming to Christ, or the majesty Christiansunited in His presence.Most readers looking for a strong argument forbeginning or expanding prayer at home or in theChurch will be well advised to go directly tochapter four. The over-riding need, reasoning,and call to prayer is there. The excitement andpower of drawing close to the Savior alsoresides in that chapter.Anyone desiring to see God’s Kingdom advanceshould consider chapter four carefully. Andspend time on their knees, speaking with theirKing.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College, Business& Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaHistory of Christianity, video series writtenand presented by Dr. Timothy George;guide prepared by Denise George andstaff of Christian History Institute.Worcester, Pa.: Christian HistoryInstitute, Vision Video, 2000. KIT,1563643391, $79.99.270. Christian church--History. 2 videocassettes (90min. ea.) : sd., col.; leader’s guide, program scripts,student workbook.Comprised of six video presentations ofapproximately twenty minutes each, History ofChristianity offers viewers a cursory, unbiasedsurvey of the history of the faith from the earlychurch fathers to the International Congress onWorld Evangelism in the early 1970s. Includedin the package of materials is a leader’s guide, astudent workbook, and a booklet containing allthe video scripts. The six video "lessons" inHistory of Christianity are divided into six timeperiods covering periods of varying length. Thehost, Dr. Timothy George of Beeson DivinitySchool, gives a brief overview of the conditionsof the time and then presents the major figuresfrom each, explaining their contributions andimpact on the church as the viewer is shownportraits, religious art, or movie clips portrayingthose people or events being discussed.History of Christianity is a good introduction tochurch history, hitting the major events andintroducing the most important figures from theascension of Christ until the middle of thetwentieth century. It will be best used if theleader presenting the series has a more extensiveknowledge of the subject than provided in the"Background Briefing" in leader’s book, butthose briefings are well organized and provideguidance to the novice for further reading. Thediscussion questions are varied and touch oneverything of importance which the videosintroduce. The student workbook also containsquestions to guide the viewer in hisunderstanding of each lesson’s content andoffers the added bonus of a page of originalsource material for each time period. Alsohelpful and interesting are the timelines at theend of each lesson which list significant eventsoccurring during that time period. Both thestudent workbook and the leader’s guide endwith an annotated list of the 100 most significantevents in church history from A.D. 64 to 1976.The presentation and production values ofHistory of Christianity are good, if somewhatunimaginative, and Dr. George is quitepersonable. When all its resources are used totheir fullest, these videos can give the attentivestudent a good, basic knowledge of the historyof the faith.Pamela A. Todd, English teacher/Librarian, Chalcedon ChristianSchool, Cumming, GeorgiaThe legacy of sovereign joy : God’striumphant grace in the lives of Augustine,Luther, and Calvin, by John Piper. (Theswans are not silent; 1.) LCCN 00020679.Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books,WaterBrook, 2000. HBB, 1581341733,$17.99.270’.092’2. Augustine, Saint, Bishop of Hippo;Luther, Martin, 1483-1546; Calvin, Jean, 1509-1564.158 p.John Piper’s The Legacy of Sovereign Joycovers a lot of ground in a few pages. Augustinesaw God’s grace as "sovereign joy," hence thetitle. Piper does not hide the flaws in the men hecovers. Rather, he uses their weaknesses, asthey did, to glory in the grace of a God whoovercomes. The chapters are basicallybiographical sketches that Piper uses to illustratehow each man perceived God’s grace and how itwas exemplified in their lives. Adapted from aseries of lectures delivered at a pastors’conference, The Legacy of Sovereign Joy is aninteresting and thorough discourse on thedoctrine of grace.After demonstrating how Augustine laid theground work for the Reformers, he moves on toLuther, an Augustinian Monk, and thenproceeds to Calvin. Piper shows how the studyof the Word became Luther’s focus while thepreaching of the Word was Calvin’s passion.This is the first book in the series The Swans AreNot Silent. The name of the series comes fromthe humble pastor that took over afterAugustine. He said, "The cricket chirps, theswan is silent." Also from Reformationforerunner Jan Hus, who said before he wasexecuted, "Today you are burning a goose;however, a hundred years from now you will beC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 3 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTNONFICTIONable to hear a swan sing..." which many interpretas a prophetic reference to Luther.Some may find the author’s tendency to repeathimself (almost word for word sometimes)disagreeable. In such a slender volume, onewould think this is unnecessary, even if it doescome from a series of talks. However, one suchminor complaint in no way negates the manyexcellent insights that are covered in this issue.Robert M. Lindsey, Associate Library Director, Hannibal-LaGrangeCollege, Hannibal, Missouri300’s—Social SciencesKids, classrooms, and contemporaryeducation : probing the headlines thatimpact your family, Don Closson, generaleditor. (Probing the headlines.) LCCN00035726. Grand Rapids: KregelPublications, 2000. PAP, 0825420342,$10.99.306.43. Church and education--United States; Moraleducation--United States; Education--Social aspects--United States. 191 p.As a homeschooling parent and an enrichmentteacher in the local school district, I was eager toread Kids, Classrooms, and ContemporaryEducation. Unfortunately, the title promisedsomething different from what it delivered. Thebook is divided into two parts: "ContemporaryIssues" and "Education Issues." The firstsection contains eight chapters prepared bydifferent authors affiliated with Probe Ministries(of which Don Closson is Director ofAdministration). These chapters do indeedcover contemporary social issues: abortion,environmentalism, human cloning, teen drugabuse, and more. They read like a collection ofwell-positioned articles by experienced writers,and as such, are interesting in and of themselves.The weakness, if any, is that the authors in thisfirst section do not relate their chosen topics tothe book’s overview of "kids, classrooms, andcontemporary education," nor do they mentionany news stories related to each.The second section is more directly related tothe book’s title, written entirely by Don Closson.His chapters include worldviews and education,education reform, public, private, or homeeducation, and others, including a discussion onoutcome-based and self-esteem curricula. Thissecond half is strong indeed, with Closson’sclear writing backed by statistics and otherverifiable facts. If you wrestle with argumentsbetween whole-language vs. phonics, or valuesclarification vs. character building inclassrooms, this book is for you. Closson alsoexplains in very clear language the differencesin outcome-based education goals, dividingthem into two categories: traditional (focused oncourse content) vs. transformational (focused onissues, attitudes, and behaviors). This chapteralone is worth reading the book.A Judeo-Christian worldview is presentedthroughout and is laid as the challenge facingparents of school-aged children who may beexposed to other views or philosophies.Unfortunately, you won’t find discussions oreven references to news stories such as the teenwho strangled her baby in a bathroom so shecould attend the prom, or any of the recentschool shootings, although these are headlinesthat clearly impact families and dovetail withchapters on abortion and violence. Detailed endnotes include sources for statistics or quotesappearing in each chapter.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker, & Teacher, MarionIndependent Schools, Marion, IowaThe ultimate guide to homeschooling, byDebra Bell. LCCN 00022580. Nashville:Tommy Nelson, 2000. PAP/CDR,0849975751, $24.99.371.04’2. Home schooling--United States--Handbooks, manuals, etc.; Home schooling--UnitedStates--Curricula--Handbooks, manuals, etc. 431 p. +1 computer laser optical disc: Windows 95, WindowsNT, Mac OS 7.5.Using humor, facts, and experience, authorDebra Bell makes a compelling case forhomeschooling your children. The text includesan enormous amount of advice, direction, andillustration on the specifics of educating youngpeople. If a new homeschool were beingformed, this book and a Bible, would be the firstresources to use.This book has the advantage of multipleeditions. 1997 and 2000 editions haveobviously allowed growth and refinement of thematerial. Cartoon icons lend visual appeal andquick clarity to the material andrecommendations. The even-handed, in-myexperienceapproach lends a credibility to thework.Homeschoolers (and others) can use this bookwith confidence. A CD-ROM of the book textand a recent version of Netscape Navigator,takes full advantage of computers and theinternet for obtaining additional information onalmost any subject in the work.This book is valuable to all families who areconsidering the question of homeschooling.While her family has obviously been successful,Bell does not sugar-coat the financial, social,and workload realities of homeschooling, andshe does not expect that everyone can, orshould, homeschool. She is a thoughtfulproponent, not a judgmental fanatic.Much of her advice and recommendations canalso be applied to students in public or privateschools. Many of the resources in the text areimmediately useful to any parent who wants tomake sure their kid gets the best educationpossible.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College, Business& Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaThe guidance manual for the Christianhome school : a parent’s guide forpreparing home school students for collegeor career, by David and Laurie Callihan.LCCN 00036004. Franklin Lakes, N.J.:Career Press, 2000. PAP, 0156144526,$22.99.371.04’2. Home schooling--United States; Christianeducation--United States; Universities and colleges--United States--Entrance requirements; Vocationalguidance--United States. 262 p.Using many examples from their own lives ashomeschoolers, authors David and LaurieCallihan have constructed a "paper guidancecounselor" for those who have chosen analternative route to educating their children. Inpractice, they have put a valuable resource intothe hands of Christian families everywhere.Whether they are in public, private, or homeschools, Christian kids are living an"alternative" lifestyle and deserve every godlyadvantage they can get.This work is intended for launching a studentimmediately into work, or through theadditional education provided by a college. Itstill carries a great number of "tips, tricks ortweaks" valuable in current school work. Theearlier a parent gets and uses this text in regardto their own children, the more valuable it willbecome.The text is written in an accessible manner andis focused in making its points. It covers atremendous number of topics and subjects,giving both prescription and description formaking it a reality where you are. This gainsadditional importance, since traditionally nonacademicsubjects such as hospitality and datingare addressed in the material.A few changes would help to make a strongwork even better. The text could afford to comewith a CD-ROM, or other computerized media,because of the great number of actual orpotential web links referenced in the text. WhileScripture is used to begin every chapter,additional Bible verses could be used toillustrate or support some of their conclusions.Another suggestion would be to publish asecond version of this work specifically for nonhomeschooledChristian students. Any parentwho cares about their child’s education can findbenefit in this work.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College, Business& Industry Division, Tucson, Arizona★Failure to connect : how computers affectour children’s minds--and what we can doabout it, by Jane M. Healy. LCCN98024971. New York: Touchstone, Simon& Schuster, 1999. PAP, 0684855399,$14.00.371.334. Computers and children; Computer-aidedinstruction. 350 p.Every aspect of the environment impacts thedevelopment of the child’s growing mind. Intoday’s culture, technology is ordinarily a majorpart of that environment. In recent years,educational psychologist Jane Healy has studiedchildren using computers in schools and in theirhomes. In Failure to Connect, Healy reports onexciting, positive uses of computers withchildren, as well as disturbing, potentiallyharmful uses. Positive programs and softwareS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 6 4 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

ADULTNONFICTIONare age-appropriate and foster the developmentof reflective thinking and creative problemsolvingskills. Mere fancy graphics or intenseexcitement, as vehicles for a superficial layer ofinformation or a lower level drill and practiceactivity, do not meet these criteria. If childrenspend too much time at the computer, even withuseful educational programs, at the expense oftime for other more worthy activities geared totheir developmental level, it can inhibitstimulation of important connections withintheir brains.In spite of her earlier enthusiasm for thepotential of educational computer use, Healy’sextensive anecdotal report details possible risksphysical,social, emotional, as well as mentalfromexcessive or inappropriate computer useby children. Because much current "research" isflawed, she calls for solid research in this area.Drawing on the way the brain develops itsneural connections as the child grows, Healyadvocates physical play and languageinteraction with adults as more valuable forpreschool children than computer activities. Sheendorses the recommendation that elementarychildren spend no more than one or two hours ofscreen time (TV and computer) per day.Applying the principle of language interactionshe advocated in Endangered Minds, sheencourages adults to discuss with children whatis happening during their computer activities.Healy presents age-appropriate types ofcomputer software and activities for childrenthrough high school. This timely wake-up callforparents and educators-includes suggestedreading, end notes, index, and reading groupguide.Donna W. Bowling, Library/Educational Consultant, Dallas, Texas500’s—Natural Sciences & MathematicsCreation, evolution, and modern science :probing the headlines that impact yourfamily, Ray Bohlin, general editor.(Probing the headlines.) LCCN 00035734.Grand Rapids: Kregel Publications, 2000.PAP, 0825420334, $10.99.576.8. Evolution (Biology); Creationism; Evolution(Biology)--Religious aspects--Christianity. 192 p.Creation, Evolution, and Modern Science is fullof details to help the Christian familyunderstand the current scientific cultureregarding creationism and Darwin’s theory ofevolution. Author Ray Bohlin is well-qualifiedholdinga B.S. in zoology, an M.S. and Ph.D. inmolecular and cell biology; coauthor of the bookNatural Limits to Biological Change; andnamed a 1997-1998 Research Fellow of theDiscovery Institute’s Center for the Renewal ofScience and Culture. He’s also publishedseveral journal articles. In spite of theseacademic credentials, Bohlin remembers hisaudience and writes in a way that reaches theaverage reader. He presents the information infour parts: 1) The Different Faces of Evolution;2) Intelligent Design; 3) Evolution and Society;and 4) Evolution and the Bible. In Part 1, weread about the five crises in evolutionary theory,documented fossil fraud, and Bohlin’s critiqueof a book by a popular evolutionist. Part 2continues the commentary on other books, bothby Christian scientists and secularists, perhapsto enlighten us on what these books have to sayon this complex subject. Part 3 is a brief butwell-done section on sociobiology, which"explores the biological basis of all socialbehaviors, including morality (p.112)," and thePope’s view of evolution. Part 4 includes "Howto Talk to Your Kids About Evolution andCreation" in a question-and-answer formatbetween Ray Bohlin and his wife, Sue.Subjects include natural selection, racialdifferences, cavemen, dinosaurs, Noah’s flood,Genesis 1, the problems with evolutionarytheory, and lots more. The book concludes withan overview of the debate by Christians on theage of the Earth, explaining the three prevailingschools of thought-a young-earth creation inwhich the universe is less than 10,000 years old;a day-age creation in which the six creation"days" were thousands, millions, or billions ofyears long; and theistic evolution, a theory thatlife and the universe evolved in God-ordainedprocesses in nature. An additional view notmentioned by Bohlin but which deservesconsideration is presented in The Age of theUniverse: What are the Biblical Limits? byGorman Gray (ISBN 0-9655942-0-3), posingthe theory that God created the universe at someunidentifiable time in the past (Gen. 1:1), andspent six days preparing life on Earth (Gen. 1:2-31). Overall, however, this book by Bohlin isextremely helpful, offers lots of facts, and allsources are listed in the end notes.Kimn Swenson Gollnick, Writer, Speaker & Teacher (MarionIndependent Schools), Marion, Iowa600’s—Technology (Applied Sciences)The new hide or seek : building self-esteemin your child, by James Dobson. LCCN98027744. Grand Rapids: Fleming H.Revell, Baker, 1999. HBB, 0800717600,$16.99.649’.1’019. Self-esteem in children; Child rearing.234 p.Hide or Seek, Dr. James Dobson’s classic bestsellerfirst published in 1974, has been revised,updated, and released as The New Hide or Seek."This book is dedicated to the proposition thatall children are created worthy and must begiven the right to personal respect and dignity,"writes Dobson. He sees inferiority as a bigproblem in our society and offers strategies forparents and teachers to develop self-worth inchildren.Written with warmth and passion, the book isdivided into three parts. Part one discusses theepidemic of inferiority and the false values ofbeauty and intelligence used to measure humanworth. Part two develops comprehensivestrategies to build self-esteem in children frominfancy onward, with particular emphasis onhelping teens develop self-worth. Part threefocuses on self-esteem problems in adults plussix methods used to cope with self-doubt andpersonal inadequacies. In the final chapter,Dobson states the most valuable contributionparents can make "is to instill in the child agenuine faith in God." Nothing can bringgreater ego satisfaction than knowing theCreator of the universe knows and cares abouthim or her.Combining spiritual and psychological insights,this resource brims with wisdom and practicalhelp to raise self-confident children. Examplesand illustrations make it interesting and easy toread. Chapters end with questions and answerspertaining to topics covered. End notes areincluded.This new edition reorganizes the content of theearlier book without renumbering the strategies.Thus, readers may be confused, as I was, to findstrategies eight and ten missing. Evidently thisis a publishing error. Nonetheless, parents andteachers will benefit from this helpful, muchneededbook. It belongs in every home, church,and public library.Lydia E. Harris, Freelance Writer & Educator, Seattle, WashingtonWhen your child is 6 to 12, by John M.Drescher. LCCN 93023558. Intercourse,Pa.: Good Books, 1993. PAP, 1561480940,$8.95.649’.124. Parenting; Parent and child; Childpsychology. 96 p.Your child 6 to 12 : your last great chance,by John M. Drescher. Worcester, Pa.:Gateway Films, Vision Video. VID,1563644207, $24.00.649’.124. Parenting; Parent and child; Childpsychology. 1 videocassette, 112 min., color.Your Child 6 to 12 by John M Dreshcer is full offolksy, anecdotal humor while providing muchneeded practical advice on the nurturing ofchildren the middle years. The volume isdivided into six sections. The first section isabout the important ways parents can have inputinto kids that will probably not be available latersuch as instilling values and reading aloud. Thesecond section covers the characteristics ofmiddle childhood, what makes those yearsspecial, and what traits are common to childrenof those years. Part three deals with imitationand how to be a better role model which isfollowed by a discussion on conscience, alwaysan important area of concern for the Christianparent. Next, the book takes a look atdeveloping dependability in children, which isfollowed by preparing children for the teenyears.The video very much parallels the book with theauthor addressing a room full of young parents.The main points appear as bulleted subtitles onthe bottom of the screen. Drescher has anpleasant presentation that is easy to follow. Hismemorable stories illustrating his points aregems and those viewing/reading will findthemselves repeating many of them. This is anexcellent resource for parents with children inC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 5 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

ADULTNONFICTIONmiddle childhood or for those about to havechildren enter those years. It would also be agood teaching tool for small groups.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Baymonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, California★Parenting the wild child, by MilesMcPherson. LCCN 00009925.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2000. PAP,0764223704, $11.99.649’.153. Parent and teenager--United States;Problem children--United States; Parenting--Religiousaspects--Christianity. 185 p.Many Christian parenting books seem to assumethat, if parents do everything right, the resultswill always be godly kids. This overlooks sin,nature, and free will and can also causeChristian parents of rebellious children to lookat their own behavior for answers, instead of toGod. Miles McPherson’s book, Parenting theWild Child, does not make this assumption.McPherson states that his purpose is toencourage parents to realize that their children’stroubles are the direct result of being engaged in,and possibly losing, a spiritual battle based onwell-designed lies, aimed not only at theirchildren, but also at the parents themselves. Hewants to expose the lies and provide help to fightthe battle, and his book does just that, from thesubtitle that sets the tone, to the appendices thatend the book by listing all the lies covered in thebook.Chapter by chapter, McPherson deals with liesthat are aimed against both rebellious childrenand their parents, discusses behavior that mayresult from them, and salts each discussion withappropriate scriptures. He then asks searchingquestions such as "Are you praying for a changein your child’s behavior, or for his or her faith inGod?" Comparing rebellion to cancer, he endseach chapter with ‘chemo-prayers’ that comeagainst the lies already discussed.Most parents occasionally need to be remindedthat prayer and God’s Word are their mostvaluable child-rearing tools. However, forparents who face, every day, rebellious, ungodlybehavior in their children, and who struggle withfear and hopelessness and confusion, Parentingthe Wild Child could be a life-saver.Betty Winslow, Librarian, Bowling Green Christian Academy,Bowling Green, Ohio900’s—Geography, History, & Biography★Bonhoeffer : agent of grace, produced by:D. Judson, K. Krause, R. Nielson, G.Pfander, K. Rittig, C. Stehr, A. Thies;director of photography: SebastianRichter; original music by ClaudeDesjardins and Eric Robertson; directedby: Eric Till. Minneapolis: AugsburgFortress, Vision Video, 1999. VID,0800632753, $29.99.921 (272.092). Bonhoeffer, Dietrich, 1906-1945--Drama; Christian martyrs. 1 videocassette (90 min.) :sd., col. (High school, middle school).The true story of the final years in the life ofDietrich Bonhoeffer, renowned Germantheologian and author. As the story opens,Bonhoeffer, who is already celebrated for hiswritings, most notably The Cost of Discipleship,is traveling in the United States. His friendsurge him to remain but he feels that God iscalling him to return to his native Germany tomake a stand against the Nazi party and its partin the war raging in Europe.Immediately upon his return, the Gestapo areharassing him and ordering him not to teach orwrite anymore. Bonhoeffer, because of hisinternational standing, is induced by a friend towork with a secret department in the Germanmilitary. But instead of helping the Germancause, Bonhoeffer and the other conspirators aresmuggling Jews out of the country and areinvolved in a doomed plot to assassinate theFuhrer.While in jail awaiting trial and executionDietrich has a crisis of conscience and muststruggle with how a believer justifies deceit andcivil disobedience even in a "righteous" cause.In the depths of his despair he finds usefulnessthrough ministry to others and a kind of peace ashe realizes that God is bigger than his boxes andthat the Father is not only full of unendingmercy and compassion but is a true fountain ofpeace and rest.This is an extremely thought provoking storywelltold and well acted. Even the most maturebelievers will want to examine themselves andthrow themselves humbly on the mercy of anomniscient and gracious Lord. Would also be awonderful film to watch with middle schoolersand up to discuss not only the issues mentionedabove but what it is to truly be a disciple and togive your life for Jesus.Teresa O’Donley, Library Media Specialist, Bayhmonte ChristianSchool, Scotts Valley, California★Rachel’s tears : the spiritual journey ofColumbine martyr Rachel Scott, by DarrellScott and Beth Nimmo with Steve Rabey.LCCN 00710235. Nashville: ThomasNelson, 2000. PAP, 0785268480, $12.99.921 (277.3’0829’092). Scott, Rachel (Rachel Joy);Biography; School violence; Youth and violence. 181p.Rachel’s Tears by Beth Nimmo and DarrellScott is a book that centers on the journalwritings of Rachel Scott, one of the Columbineshooting victims. Only seventeen when shedied, Rachel’s life reflected her middle name ofJoy, for she was a happy, loving person whoembraced life. The title comes from one ofRachel’s drawings—a rendering of her eyeswith a stream of thirteen tears cascading downon a rose. As her parents recovered Rachel’sjournals, some many months of the shooting,they discovered Rachel somehow sensed thiswas to be her last year on Earth. This book is amoving account Rachel’s spiritual journey aswitnessed through her journal entries. The bookintertwines parental agony with joyfuldiscovering. That discovery was how deeplycommitted Rachel was to God. She diedexpressing her belief in God.In the book’s forward, Rachel’s father writes ofhow he believes Rachel has a powerful messagethat survives her tragic death. And her messagedoes need to be heard by everyone. What is thatmessage: that message is hope. There is hopein Christ.Pam Webb, School Librarian, Sandpoint, IdahoJohn Woolman : quintessential Quaker,1720-1772, by David Sox. LCCN99017820. Richmond, Ind.: FriendsUnited Press, 1999. PAP, 0944350437,$24.95.921 (289.5’092). Woolman, John, 1720-1772;Quakers--United States--Biography. 148 p.David Sox, quoting from Harold Loukes, says"John Woolman has been described as ‘thepurest and sweetest flowering of the Quakerspirit’ ... " John Woolman: QuintessentialQuaker puts flesh on that statement. Woolman’s"well-honed" conscience empowered him totake firm stands against slavery, war, payingtaxes to the military, and cruelty to animals. Hepreached fair treatment of Indians, as well. Onhis journey to England, where he died in 1772,he took pity on the young seamen. Woolmannoted their surroundings as "unspeakably bad,and their habits were coarse and brutal beyondbelief." Living with them he gained theseamen’s confidence.Not a solitary prophet, Woolman "workedwithin the framework of Quaker organizationand discipline," and became noted as theirspokesman. He gained a fine reputation as atailor, tradesman, orchardist, and schoolmasterwhile traveling extensively. His speech in 1758opened wider the door to freeing slaves.Sox takes a scholarly approach, quoting oftenfrom Woolman’s journal and also from otherWoolman biographers. He documents hisresources. An index helps locate specific peopleand places. He puts Woolman’s life into thecontext of life at that time while also connectingwith other contemporaries, such as WilliamPenn. Diverging from John Woolman, Soxcloses his book with a chapter about his ownancestor, Daniel Boone.Betty M. Hockett, Writer/Speaker/Teacher, Newberg, OregonS U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

INDEX1920's : luck 46A to Z of American women writers 9ABC nature riddles 30Abraham Lincoln the writer 44Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address 34Adventures in Odyssey Bible 27Aesop 30Africa is not a country 33Alcorn, Randy C. 54Alexander, Cecil Frances 28Alexander, Lloyd 16Alexander, Sally Hobart 28Alice in Wonderland 10Alice's adventures in Wonderland 10All about hockey 42All things bright and beautiful 4, 28Amery, Heather 27Andersen, Hans Christian 11, 13Andrew, Ian 11Animal fact file 8Anne Frank : a hidden life 50Apple Valley mysteries 37Arts, entertainment… 62At break of day 27Atonement 61Austin, Lynn N. 58Baby's Bible friends 4Baby's world 4Bahr, Mary 17Bakke, Robert O. 63Bambola, Sylvia 55Barrie, J.M. 11Bartoletti, Susan Campbell 35Basket bed for Baby Moses 5Battle-Lavert, Gwendolyn 19Bauer, Joan 46Beauty and the Beast 10Beck, Astrid B. 60Beethoven's hair 2Bell, Anthea 11Bell, Debra 64Bell, Mary Reeves 45Beller, Susan Provost 34Bemelmans, Ludwig 11Ben Reese mystery series 55Beneduce, Ann Keay 18Benge, Geoff 42Benge, Janet 42Benson, Allen C. 59Bergren, Lisa Tawn 51Bernal, Richard 14Better than best 38Beyond the sea of ice 33Billy Yank and Johnny Reb 34Blackstock, Terri 56Blauser, Tami S. 13Bless this day 14Blood moon rising 51Bloodhounds, Inc. 25Bly, Stephen 54, 56Blythe, Gary 10Bohlin, Ray 65Bolton, Martha 41Bond, Felicia 17Bonhoeffer : agent of grace 66Bourgeois, Paulette 10Bowers, Vivien 44Boxcar children mysteries 24Boy of the deeps 22Boy who became an eagle 14Bray-Moffatt, Naia 11Brett, Jan 16Bridge 51Bridges, Ruby 33Brief history of Central America 50Brinkerhoff, Shirley 47Brouwer, Sigmund 51Bryan, Mike 43Bryd, Robert 19Bunn, T. Davis 55Cairns, Julia 32Cal Ripken, Jr. 43Callihan, David 64Callihan, Laurie 64Caper 35Captives in the wilderness 35Carmi, Daniella 39Carroll, Lewis 10Cartwright, Shannon 20Case of the raging Rottweiler 22Cave, Kathryn 14, 16Century kids 46Chaikin, Linda 51Checkmate in the Carpathians 45Chen, Jiang Hong 29Child's garden of verses 10Children's Bible encyclopedia 8Christian heritage series. The Chicago years 35Christian heroes: then and now 42Clark, Brenda 10, 15Clark, John O. E. 49Clinton, Catherine 7Closson, Don 64Coal miner's bride 35Collier-Morales, Roberta 19Collins, Heather 32Color me dark 35Connecting kids and the Internet 59Copeland, Lori 53Cosby, Bill 23Cote, Nancy 21Count on Pablo 14Coyle, Danna 22Crafts for Christian values 28Crazy Jacob 22Creation, evolution… 65Crowe, Carole 47Cul-de-sac kids 24Cunningham, Loren 62Dahlstrom, Kathryn 35, 36, 40Dancer 45David Brainerd 49Davis, Mary 55De Angeli, Marguerite 12De Paola, Tomie 20Dear America 35Deedy, Carmen Agra 26Delaney, Mark 45Delicate balance 22deRubertis, Barbara 14Devotions for youth 48Diakité, Baba Wagué 29Dial easy-to-read 24Dickens, Charles 11Dillon, Diane 29Dillon, Leo 29Do knights take naps? 14Do you remember the color blue? 28Dobson, James 65Doctor and the damned 2Don't jump to conclusions… 41Doodlebugs 23Dr. White 14Drake, Jane 32Drescher, John M. 65DuBosque, D.C. 30Duke, Bette 33Dunphy, Madeleine 31Early teen discipleship 41Eberhart, Donald G. 23Edens, Cooper 10, 11Edwards, Linda 27Eerdmans dictionary of the Bible 60Endangered minds 60Ens, Dave 48Eric Liddell 42Erickson, John R. 22Erlbach, Arlene 29Esperanza rising 45Evening star 51Exhaustive study guide/The Stranger at 13Eyewitness Classics 11Eyewitness history series 9Fables of Aesop 30Facts on File chemistry handbook 49Facts on File children's atlas 8Facts on File dict. of astronomy 49Failure to connect 64C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 7 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

INDEXFeinberg, Barbara Silberdick 34Fifteen flamingos 14Find your fit 48Fires of Gleannmara 54First horse I see 36Fishel, Anna Wilson 44Five little loaves and two little fish 5Fly with poetry 32Fodemski, Linda M. 59Follow the dream 36For whom the stars shine 51Ford, June 10Forever friends 15Fortunes of the Black Hills 56Forty-acre swindle 36Foster, Lynn V. 50Fourth wise man 15Fraggalosch, Audrey 23Franklin goes to the hospital 15Franklin's Classic Treasury 10Freedman, David Noel 60Freedom's altar 53French, David 57French, Nancy 57From Arapesh to Zuni 28Gavitt, Anne 36Geisert, Arthur 28Geisert, Bonnie 28George, Denise 63George, Timothy 63Ghost writer 53Gillies, Judi 31Girl who spun gold 29Girls only (GO!) 36, 38Girls think of everything 31Gladys Aylward 42Glassberg, Michael 23Glossop, Jennifer 31Go home! 15Going online @ home 59Good News Club series 35, 36, 40Goodall, Jane 14Goodman, Joan Elizabeth 33Grandpa's soup 15Great grizzly wilderness 23Grimes, Nikki 27Grove, Vicki 39Growler's horn 45Gryski, Camilla 32Guenther, James 20Guidance manual… 64Gulley, Philip 53Gutman, Dan 43Gutteridge, Rene 53Haas, Albert 2Hall, Monica 22, 23Hamilton, Virginia 29Hank the Cowdog 22Hans Christian Andersen's The snow queen 13Happy New Year, everywhere! 29Hare, Tony 8Harley, Avis 32Harmony series 53Harrington, Glenn 33Harvest of truth 58Hate fighters 36Hatseller and the monkeys 29Healy, Jane M. 60, 64Heaven's road 53Heavenly Daze series 53Hedgie's surprise 16Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 12Henry's song 16Heroines of the Golden West 54Hewett, Lorri 45Hewitt, Sally 30High hurdles 47History of Christianity 63Hite, Sid 47Hitler's cross 2Hobbs, Dan 44Hofer, Nelly & Ernst 13Holm, Sharon Lane 28, 29, 32Holmes, Gerald L. 22Holzer, Harold 44Home to Harmony 53Honeywood, Varnette P. 23Hoobler, Dorothy 46Hoobler, Tom 46Hope was here 46Horse of a different color 46Horsefeathers 46Hostage on the Nighthawk 36How big is God's love? 4How do you spell faith? 23How many sheep? 5How the cat swallowed thunder 16Hu, Ying-Hwa 17Hudson Taylor 42Huebert, Brad 48Hughes, Shirley 23Hunsicker, Ranelda 49Hunt, Angela 53Hurricane! 16Ichikawa, Satomi 15Ida B. Wells-Barnett 42If Nathan were here 17If wishes were horses 37If you take a mouse… 17Illingworth, Valerie 49Impatient turtle 25In fields of freedom 57Into the depths of God 62Irving, Washington 12Island of Heavenly Daze 53Jackson, Dave 36Jackson, Neta 36Janette Oke's animal friends 25Jay Jay the jet plane 15, 20Jeanmarie and the FBI 37Jeanmarie and the runaways 37Jennings, Sharon 15Jerome, Karen A. 17Jesus conspiracy 61Jesus loves me 4Jewel of the Pacific 51John Calvin 49John Glenn's return to space 31John Woolman 66Johnson, Kevin 41, 48Johnson, Lissa Halls 22Johnson, Lois Walfrid 41Journal of Jasper Jonathan Pierce 37Journal of Wong Ming-chung 37Joyce, Susan 30Kacer, Kathy 39Kadono, Eiko 15Kastan, David Scott 33Kastan, Marina 33Keehn, Sally M. 36Kellogg, Steven 17Kest, Kristin 31Kidcordance 8Kids and grandparents 32Kids Can Press jumbo cookbook 31Kids, classrooms… 64KidWitness tales 22Kinkade, Thomas 10Kinsey-Warnock, Natalie 37Kise, Jane A.G. 48Kitch, Anne E. 14Knight, Margy Burns 33Kort, Carol 9Koscielniak, Bruce 32Krauss, Carol 29Lakin, Pat 16Lambert, David 22Lasker, Joe 21Laughlin, Michael L. 20LaZebnik, Ken 23Legacy of sovereign joy 63Legend of the kite 29Legge, David 20Lehn, Barbara 29Leon, Bonnie 55, 57, 58Let's play 32Let's talk about it stories for kids 41Lewis, Beverly 24, 36, 38, 39S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 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

INDEXLewis, Karen 28LifeKeys 4 teens 48Lincoln, Abraham 44Lindner, William 49Lingemann, Linda 19Lion and the unicorn 23Listening carefully to Jesus 61Little Bill books for beginning readers. 23Little prayers and graces 5London, Jack 13Long, Laurel 17Longfellow, Henry Wadsworth 12Lord Foulgrin's letters 54Lotan, Yael 39Lourie, Peter 33Love one another 27Love, Ann 32Lubach, Vanessa 16Lutzer, Erwin 2Lynch, Tom 30MacArthur, John 63MacDonald, Alan 18Mackall, Dandi Daley 46Madeline in America and other holiday tales 11Magic nesting doll 17Maire 54Making Jesus Lord 62Maland, Nick 14Manuel, David 44Marchesi, Steven 19Marciano, John Bemelmans 11Marshall, Peter 44Martin, Russell 2Math matters 14Maximum friendship 41McCaughrean, Geraldine 10McCully, Emily Arnold 18McDaniels, Preston 28McGill, Alice 38McKissack, Patricia 35McPherson, Miles 66Meggs, Libby Phillips 15Mei-Mei loves the morning 17Melnicove, Mark 33Men of Faith 49Miles' song 38Miller, Calvin 58, 62Miller, Debbie S. 30Miller, Kevin 8Miller, Marilyn 7Miller, Millie 7Misfits, Inc. 45Miss Fontenot 54Missing mitten mystery 17Mitton, Jacqueline 7Mitton, Simon 7Monk camps out 18More Christmas ornaments… 32Morin, Paul 27Morris, Henry M. 60Morris, Jackie 15Morrison, Gordon 31Moser, Nancy 57Mountain town 28Munch, Philippe 13Munger, Nancy 25Murphy, Elspeth Campbell 14, 24Mustard seed 57My big lie 23My name is America 37Myers, Allen C. 60Myers, Bill 25Mystery mutt 24Mystery of the empty safe 24Mystery of the painted snake 24Nature for fun projects 30Nelson, Cyndi 7New hide or seek 65Newlywed games 55Nightingale 11Nikki Sheridan series 47Nimmo, Beth 66Noah's noisy ark 5Noll, Mark A. 49Nordstrom, Joe 24Not-so-wise man 18Numeroff, Laura 17O worship the King 63O'Brien, Anne Sibley 33Oak tree 31Oeltjenbruns, Joni 14Of heroes and villains 45Off to the sweet shores of Africa… 32Ogburn, Jacqueline K. 17Oke, Janette 25, 55Old Testament 27Oliver and Albert, friends forever 24Oliver Twist 11Osborne, Rick 8Otis, Don S. 62Palisades pure romance 55Parenting the wild child 66Park, Frances 18Park, Ginger 18Passport to danger 45Paterson, Katherine 25Pella, Judith 53Penguin book of classic children's characters 11Peregrine's journey 31Peter and the wolf 11Peter Pan 11Petrici´c, Dusan 32Philipok 18Phillips, Louise 31Pinkney, Myles C. 19Pinkney, Sandra L. 19Piper, John 63Poetry for young people 12Popeo, Joanie 19Poppleton in fall 18Power of extraordinary prayer 63Pressler, Mirjam 50Pretzel 12Price, Charles F. 53Prince, Derek 61Probing the headlines 62, 64, 65Prodigal cat 25Prokofiev, Sergei 11Protestants in America 49Pursuit and persuasion 55Rabey, Steve 66Rachel's tears 66Rackham, Arthur 12Rainbolt, Kelly A. 19Raising the bar 47Rangel, Fernando 33Reach for the stars 38Reaves, Ken 59Refiner's fire 55Religion in American life 49Resurrecting the Third Reich 2Return to Skoki Lake 38Rey, H.A. 12Rey, Margret 12Rinaldi, Ann 37Rip Van Winkle 12Ripken, Cal, Jr. 43River of life 30Robinson, Aminah Brenda Lynn 19Roder, Alice Erath 28Rogers, Janice 62Ross, Kathy (Katharine Reynolds) 28, 32Rowland, Andrew 18Royal bee 18Rue, Nancy N. 35Rumford, James 30Ryan, Pam Munoz 45Ryken, Philip Graham 61Rylant, Cynthia 18Sacred place : a novel 55Sacred shore 55Safe at home 25Saint Francis...Christmas donkey 19Sam Keaton : legends of Laramie 51Samir and Yonatan 39Savior that God sent 19Schachner, Judith Byron 16Schlein, Miriam 21C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 6 9 S U M M E R 2 0 0 1

INDEXSchneider, Carl J. 9Schneider, Dorothy 9Scholastic encyclopedia of space 7Scholastic encyclopedia of the Civil War 7Schoonmaker, Frances 12Schweninger, Ann 24Seamands, John T. 61Seaside 56Secret of Gabi's dresser 39Secret of the ghostly hot rod 25Secret refuge 56Secrets of the best choice 41Seeker of knowledge 30Sent into hiding 40Setterington, Ken 13Shades of black 19Shadow of legends 56Shadows beyond the gate 39Shakespeare, William 33Shaking bag 19Sharratt, Nick 14Shelter in the storm 56Silver moon 51Sisters of the Confederacy 56Skead, Robert 25Skippack School 12Slavery in America : from colonial times to the Civil War 9Smith, Debbie 22Smith, Debra White 56Smithsonian oceanic collection 19Snelling, Lauraine 47, 56Sockeye's journey home 19Solomon, Jerry 62Song of Acadia 55Sorensen, Henri 26Sounding forth the trumpet… 44Soundprints habitat series 23South Pacific journal 57Sowers trilogy 57, 58Sox, David 66Spelman, Cornelia Maude 21Spirin, Gennadii 18Spunky's diary 25StableMates 38Starplace 39Stephens, Andrea 48Stergulz, Richard 20Stevenson, Robert Louis 10Stick and Whittle 47Story of the incredible orchestra 32Stranger at Home 13Strauss, Ed 8Street games 40Strega Nona takes a vacation 20Sullivan, George 42Summerhill secrets 39Summers, Susan 15Survival in the sea 19Swans are not silent 63Sweet, Melissa 31Sybil's night ride 34Take the plunge 48Tang, Charles 24Tangled web 47Tate, Nikki 38Taylor, Nancy Ryken 61Teach your children well 62Teague, Mark 18Temptation 57Terrell, Richard 2Thimmesh, Catherine 31Thoene, Bodie 57Thoene, Brock 57Thomas, Gordon 61Thompson, Lauren 27Thornburgh, Rebecca McKillip 14Thornbush 20Three cousins detective club 24Through my eyes 33Thunder from Jerusalem 57Timothy goes to school 20Together teamwork 20Tolstoy, Leo 18Tom goes to kindergarten 20Touched by an angel 22, 23Trailblazer biography 42Trailblazer books 36Trapped by an earthquake 40Travis, Lucille 37Treasures in the psalms 60Trouble times ten 22True beauty 48Tsubakiyama, Margaret 17Tucker, Jeff 41Tucker, Kathy 14Tucker, Ramona 41Turnagain, Ptarmigan… 20Ultimate guide to homeschooling 64United States of America : a state-by-state guide 7Unobagha, Uzoamaka Chinyelu 32Usborne children's Bible 27Vagin, Vladimir 11, 25Van Dyke, Henry 15Van Leeuwen, Jean 24Van Wright, Cornelius 17Van Zyle, Jon 30Vogt, Gregory 31Vyehara, Elizabeth 27Waiting for dolphins 47Walk on the wild side 48Wallace, Chad 12Wallace, Ian 22Ware, Jim 22Warner, Gertrude Chandler 24Way mothers are 21Welch, Catherine A. 42Wells, Rosemary 20What is a teacher? 29When I feel angry 21When you pray 61When your child is 6 to 12 65Where freedom grows 57Where Is little lamb? 4White Fang 13White, R.E.O. 61Who do you say that I am? 61Who's on Noah's ark? 4Whole story 13Wide-awake princess 25Wiggin, Eric E. 51Wigwam and the longhouse 34Wild, Margaret 20William Shakespeare 33Wimbush, David 25Wind : a novel 58Windsor, Linda 54Wings of refuge 58Winkelman, Barbara Gaines 19Winnick, Karen B. 34Wintz-Litty, Julie 14Wise up 41Words that built a nation 7Worst wish 22Wow, Canada! 44Wright, David 8Wright, Jill 8Wright, Sally S. 55Yellow star 26Yep, Laurence 37You're worth more… 41Your child 6 to 12 65Yue, Charlotte 34Yue, David 34Yukon River 33Zhang, Christopher Zhong-Yuan 18Zion legacy 57Zwerger, Lisbeth 10, 11S U M M E R 2 0 0 1 7 0 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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