In defense of series books - Christian Library Journal

The Christian Library Journal invitesprospective reviewers and writers towrite for information. The ChristianLibrary Journal is publishedbimonthly January through Decemberby Christian Library Services.Subscriptions $20 per year online.Back issues included. Indexed inChristian Periodical Index. Addresscorrespondence tonlhesch@harborside.com, or toChristian Library Services, P.O. Box1309, Florence, OR 97439-0068.Copyright 2003 by Christian LibraryServices.FEBRUARY, 2003ISSN 1097-1262ChristianLibraryJ O U R N A LPhone (541) 997-4430nlhesch@harborside.comwww.christianlibraryj.orgLetter from the EditorT A B L E O FC O N T E N T SInside Front CoverThe purpose of the Christian LibraryJournal is to provide readers withreviews of both Christian and secularlibrary materials from a Christianpoint of view. About 200 titles fromboth Christian and secular publishersare reviewed each issue. Materialsreviewed may reflect a broad range ofChristian doctrinal positions and donot necessarily reflect the views of thestaff of the Christian Library Journal.C O L U M N S a n d A R T I C L E SWhat You See…Fantasy, part 1 Donna Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Indians of the Northeast Jane Mouttet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Books for Middle Readers:A Series of Unfortunate Events Karla Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Rewards Are More Than Temporal Mary McKinney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9In Defense of Series Books Rosemarie DiCristo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Nancy HeschDr. Ray LeggMary McKinneyRosemarie DiCristoMaxine CambraSylvia StopforthKaren BrehmerRick EstepEditor & PublisherEditor: Adult NonfictionEditor: Adult Fiction,HS Fiction, ReferenceHS NonfictionEditor: MS NonfictionChildren’s NonfictionEditor: MS FictionEditor: Children’s FictionEditor: Picture BooksManager, Title SelectionR E V I E W SRating System; Abbreviation List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Picture Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Children’s Fiction : Gr. 2—5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Children’s Nonfiction : Gr. 2—5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Middle School Fiction : Gr. 6—8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25Middle School Nonfiction : Gr. 6—8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28High School Fiction : Gr. 9—12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30High School Nonfiction : Gr. 9—12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32Adult Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Adult Nonfiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50Cover illustrations, In English, of Course, byJosephine Nobisso, Gingergread House, 2002.Used by permission.Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8453Published in the U.S.A. ©2003, ChristianC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

What You See...Fantasy, part 1by Donna W. BowlingIn his Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewisobserves that "what you see and heardepends a good deal on where you arestanding; it also depends on what sort ofperson you are."This truth is aptly demonstrated in ConnieNeal's What's a Christian To Do With HarryPotter? A veteran church youth worker andspeaker, Neal has experienced first-hand thedisagreement and unhealthy tension in theChristian community about the best-sellingHarry Potter fantasy series by J. K.Rowling. Neal uses Boring's well-knownambiguous drawing "My Wife and MyMother-in-law" to illustrate that the samework can be interpreted in different ways,depending on the viewpoint of the perceiveras affected by earlier experience. (Thewhole point of psychological experiments inthe 1930s with Boring's ambiguousdrawing--which can be perceived either asan old woman or as a young woman--is thatindividuals who were familiar with a similardrawing in which an "old woman" wasobvious, tended to see an old woman in theambiguous drawing, while individuals whowere familiar with a slightly differentsimilar drawing in which a "young woman"was obvious, tended to see a youngwoman.)Neal's book presents the opposing positionson the Harry Potter series, beginning withobjections to the series. She starts byexplaining the origin of some negativerumors about Rowling or the series that arepatently false. Neal points out that terms(e.g., "wizard") in any work of literatureshould be defined only by their use in thatwork, not by external definitions that aredifferent. In Rowling's series, magicalpower possessed by some individuals is afeature of that imaginary world comparableto technology in the real world. Suchabilities are not connected to anyrelationship with greater supernatural forces(either divine or demonic), but, liketechnology, can be used for good or evil.Harry Potter and his friends use theirmagical abilities developed at the HogwartsSchool of Witchcraft and Wizardry tocombat evil. Neal suggests that the HarryPotter books can reasonably be placed inthe mainstream of classic fantasy, and theymay meet the heartfelt needs of children.Neal addresses major legitimate concernsraised by opponents. In dealing with theamount of material which draws on orrelates to mythology or historical andcurrent occult sources, she points out that inpast centuries experimental science wasviewed as related to magic. She cites C. S.Lewis and classics such as A ChristmasCarol by Dickens for examples of acceptedliterary use of mythological characters andsuch creatures as ghosts. Neal responds toethical concerns about moral relativism inthe protagonist's behavior by observing thatchild characters would not be credible ifthey were perfect. She also refers tobiblical instances in which moral principlesseem to override rules. (Characters inRowling's fantasy series themselves make adistinction between "the law" and "schoolrules," which even school officials expect tobe circumvented by creative students.) Foradults concerned about ageinappropriatenessof some episodes, Nealobserves that a measure of violence infantasy is a regular component of theconflict between good and evil, and thatchildren normally enjoy occasional crudehumor.Because of their various backgrounds,committed Christians may have starklydiffering views of the Rowling series. Forexample, Neal reports that a scholar whohad previously been involved in Wiccaexpressed a negative reaction about HarryPotter. Likewise, a reason Richard Abanes,author of Harry Potter and the Bible [CLJ6(4):64], is negative may be that he hasstudied and written more about the occult.Other people with less immediateknowledge of the occult in the real worldmay evaluate the series only in terms of thenorms of that imaginary world. In view ofthese legitimate differences in perspective,Neal discusses Romans 14 and ICorinthians 8-10 at some length, insistingthat the appropriate Christian attitude in thiscontroversy is "Don't judge others."Individual Christians are responsible tomake decisions for themselves, but not forothers.In view of their major cultural impact,Christian parents with freedom to do somay choose to read and discuss theengaging Harry Potter fantasy books withtheir older children, taking this opportunityto emphasize the biblical warnings againstoccult practices in the real world. Nealpoints out that Rowling does not believe inthe reality of the occult--which may causeher to discount the possible danger in herfantasy series. Neal also reports that somechildren have attempted to do spells, etc., asfound in the series. In view of thesepotential dangers, Neal devotes twochapters to suggestions for preparingchildren with "armor"--rather than "walls"subject to failure--to protect them from realworldoccult involvement (such as certainrole-playing games, etc.). Neal's concludingchapter relates her evangelistic use ofredemptive analogies from the series. Shetook incidents in the Harry Potter booksopen to such application as a springboard,then showed the need for salvation, andChrist's sacrifice to accomplish it. Usingseveral scripture passages, she ultimatelyled unbelievers to faith in Jesus Christ.Neal's endorsement of the Harry Potterseries (at least through the first four books)is conditioned on (1) Christian liberty to doso after prayerful consideration, and (2)parents' reading with children anddiscussing issues of concern. In thiscontext, reading these lively stories mayserve as an opportunity to "inoculate"children against occult involvement. Nealdoes not recommend turning children looseon the series without parental supervision.Likewise, Gladys Hunt and BarbaraHampton (Honey for a Child's Heart, 4thed., 2002; and Honey for a Teen's Heart,2002) give the same guardedrecommendation, suggesting that parentscould profitably consider both Neal andAbanes before making such a decision.They use this issue to emphasize thatChristians should evaluate all reading at alltimes in light of biblical teaching, whetherfrom Christian authors with a Christianpurpose or not. They also counselconcerned individuals against criticizingF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 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

ooks they have not read themselves.Fantasy itself can be a volatile issue amongChristians. In his 1993 Christianity Todayarticle, "Does Peter Pan Corrupt OurChildren?" Ron Habermas suggested thatchildren's exposure to fantasy can contributepositively to their growth in faith. "Childrenwhose imaginations are not nurtured mayadopt their own version of sloganized faith.I've found that educators who refuse to valueflights of imaginative fancy in children endup imparting mistaken perceptions to kids."In a 1977 article in Moody, entitled "Theoccult in children's books," Pamela Urferexpressed no concern about such magicalcharacters as Mary Poppins or Glenda of Oz.However, she did point out two possibledangers in some fantasy for children. Onewas the possibility that description ofoccultic practices in children's books wouldattract children to the power described. Theother danger was denying the reality of theoccult. She suggested two identifyingfeatures that would help in distinguishingbetween books about the occult that wouldbe harmful and those books of fantasy thatwould not be harmful: "lack of contact withthe real world and lack of desire for powerand control." Hogwarts is no moreconnected to the real world than is MaryPoppins. Harry Potter and his friends usemagical power to combat evil, not forpersonal control over others. (One possiblyself-centered use by Harry--to compensatefor his uncle's unreasonableness--is integralto the fight against the rise of the evil LordVoldemort.)In Sylvia Stopforth's 2000 article "Whatabout Harry Potter?" in Christian LibraryJournal, she observes that the disturbingincident in the third book of the series,which involves an unusual trance utteranceby the Divination teacher, is in a context ofconsiderable skepticism of that teacher'spredictions by more respected teachers at theschool. Some have expressed the furtherconcern that Rowling has invented manymagical commands, spells or specializedcurses, scattered throughout the series thatthe characters have occasion to use as theplot progresses. Some are humorous, butquantity does not mean that they are onlygratuitous.Readers may not agree with Neal on everyissue. People without a problem with themagical elements in the series may havemore concern about the situational ethics.Several incidents beg for serious discussion.Harry lies, to protect others or to deflectunduly prying questions. His friends stealsupplies to be used for the conflict with evil.Harry cheats in a contest, with theencouragement of supervisors and severalcontributions from others, but he sharesinformation with other contestants to levelthe odds. At the end of the fourth book,Harry and his friends use temporary spellson some bullies who were taunting them.This incident could be a simple teenage actof revenge. Or it could be an appropriaterestraint against avowed partisans of the evillord who rejoiced in the murder of aclassmate and the prospect of more to come.In the books, hatred is often accepted as"deserved;" but mercy and cooperation,sometimes in spite of personal animosity, arenecessary in the struggle against evil.Sacrificial love is a most potent defense.Harry and his friends demonstrate greatcourage, loyalty, and determined oppositionto the evil lord.In view of the complex issues in thiscontroversy, Neal's emphasis on Christiangraciousness is right on target. Dissensionamong Christians does not glorify God.Both Neal's book (pro) and the Abanes book(con) are recommended for all who areconcerned about the Harry Potter series.Concerned parents, teachers, and librariansalso could well read the Rowling books toavoid making evaluations based onignorance. To protect the rights of parents tomake decisions and give instruction for theirown children, the Harry Potter series is notrecommended for Christian schoolclassrooms or libraries. Teachers may wishto be informed ahead of time if individualstudents offer book reports on them in class.Another observation made by C.S. Lewis, afew paragraphs following the quotation atthe top, seems relevant here. "Now thetrouble about trying to make yourselfstupider than you really are is that you veryoften succeed."ReferencesAbanes, Richard. Harry Potter and the Bible.Camp Hill, PA: Horizon Books, ChristianPublications, 2001.Bowling, Donna Weathers. Selection Policies ofChristian School Textbook Publishers: EditorialCriteria for Reading and Literature CurriculumMaterials Designed for Use in Christian DaySchools and Home Schools. (Doctoraldissertation, University of Arkansas, 1996.)Dissertation Abstracts International, v. 57, n. 08,p. 3445A. (pp. 34, 35, 91).Gibson, Eleanor J. Principles of PerceptualLearning and Development. New York:Appleton, 1969, pp. 30-31.Habermas, Ron. "Does Peter Pan Corrupt OurChildren?" Christianity Today (3/8/1993), v. 37,n. 3, pp. 30-33.Hunt, Gladys. Honey for a Child's Heart, (4thed.). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002.Hunt , Gladys & Hampton, Barbara. Honey for aTeen's Heart. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan,2002.Lewis, C. S. The Magician's Nephew. NewYork: Collier, 1970, pp. 125-126.Neal, Connie. What's a Christian to do withHarry Potter? Colorado Springs, Colo.:WaterBrook Press, 2001.Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer'sStone. New York: Scholastic, 1998.Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter and the Chamber ofSecrets. New York: Scholastic, 1999.Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter and the Prisoner ofAzkaban. New York: Scholastic, 1999.Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter and the Goblet ofFire. New York: Scholastic, 2000.Stopforth, Sylvia. "What about Harry Potter?"Christian Library Journal (Win./2000) v. 5, n. 1,p. 15Urfer, Pamela . The occult in children's books.Moody (10/1977), v. 78, n. 2, pp. 67-70.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

Learning Native American CultureThrough Children's Literature :Indians of the Northeastby Jane MouttetThe Indians of the Northeast (Maine to Virginia and west toMinnesota) are the ones the early American settlers came into contactwith. As librarians we must ensure that our patrons move beyond theDisney stereotype portrayed in Pocahontas. Disney abandonedhistorical accuracy in favor of a New Age Pocahontas. The booksI’ve chosen for this column portray a more accurate view of theNative Americans of the Northeast.Many books about Native Americans will contain information aboutthe traditional religion of the people. As a Christian, this is alwayssomething to consider before placing a book in your library. If youhave Native Americans who have become Christians leavingtraditional beliefs behind or those whom you are witnessing to,encouraging them to leave their traditional religious beliefs, you willcertainly want to keep this in mind. I have tried to alert you to suchinformation in my reviews.You may wonder why I chose to exclude THE SIGN OF THEBEAVER by Elizabeth George Speare. While this Newberry Honorbook is an excellent book and worthy of consideration for inclusionin your library , the Indian tribe is not identified. In his bookNATIVE AMERICANS IN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE, Jon Stottrecommends several guidelines for choosing books about Nativepeoples. One of these recommendations is that the originatingculture of a story should be identified as specifically as possible. Idid not find THE SIGN OF THE BEAVER to meet thisrecommendation so I left it out of this list.My favorite from this list is Joseph Bruchac’s THE HEART OF ACHIEF. It brings up many issues today’s native young people face:life in an Anglo world, alcoholism of a family member, casinos ontribal land, and the use of Indian terms for sports teams. Mr. Bruchacdoes an excellent job of telling the native side of these somewhatcontroversial issues.PENACOOKTHE HEART OF A CHIEF by JosephBruchac. (Dial Books for Young Redaers,1998, 0-8037-2276-1, HB, $15.99, 160 p.;Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers,2001, 014131236X, PB, $5.99, 160 p.)Gr. 5-7 His father is in an alcohol rehabcenter. His off-reservation school isinsensitive to Native Americans. His peopleare in the midst of a controversy over acasino. Eleven-year-old Chris faces many ofthe same issues faced by Native Americanseverywhere. Chris, a Penacook Indiandescended from chiefs, becomes a leader inhis school and among his Penacook peopleshowing he has the heart of a chief. Hissixth grade class, as the result of a classproject, makes the community aware of howNatives feel about team names like Chiefs orRedskins. He is also able to suggest acompromise to the casino controversy that,while not eliminating the idea, makes it lessintrusive in the community. Author JosephBruchac chose to set The Heart of a Chief ona reservation that does not exist. While thereis not federally recognized Penacookcommunity, the Penacook are one of theAbenaki nations. Mr. Bruchac is an Abenakiwho has worked with Indian students.IROQUOISTHE IROQUOIS by Virginia Driving HawkSneve, illustrated by Ronald Himler.(Holiday House, 1995, 0-8234-1663-X, HB,$16.95 , 32p.)Gr. 3-5 The Iroquois by Virginia DrivingHawk Sneve is “A First Americans Book.”Ms. Sneve grew up on the Rosebud SiouxReservation. She opens the book with a retellingof the Iroquois creation story. Shealso includes history of the Iroquois people.Duties and lives of men, women, andchildren are explored. Traditional food,spiritual beliefs and wampum are alsoexplained. The book closes with adescription of the Iroquois today. RomaldHimler’s illustrations will help studentsvisualize unfamiliar concepts. If studentsneed a reference book on the Iroquois, TheIroquois by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve isa good choice.MOHAWKGIVING THANKS: A NATIVE AMERICANGOOD MORNING MESSAGE by Chief JakeSwamp, illustrated by Erwin Printup. (Leeand Low Books, 1995, 1-880000-15-6, HB,$15.95, 24p. Scholastic, Inc., 1997, 0-590-10884-0, PB, 24p.)Gr. K-4 Giving Thanks is based on thetraditional Thanksgiving Address of theIroquois people. The thanksgiving prayer isaddressed to Mother Earth, the animals,Spirit Protectors, the Great Spirit, anddifferent parts of the creation; each for theirF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 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

part in providing life as we know it. Thebook shows the Native American practice ofworshipping the creation. Chief Swamp andMr. Printup are both Native Americans andknow their subject well. Chief Swamp hasincluded the Mohawk translation of thebook. Mr. Printup’s acrylic paintings arebold in color and seem to accurately depictthe text. Giving Thanks is a good exampleof a traditional Native American prayer.THE MOHAWKS OF NORTH AMERICA byConnie Ann Kirk. (Lerner, 2002, 0-8225-4853-4, HB, $ 48p.)Gr. 2-6 The Mohawks of North America ispart of Lerner Publications “First Peoples”series. The Mohawk people are part of theIroquois League. Mohawk peopletraditionally lived in New York, Ontario, andQuebec along the St. Lawrence River. TheMohawks of North America is a referencebook that would be useful to late elementarystudents. It contains information on thetraditional lands of the Mohawk, theirculture, their history and their life today.Author Connie Ann Kirk is a member of theSeneca Nation of the Iroquois League. Thebook ends with a glossary of terms and a listof books, videos, websites, andorganizations that can provide additionalinformation.MOHEGANTURTLE CLAN JOURNEY by LyndaDurrant. (Clarion Books, 1999, 0-395-90369-6, HB, $15.00, 180p.)Gr. 5-7 Turtle Clan Journey is the sequelto Lynda Durrant’s Echohawk. During the18th century as many as 30% of EasternWoodlands Native Americans were captives.Some were white captives, as wasEchohawk. Others were captives from othertribes. Many had been taken captive toreplace loved ones who had died.Echohawk and his Mohegan father andbrother are the only members of their clanleft. While traveling to better lands, theylearn of the ransom being paid for whitecaptives. Echohawk is captured andreturned to his white aunt. He later escapesand returns to his Native family. Turtle ClanJourney is the story of the family’s journeyto a safer place to live. The reader learnshow traveling Native Americans survivedand of the fierce practices of some Nativetribes. Lynda Durrant has taken a portion ofNative American history and written thestory of one captive and his desire to remainNative.NASHUAA RIVER RAN WILD by Lynne Cherry.(Voyager Books/Harcourt, 2002, 0-15-216372-7, PB $7.00, 40p.Gr. 1-4 This Reading Rainbow book is theenvironmental history of the Nashua Riverin Massachusetts. The Nashua River areawas settled in the 1400’s by people of thePennacook Confederacy who became knownas the Nashua Indians. A River Ran Wildtells the history of the Nashua River; how itstarted as a river so clear you could see thepebbles at the bottom to a smelly sewer andback to a clean river. The story of a placedoes not exist without the story of itsinhabitants. A River Ran Wild tells the storyof the Nashua Indians who first inhabitedthe area, the settlers who came in, thefactory owners who destroyed the river, anddescendents of both the Nashua people andwhite people who worked to restore theriver. Lynne Cherry’s text and illustrationsshow the research that went into this book.Her watercolor and colored pencil artworkshow many aspects of life along the NashuaRiver.A video adaptation of this book is availablefrom California Department of EducationClearinghouse for Specialized Media andTechnology 560 “J” Street, Suite 390,Sacramento, CA 95814.OJIBWA/OJIBWAY/OJIBWE/CHIPPEWADREAMCATCHER by Audrey Osofskyillustrated by Ed Young. (Orchard Books,1992, 0-531-05988-X, $15.95, 32p.)Gr. K-3 While the Ojibway baby sleeps inthe cradleboard on his mother’s back, bigsister weaves a dream net to hang on baby’scradleboard. Dreamcatcher takes the readerthrough a day in the land of the Ojibway.Some of the daily activities of the people aredescribed from the baby’s perspective. Thestory also describes the bad dreams caughtin the dream net before they can disturbBaby’s sleep. Dreamcatchers do holdCLASSROOM CONNECTIONSThe Heart of a ChiefHold a class discussion on the use of Nativeterms and names by sports teams.Encourage your students to see the side ofthe Native Americans, especially if youhave no Native Americans in your class.Giving ThanksDiscuss the differences between the prayerdepicted in this book and a prayer yourstudents might say in their family.Lee and Low publishers have a lesson planfor this book at their web sitehttp://leeandlow.com/teachers/guide12.htmlAnother lesson plan can be found athttp://www.ri.net/schools/Central_Falls/ch/heazak/thanks.html.A River Ran WildPlan an environmental lesson that wouldshow the students the effects of theiractions on the environment.The San Diego County Office of Educationhas a lesson plan for this book at theirw e b s i t ehttp://sdcoe.k12.ca.us/score/river/rivertg.htmIninatig’s Gift of SugarMake pancakes with your class and servethem with real maple sugar.If you live in an area where maple sugarand candy are made, arrange a field tripafter reading the book so that the class canwitness it firsthand.SkySistersü If you live in a part of the world where theNorthern Lights are not available, you maywant to research them with your class tolearn more.Thunderbird GoldC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

spiritual significance for Native Americans.Audrey Osofsky uses free verse to tell thestory. Ed Young’s pastel illustrations have adreamlike quality.GRANDMOTHER’S DREAMCATCHER byBecky Ray McCain, illustrated by StaceySchuett. (Albert Whitman, 1998, 0-8075-3032-8, PB, $6.95, 32p.)Gr. 1-3 Kimmy is going to be staying atGrandmother’s for a week without herparents. Her first night, before her parentsleave, she has bad dreams. The next dayGrandmother shows her a dreamcatcher andtogether they make one so that Kimmy willonly have good dreams. Grandmother tellsKimmy the story of the first dreamcatcher.It caught all the dreams and sent them to theGreat Spirit. The Great Spirit only allowedthe sweet dreams to get to the owner of thedreamcatcher. Stacey Schuett’s coloredartwork depicts the story well, even showingthe scariness of Kimmy’s dream. BeckyRay McCain uses a modern-day story toexplain the use of dreamcatchers.Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher ends withinstructions for making your owndreamcatcher.ININATIG’S GIFT OF SUGAR by LauraWaterman Wittstock, photographs by DaleKakkak. (Lerner Publications, 1993, 0-8225-2653-0, HB, $ 48p.)Gr. 1-4 The Ojibway call the maple treeIninatig or the man tree. Author LauraWittstock, a Seneca Indian, weavestraditional Ojibway stories about maplesugar in with the story of a modernsugarbush camp run by an Ojibway elder.The photographs of Dale Kakkak, aMenominee Indian, show the process ofmaple sugar making and the activities of thesugarbush camp. Students will learn howmaple syrup, sugar, and candy are madewhile reading Ininatig’s Gift of Sugar. Thisbook is part of Lerner Publications “We AreStill Here: Native Americans Today” series.Native Americans are involved with theediting and illustrating of the series.MORNING ON THE LAKE by Jan BourdeauWaboose illustrated by Karen Reczuch.(Kids Can Press, 1997, 0-55074-373-2, HB,$15.95, 32p.)Gr. 1-3 Morning on the Lake is threestories about the relationship between anOjibway grandfather and grandson, betweenman and nature. Mishomis, the grandfather,introduces Noshen to nature. In “Morning”the two travel out on a lake in the quiet earlymorning and see a family of loons. In“Noon” they hike through a forest and climba steep cliff. They are rewarded by anencounter with an eagle. In “Night”Mishomis takes Noshen on a late night walkthrough the forest. Noshen is scared bywolves that come close. Author JanWaboose is an Ojibway and well acquaintedwith the traditions of her people. IllustratorKaren Reczuch’s realistic artwork vividlyshows the setting of the story.SKYSISTERS by Jan Bourdeau Waboose,illustrated by Brian Deines. (Kids CanPress, 2000, 1-55074-697-9, HB, $15.95,32p.)Gr. K-3 It is wintertime. The two Ojibwaysisters climb a high hill in order to view theSky Spirits, the Northern Lights. The girlsstruggle to remember their grandmother’swords, “Wisdom comes on silent wings.”When they remember to be quiet they see asnowshoe rabbit and white-tailed deer. Theyalso trade howls with a coyote. SomeOjibway beliefs are subtly included.References to Grandmother Moon, MotherEarth, and Sky Spirits are included in thetext. Author Jan Waboose is an Ojibwaywho writes from her experiences growing upin Ontario. The oil paintings of BrianDeines beautifully illustrate the text.THUNDERBIRD GOLD by Nat Reed.(Journey Forth, 1997, 0-89084-919-6, PB, $154p.)Gr. 3-6 Calvin’s world seems to be fallingapart. He’s up north with his cousin Ericaway from his parents while they try towork things out. His first morning he goeswith Eric and Willis, an Ojibwa, to helpsome professors who are examining somelocal pictographs. The three solve themystery of the pictographs with the help ofWill’s granddad. They compete with sometreasure hunters to find the treasure thepictographs talk about. In the course of thestory Will’s granddad leads Calvin to Christbefore he is killed by the treasure hunters.Mr. Reed intersperses chapters about Ojibwahistory into the modern day story. Mr. Reedspent time in a Native American communitywhen he was growing up. He used thoseexperiences in Thunderbird Gold.TROUBLE AT FORT LA POINTE byKathleen Ernst. (Pleasant CompanyPublications, 2000, 1-58485-086-8, PB$5.95, 164p.)Gr. 5 & up The daughter of aFrench voyageur and an Ojibwe woman usesher knowledge of both cultures to solve amystery. The year is 1732. Suzette’s fathermust pay his debt to the fur trading companyor he will have to return to Montreal for thewinter, leaving his family behind. His onlyhope is to win the trapper’s competition.Unfortunately, someone steals some of thefurs and Suzette’s father is blamed. Suzetteis able to solve the mystery and clear herfather’s name. Nominated for the 2001Edgar Award for Best Children’s Mystery, åis an excellent book. Kathleen Ernst sharesOjibwe life in the 1700’s in this AmericanGirl History Mystery. The reprintedillustrations clearly show what life mighthave been like.Internet InformationABENAKI INDIANSwww.cowasuck.orgThe description at this web site reads “This website is devoted to the American Indian heritage ofthe Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-AbenakiPeople: Goals, language, traditional lifestyles,history, herbal medicine, newsletter, and webresources.”MOHAWKwww.wampumchronicles.comThe Wampum Chronicles is a website ofMohawk History.MOHEGANwww.mohegan.nsn.us/tribe/home.htmlThe page contains links to pages on the history,government, culture and religion and otheraspects of the Mohegan tribe. There is also a linkfor students and teachers.F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 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

Books for the Middle Reader: A Series of Unfortunate Eventsby Karla CastleLemony Snicket would undoubtedly say atthis moment “Don’t read this column. Put itdown immediately and back away or quicklyturn to the next section of the journal. Thebooks discussed herein are extremelyunpleasant.” It is Mr. Snicket’s way and youshould pay him no mind. I, on the otherhand, will do whatever it takes to get you toread Mr. Snicket’s books, A Series ofUnfortunate Events, even if it means comingto your house and reading them aloud toyou.A Series of Unfortunate Events chroniclesthe misfortunes of the Baudelaire children,fourteen year old Violet, twelve year oldKlaus, and the infant Sunny. In the firstvolume they discover that while they were atthe beach their parents have died in a housefire and they are now orphans. Mr. Poe ofMulctuary Money Management and a longtime acquaintance of their parents becomesthe executor of their sizeable inheritance,which apparently can’t be spent until Violetreaches eighteen. Until that time, theorphans are dependent on relatives who arewilling to be their guardians. The firstguardian is Count Olaf, a terrible mandetermined to get his hands on theBaudelaire fortune. His scheme is to marryViolet against her will. Violet is anaccomplished inventor, Klaus is an avidreader and researcher, Sunny has four sharpteeth with which to bite and together theyfoil Count Olaf’s plan. Olaf escapes theauthorities, so ends volume one.In volumes two through seven, theBaudelaires are moved from guardian toguardian, with the exception of being sent toa boarding school in volume five. Each timeCount Olaf appears in disguise with ascheme to kidnap the orphans, each time heis foiled by the inventing, researching, andbiting skills of the orphans and each time heescapes the authorities. This pattern leadsthe reader to believe this is a formulaicseries of books, but the formula dissipates atthe end of volume seven and things get evenmore interesting.There is an overarching mysterious storylinethat involves the author, Lemony Snicket,himself. Clues are dropped here and therealong the way. Lemony knew theBaudelaires’ parents. Count Olaf had somehand in the death of Lemony’s true love,Beatrice. Mr. Snicket also seems to be aname dropper. One of Mr. Poe’s sons isnamed Edgar. Is this a reference to EdgarAllen Poe? In volume five the Baudelairesmeet the two remaining Quagmire triplets(who have also been orphaned by a fire andare also heirs to a great fortune), Isadora,who writes poetry, and Duncan, who aspiresto be a journalist. Is this a reference toIsadora Duncan, famed dancer, poet andsocial reformer of early 1900’s? Lemony’sadoration of his beloved, dead Beatricesmacks of the same devotion of DanteAlighieri for his beloved Beatrice. It is hardto tell what tidbits are relevant clues, whichare red herrings and which are simplycoincidental.These books are cleverly written, anddespite the terrible nature of the misfortunesof the orphans, are quite humorous. I washooked upon reading the first volumebecause it was so much smarter andengaging than most children’s literature.Lemony does not write down to his readers.He expects them to be sharp people whowant to be challenged. The vocabulary usedis sophisticated and frequently explained ordefined by the author in an amusing way.Lemony frequently uses idioms and slangmetaphors and explains them creatively forthe reader. The humor is dry, sly andsometimes punny.The illustrations by Brett Helquist are penand ink drawings with the same dark tone asthe stories and the same cheeky humor. Theillustrations are often somewhat cryptic untilyou read the chapter and see how it fits in.Most of the illustrations are smalldecorations at the beginning of the chapter.Occasionally, a full page illustration is calledfor. My personal favorite is the two blackpages in the Ersatz Elevator (#6) thatillustrate what the orphans saw after beingpushed into the elevator shaft. The lastillustration in each book contains some clueto the next book in the series. Each bookalso ends with a communiqué from theauthor to his editor as to where he hashidden the manuscript for the next book andhints as to it’s content.Audio editions of volumes 3-9 are available.The first three audio volumes are read byLemony Snicket, himself. Volumes 6-9 areperformed by Tim Curry. Usually it ispreferable to have the author reading thework. However, a genius with the writtenword, Mr. Snicket’s oral interpretation coulduse some improvement. Initially his readingis sometimes very monotone anddifferentiation of character voices isinconsistent. Mr. Curry provides a muchmore consistent and lively reading.The Unauthorized Autobiography of LemonySnicket is also available. It is far morecryptic than the series books and should beread only after enough of the series has beenread to provide some context for theseemingly random clues and red herrings. Itis an autobiography designed to confuserather than explain.The summary on the back of each book,usually designed to entice the reader, warnsthe reader that the story within is unpleasant,unhappy, wretched, or miserable. “You haveundoubtedly picked up this book by mistake,so please put it down. Nobody in their rightmind would read this particular book…”(vol. 7)Now, there are those who would actually beput off by books that don’t have happyendings where everything is worked out, thatinvolve the misery of children who cannotrely on the adults around them forprotection, that involve a truly evil villain,and that involve things like murder,deception and ethical questions. Thesepeople will miss the great benefit of goodquality children’s literature while objectingto the things that make it great. Childrenlove villains who are really villainous inbooks where evil is evil and good is good.The idea that life can always be neatlywrapped up with a happy ending is a greatdelusion. Sheltering children from realityonly creates naiveté and increases theirC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 7 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

chances of being deceived. What betterplace to face the possible harshness of lifeand ethical questions than in a fictionalsetting? The reader can safely andvicariously consider what he or she might doin the given circumstances.These books are more than just entertainingstories or vocabulary building tools. Thereis more here than meets the eye. I stronglyrecommend these books and eagerly awaitthe next volume myself. I am greatlycurious to see how the story comes to aclose, but will be saddened by the thought ofnot having another volume to look forwardto.If I haven’t convinced you, visitwww.lemonysnicket.com and see foryourself.Books:Bad beginning / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #1) LCCN 99-14750. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.0064407667, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 162 p.Reptile room / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #2) LCCN 99-14751. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.0064407675, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 190 p.Wide window / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #3) LCCN 99-27262. New York: HarperCollins, 2000.0064407683, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 214 p.Miserable mill / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #4) LCCN 99-42695. New York: HarperCollins, 2000.0064407691, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 194 p.Austere academy / Lemony Snicket; (Aseries of unfortunate events, #5) LCCN00-24349. New York: HarperCollins, 2000.0064408639, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Boarding schools – Fiction; Schools – Fiction;Humorous stories. 221 p.Ersatz elevator / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #6) LCCN 00-044950. New York: HarperCollins, 2001.0064408647, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 259 p.Vile village / Lemony Snicket; (A series ofunfortunate events, #7) LCCN 00-053511.New York: HarperCollins, 2001.0064408655, HBB, $10.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;City and town life – Fiction; Humorous stories. 256p.Hostile hospital / Lemony Snicket; (Aseries of unfortunate events, #8) LCCN2001024326. New York: HarperCollins,2001. 0064408663, HBB, $10.99. Middleschool. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Hospitals – Fiction; Humorous stories. 255 p.Carnivorous carnival / Lemony Snicket; (Aseries of unfortunate events, #9) LCCN2002008337. New York: HarperCollins,2002. 0064410129, HBB, $10.99. Middleschool. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Carnivals – Fiction; Humorous stories. 286 p.Lemony Snicket: the unauthorizedautobiography / Lemony Snicket, LCCN2001051745. New York: HarperCollins,2002. 0060007192, HBB, $11.99. Middleschool. Rating: 5F. Lemony Snicket – Juvenile fiction; Humorousstories. 212 p.Audio-books:Wide window / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #3) New York:HarperCollins, 2000. 0694525421, CAS,$20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 3 _ hours/3 cassettes, unabridged.Miserable mill / Lemony Snicket; (A seriesof unfortunate events, #4) New York:HarperCollins, 2000. 069452543X, CAS,$20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 3 _ hours/3 cassettes, unabridged.Austere academy / Lemony Snicket; (Aseries of unfortunate events, #5) NewYork: HarperCollins, 2000. 0694525944,CAS, $20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Boarding schools – Fiction; Schools – Fiction;Humorous stories. 4 hours/3 cassettes, unabridged.Ersatz elevator / Lemony Snicket,performed by Tim Curry; (A series ofunfortunate events, #6) New York:HarperCollins, 2001. 0694525936, CAS,$20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Humorous stories. 4 hours/3 cassettes, unabridged.Hostile hospital / Lemony Snicket,performed by Tim Curry; (A series ofunfortunate events, #8) New York:HarperCollins, 2001. 0694526258, CAS,$20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Hospitals – Fiction; Humorous stories. 4 _ hours/3cassettes, unabridged.Carnivorous carnival / Lemony Snicket,performed by Tim Curry; (A series ofunfortunate events, #9) New York:HarperCollins, 2002. 0060087811, CAS,$20.00. Middle school. Rating: 5F. Orphans – Fiction; Brothers and sisters – Fiction;Carnivals – Fiction; Humorous stories. 5 hours/3cassettes, unabridged.Karla J. Castle, Public Services Librarian,Warner Pacific College, Portland, OregonF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 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

Rewards Are e More Than Temporalby Mary McKinney“An encouraging word”, is my theme to all those readersand writers who seek moral excellence within the workplace and home. I just received my annual “Amy WritingAwards” booklet with the 2001 prize-winning entriesincluded within its few pages. These “Amy Awards” areall about presenting moral integrity and truth to the world.The front cover sets the “tease line” of its content beforeever turning a page. “If you continue in My word… youwill know the truth and the truth will make you free.”John 8:31,32.What does this have to do with you and why does thiseffect you personally? Let me explain. The AmyFoundation has been in operation since 1985. W. JamesRussell is the president and founder, determined to rewardthose who successfully speak to societal issues in light ofGod’s Word. To quote, “This annual program recognizesauthors who apply biblical truth reinforced with scriptureto issues that should concern every thoughtful and caringperson.”The few, simple rules require that the author present in a“skillfully written, thought-provoking manner the biblicalposition on issues effecting the world today.” The otherrequirement is that the article must appear in a“Mainstream, non-political publication.”The exciting aspect here is that anyone who has feltcompelled to respond to life issues, even through letters tothe editor in a local newspaper, is eligible. The point beingmade is that it is important to care, and it is important toexpress your concerns to a world that seems to be quicklyforgetting their life-given standards and beliefs.I believe that the prizes offered are secondary to the factthat you have taken a stand for righteousness. However,the rewards are not small! The first prize is $10,00.00,second prize $5,000.00, and consecutively decreasing toten $1,000.00 awards. This generous offering fulfillsanother biblical standard in my thinking, “The worker isworthy of his hire.” I Timothy 5:18.I congratulate those who boldly set forth their beliefs withheartfelt care and concern, and I applaud W. James Russellfor his integrity and consistent generosity to those who doso. For more information you can visit the website,www.amyfound.org.I challenge you to consider expressing your deep-feltbeliefs rather than keeping them to yourself. With honestyand careful thought allow the Lord to speak through you,after all, are we not called to be the light of the world, andthe salt of the earth? Let us all become that pleasingfragrance that brings hope and life to a hopeless, dyingworld.In defense of series booksby Rosemarie DiCristoMildred Wirt Benson died in May, 2002. You might notrecognize her name. Before the 1980s, few people knew she wasCarolyn Keene, author of Nancy Drew. Most people, if theythought about it at all, assumed Harriet Stratemeyer Adams wasCarolyn Keene, and they were right, and wrong. The factsbehind Carolyn Keene’s identity are as complicated as a NancyDrew plot. The short version? Benson created Nancy Drew in1930 from outlines provided by Edward Stratemeyer, a famous(some would say infamous) producer of pulp fiction. Stratemeyerdied in 1930, Adams, his daughter, provided Benson with theoutlines after that, and Benson wrote twenty-three Nancy Drews.Adams became Carolyn Keene in the 1950s, later claimed soleauthorship, and only a 1980’s court case revealed who wrotewhat.Why mention this now? Partly to credit Benson for creatingNancy Drew, but mostly to reflect on a genre that’s still goingstrong.I love series books, although I didn’t read them in their GoldenAge (the 1930s through the 1960s, when Judy Bolton, TrixieBelden, Cherry Ames, etc. were in print). I love series books,and consider them my favorite books. I love series books,despite their reputation as… well… trash. Poorly written.Ludicrously plotted. Unrealistic. Exploitative. We’ve all heardthe accusations. But are they true?Sometimes. Many series books are poorly written. Many areludicrously plotted. But they have characters who are fiercelyloyal to their friends. They have characters with integrity andhonor. These are values we want our children to learn.Series books are fun. They get kids reading, and readingpassionately, often without stopping, often late at night, with aflashlight, in bed, hidden away beneath the covers. Can we reallysay the same about literary novels? I don’t think so, at least notat first. Kids have to want to read before they’ll read the classics.Kids who don’t like to read won’t read anything. Kids who loveto read will read everything.There are some terrific series in print right now. Do you knowkids who like horses? The heroine of Dandi Daley Mackall’sWinnie the Horse Gentler is a horse crazy girl with an amazingway with horses, but unfortunately, she doesn’t understandpeople. Looking for good science fiction? Sigmund Brouwer’sMars Diaries, skillfully written, sharp books with short chaptersand constant action, are ideal for reluctant readers. Want to bescared senseless? Frank Peretti’s Veritas Project combineschilling plots with poignant, hurting characters to suggestChristian solutions to problems like bullying and low self esteem.For younger children there’s Robert Elmer’s AstroKids and BillMyers’ BloodHounds, Inc., two wild, wacky, series that teachsubtle lessons.Oh, and don’t forget good old Nancy Drew, with 170 volumesand counting. That’s another reason to love series books: kidswill read every volume. Now who can dislike something thatgets a child to read 170 books?C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 9 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSPICTURE BOOKSAlphabeasts / Wallace Edwards.C20019036892. Toronto: Kids Can Press,2002. HBB, 1553373863, $19.95. Smallchildren. Rating: 5E. Alphabet. [28 p.].Operating under the theory that you can neverhave enough good alphabet books in your schoollibrary, it is a thrill to report that WallaceEdwards’ first picture book is a must have. Eachletter gets a line of text (usually silly) and apainting. Each painting is a tapestry, lusciouswith color and texture down to the tiniest detail.The colors are so vivid and the content sointeresting, children will delight in studying eachpage to find other words starting with the samesound. The paintings are also profuse withhumor. Take the cat, reflecting on its self, seeinga tiger staring back. See a swan dancing withglee, one ballet slipper on and one foot bare.There are also visual mysteries: Why is the bat iscarrying a hammer? How on earth is the hippogoing to play a violin? Children will feel theirsenses stimulated and their imagination strokedby the puzzles, challenges, and pure delight ofthis book. This will be a much loved volume inyour collection.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaBadger's new house / Robin Muller. LCCN00013003. New York: Henry Holt, 2002.HBB, 0805063838, $15.95. Small children.Rating: 5E. Badgers--Fiction; Mice--Fiction; Dwellings--Fiction. unp.Robin Muller wrote and illustrated thisdelightful story about a Badger with littleconfidence in his own abilities to fix up his cozylittle abode . After a terrible storm Badgerdecides to pack up and move into a new, largerhome he thinks is just perfect. Soon hisoversized home finds him lonely in the vastspace and he longs for his small comfortablecottage.Grandmother Mouse moves into Badger’sformer little dwelling and soon invites him to tea,which he gladly accepts. Each time Badger isinvited, Grandmother Mouse employs him to fixup the things she just can’t do herself. Badgergains confidence with each task completedmaking his trips to the cottage enjoyable andrewarding.R A T I N G S Y S T E M5 The best you can find on this subject/area- buy even if you have a very small library/small budget4 Very good, strong appeal—buy if you possibly can3 Good, will be useful—buy if you have a bit more money2 Pretty good, nice to add to complement other titles in an area—buy if you have a larger budget1 Poor—Not necessary to purchase* Outstanding Book of Its GenreCommonly Used Abbreviations in CLJ ReviewsLCCN Library of Congress catalogingnumberC Canadian Library cataloging numberISBN International Standard BookNumberHBB Hardbound bookPAP Paperbound bookLIB Library editionLGP Large print bookCAS AudiocassetteCDR CD-ROMVID VideocassetteLLB Loose-leaf bindingF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

PICTURE BOOKSBadger learns many valuable lessons as willthose children who enjoy the reading of thisbook. Muller’s bright, watercolor illustrationsenhance this terrific story and give much forlittle wondering eyes to feast upon. Badger’sNew House entertains and instills great moralswe all need to remember. Highly recommended.Robin Rusk, Freelance Writer, Susanville, CaliforniaThe best single mom in the world : how Iwas adopted / written and illustrated byMary Zisk. LCCN 2001033916. MortonGrove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2001. HBB,807506664, $14.95. Small children.Rating: 4E. Adoption--Fiction; Single-parent families--Fiction.unp.Full-page color illustrations accompany thisstory told in the first person by a child. The BestSingle Mom in the World highlights how Momwent to an adoption agency and how the familycame together. One item from each illustrationappears on the following page. This ties thestory together, drawing in the reader. MaryZisk’s story is simple and realistic, lending valueto adoption, single moms, and familyinteraction. The little girl wishes she had a dadbut the story focuses on the value of grandfather,and a friend’s dad. The story is upbeat,reaffirming the integral place adopted childrenhave in the family.Teachers can use this with ease for classroomreading. School and public libraries can includethe title for children, especially in collections ondiverse families.Dr. Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District,Fort Myers, FloridaBubba and Beau, best friends / KathiAppelt; [illustrated by] Arthur Howard.LCCN 2001001987. San Diego: Harcourt,2002. HBB, 0152020608, $16.00. Smallchildren. Rating: 4E. Best friends--Fiction; Cleanliness--Fiction; Babies--Fiction; Dogs--Fiction. unp.In Bubba and Beau, Best Friends, BubbaJunior’s parents, Big Bubba and Mama Pearl,are Texans through and through, even their oldpick up truck, Earl, is Texan.Then there’s Beau, the little hound dog who wasborn about the same time as Bubba Jr. They arebest friends and do everything together, theyeven share Bubba’s pink blankie. Trouble is,Mama Pearl decides to wash the blankie andsuddenly it’s soggy and doesn’t smell right.Since Mama Pearl’s in a washing mood, shewashes Bubba and Beau using lots of soap. Thiscreates a problem to a boy and his dog. In theend, however, the friends decide their blankie isokay because it smells just like them.The prose is charming in its Texan tone, thepictures perfect. Large and whimsical, they aresure to captivate any child.Kathi Appelt, a Texan herself, bringsauthenticity to both babyhood, and Texas; theillustrator, Arthur Howard, creates delightfulcartoony characters in bright watercolors.Bubba and Beau is sure to be a popular series forparents as well as children.Ginger McGrath, Freelance Writer, Leavenworth, WashingtonBullfrog at Magnolia Circle / by DeborahDennard; illustrated by Kristin Kest.(Smithsonian's backyard.) LCCN2001049691. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. HBB, 1931465045,$15.95; PAP, 1931465398, $5.95. Smallchildren. Rating: 5E. Bullfrog--Fiction; Frogs--Fiction. 32 p.From the Smithsonian’s Backyard series,Bullfrog at Magnolia Circle, by DeborahDennard, is the story of a young bullfrog’ssearch for a place of his own where he can singhis croaking song to attract a mate. As hetravels, he encounters dangers from predatorsand finds food for himself until he finds thespecial place he is looking for.As with all the Smithsonian/Soundprintscollaborations, this book combines lovelypictures, informative text, and an appealingstory. Many facts are presented as the tale of thefrog progresses, but in a way that encourages thereader to understand and care about nature. Aglossary and factual notes are given at the end ofthe book.Families and libraries would do well to add thisand others of its series to their collection. TheSoundprints books are well done, and thisparticular set is especially suited for elementaryages. It has many curriculum connectionpossibilities, a strong reader appeal (particularlyat this animal loving age), and is a qualityproduction. Many of the Soundprints bookshave animal plush characters to go along withthem, something librarians may also want toinvestigate.Betsy Ruffin, Librarian/Teacher, Cleburne, TexasChicken chickens / Valeri Gorbachev.LCCN 2001041047. New York: North-South Books, 2001. HBB, 0735815410,$15.95; LIB, 0735815429, $15.88. Smallchildren. Rating: 3E. Self-confidence--Fiction; Playgrounds--Fiction;Chickens--Fiction; Animals--Fiction. unp.For any child who has found himself in theposition of being a little apprehensive abouttrying new things, Chicken Chickens by ValeriGorbachev can be a morale booster. Youngchildren will appreciate the humor in being achicken as the pen and watercolor illustrationslead the reader around a busy playground. Ateach stop the two chicken chickens refuse toplay. Finally, it’s Beaver who eagerly offers hisbroad tail to the duo for a ride down the slide,transforming the chicken chickens into eagerplayground participants. Children will enjoy thedetails of the playground and especially theexpressions on the chicken chickens’ faces asthey begin their rear-facing tail ride. This is anexcellent book to introduce those new to daycare, pre-school or kindergarten to recessactivities on a playground.Judy A. Driscoll, Teacher, Christ the King Academy, Poulsbo,WashingtonCow goes for a ride / Todd Aaron Smith.LCCN 2002001940. Grand Rapids: BakerBooks, 2002. HBB, 0801045045, $7.99.Small children. Rating: 4E. Obedience--Fiction. unp.Cow in the rain / Todd Aaron Smith.Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2002. HBB,0801045037, $7.99. Small children.Rating: 4E. Friendship--Fiction. unp.Cow under the Big Top / Todd AaronSmith. (New kids media.) LCCN2002279484. Grand Rapids: Baker Books,2001. HBB, 0801044855, $7.99. Smallchildren. Rating: 4E. Cows--Fiction; Circus--Fiction. unp.Cow gets into various misadventures and learnssome valuable lessons in this delightful series byTodd Aaron Smith. In Cow Goes For a Ride,Cow learns why we have rules when she and theother animals take the farmer’s tractor for a wildride. Cow learns the meaning of true friendshipin Cow in the Rain, as Dog rescues her from therain even after Cow complained about him. Alesson in love is the subject in Cow Under theBig Top as Cow returns home when shediscovers that life in the circus is not the fun shethought it would be.Part of the Cow Adventure Series, Smith hascreated a very appealing character in Cow, theblack and white star of these books. Thehumorous tales are fun to read and present theirlessons gently. The farmer is a good picture ofGod and his love for all his fallible creatures.Colorful illustrations fill each page, bringing alight comedy, especially in Cow’s expressions asshe faces the results of her choices in each tale.These books are a wonderful choice forpreschool through the primary grades. Christianschool and church libraries, as well as families,who would do well to add them to theircollection, as would public libraries. The booksare artistically appealing, nicely written, andvaluable for the morals given. Pair them up withyour own cow puppet and they will make a greataddition to any story time.Betsy Ruffin, Librarian/Teacher, Cleburne, TexasC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

PICTURE BOOKSThe difference between babies and cookies /Mary Hanson; illustrated by DebbieTilley. LCCN 00068412. San Diego:Silver Whistle, Harcourt, 2002. HBB,152024069, $16.00. Small children.Rating: 2E. Babies--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction. unp.What does a preschooler know about babies?Some of the ideas are whimsically presented inThe Difference Between Babies and Cookies inwhich a young girl learns what babies are reallylike. Mary Hanson’s simple first person storyrelates how the unnamed girl tries to imaginewhat her mother means when she describesbabies using analogies such as puppies (cuddly),bears (hungry), and fresh-baked bread (warmand soft). The big sister-to-be isn’t at all certainthat babies are anything like her mother says, asshe gets drooled on and splashed with pureedpeas, and as she dresses up her new sibling in asilly set of clothes. Artist Deborah Tilley’swatercolor type illustrations fill the pages togive happy and concrete visual images of thesingle sentence texts.The Difference Between Babies and Cookies iscute, colorful, and lighthearted. Most youngchildren have an assortment of misconceptionsabout babies, often based on what they’ve heardadults say. The book could help a preschoolerget a bit of a handle on what having a babysibling may be like, and provides some gigglesin the process for reader and listener alike. It’sa fun book that would be cozy cuddle-upreading for parent and child in preparation forthe arrival of new member of the family. Bestsuited to children three to five.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville, WashingtonThe first thing my mama told me / SusanMarie Swanson; illustrated by ChristineDavenier. LCCN 00008447. San Diego:Harcourt, 2002. HBB, 0152010750,$16.00. Small children. Rating: 3E. Names, Personal--Fiction; Identity--Fiction. unp.Lucy’s story begins with her mama naming her.As she grows up, each page shows herdelighting more and more in the name thatidentifies her. For her first birthday Grandpamakes a cupcake with Lucy on it. When she’stwo Uncle David makes her a step stooldecorated with her name. At three, she “writes”her name everywhere. (The mother in mecringed remembering that stage). Lucy’s dadmakes alphabet pancakes with her name whenshe’s four. At five she takes the importance ofher name with her to school and discovers thevalue of being able to identify her things withher name. When she is six her name is biggerthan life, stomped in the snow. And now thatshe is seven, her mother gives her a special giftto use to light up the world with her name.In our culture names are very powerful. Wehonor ancestors with names, we create newnames, and we choose names simply becausethey fit or seem right. No matter the reason fora name, the fact that a name belongs to a childgives it powerful magic to that child. SusanMarie Swanson captures that magic and wonderin this simple, yet eloquent book. Thewhimsical illustrations by Christine Davenierhighlight the celebration of Lucy’s name and theconfidence it gives her. On a deeper level thisbook tracks the cognitive development of achild’s self-awareness, beginning in the homeand then moving out into society. More thanjust a picture book, this volume would be a greatstarting point for a discussion about the power ofwords, especially names.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaFranklin says I love you / written byPaulette Bourgeois; illustrated by BrendaClark. Toronto: Kids Can Press, 2002.HBB, 155337035X, $10.95. Smallchildren. Rating: 5E. Turtles--Fiction. unp.Franklin thinks he has the best goldfish, the beststuffed dog, and the best of friends. But best ofall is his wonderful mother. She plays catcheven when she is busy, reads him two storiesbefore bed, and bakes fly pie especially for him.When Granny tells Franklin that his mother’sbirthday is the following day, he plans to giveher the very best present.But all the coins in his piggy bank aren’t enoughto buy a special enough gift. When Franklinlooks for help, Bear, Snail, Beaver, and Gooseshare their ideas for the perfect present forFranklin’s mother. Still, none of them seemquite good enough. When the morning dawns,Franklin decides to use all of their ideas to makeMother’s birthday the very best.Like other books in the popular Franklin series,Franklin Says I Love You by Paulette Bourgeoisis an engaging book whose story will entertainand teach at the same time. Building on topicslike friendship, courage, generosity, andtolerance, the Franklin books present lifechallenges that a child might actually face.Children may relate to the difficulty of choosingjust the right present for a loved one. While theywill find many charming ideas on the gift-givingfront, best of all is the underlying theme—toshow your love everyday is a wonderful gift thatdoesn’t cost a dime. Brenda Clark’s illustrationsare rich with activity, color, and whimsy. Theysupport the narrative very well and model lovingparent/child relationships. A nice little tale ofsome of the many ways to show love.Recommended.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaHedgehog haven : a story of a Britishhedgerow community / by DeborahDennard; illustrated by Robert Hynes.(Soundprints wild habitat series.) LCCN00063741. Norwalk, Ct.: Soundprints,2001. HBB, 1568999879, $15.95. Smallchildren. Rating: 4E. Hedgehogs--Fiction; Hedgerow ecology--Fiction;Country life--England--Fiction; Ecology--Fiction. 27p.Deborah Dennard’s Hedgehog Haven follows afull nocturnal cycle, from waking to sleeping, inthe life of a young hedgehog. Though it is awork of fiction, Dennard’s tale of the bustlinganimal’s activity is factual and offers anenvironmental primer of life in an Englishhedgerow.Vibrant with the voice of the busy hedgerowcommunity, the book realistically reports on thehabits and habitat of the little hedgehog. Hesniffs for food and explores a spring, is flungaside by the hooves of a draft horse andnarrowly escapes the farmer’s tractor wheels.He makes loud grunting noises of pleasure as heeats his favorite delicacies—insects. His dayends as he nests in the hedgerow under amoonlit sky.The stunning watercolor illustrations by RobertHynes push the work over the edge intoexcellence. His artwork is colorful and bold,teeming with story in pictures. A feast for theeyes. The images of animals are true to life,depicting them in their native settings, educatingthe reader.Included in the book is a doubled-page, foldoutpicture glossary that might be used as a teachingtool or visual aid. Brief commentaries on bothGreat Britain and its hedgerow habitats serve toenhance the story, helping complete the picture.A world map with a star identifying GreatBritain is also incorporated into the final pages.Hedgehog Haven will enlighten every youngreader about hedgerows and their communitieswhile it delights the eye and tickles theimagination. Recommended.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaI love you this much : a song of God's love/ by Lynn Hodges & Sue Buchanan;illustrated by John Bendall Brunello.Grand Rapids: Zonderkidz, Zondervan,2001. HBB, 0310232686, $14.99. Smallchildren. Rating: 4E. God--Love--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--Fiction. 1vol., unp.; 1 audio cassette.“I love you this much,” sing Adult Bear andBaby Bear as they spread their arms widepreparing for a hug. With book andaccompanying CD before them, the beginningreader and preschool listener will learn to singalong with the Bears. Starting with the NIVwording of Ephesians 3:17 & 18, the words andpictures lead us through a whole day of love:F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 1 2 C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L

PICTURE BOOKSwaking with a smiling face; learning about deep,wide love, and that it comes from God; prayingto this trustworthy God; finally falling happilyasleep with words of love ringing in their ears.The accompanying sing-along lullaby CD hastwo sections: 1. Words and music, with themusic tailing into sleep; 2. music only, tailinginto lullaby tones.John Brunello’s happy, colorful illustrations tellthe story as much as do the engaging wordswritten by Lynn Hodges and Sue Buchanan. Alarge book, I Love You This Much, easily spreadsacross two laps for cuddled up reading.Children will enjoy noting the dedication at thebeginning of this book includes Billy, theillustrator’s cat.Donna J. Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaIn English, of course / [written by]Josephine Nobisso; illustrated by DashaZiborova. LCCN 2001002559.[Westhampton Beach, N.Y.]: GingerbreadHouse, 2002. HBB, 0940223078, $16.95;PAP, 0940112086, $. Small children.Rating: *5E. Schools--Fiction; Immigrants--Fiction; Domesticanimals--Fiction; Italy--Fiction. unp.It’s difficult to say what is more appealing aboutIn English of Course—the refreshing storylineor the graphic collage illustrations. Perhaps it isthe blending of both that makes this book workso well. And cultural blending is what theauthor, Josephine Nobisso, conveys with funand flair in her multicultural picture book.Set in the 1950’s, little Josephine, newlyimmigrated from Italy, finds herself doing moreshow than tell when it comes to classintroductions. As different students tell a bitabout their own background, Josephine quicklyrealizes she understands English more than shecan speak it. Yet, with a little help from herteacher, Josephine is able to describe her visit toan Italian farm with flourish, despite her limitedvocabulary. By the time she is done relating heradventures with a cow, a pig, and the river, it’sobvious how misconceptions and misplacedstereotypes can get in the way of finding outwho people really are.Charming, delightful, and enlightening, InEnglish, of Course is a book for those workingwith multilingual students, as well as one tointroduce students to other cultures. Any childwho has ever tried to tell a story, only to bemisunderstood, will most certainly relate toJosephine’s circumstance. Dasha Ziborova’svibrant illustrative approach marks her as an upand coming talent. It is clearly understandablewhy PBS recently choose In English, of Courseas one of their four recommended titles on theirTeacher Source pages.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoJust like Mama / Beverly Lewis; illustratedby Cheri Bladholm. LCCN 2002006132.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2002. HBB,0764225073, $14.99. Small children(Elementary). Rating: 5E. Mothers and daughters--Fiction; Farm life--Fiction; Amish--Fiction. 31 p.Susie Mae is an Amish farm girl who wants tobe just like her mama. The vivacious childmakes every effort to follow her mother’sexample in milking, picking strawberries,collecting eggs, and preparing lunch. But shedoesn’t expect the cow to kick over the milkbucket, or for some of the eggs to break as shedashes around the chicken coop. Neither doesshe count on trying to prove herself under herolder brother Thomas’s eyes. By day’s endSusie Mae realizes she is nowhere near beingjust like her mama. With love andunderstanding, her wise mother encourages herto keep trying so together they can become morelike Jesus.Beverly Lewis has skillfully and poignantlyexpressed a very life-like story with completelybelievable characters, motives, and feelings. Idid find myself wishing for more interactionwith brother Thomas. Lewis’s understanding ofAmish culture is well displayed in this excellentpicture book. She uses realistic Amish juveniledialogue in a delightful setting to clearly andsuccinctly give readers an analogy of everyChristian’s aim: to become more like Jesus.Illustrator Cheri Bladholm’s lifelike and playfulpaintings lift Just Like Mama from the level of awell-told story to that of a “must have” book.Myriad details give the pictures authenticity andcharm, from the kitten that laps up the creamSusie Mae spills on the milking room floor tothe inquisitive countenances of piglets eager fortheir morning feeding. A brief description ofAmish ways and religious practices on the finalpage adds an educational value to the book,answering questions many readers will haveafter experiencing the story.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville, WashingtonLittle Badger’s just-about birthday / writtenby Eve Bunting; illustrated by LeUyenPham. LCCN 2001001153. San Diego:Harcourt, 2002. HBB, 152026096, $15.00.Small children. Rating: 5E. Birthdays--Fiction; Parties--Fiction; Badgers--Fiction; Animals--Fiction. unp.It’s Little Badger’s just-about birthday and OldBadger has planned a celebration. Not only isthere a big, bristly, dry-as-dirt pinecone presentwaiting, but a party in the works. Little Badgerdelivers invitations to all his forest friends andthe celebration begins.Each animal brings a gift and a remembrance ofwhen, just about this time of year, he also wasborn. Little Badger realizes that it iseverybody’s just-about birthday. He includeseveryone at the party and shares his bounty,sending each friend home with a different giftthan the one he brought.Little Badger’s Just-About Birthday is the thirdoffering in the Old and Little Badger series byaward-winning author, Eve Bunting. Her text issimple and sweet. The story accuratelyrepresents nature and the time of year when allof the forest friends might have been born.LeUyen Pham portrays the appealingpersonalities of the badgers and their buddies inher colorful illustrations. A young reader mightsee signs of past adventures from previous talesupon close examination of particular pictures,providing continuity in the series.Parents will appreciate the generous spirit thatpermeates the book and children will delight inLittle Badger’s newest furry tale. Highlyrecommended.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaLittle Flower / Gloria Rand; pictures by R.W. Alley. LCCN 00040982. New York:Henry Holt, 2002. HBB, 080506480X,$15.95. Small children. Rating: 4E. Pigs--Fiction; Pets--Fiction; Accidents--Fiction.unp.Little Flower is Miss Pearl’s pet potbellied pig.Little Flower loves attention. To get it, sheperfects her trick of rolling over and playingdead. But not everyone in the neighborhoodappreciates her antics. It’s not until Miss Pearlfalls and needs help that Little Flower comesinto her own by performing the trick in themiddle of the street to attract the life savingattention necessary.Comically expressive illustrations by R. W.Alley will entertain young readers and leavethem begging for more tales of this unusual potbellied Flower. With this book, author GloriaRand has provided great entertainment for theprimary classroom.Judy A. Driscoll, Teacher, Christ the King Academy, Poulsbo,WashingtonLittle Raccoon always knows best / KatheRecheis; illustrated by Pieter Kunstreich.LCCN 2001044265. Victorville, Calif.:Munchweiler Press, 2002. LIB,079400010X, $15.95; HBB, 794000096,$14.95. Small children. Rating: 5E. Raccoons--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction;Competition (Psychology)--Fiction. unp.Kathy Recheis’s appealing story about araccoon who thinks he knows the best foreveryone reveals that listening is an acquiredtalent; one that Little Raccoon needs to learn. Italso shows sibling rivalry leads to competitioninstead of cooperation. When Little Raccoonbecomes a bossy know-it-all, his three siblingssoon weary of his self-imposed leadership thatalways lands them in trouble.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 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

PICTURE BOOKSFrom knowing the best ponds for fine dining tofinding the best hollow for sleeping at night,Little Raccoon thinks he knows everything—until the unthinkable happens. This charmingstory teaches the value of listening and workingtogether instead of acting like a bossy know-itall.Delightfully illustrated by Pieter Kunstreich,with wide-eyed raccoons sporting adorablebandit masks, and ring striped tails, the story ofLittle Raccoon Always Knows Best will bringcharming grins to young children’s faces. Thiswonderful picture book is best suited forelementary grades, although also appropriate forpre-school, and would be an ideal addition toany family, school or public library picture bookcollection.Gail Welborn, Freelance Writer/Reporter, Sedro Woolley,WashingtonPlatypus / Chris Riddell. LCCN 00012377.San Diego: Harcourt, 2002. HBB,0152164936, $15.00. Small children.Rating: 3E. Platypus--Fiction; Hermit crabs--Fiction. unp.A young platypus finds an interesting curly shellto add to his collections in this likeable tale,Platypus by Chris Riddell. Platypus is seekingsomething special to add to his eclecticcollection, and the curly shell he finds on thebeach seems just right. However, the shell keepsdisappearing. Looking for it again, he discoversnot only the shell, but the hermit crab who wasusing it for a home. He lets the hermit crabscuttle off to the sea and finds himself a differentshell, one that sounds like the sea.This is a simple but pleasant story. Platypusshould appeal to young ones, who will enjoytelling of their own finds and collections. Thecharacter is a good-natured happy youngster andthe storyline straightforward anduncomplicated, just right for a good read withyoung listeners.Libraries of all kinds, as well as families, shouldconsider this book for their preschoolers. Whilenot factual, it could be used as an introduction tothe real animal, one with which many childrenwill not be familiar. It also could be used inthematic units of Australia, collections, thebeach, or vacations. Platypus’s considerationfor the hermit crab, once he discovers it, is alsonice. The boohould interest its intendedaudience with its simple charm.Betsy Ruffin, Librarian/Teacher, Cleburne, TexasThe quiltmaker's gift / story by JeffBrumbeau; pictures by Gail de Marcken.LCCN 99006547. New York: Scholastic,2000. HBB, 0439309107, $17.95. Smallchildren (Elementary, Adult). Rating: *5E. Quiltmakers--Fiction; Kings, queens, rulers, etc.--Fiction; Generosity--Fiction. unp.Many wonderful picture books include quilts,among them The Quilt Story, by Tony Johnston(Putnam Pub Group, 1985), Sweet Clara and theFreedom Quilt, by Deborah Hopkinson(Random House,1995), The Dream Quilt, byCeleste Ryan (Waterbrook Press; 1999), and TheKeeping Quilt, by Patricia Polacco (Simon &Schuster, 1998), but none compare to JeffBrumbeau’s The Quiltmaker’s Gift. Withgorgeous watercolors by Gail de Marcken and astory that teaches that sharing, not materialgoods, make a person truly rich, this book willfind many uses in any library. With gorgeouswatercolors by Gail de Marcken and a story thatteaches that sharing, not material goods, make aperson truly rich, this book will find many usesin any library.A selfish and greedy king isn’t satisfied with atreasure house full of gifts given to him by hissubjects and he orders his soldiers to search hiskingdom for anyone who hasn’t gotten him agift. News arrives of a quiltmaker who makesmarvelous quilts for the poor but she refuses togive the king one. The king becomes angry andtries to get one by force. After all of his schemesfail, she agrees to make him one if he will giveaway all that he owns. Does he want one of herquilts badly enough to give away all of hiswonderful treasures?Although God is not mentioned in the story, ithas overtones of the rich young ruler’s meetingwith Jesus and of Jesus’ story of the GoodSamaritan. This book could be used as ajumping-off place for various areas of study,such as pioneer life (chronicled through quiltblock names), the mathematics of quilting, adesign-your-own-block art class, andcommunity service (perhaps topped off bymaking quilts for a worthy cause).As a bonus, the inside of the book jacketcontains the double page illustration of theking’s treasure house, from the story’sbeginning, and includes a list of 250 quilt blocknames deriving from items and blocks in thepicture. Even a library can take advantage of it,by typing a list of the 250 names and gluing itonto one of the blank pages in the front or backof the book, where patrons can use it to lookinside the book for the visual quilt puns thatrefer to each block.The list alone could be used in a classroomsetting to make word search and crosswordpuzzles or other word puzzles or as researchmaterial: how did each block get its name?Readers can also search in the story illustrationsfor the forty blocks represented on the book endpapers.Finally, the website mentioned in the back of thebook offers readers more puzzles and games,quilting activities, contests, conversations withBrumbeau and de Marcken, and other quiltrelatedgoodies, including details of how theillustrations add another dimension to the story.This book, a treat for quilters and non-quiltersalike, is also available as The Quiltmaker’sGiftbox (ISBN 0-439-33729-1), which includesa copy of the book, a “fat quarter” of 100%cotton from Benartex, and a booklet of simplequilting projects.Betty Winslow, Bowling Green Christian Academy, Bowling Green,OhioRag Baby / Karyn Henley; illustrated bySusan Kathleen Hartung. LCCN2001001286. Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale Kids,Tyndale House, 2002. HBB, 0842354344,$12.99. Small children. Rating: 3E. Dolls--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. unp.Rag Baby by Karyn Henley is an allegory inwhich a little girl, Jessie, loses her cherished ragdoll when he falls under the bed and is swept upand discarded by her mother. Jessie discoversher rag doll in a thrift store and trades her onlywinter scarf to buy him back.The illustrations by Susan Kathleen Hartung aresweet and colorful, clearly communicating thestory. The dust bunnies who live under the bedare especially fun.The author clearly states that this storyrepresents God’s sacrifice to redeem mankind.This book is didactic and not intended solely forpleasure reading. Don’t analyze the allegory tooclosely. Rag Baby’s “fall from grace” is hardlyan act of disobedience on his part. Trading ascarf hardly equates with the sacrifice of a son.Even so, this book will be useful in teachingvery young children the basics of salvation.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, Warner Pacific College,Portland, OregonSixteen cows / Lisa Wheeler; illustrated byKurt Cyrus. (Learn the Word series.)LCCN 2001096269. San Diego: Harcourt,2002. HBB, 152026762, $16.00. Smallchildren. Rating: 5E. Cowboys--Fiction; Cowgirls--Fiction; Cows--Fiction; Stories in rhyme. unp.Sixteen Cows by Lisa Wheeler is the fun story ofCowboy Gene’s eight cows and Cowgirl Sue’seight cows on neighboring ranches. After atornado tears out the fence keeping the ranchesseparate, the herds get mixed and Gene and Suejust cannot get them sorted out. They solve theirdilemma with a wedding in the fall at whichthere are sixteen cow bridesmaids.The illustrations by Kurt Cyrus are fun, actionpacked, bright, and include a variety ofperspectives. The cows are expressive whilestill realistic. The text is in sing-song poetrywith A-A-B-B rhyme scheme that lends itself tobeing read with an accent. Be prepared to singF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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 BOOKSthe cattle call songs when reading aloud. Highlyrecommended for pure pleasure reading.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, Warner Pacific College,Portland, OregonSmall / Clara Vulliamy. LCCN 00011157.New York: Clarion Books, HoughtonMifflin, 2002. HBB, 0618194592, $15.00.Small children. Rating: 4E. Sleepovers--Fiction; Toys--Fiction; Mice--Fiction;Grandmothers--Fiction. unp.Small by Clara Vulliamy is a stuffed animalversion of The Incredible Journey. Tom sleepsover at Granny’s house, but his favorite stuffedanimal, a mouse named Small, is left at home bymistake. Small goes on a dangerous journeyacross town to rejoin Tom at Granny’s house.Both Tom and Small exhibit courage. Smallbraves city streets, cats, rain, wind, and darkwoods in order to be reunited with Tom. Tombraves getting out of bed and creepingdownstairs in the dark to find Small. Small isfound on the floor under the mail slot in the frontdoor. Granny thinks that Small was just droppedby Tom when he arrived. Only Tom knows thatSmall found him, not the other way around.The illustrations by the author (which appear tobe watercolor paintings) are delightful. Tom,with his bright eyes and tousled hair, couldeasily jump right off the page. This is a sweetstory and will be enjoyed by all.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, WarnerPacific College, Portland, OregonA story for Bear / Dennis Haseley;illustrated by Jim LaMarche. LCCN2001002141. San Diego: Silver Whistle,Harcourt, 2002. HBB, 0152002391,$16.00. Small children. Rating: * 5E. Literacy--Fiction; Books and reading--Fiction;Bears--Fiction. unp.A Story for Bear is a whimsical, gentle, earthystory I found myself reading to my children in atender and soft voice. Jim LaMarcheís’illustrations embellish the words written byDennis Haseley, and draw the reader (andlistener) into Bear’s world.Bear is a curious creature who one day wandersbeyond his normal boundaries, and finds a newand enticing place to explore. Day after dayBear returns to investigate this new place.Cautious at first, he becomes mesmerized by awoman absorbed in her books. He comes closerand closer to her at each visit.Soon the woman and Bear become friends. Hecomes each day to listen intently to the storiesshe reads aloud to him. Bear senses the up anddown emotions of the characters in the booksand experiences feelings not familiar to him.The woman leaves her summer cabin to returnhome but leaves the books for bear. Bear beginshis winter’s sleep dreaming of the stories she hasread, hearing her voice as he sleeps.A Story for Bear is delightful, encouraging thepassion and power of words. It is a great read.In trying to liken this story with others in mylocal library, neither I nor the librarian couldfind any comparable. A must have for everylibrary. Highly Recommended.Robin Rusk, Freelance Writer, Susanville, CaliforniaThe way we do it in Japan / by GenevaCobb Iijima; illustrated by Paige Billin-Frye. LCCN 2001004091. Morton Grove,Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2002. HBB,0807578223, $14.95. Small children.Rating: 3E. Japan--Fiction. unp.Gregory, a grade school child of a Japanesefather and North American mother, moves withhis family to Japan. He packs his favorite toys,practices using chopsticks on the airplane, andexchanges dollars for yen. The book’s title, TheWay We Do It in Japan, is a soon-familiar axiomas Gregory confronts a new culture: removinghis shoes before entering his new apartment,sitting on floor cushions for meals, and watchingclassmates eat rice, fish, and fermentedsoybeans at lunch. Gregory’s tried and truepeanut butter sandwich, while tasty, seems oddto him in the new setting until fellow studentsdecide to help their expatriate friend feelwelcome.The Way We Do It in Japan is sweet, full ofintriguing details that appeal to the curiosity ofelementary age children. Factual, yet written asfiction, the story helps children see some of thedifferences between their own culture andanother. Geneva Cobb Iijima, whose own sonlived in Japan for a time, presents a positive andaffirming look into the lifestyle and rituals ofJapan without giving readers an impression thatone is superior to the other. Illustrator PaigeBillin-Frye’s animated-style art gives clues ofGregory’s feelings and occasional confusion, aswell as the reactions of Japanese acquaintances.The facial expressions of Gregory, his family,and the Japanese folks they encounter add to theupbeat mood of the book. Iijima incorporates anoccasional Japanese word along with a phoneticpronunciation, making the reading moreauthentic and enjoyable. The last page includesnon-fiction information about Japan that willadd to children’s knowledge of the culture andlifestyle which the story introduces. This bookis fun, informative and well written. It’s suitedto primary and elementary readers.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville, WashingtonWhat did you do today? / Kerry Arquette;illustrated by Nancy Hayashi. LCCN00038230. San Diego: Harcourt, 2002.HBB, 152014144, $16.00. Small children.Rating: 5E. Domestic animals--Fiction; Animals--Fiction;Stories in rhyme. unp.The bouncy rhyme of author Kerry Arquette’sWhat Did You Do Today? and the fanciful andexpressive illustrations by Nancy Hayashi makethis a book that will dance in your brain longafter it is put away. From the dog whichanswers “I wagged my tail and broke a cup. Itumbled with a neighbor pup. I chewed mymaster’s slipper up. That’s what I did today” tothe child who “…climbed a tree and flew akite…ran and jumped with all mymight…bathed and brushed and curled up tight.Then told the golden moon ‘Good night’” thereader and listener alike will delight in eachpage. A good bed time story to help review theday. Its repeating verse patterns could also beused in the writing classroom to inspire youngverse writers.Judy A. Driscoll, Teacher, Christ the King Academy, Poulsbo,WashingtonWhere does Thursday go? / words, JaneenBrian; pictures, Stephen Michael King.LCCN 2001088539. New York: ClarionBooks, Houghton Mifflin, 2002. HBB,0618212647, $14.00. Small children.Rating: 4E. Days--Fiction; Bears--Fiction; Birds--Fiction. unp.Bruno had a great birthday on Thursday…sogreat he didn’t want it to end. That got him toquestioning “Where does Thursday go beforeFriday comes?” Author Janeen Brian, with theaid of whimsical illustrations by StephenMichael King, introduces us to Bruno the bearand his silent partner, an aviator bird named Bertin Where Does Thursday Go? Bruno and Bertbegin searching the evening countryside, acrossthe river, into the park, down by the lake, near atunnel on the hill, and down to the ocean.Everywhere they find creatures and creations,but nowhere do they find Thursday. It’s onlywhen Bruno remembers the big round balloonsand the shining candles from his party that hedecides that the excitement of Thursday was justlike the moon. As the moon slips away, Brunoand Bert call goodbye to Thursday and wait forthe sun to bring Friday. Stephen Michael King’ssoft, gently-colored illustrations make this agood bedtime read.Judy A. Driscoll, Teacher, Christ the King Academy, Poulsbo,WashingtonC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSCHILDREN’S FICTIONAdventures in Ancient Greece / written byLinda Bailey, illustrated by Bill Slavin.Toronto: Kids Can Press, 2002. HBB,1550745344, $14.95. Elementary. Rating:4F. Ancient Greece—Fiction. 48 p.When will the Binkerton kids learn to avoid theGood Times Travel Agency? Wanting to travelforward in time to see the next Olympics,Emma, Josh, and Libby find themselves in 5B.C. in the middle of a battlefield with armies onboth sides. Just in time a truce is called for theOlympic games. And while they don’t get theirwish about seeing the future, they have somegrand adventures along the way. TouringAthens with Demeas, a local boy, they get asense of the Athenians’ pride in their beautifulcity. Trying to get a lift to the games, thechildren learn something about the origin of ourmodern word “spartan.” Emma and Libby haveto disguise themselves as boys as they learn thatwomen in Ancient Greece weren’t much morethan personal property. Sneaking into the gamesEmma is embarrassed to discover the ancientOlympics were played in the nude! On theirway home the kids accidentally board a triremeheaded for war. Time to punch out for 2002!The latest in her highly successful Good TimesTravel Agency books, Linda Bailey’sAdventures in Ancient Greece presents a funnystoryline that slips a lot of history intounsuspecting kids. Bill Slavin’s pen and ink andwatercolor illustrations move the story along ina comic-book style. The reader can’t help butturn the page to see what misadventure is next.Because the story is driven by the guide book,the storyline is a little bit stilted, but this book isan excellent choice for the age groupnonetheless. It is similar to Magic Tree Housestories but better; this book is hardback withgreat illustrations. A good investment.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaAngelo / David Macaulay. LCCN2001039536. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2002. HBB, 0618168265, $16.00.Elementary. Rating: 4F. Architecture--Conservation and restoration--Fiction; Pigeons--Fiction; Wildlife rescue--Fiction. 48p.With a variety of perspectives, muted colors,and poignancy, David Macaulay tells the storyof Angelo, an aged master plasterer, as herescues an injured pigeon while working on anold church and nurses her back to health. Wesee the care he gives from the first night, “Okay.Just one night” which becomes more. In theillustration we see a makeshift hospital bedcomplete with traction for the broken leg. Fromthere the story diverges: Angelo continues hiswork, growing close and closer to retirement,while Sylvia, the pigeon is just embarking onher career as a performer in the piazza. Theypart and then meet again when Sylviaencourages Angelo to finish his task of restoringthe church. Reminiscent of de Paola’s Clown ofGod (Harcourt, 1978) and Agee’s art in TheIncredible Painting of Felix Closseau (FarrarStraus Giroux, 1988), Macaulay’s story ofenduring friendship should not be missed.Leslie Greaves Radloff, Librarian/Media Generalist, St Paul PublicSchools, St. Paul, MinneapolisThe birthday present mystery / by ElspethCampbell Murphy; illustrated by NancyMunger. (Young cousins mysteries; 1.)LCCN 2001002769. Minneapolis:Bethany Backyard, Bethany House, 2001.PAP, 0764224948, $4.99. Elementary.Rating: 4F. Cousins--Fiction; Birthdays--Fiction; Mystery anddetective stories. 29 p.The sneaky thief mystery / by ElspethCampbell Murphy; illustrated by NancyMunger. (Young cousins mysteries; 2.)LCCN 2001002770. Minneapolis:Bethany Backyard, Bethany House, 2001.PAP, 0764224956, $4.99. Elementary.Rating: 4F. Cousins--Fiction; Ferrets as pets--Fiction; Mysteryand detective stories. 31 p.In each of these light-hearted adventures,cousins Sarah-Jane, Timothy, and Titus get a bigsurprise, initially when a singing gorilla showsup in the first book, and again when a favoriteswimming medal disappears in the second.Kids will read with interest to discover what’sinside the gorilla’s gift and who took thetreasure. At approximately thirty pages each,these books make a satisfying read for childrenmoving up to chapter books. Bright colorillustrations keep the reader’s attention and drawthe child into the stories.Elspeth Campbell Murphy helps children todiscover the mysteries of God’s Word as wellwith the scriptural themes for each title. In TheBirthday Present Mystery, when an ape turns outto be messenger for a party service, and themysterious birthday wishes are intended forsomeone named Sam, the cousins jump right onthe case. Who is Sam? What does he get for hisbirthday? While Sarah-Jane and the two T’sscramble to find the owner of the gift, the readeris reminded that everything good comes fromGod, and every perfect gift is from Him (James1:17a, ICB).In The Sneaky Thief Mystery, Titus’s neighborgets a new pet ferret named Freddie, and thingsstart to disappear. Any child (or parent) who hashad experience with a mischievous pet willenjoy reading about Freddie’s hide-and-stashantics. Searching for the ferret’s hiding places isfun at first, but when a favorite swimming medaldisappears, no one is laughing. When the youngcousins search all the hiding places of theneighbor’s pet for the medal and come upempty, their somber faces remind us of theadmonition to “Let him who steals steal nomore” (Ephesians 4:28a, ICB)These illustrated chapter-books are a goodchoice for emerging readers.Marilynn Griffith, Freelance Writer, Tallahassee, FloridaThe chalk drawings mystery / by ElspethCampbell Murphy; illustrated by NancyMunger. (Young cousins mysteries; 4.)Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, BethanyHouse, 2002. PAP, 0764224972, $4.99.Elementary. Rating: 4F. Cousins--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories.32 p.Miss Mattie is a favorite art teacher of cousinsTimothy, Sarah-Jane, and Titus. In The ChalkDrawings Mystery, Timothy and the otherschool children create chalk art on the sidewalkoutside their school for Miss Mattie to see whenshe arrives each day. One day the cousins spota chalk design unlike the others, and the mysterybegins. First they decide how the drawing cameto be on the sidewalk, and then tackle thequestion of why it’s there and what it means.When the chalk drawing disappears, the mysterygrows. Using good manners, their reasoningabilities, and God-given skills, the trio and afriend answer all the questions to find out thatthe chalk drawing is a marriage proposal forMiss Mattie.Elspeth Campbell Murphy knows how to usechildren’s imagination and curiosity in hersimple stories. Though no biblical content ispresent in the book except for Proverbs 25:13 onthe title page, the characters act in a manner thatwould please God and shows respect andconcern for others. Murphy uses plentifuldialogue and typical kid language to carry theplot rapidly through to conclusion. The ChalkDrawings Mystery is fun and positive readingC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 6 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

CHILDREN’S FICTIONfor children almost ready for chapter books, andprovides good reading practice. NancyMunger’s colorful illustrations bring the storyalive, especially with regard to the chalkdrawing, so readers can easily grasp the codedmessage.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer, Marysville, WashingtonErmine’s new home / by Stephanie Smith;illustrated by Robert Hynes.(Soundprints’ read-and-discover.) LCCN2001049687. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. PAP, 1931465177,$3.95; HBB, 1931465185, $7.95.Elementary. Rating: 5F. Ermine--Fiction; Animals—Infancy—Fiction. 48p.Lynx twins grow up / by Stephanie Smith;illustrated by Robert Hynes.(Soundprints’ read-and-discover.) LCCN2001049688. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. PAP, 1931465193,$3.95; HBB, 1931465207, $7.95.Elementary. Rating: 5F. Lynx--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--Fiction. 48 p.Gray wolf pup’s adventure / by StephanieSmith; illustrated by Robert Hynes.(Soundprints’ read-and-discover.) LCCN2001049689. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. PAP, 1931465134,$3.95; HBB, 1931465142, $7.95.Elementary. Rating: 5F. Wolves--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--Fiction. 48 p.Written in connection with the SmithsonianInstitution, the Soundprints’ Read-and-Discoverseries is well done, each book presenting factsabout an animal in story form. In Gray WolfPup’s Adventure, a pup must be rescued whenhe wanders far from his pack. An ermine mustfind a den of his own in Ermine’s New Home,and Lynx twins learn to care for themselves inLynx Twins Grow Up. A glossary providesdefinitions for special words in the text, each setin bold type. Additional facts about each animalare supplied in endnote pages.The Soundprints’ books are both factual andappealing. Many sound facts are offered in thestory, but in a way that makes the animal morereal and brings it closer than a mere recitation offacts would do. Robert Hynes’ illustrations aretrue-to-life without losing the charm the textlends the animals. The large type and chapterdivisions make these books an ideal beginningchapter for readers.Stephanie Smith’s books will make a wonderfuland delightful addition to any kind of library.They will bring science to life in schools,encourage respect for nature in the readers, andbe a good addition to a parent-child or librarystory time. They will be of particular interest toprimary readers, but will appeal to olderelementary as well, as many at these ages loveanimal books. This is definitely a line of booksto remember.Betsy Ruffin, Librarian/Teacher, Cleburne, TexasEscape underground / Clint Kelly.(KidWitness tales; Heritage builders.)LCCN 2001003301. Minneapolis:Bethany House, 2001. PAP, 1561799645,$5.99. Elementary. Rating: 3F. Toleration--Fiction; Christian life--History--Earlychurch, ca. 30-600--Fiction; Persecution--Fiction;Jerusalem--History--Fiction. 117 p.Mara’s father is a leader in “The Way,” amovement of Jews following the teachings ofJesus. While she agrees with her parents’beliefs, lately it seems that the meetings havebeen about everything but the Savior.With the appearance of many new foreigners inJerusalem claiming the same faith as Mara andthe other Hebrews, trouble seems to be brewingeverywhere. Surely God could watch over thesestrange Greek-speakers wherever they camefrom? Maybe then, things wouldn’t be so out ofcontrol.Along with Nathan, her rabbi-in-the makingbrother, quiet Sarah, and husky Obadiah, Maraforms an exclusive club for Hebrew childrenonly. As Jews, Mara and her friend enjoyspecial favor from God? Or do they?When oppression from Saul and other enemiesof the way is directed at all believers, Mara findsherself in need of help from Karis, a poorCaesarean believer. Although Karis is oftenridiculed for her habit of wanderingunderground, her knowledge of KingHezekiah’s tunnels is the children’s only hopewhen a meeting is stopped by soldiers and theirparents are taken away.Mara soon sees a faith in Karis and her friendAkbar that surpasses her own. Could she bewrong about these Gentile believers? Beforeshe can sort it all out, Saul and his men send thechildren scrambling under the city, only to findtheir parents and be chased out again. Butthings don’t go quite as planned. Saul’s men canbe heard in the main tunnel. Will they make itout alive?Through a narrow escape, Mara learns that notonly are all followers of Jesus persecuted, but allbelievers are equal in God’s sight. With Karis’and Akbar’s help, a new club is formed, onewhere the only basis for membership is belief inJesus Christ.Marilynn Griffith, Freelance Writer, Tallahassee, FloridaThe giant chicken mystery / by ElspethCampbell Murphy; illustrated by NancyMunger. (Young cousins mysteries; 3.)Minneapolis: Bethany Backyard, BethanyHouse, 2002. PAP, 0764224964, $4.99.Elementary. Rating: 4E. Cousins--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories.32 p.One afternoon while enjoying fudge and bookson a city street with her cousins Timothy andTitus, Sarah-Jane glimpses an incredibly largechicken crossing the road. The boys refuse tobelieve Sarah-Jane’s sighting until they find areddish-brown feather nearby…and just up thestreet sits The Little Red Hen Bakery. Voilá, thethree cousins become entangled in The GiantChicken Mystery. As they seek the origin of thebig feather, they discover that the baker had agiant chicken costume in her back room, but it’sgone missing. Step by step, the determined kidsand the baker untangle the knot of the mysteryto find out who was dashing across town dressedin a hen suit, and why.Elspeth Campbell Murphy captures both humorand child-like suspense in this easy reader firstchapter book. She’s skilled at creating awhodunit tale and then taking the protagonistsalong in a logical manner to solve the mystery.Murphy uses enough detail and dialogue to keepreaders’ interest while moving the story aheadsmoothly, and she understands the way kidsthink and what snags their attention. The storyis without any overt Christian input, but thebook portrays wholesome kids whom a parentwould be happy to have befriend her own child.Nancy Munger’s colorful art enlivens the storyand helps readers visually get acquainted withthe three main characters.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer, Marysville, WashingtonIndian shoes / by Cynthia Leitich Smith;illustrated by Jim Madsen. LCCN 2001039510.New York: HarperCollins, 2002. HBB,0060295317, $15.95. Elementary. Rating: 3F. Grandfathers--Fiction; Indians of North America--Fiction. 66 p.Indian Shoes is Cynthia Leitich Smith’scollection of stories about Ray Halfmoon, aSeminole-Cherokee boy living in Chicago withhis grandfather. (Ray’s parents were killed by atornado years before). These are simple stories,gently written, about everyday occurrences:Ray trading in his own hi-tops so his homesickGrandpa can have a pair of genuine Indianmoccasins; Ray and Grandpa rescuing adisappointing Christmas at home by feeding thepets of the neighbors who did manage to getaway.Ray and Grandpa take part in a church wedding—with the implication that church attendance isa regular occurrence in their lives—and theycelebrate Christmas. More importantly, familyC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 7 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

CHILDREN’S FICTIONvalues, kindness, and a gentleness of spirit loomlarge on every page.Ray is a quiet boy who is much more of athinker than a doer. There’s very little action,but Ray’s adventures are funny enough andunpredictable enough to delight mostyoungsters.Smith’s straightforward prose will make it easyto tempt reluctant readers, while Jim Madsen’ssoft black and white illustrations add depth. Thecity setting and the fact that Ray is not yetanother white Anglo Saxon child will be a plusin ethnic markets.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkThe Klondike cat / written by JulieLawson; illustrated by PaulMombourquette. C20019034431.Toronto: Kids Can Press, 2002. HBB,1553370139, $16.95. Elementary. Rating:4F. Klondike River Valley (Yukon)--Gold discoveries--Fiction; Cats--Fiction. 32 p.It’s 1897 and gold fever has struck NorthAmerica. As soon as spring comes, Noah andhis Pa are heading for the Klondike. Theadventure ahead promises hard work andexcitement that Noah looks forward to until Patells him that Shadow, Noah’s cat, will have tostay behind. Unable to part with his beloved pet,Noah disobeys his father and sneaks the cataboard the steamer anyway. When they land inAlaska the cat is discovered. Noah promises hisPa that she’ll be no trouble and Pa reluctantlyallows her to go along. Noah cares for her andeven carries Shadow when the going is toorough for her paws on the Chilkoot Trail. Astheir trek continues, Pa moves from toleratingthe cat to defending her. Things seem to begoing well until they arrive in Dawson to find allthe good fields are taken. Faced with goingback home, Noah and Shadow find the solutionthat will allow all three of them to go on forgold.Klondike Cat captures all the excitement of thegold rush of 1898. By using the characters ofNoah and Shadow, Julie Lawson tells the storyof the many stages involved in such a difficultjourney. This picture book is a goodintroduction to this important period in NorthAmerican history, which was essential toopening up and settling the Western Canadianand Alaskan frontiers. The oil paintings by PaulMombourquette are masterful in portraying therough and tumble atmosphere of life on the trail.The historical note at the back of the bookprovides more facts for children inspired to findout more about the Klondike Gold Rush. If yourcollection suffers from lack of historical picturebooks, this would make an excellent addition.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaLittle Rat sets sail / Monika Bang-Campbell; illustrated by Molly Bang.LCCN 2001001959. San Diego: Harcourt,2002. HBB, 0152162976, $14.00.Elementary. Rating: 5F. Rats--Fiction; Animals--Fiction; Fear--Fiction;Sailing--Fiction. unp.Monika Bang-Campbell and Molly Bang havecreated a lovely work in Little Rat Sets Sail.Delicate yet simple illustrations complement thewriting perfectly. Little Rat has many fears. Buther fear of sailing doesn’t stop her parents fromsigning her up for sailing lessons over summervacation, much to Little Rat’s dismay.In this charming chapter book, Monika Bang-Campbell and Molly Bang encourage childrento face their fears; this theme is coupled withthat of building up self-esteem in children whohave many fears. Information is another strongpoint in this chapter book. Children will learnterms used in sailing like bow, jib, cockpit,mainsail, etc. Informative and fun, this is ahighly recommended chapter book, and isapparently the first of a new Little Rat series.Robin McCarley Rusk, Homeschooling Mother, Freelance Writer,Susanville, CaliforniaMy life as a skysurfing skateboarder / BillMyers. (The incredible worlds of WallyMcDoogle; 21.) Nashville: Tommy Nelson,Thomas Nelson, 2002. PAP, 0849959926,$5.99. Elementary. Rating: 3F. Skateboarding--Fiction. 115 p.Klutzy Wally McDoogle somehow bungles hisway into participating in the SkateboardChampionship of the Universe, and best friend,Wall Street, decides it’s an excellent opportunityfor her to make money. She gets Wally apersonal trainer, an Arnold Schwarzeneggersound-alike whose conditioning regime onlysucceeds in mangling Wally in several differentways. Influenced by Wall Street’s pep talks,Wally begins to want to win, by any meansnecessary. He neglects Leroy, the Big Buddykid he’s sponsoring, gets a “cheating machine”skateboard, and refuses to help other racers introuble during the actual competition. It allseems worth it, at first. But Wally soon startsrethinking his priorities.My Life as a Skysurfing Skateboarder, #21 inBill Myers’ The Incredible Worlds of WallyMcDoogle series, is, as always, a fast, livelyread filled with wacky, slapstick humor andcartoon-like accidents (no matter what perilbefalls Wally, he’s never really hurt). The bookis simply written and swiftly paced, making itperfect for reluctant readers.Some cautions: there’s bathroom humor and ascene where Wally teleports himself. Also, themany jokes about how badly Wally is bulliedmay not seem funny to a child really beingbullied. But lessons on winning not beingeverything, and giving being better than getting,balance things out.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkRiddles from the hope chest / by BeckyFreeman. (Camp Wanna Bananamysteries; 5.) LCCN 2002066374.Colorado Springs: WaterBrook Press,2002. PAP, 1578563534, $4.99.Elementary. Rating: 1F. Secrets--Fiction; Conduct of life--Fiction; Christianlife--Fiction; Mystery and detective stories. 86 p.Ten-year-old twins Joy and Jake Bigsley live ata Christian youth camp with their parents andJoy’s pet monkey. Their best friends, ten-yearoldtwins Maria and Marco, also live there. Inthis, the fifth and last book in the Camp WannaBanana series, Joy and Jake Bigsley’s GrandmaPearl has just gone to heaven. Joy particularlyfeels the loss of her adored Grandma. So when“Mopsy,” a friend of Grandma’s, shows up andbecomes very close to the family, Joy’s naturalcuriosity crosses the line to invasion of privacy.Joy snoops in Mopsy’s papers (reading a privateletter and journal) and before she’s finished, sheand Maria are matchmaking for Mopsy as well.When Mopsy has a medical crisis and needs anew kidney, Joy has the information, due to hersneakiness, that can save Mopsy’s life. If Joykeeps her sin to herself, Mopsy may die. If shetells the secret, she has to confess her sin and askfor forgiveness.Becky Freeman has a wonderful gift for storytellingthat will keep the pages of Riddles Fromthe Hope Chest turning quickly. While thesituation of welcoming a stranger completelyinto their hearts so quickly is a bit unrealistic, itsets the stage for the intensity of the emotions inthe end. Because everyone loves Mopsy, Joy’sconflict is more searing.Unfortunately, the conclusion of the storyrewards Joy’s bad choice. Snooping, whileseamy, turns out to be okay in this instance.While Joy does confess her sin and askforgiveness, the lesson is still that the endjustified the means. As this book is targeted forthe second and third grade reading level,independent young readers may not have thematurity to sort out the situational ethicsinvolved.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaThe same stuff as stars / KatherinePaterson. LCCN 2002003967. New York:Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin, 2002.HBB, 0618247440, $15.00. Elementary.Rating: 5F. Family problems--Fiction; Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Great-grandmothers--Fiction; Self-reliance--Fiction. 242 p.F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

CHILDREN’S FICTIONOnce again Katherine Paterson focuses a welltoldstory on social issues that will touch manyreaders. Angel Morgan, almost twelve yearsold, understands rejection and abandonment.But after her mother, Verna, dumps Angel andher seven-year-old brother, Bernie on GreatgrandmotherMorgan, and later kidnaps Bernie,Angel “ . . .was going to trust that Verna hadturned over a new leaf and was starting out as afirst-class mother.” She hopes for a long time.Angel must not only mother Bernie, but greatgrandma,also. Worries over not eating properly,whether Welfare will catch up with them, andconcern about the Star Man, who smokes, nearlyovercome Angel. One bright spot, however,turns into two when she discovers Miss Liza, thelibrarian. She shows Angel books about thesame stars the Star Man points out to herthrough his telescope late at night. Angel keepsthe Star Man as “her wonderful secret” untilnear the end of the story.Between the burdens of her father, Wayne, injail, a mother and brother nowhere to be found,and catty remarks from kids at school, Angelgrows close to her great-grandmother. Wayneshows up unexpectedly, causing Angel to makean important decision. Not everything turns outas Angel wishes, but Paterson concludes thestory with hope.Angel displays courage and resourcefulness asshe deals with life’s problems. She does notalways tell the truth, and not always is she a girlwith a steely backbone. Sometimes shedissolves into a little girl who can no longercarry the load by herself.Readers will care about the primary charactersin The Same Stuff as Stars. They are real, doingand saying what people in their situations mightdo and say. Even immature Verna makesreaders like her, but not what she does, even asthey feel sorry for her.Readers learn much about stars, and as a bonusPaterson provides the names of the actual booksthat nourish Angel’s soul and spirit.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker, Newberg,OregonSnowshoe hare’s family / by StephanieSmith; illustrated by Robert Hynes.LCCN 2001042364. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. HBB, 1931465169,$7.95; PAP, 1931465150, $3.95.Elementary. Rating: 5F. Snowshoe rabbit--Fiction; Rabbits--Fiction;Animals--Infancy--Fiction. 48 p.In the quiet of an arboreal forest, a snowshoehare is starting a family. This well-written bookopens with her searching for a nest site in spring.As the spring rolls into summer, the youngfamily starts to emerge from its den. They learnabout the danger of the snowy owl, the safety ofcamouflage and cover, and what to eat. Fallbrings a new coat in a new color. The change ofseason also brings a new predator—a lynx. Theexcitement of the lynx chasing one of the younghares turns out to have a happy ending… thistime. The young hares are finally old enough toleave their mother in winter as now they aregrown up enough to take care of themselves.Fully white, they leave the den to make theirown families. The mother snowshoe hare findsa mate and begins the cycle again.Snowshoe Hare’s Family is excellent.Stephanie Smith presents the facts of thesnowshoe hare’s life cycle realistically. The richillustrations by Robert Hynes are so good thiscould be used as a field guide. Categorized asReading Level 2 in the Soundprints series, thischapter book will get a lot of action fromkindergarten through second graders. With aglossary of specific scientific words in the backof the book, as well as some wilderness facts,this slim volume has all the necessary elementsfor a child’s first book report. The last pageeven gives a list of other animals found in anarboreal forest. As this series focuses onanimals and habitats unique to North America,the entire series would be an excellentinvestment for any library.Kelley Westenhoff, Dominion Christian School, Oakton, VirginiaSpider Storch, rotten runner / by GinaWillner-Pardo; illustrated by NickSharratt. LCCN 2001049686. MortonGrove, Ill.: Albert Whitman, 2001. HBB,0807575941, $11.95. Elementary. Rating:4F. Running--Fiction; Teamwork (Sports)--Fiction;Schools--Fiction; Friendship--Fiction. 83 p.Have you ever known a child who has absorbeda lot of trivia but doesn’t know when to stopsharing it? Meet Joey “Spider” Storch. Thewords just tumble out of his mouth; he correctspeople when they’re wrong and refuses toconcede there is anything he doesn’t know. Inthis, the sixth book in the series, Spider’sunstoppable mouth has alienated his best friendZachary. While Zachary is really irked atSpider, he is also delighted because he knowsSpider’s weakness will soon be revealed for thewhole world to see.The third grade Olympics is imminent,culminating in a grand relay race, and Zacharyknows Joey’s complete name should be SpiderStorch, Rotten Runner. In the way that only bestfriends have, Zachary tweaks Spider’s insecurityabout looking like a fool in revenge for Spider’snon-stop corrections of Zachary’s facts. Butsomething strange happens on the way to thefinal event. Ms. Schmidt’s class members stopthinking of what they individually cannot do,and start thinking of themselves as a team. It nolonger matters who, individually, is best or worstbut how the team works together against theother third grade teams.Gina Willner-Pardo must be a third grade boy!This book is hilarious and believable. Theauthor has captured Spider’s bravado aboutfacts, insecurity about running, and disgustabout most girls he knows, yet retained hisinnocence in a believable manner. He andZachary easily move beyond their argument in ahealthy manner. The illustrations by NickSharratt are cute and frequent enough to keepreluctant readers going. They won’t have to bebribed though, because this book is trulyappealing. What a thrill to know there are fivemore Spider Storch books to get for our library.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaThee, Hannah! / written and illustrated byMarguerite de Angeli. 2nd ed. LCCN99052422. Scottdale, Pa.: Herald Press,2002. HBB, 0836192109, $21.99.Elementary. Rating: *5F. Quakers--Fiction; Clothing and dress--Fiction;Slavery--Fiction; Philadelphia (Pa.)--Fiction. 99 p.Hannah, a lively nine-year-old girl, lives inPhiladelphia shortly before the Civil War.Because her family is Quaker, she must resistthe temptations of the secular world. Sadly, thisincludes the lovely fabrics, colors, and sashesher best friend Cecily gets to wear. Worse,Hannah’s bonnet has to be plain. She loves tovisit with Cecily and play dress-up, and evenwears one of Cecily’s pretty gowns outside. Ofcourse, she gets caught and suffers theconsequences. Getting into one scrape afteranother as she seeks to follow the world’s path,Hannah despairs of ever learning “Quakerways.” Yet, when the lives of an escaped slaveand her child are at stake, Hannah learns that herbonnet is a testimony about her family and that‘different’ is also very special.Reading a re-issue of a Marguerite de Angelibook is like rediscovering an old friend—awelcome comfort. Seeing that the message ofthe story is relevant today is reassuring. Thee,Hannah illustrates the principle of learning to bein the world and not of it. For mostcontemporary Christians, the lines are not asclearly drawn as they are for Hannah, so thestory provides a good example of what “setapart for God” means. The fact that this is astory based on truth will make it even moreenchanting to young readers. It contains twokinds of equally outstanding illustrations. Theblack and white illustrations set the atmospherefor Hannah’s world. The full color illustrationsplace the reader in the middle of the story as a“fly on the wall.” This would be better if it wereavailable in hardcover, as it will certainlycirculate.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 1 9 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

CHILDREN’S FICTIONTrails above the tree line : a story of aRocky Mountain meadow / by AudreyFraggalosch; illustrated by Higgins Bond.LCCN 00056554. Norwalk, Conn.:Soundprints, 2002. HBB, 1568999410,$15.95. Elementary. Rating: 2F. Bighorn sheep--Fiction; Sheep--Fiction; Animals--Infancy--Fiction. 32 p.A newborn bighorn sheep starts his life in theearly summer in Trails Above the Tree Line: aStory of a Rocky Mountain Meadow. As thelamb grows and experiences the differentseasons in his mountain home, the storydescribes the predators, natural environment,struggles, and development of the young sheep.Audrey Fraggalosch relates the basic facts of awild animal’s life with plenty of detail,describing the seasonal changes in the Rockiesas the sheep herd prepares for winter, and as thecycle of life begins again with the advent ofspring. Throughout the text, Higgins Bond’sillustrations add visual appeal that help readersmore fully enjoy the story and the grandeur ofthe setting. Bond’s details—wildflowers, ahummingbird in the meadow, the aridlandscapes of the high Rockies—lend a valuablelife-likeness to the book.Trails Above the Tree Line offers a factual andinformative look at bighorn sheep in theirnatural environment. The book’s strongest assetis its educational value. Animals and theirhabitats have a magnetic appeal for children,who will enjoy hearing or reading the book, andwill gain new knowledge through theaccompanying art.From an adult viewpoint, the writing is not asoriginal or fresh in style and word choice as itmight have been. The double-page fold out atthe back depicts a panoramic view of a RockyMountain meadow that invites a child’sreviewing of newly acquired information. Thepicture glossary is a useful addition thataugments learning.This book would be well suited in a library, be ithomeschool, Christian, or public school.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer, Marysville, WashingtonThe weight of a mass : a tale of faith /Josephine Nobisso; illustrated by KatalinSzegedi. LCCN 2001004925.Westhampton Beach, N.Y.: GingerbreadHouse, 2002. HBB, 0940012094, $17.95;PAP, 0940112108, $. Elementary. Rating:4F. Mass--Fiction; Catholics--Fiction; Faith--Fiction;Christian life--Fiction; Kings, queens, rulers, etc.--Fiction. unp.Once long ago a king was to wed his new queen.Being a woman of faith she desired that thewedding be held in the kingdom’s greatcathedral, yet the hearts of the people had growncold, and no great thought was given to theupcoming event.Enter a ragged, penniless widow who pleadswith a baker for a crust of bread, offering to sayMass for him in exchange. The baker onlyscoffs and sets out to prove her faith worthless.With cynical flair he writes “One Mass” on atidbit of paper, sets it on his scale and thenweighs it against a slice of stale bread. TheMass stays firm. In amazement the bakercontinues to load the scale with his wares, all tono avail. He even weighs the royal weddingcake against the Mass. The Mass remains.Truly a miracle has been witnessed and thepeople hurry to renew their belief as they attendtheir king’s wedding.Josephine Nobisso’s The Weight of a Massunfolds its message with solemn grace andpurpose. Based on a true incident, this tale offaith has all the qualities of a fairytale, for thereis the hard-hearted kingdom, a cynicalantagonist, a meek central character, and a moralto be learned. All this is woven together with alilting text and Katalin Szegedi’s warm,romantic illustrations.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoWhat do you see when you see me? /written by Jeannie St. John Taylor;illustrated by Kathleen Hadam Kernly.LCCN 2001023944. Colorado Springs:Faith Kids, Cook Communications, 2002.HBB, 0781437334, $7.99. Elementary(Small children). Rating: 3F. Old age--Fiction; Nursing home--Fiction;Interpersonal relations--Fiction. 29 p.“What do you see when you see me?” shoutsOld Agnes, a sharp-tongued, cane-wieldingwoman who lives in the nursing home whereKatrina’s grandmother lives. “Do you see acranky old woman with a wrinkled face? Doyou see twisted hands and skinny useless legs?”Katrina, already terrified of the fierce woman,doesn’t know how to answer. But slowly, asAgnes describes her life as a child, and herromance, marriage, and widowhood, Katrina’sfear dissolves and she starts seeing Agnes in anew way.What Do You See When You See Me? a picturebook by Jeannie St. John Taylor, is a tender andpoignant lesson on learning to discover thebeauty inside a person, despite what they looklike, or how they may act. The third personnarration is simple enough for children at theyounger end of its four to seven-year-old agegroup, yet not too babyish for children at theolder end. Even children aged eight or oldercould be enchanted by the book, which managesnot to look “childish” despite its being a picturebook.Kathleen Kemly’s colorful illustrations deftlycapture the action and add a few surprises notexplicitly stated in the text. There’s no overtreligious message, just a quick mention thatKatrina and Agnes are Christians, but there’s awarmth in the story that will reach children in away that strong preaching might not. Katrina isa black child, a plus in schools and libraries withethnic populations. Recommended.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

BOOK REVIEWSCHILDREN’S NONFICTIONJonah and the whale : a story from theBible / retold by Rosemary Lanning;illustrated by Bernadette Watts. LCCN2001034533. New York, North-SouthBooks, 2001. HBB, 0735815011, $15.95.LIB, 073581502X, $15.88. Elementary.Rating: 2224'.9209505. Jonah (Biblical prophet); Bible stories.O.T. unp.In this simple retelling of the story, Jonah fleesunsuccessfully from God’s command that hepreach to the people of Nineveh. “Why me?” hethinks. “Nineveh is no concern of mine.” Aviolent storm at sea and three days in the bellyof a whale convince him that he must obey God.The book ends with the people’s repentance andtheir escape from God’s punishment. RosemaryLanning makes no mention in her retelling ofJonah’s displeasure at God’s mercy or the lessonhe learns from the growth and destruction of asheltering vine. As a result, this version mightbe most satisfying to younger listeners justwanting the basic story.Bernadette Watt’s illustrations sweep across thepages and there is a nice one of Jonah praying inthe belly of the whale. The scenes involving thewhale are by far the most interesting. Thepeople look somewhat stiff and have anAmerican primitive look to them. With only afew lines of text on each double page spread,Jonah and the Whale makes a nice choice forreading aloud to a young audience. If demandwarrants another volume about Jonah, this one isworth considering.Lillian Heytvelt, Public Librarian, Denny Ashby Memorial Library,Pomeroy, WashingtonWhat difference does it make? : faithanswers for kids / Debi Little Brazzale.Illustrated by David Sullivan. ColoradoSprings: Faith Kids, CookCommunications, 2002. PAP, 0781437016,$6.99. Elementary (Middle school).Rating: 4230. Theology, Doctrinal--Popular works. 160 p.Based on Paul Little’s Know What You Believe(Scripture Press, 1970) and Know Why YouBelieve(Scripture Press, 1967) books, butadapted by Deborah Brazzale to be more kidfriendly, What Difference Does It Make? iswritten for children trying to better understandtheir friends’ faith, their parents’ faith, or theirown faith.Twelve chapters cover topics such as the Bible,the Holy Spirit, Suffering and Evil, and Thingsto Come. Issues discussed include the nature ofGod, why we are different from animals, and ifmiracles are possible. Sticky issues are handleddelicately. For instance, it’s acknowledged thatsome Christians disagree over how long a daywas in Genesis. The Big Bang Theory iscompared to what might have happened whenGod spoke the earth into existence. “Evil”words in the Bible are explained by saying theyare true pictures of some people’s words andcircumstances.Questions and answers, sidebars, bulleted lists,and many illustrations break the text intoreadable chunks. Each chapter has a “WhereDid You Find That?” section listing scriptureverses that support the chapters’ points. ARewind feature sums up points made in previouschapters.The book is advertised for ages nine and up butits illustrations may make it seem babyish toteens, and some concepts may be too complexfor the youngest readers. Also, the book’s flatstatement that Jesus can return “today” mayfrighten some children. The quirky, kid-friendlylanguage used may not seem so funny to someadults, as when, in stating that Jesus was eithera liar, wacko, legend, or was telling the truth,Brazzale assures readers Jesus was a normalhuman being and “all his ducks were in a row.”This book is fine for children needing to knowmore about Christianity and it would make agreat addition to most libraries.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkMother Holly : a retelling from the BrothersGrimm / by John Warren Stewig; withilustrations by Johanna Westerman.LCCN 2001034541. New York: North-South Books, 2001. HBB, 1558589260,$15.95; LIB, 1558589252, $15.88.Elementary. Rating: 4398.2'0943'02. Fairy tales; Folklore--Germany. unp.Having fallen down a well, the lovely Rose, whois often mistreated by her step-mother, finds herway into another realm; here she is richlyrewarded for her compassion and industry. ForMother Holly, a kind but enigmatic figure whocauses snow to fall on earth every time sheshakes her feather bed, showers her with goldbefore sending her on her way back home.Greedily hoping for a similar reward, step-sisterBlanche also makes her way to Mother Holly'sabode, but her natural laziness quickly assertsitself, and for her trouble, she is showered notwith gold, but with burrs and barbs.Mother Holly is a retelling of the timelessfolktale, “Frau Holle,” first recorded andpublished by the Brothers Grimm in 1812. Forthe most part, writer John Stewig remainsfaithful to the original folktale, but he does takea few liberties, in order to make the story a littleless “grim” (pun intended, I’m afraid). In theoriginal, for example, Blanche is showered withtar or pitch, which, we are told, will never comeoff, and the story simply ends there. In Stewig’sversion, Rose takes the prickly and miserableBlanche back to Mother Holly, and she is givenan opportunity to redeem herself. As she learnsto work without complaining, her burrs begin tofall out, and in the end, both sisters are showeredwith gold.Johanna Westerman’s illustrations provide alush counterpoint to the straightforwardnarrative. Her vivid and incredibly detailedpaintings, alive with butterflies, flowers, andbirds, are reminiscent of those Renaissancepaintings in which the central figures are placedwithin a larger landscape of streams, hills, andvalleys, which fade into the distance. A lovelypicture book for any fairytale collection.Sylvia Stopforth, Librarian, Trinity Western University, BritishColumbia, CanadaWeird friends : unlikely allies in the animalkingdom / Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey.LCCN 98031290. San Diego: GulliverBooks, Harcourt, 2002. HBB,0152021280, $16.00. Elementary. Rating:5577.8'5. Symbiosis. unp.How does a near sighted Rhinoceros keep lionsaway from her calf? Via a Cattle Egret Lookout.Who baby sits the caterpillar of the Large BlueButterfly? Red ants, of course. What companysees to the insect extermination needs of theForest Mouse? None other than Beetles, Inc.Written and illustrated by multiple awardwinning artists Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey,Weird Friends introduces children and theirmentors to a wide range of symbioticfriendships, from Clown Fish and SeaAnemones, to Water Thick Knees andCrocodiles.Unique among animal picture books, WeirdFriends serves a plurality of purposes: anintriguing introduction to the science ofsymbiosis; a primer on the facets of friendship;a bright, appealing picture book that will holdlittle eyes (and bigger ones) captive for a long,interested while; a portfolio of scenarios for playactivity. As individual as each symbioticC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONrelationship, the illustration media include penand ink, gouache, watercolor, and pastel.Simple and colorful, they will encourage littleartists, as well as mentors looking for newdisplay ideas. The scientifically correct,uncomplicated data is presented from a child’sviewpoint, encouraging further study into thefield of symbiosis. Weird Friends concludeswith a brief summary of the countries in whichthe subject animals live, thus becoming anintroduction to geography. Recommended toanyone working with young children: Christianschool to public school to home school.Donna J. Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaUnder the ice / Kathy Conlan;[photographs by Louise Dickson]. (ACanadian Museum of Nature book.)C2001904240X. Toronto: Kids Can Press,2002. HBB, 1553370015, $16.95.Elementary (Middle school). Rating: 5578.77'09163'2. Marine pollution--Polar Regions;Marine biology--Polar regions; Marine biologists--Biography; Conlan, Kathy. 56 p.Under the Ice is the science book by which allother science books should be measured.Starting at the beginning, the author shares herearly life and interests, thus becoming a realperson to the reader. From there she moves toher early work in the Arctic studying icescours—a fascinating glimpse at one of theforces shaping the ocean floor. The real prizeand focus of the book, of course, is the trip toMcMurdo Station in Antarctica. From 1991-1998, Dr. Conlan was part of a seasonal teamstudying the effect of pollution from Mactownon the ocean environment. To do that, they hadto dive under the ice. Then their job was to“play with the garbage.” In a self-deprecatingmanner, Kathy Conlan climbs down from the“scientist” pinnacle as she describes her team’sreputation as the dirtiest, smelliest, grossest onebecause of their work.From early Antarctic exploration, to the actualdiving and work, to penguins and seals, and toreal danger she faced, Kathy Conlan coversevery detail a child would want to know abouther work. To find a book that describes a hostilebut enticing environment so clearly that thereader wants to strap on scuba gear and bravebone-chilling water is to find victory in oursearch for good science books. Sit next to awarm heater as you read it because Conlan’sdescription of the cold, combined with theawesome photographs, is authentically chilling.Dr. Conlan has since returned to Antarctica aspart of more studies. We can only hope she’llpublish another book this good.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton, VirginiaLeaving home / Sneed B. Collard, III;illustrated by Joan Dunning. LCCN2001039252. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2002. HBB, 0618114548, $15.00.Elementary. Rating: 5591.5. Animals--Infancy; Animals--Habits andbehavior. unp.For the young child who worries about having togrow up and leave home, Sneed B. Collard IIIhas addressed the fear with fact in LeavingHome. This book is a double bargain; actuallybeing two books in one. Kindergarteners will besatisfied with the simple matter-of-fact but reassuringstory at the top of each animaldecorated page. Those in first through thirdgrades will be more interested in the secondstory appearing at the bottom of each pagechock full of scientific information about theanimal presented and how and when it leaveshome. Children, parents, and teachers alike willenjoy hours of searching through the detailedand precise watercolor illustrations of JoanDunning and discussing the text. From jaguarsto sharks and flying lizards to penguins, eachanimal of the twenty-five creatures is presentedin its habitat to enhance the text of both stories.An excellent choice for the primary classroomor library.Judy Driscoll, Teacher, Christ the King Academy, Poulsbo,WashingtonThe butterfly / by Diana Noonan. (Lifecycles.) LCCN 2002000028. Philadelphia:Chelsea House, 2003. HBB, 079106963X,$13.95. Elementary. Rating: 5595.78'9. Butterflies. 32 p.The Butterfly is an excellent example of nonfictionfor young children. It presents anintroduction to the physical characteristics,behavior, and life cycle of the butterfly, eachsubject covered in a page or two. Many termsare defined and any words in bold text areincluded in the glossary located at the rear of thebook. Vivid pictures demonstrate each subject,with a captioned color photo on every page.Preschoolers could learn from this colorful bookas it is read to them and early elementarystudents would be able to read and learn aboutbutterflies for themselves. The Butterfly will bea well used addition to any school or publiclibrary collection of easy non-fiction, as wouldthe other titles in the series.Ceil Carey, Young Adult Librarian, Public Library, Plano, IllinoisHansa : the true story of an Asian elephantbaby / Clare Hodgson Meeker; withphotographs from Woodland Park Zoo;illustrations by Linda Feltner. Seattle :Sasquatch Books, 2002. PAP, 1570613702,$12.95; HBB, 1570613443, $16.95.Elementary. Rating: 4599.67'6. Asiatic elephant; Elephants; Animals--Infancy; Zoo animals; Endangered species. 48 p.Hansa, The True Story of an Asian ElephantBaby, by Clare Hodgson Meeker, is lavishlyillustrated, with good-quality color photos onnearly every page. It’s geared to children agedsix to ten and describes, in an age appropriateway, the birth and babyhood of Hansa, the firstelephant born at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo.Also described are the pregnancy of Chai,Hansa’s mother, and the potentially dangerousjealousy of the other female elephants.In addition to the photos, there are severalillustrations by Linda Feltner as well as sidebarsand diagrams to break up the text. Theseinclude information about the differencesbetween Asian and African elephants, howelephants communicate, and how zoo elephantsspend a typical day. There are also enough funfacts (how quickly Hansa gains weight; that herfeet are ticklish) to keep children interested.Some possible cautions: it’s stated withcertainty that the wooly mammoth, a closerelative of elephants, roamed earth two millionyears ago, and descriptions of Hansa nursingfrom her mother’s breasts are perhaps a bit toodetailed, but Chai’s attempts to get pregnant, thebirth, and the pregnancy itself are handled subtlyyet with enough honest detail to answer a child’squestions. Potentially troubling for the book’syoungest readers are passages about someelephants trampling their newborns andstatistics stating that at least one elephant keeperis killed each year.Hansa is a quick and interesting read, especiallyfor children curious about how zoos work.Enough information is given to make veterinaryor zoo keeper careers seem intriguing, yet themore serious aspects of these careers aren’tglossed over. A nice choice for schools,libraries, and children who love animals.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkZzz… : the most interesting book you'll everread about sleep / written by TrudeeRomanek; illustrated by Rose Cowles.(Mysterious you.) Toronto: Kids CanPress, 2002. HBB, 1550749447, $14.95;PAP, 1550749463, $6.95. Elementary.Rating: 5612.8'21. Sleepovers--Fiction. 40 p.ZZZ… covers the marvels of sleep using a mixof facts, amazing anecdotes, and suggestedactivities to test out the factual information. Forexample, what happens when one doesn’t getthe sleep needed, with an accompanyinganecdote about Rip Van Winkle. The story ofthe fairy-tale princess who slept poorly becauseof a pea under her mattress is followed withsuggestions like placing a tennis ball under yourbrother's back while he’s sleeping.Color illustrations, varied type headings,brackets and blocks encasing information, andF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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 NONFICTIONcontrasting colors make it easy for children toread pages without counting the steps.A must title for public library collections tomake reading interesting, and a title schoollibraries can use for children to read straightthroughor one or two pages at a sitting. Parentsmight add this timeless title to home shelves forthe content is sure to intrigue children andadults.Trudee Romanek is a children’s book editor andauthor of The Technology Book for Girls andOther Advanced Beings (Kids Can Press, 2001).Rose Cowles, with awards for illustration anddesign, has illustrated titles in the Baa! Burg!And Hum! Series (Kids Can Press, 2001).Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach Public LibraryDistrict, Fort Meyers, FloridaDig dig digging / Margaret Mayo;illustrated by Alex Ayliffe. LCCN2001001500. New York: Henry Holt, 2002.HBB, 0805068406, $14.95. Elementary.Rating: 4629.225. Motor vehicles. unp.Margaret Mayo’s book about heavy equipment,Dig Dig Digging, is a celebration of color andsound in illustrations and word poems.Bulldozers, tractors, fire engines, helicopters,transporters, and more engage in activity oneach page. The text supports and mimics themotions of the equipment, bumping across thepage as they accomplish their heavy-duty tasks.The poetry will appeal to little ones with itsrepetitive rhythms: “Diggers are good at dig,dig, digging, scooping up the earth and liftingand tipping.” The bold, blocky print is easy tosee against the strong colors of the artwork, thewords sometimes climbing over a mound orspilling as if from a hose, and each poemconcludes with the statement. “They can workall day.”The wonderful illustrations by Alex Ayliffe areperfectly suited to the subject matter—huge,heavy equipment set against a backdrop of awork site with lighted buildings in the distance.The people in his illustrations look like toyfigures, giving the book a sense of whimsy thatwill attract children. Parents and teachers willenjoy reading the light verses and find plenty ofopportunity to imitate the sound of each piece ofequipment as the pages turn.As the work wraps up, even the busiestmachines must get some down time and thebook ends with quiet colors: “They can rest allnight.” The vehicles, busy all day, are nowenjoying a well-earned breather. Highlyrecommended.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaHow our house works / Larry Burkett;illustrated by Ed Letwenko. (LarryBurkett's how things work.) LCCN2001040251. Colorado Springs: FaithKids, Cook Communications, 2002. HBB,0781437237, $14.99. Elementary. Rating:3643. Buildings; Dwellings--Design and construction;Dwellings--Maintenance and repair; Housekeeping.unp.Children will enjoy How Our House Works, acolorfully illustrated picture book that “slicesopen” the average home to expose its innerworkings and construction secrets to the reader.Fire blocks, circuit breakers, drain traps, gutters,and furnaces are among the many featuresdiagrammed and explained by Andy Mann, afictional construction site foreman who leads atour of five suburban homes. (Although no citydwellings are shown, the families portrayed arewhite, black, Hispanic and Asian). Included arelessons on responsible finances (author LarryBurkett is a famous financial guru). Asecondary theme, showing stewardship forGod’s gifts to us, is emphasized in the text andin a special parent’s page, which gives tips onhow to teach a child good stewardship.While the text is perfectly suited to the book’sseven and up age group, there are someproblems. The topics covered are tied togetherthrough Andy Mann’s rhyming verse; therhymes are rather forced, although a childprobably won’t notice. Of more concern: the“how the house works” portion of the book willfascinate its readers, as will illustrator EdLetwentko’s lively full-color drawings, but atleast half the book concerns how to run a homein a fiscally wise way. Recycling is always a hottopic, but will children really be interested inadvice on clipping coupons or shopping forbargain clothing?These are minor concerns. The book should befine for a child’s personal use as well as for mostlibraries, although its emphasis on stewardshipof God’s blessings may limit its appeal to churchand religious school libraries.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkSun song / Susan Scott Sutton; illustratedby Sally Randall. LCCN 2001023416.Colorado Springs: Faith Kids, CookCommunications, 2002. HBB,0781435617, $13.99. Elementary. Rating:3782.4215'82'0268. Lullabies; Children's songs; God--Songs and music; Songs. unp.Written by Susan Scott Sutton, Sun Song is likeGoodnight Moon (Margaret Wise Brown,Harper, 1947), told in rhyme, of a little girl’sacknowledgment of the beauty in the sun, wind,and rain, and her recognition that God’s hand isin the creation of all three. It ends with thetouching assurance that God and his angelswatch over us at night.Children should enjoy the repetition of theverses. The rhyme is both simple enough for thefour to seven year old age group Sun Song isgeared to, and profound enough to delight anolder child (or an adult reading the book aloud).Sally Randall’s dreamy, delicate illustrationssuit the text. The CD that comes with the booksets Sutton’s words to music by Lynn Hodges.Two versions of the song, one with a little girlspeaking the words and the other with an adultwoman singing them, allow a child to read alongwith the text if an adult isn’t available. A thirdsong is an instrumental-only version of Hodges’lovely, lyrical music.The book’s final page is a parenting guidesuggesting ways adults can help their childrenappreciate God’s creation by taking walksthrough a lovely neighborhood, park, countrylane, or shoreline. It’s a bit more suited tosuburban or rural households than urban ones,but the little girl who is the book’s heroine, withher dark hair, skin, and eyes, will give Sun Songadded appeal in the ethnic markets that aresometimes neglected by mainstream Christianbooks.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkStorm Run : the story of the first woman towin the Iditarod Sled Dog Race / LibbyRiddles; illustrated by ShannonCartwright. LCCN 2001020966. Seattle :Paws IV, Sasquatch Books, 2002. PAP,1570612935, $9.95; HBB, 1570612986,$16.95. Elementary. Rating: 3798.8'3'092. Riddles, Libby; Iditarod (Race);Mushers--Alaska; Women mushers; Mushers; Sleddog teams. 46 p.Storm Run is written by Libby Riddles, the firstwoman to win the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Itspicture book size and feel as well as its manyillustrations, photos, and graphs suit Riddles’simple yet detailed recounting of her trainingand the race itself. Riddles covers her move toAlaska as a young girl, her struggles to traindogs for mushing, and what’s needed to livebush-style in Alaska in an honest way, yet shenever exaggerates or exploits the details.There’s a throwaway line about Riddles“cursing” the sixty below zero cold, and one linementions that male and female racers bunk inthe same building. Also, Riddles’ attempts tofinish the race despite seriously life threateningconditions may seem too reckless a choice tosome adults even though the book portrays it asadmirable. But Storm Run is suitable in all otheraspects for its six to ten year old audience.For the youngest readers there’s a chance therepetition involved in describing a 1,100 milerace may make Storm Run seem too dull, andthere’s a chance older readers may rebel at itspicture book look. But Shannon Cartwright’sillustrations nicely break up the text, and thestory is told with a tension that holds upthroughout. Storm Run isn’t a fully-detailedC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 3 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

CHILDREN’S NONFICTIONbiography of Riddles, chock-full of facts andfootnotes. It focuses more on one event inRiddles’ life. But it has enough fascinatingdetail about that event and on dog racing ingeneral to make it a worthwhile purchase,especially for children interested in animals or insporting events like the Iditarod. It’s also a goodchoice for readers interested in women’sachievements.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkWings on the wind : bird poems / collectedand illustrated by Kate Kiesler. LCCN2001031832. New York: Clarion Books,Houghton Mifflin, 2002. HBB,061813333X, $14.00. Elementary. Rating:4811.008'03628. Birds--Poetry; American poetry--Collections; English poetry--Collections. 40 p.Wings on the Wind: Bird Poems, a collection ofserious and humorous poems about birds, is sureto delight children. Poems from EleanorFarjeon, William Sargent, Carl Sandburg, LeeBlair, and Elizabeth Shane open a child’s worldto many perspectives on birds. Topics includebirds hunting for a house, specific birds like theblackbird, robin, barn-swallow, or pelican, andbirds flying south. Traditional yarns includeMrs. Hen and Magpie. A generous number ofanonymous poems add both humor and interest.The color illustrations in every page make this ajourney a child can take by just paging throughthe book and following the different birds. Italso gives parents/grandparents a lot to share asthey read the interesting sounding poems, e.g.,“Magpie, magpie, flutter and flee, turn up yourtail and good luck come to me.” Layout of thedreamy paintings is varied and unobtrusive,letting each poem have its place.Kate Kiesler has illustrated an earlier anthology,Fishing for a Dream (Clarion Books, 1999), andseveral of Kristine O’Connell George’s bookssuch as The Great Frog Race (Clarion Books,1997), and Toasting Marshmallows (ClarionBooks, 2001).Excellent for school and public library shelves,as well as a title for home shelves.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach Public LibraryDistrict, Fort Myers, FloridaHenry David's house / Henry DavidThoreau; edited by Steven Schnur;illustrated by Peter Fiore. LCCN2001002610. Watertown, Mass.:Charlesbridge, 2002. HBB, 0881061166,$16.95. Elementary. Rating: 4818'.303. Thoreau, Henry David, 1817-1862; Authors,American. unp.The quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Everyspirit builds a house, and beyond its house aworld, and beyond its world a heaven," beginsHenry David’s House, a book about Thoreau andhow he built his cabin in the woods near WaldenPond. Readers follow him through the year ittook to build the house, sensing the slowness oflife's pace and quiet contemplation as Thoreauobserved his surroundings, writing in hisnotebooks. (Editor Steven Schnur has excerptedparts of Thoreau’s Walden (Ticknor and Fields,1854) for this book).Peter Fiore’s watercolors and oil paintings aptlycapture the moments being described. AnEditor's note tells readers what happened toThoreau's cabin in the orchard near town, thefight to save it from development, and the debtwe owe Thoreau for reminding us all of Nature'simportance and how we should think aboutNature.Younger readers will appreciate this title evenmore if used with Henry Hikes to Fitchburg(Houghton Mifflin, 2000).Leslie Greaves Radloff, Teacher/School Librarian, S. St. Paul,MinneapolisThe Wright brothers : a flying start /written by Elizabeth MacLeod. Toronto:Kids Can Press, 2002. HBB, 1550749331,$14.95. Elementary. Rating: 4921 (629.13'0092'273). Wright, Orville, 1871-1948;Wright, Wilbur, 1867-1912; Aeronautics--UnitedStates--Biography. 32 p.An intimate portrayal and an engaging profilesure to help children remember the lives andefforts of Will and Orv Wright. The WrightBrothers : A Flying Start offers full color photosand illustrations that keep the story moving.Each two pages offers commentary amidstpictures or illustrations/captions/subtitlesexplaining the photos. The easy moving prosegives both the human side of the inventors(struggles, feelings, thoughts) and an idealismthat kept the Wrights moving. Includes twotimelines, one of the brothers’ lives, and one onthe history of flight. An index helps locatepertinent items.School and public libraries can add this tocollections needing people and places in history,and for collections where children research andbrowse. Homeschoolers will find thecommentary a self-guide, and teachers mightuse the book for small group reading.Elizabeth MacLeod, a children’s author andeditor, has written What Did Dinosaurs Eat?(Kids Can Press, 2001) and Gifts to Make andEat (Kids Can Press, 2001).Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach Public LibraryDistrict, Fort Meyers, Florida

BOOK REVIEWSMIDDLE SCHOOL FICTIONThe Book of Dragons / E. Nesbit; withillustrations by H.R. Millar; afterword byPeter Glassman. LCCN 2001034420. NewYork: Seastar, North-South Books, 2001.HBB, 0158171058, $14.95; PAP,01587171066, $9.95. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Dragons--Fiction; Short stories. 180 p.It seems that islands, particularly those that aresomewhat remote, often produce unique animalspecies, which, over time, have adapted insurprising ways to their isolated environments.Consider the flightless birds of New Zealand, orany of the diverse chameleon species ofMadagascar.One beast peculiar to the islands that make upthe United Kingdom is the Very EnglishDragon. These creatures tend to be long-lived,and are notoriously unpredictable, although theycan exhibit—on occasion—a certain flair for thedomestic niceties.E. Nesbit, beloved author of such children’sclassics as The Railway Children (Macmillan,1906) and The Story of the Treasure Seekers(Frederick A. Stokes, 1899), composed eightdelightfully scaly tales just over one hundredyears ago. First published in book form in 1900,The Book of Dragons has recently been reissued,complete with original black and whiteillustrations by H.R. Millar.It would be difficult to imagine a more richlyvaried assortment of dragons. Nesbit introducesus to dragons that spring from the pages of amagic book, to Prussian-blue ice dragons, and todragons “just the right size for eating little boysand girls.” Some are awe-inspiring, a few arealarming, and others are quite simply anuisance.Nesbit’s delightful and understated sense ofhumor infuses these stories with an airy charm,but her young protagonists are often called uponto find within themselves stores of bravery andstrength they never knew they had, in order tosave the day. Somehow, the author manages toachieve the perfect blend of magic, engagingcharacters, and wit.These stories, each approximately twenty pagesin length, would make for an entertaining readaloudsession; best of all, the teachers (orlibrarians) will enjoy the stories every bit asmuch as their spellbound listeners.Sylvia Stopforth, Librarian, Trinity Western University, BritishColumbia,CanadaBraving the fire / John B. Severance.LCCN 2002003630. New York: ClarionBooks, Houghton Mifflin, 2002. HBB,061822999X, $15.00. Middle school (Highschool). Rating: 3F. United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865--Fiction. 148 p.Jem Bridwell, a husky fourteen-year-old, wisheshe could be part of the Civil War like his Pa, asoldier in the Union army. He and his bestfriend, Hank Dawson, talk about “the glory ofwar.”When Pa returns to soldiering, going to warmounts in Jem’s mind, but he promisesGranddad to help care for the farm. However,he puts the promise aside when he and Hank runaway to join the Union army.“When does the glory begin?” they wonder. Thewar becomes endless marching, bad food, heavylabor, bloody battles, stinking trenches, death,and destruction. They march by night and fightby day. As soldiers, Jem and Hank discover theglory of war was “...a fool’s dream.”Then Jem is injured. When the unthinkablehappens, his mind is tormented. He returnshome burdened with guilt. The story closes ashe sets his sights beyond the farm and the life heknew before the war changed everything.John B. Severance bases Braving the Fire onstories he heard from older relatives as a childvisiting his father’s hometown in Maryland. Hisable writing brings the Civil War to life. WhenJem asks himself hard questions, such as “Wassuch hellish destruction fair?” the readerautomatically considers the matter of war ingeneral.The slow-paced story remains interesting andcontains a strong sense of place. Jem and Hankare characters with whom the reader feelscomfortable. Severance’s other characters givethe story added depth. School libraries coulduse Braving the Fire as a resource for the CivilWar.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker, Newberg,OregonCave of the Inca Re / Jeanette Windle.(The Parker Twins series; 1.) GrandRapids: Kregel, Kregel, 2001. PAP,0825441455, $5.99. Middle school.Rating: 4F. Adventure and adventurers--Fiction; Brothers andsisters--Fiction; Twins--Fiction; Mystery and detectivestories; South America--Fiction. 146 p.Justin and Jennifer Parker, thirteen-year-oldtwins, are invited to accompany their Uncle Peteto Bolivia during summer vacation. When theyarrive, they are introduced to Pedro, a youngBolivian boy who will be their guide. As thetwins become acquainted with the culture, Pedrospins tales of temple treasures with an ancientcurse that drives men insane.The twins also notice two Americans from theirhotel. The Americanos seem to be up to no goodand warn the children to keep out of their way.When Justin and Jennifer suspect the men areafter priceless artifacts, they decide toinvestigate. Their exploration takes them deepinto danger, and into the cave of the Inca Rewhere only God can protect them.Cave of the Inca Re is the first in the six-bookParker Twin series by Jeanette Windle. Thestory has just enough adult supervision in UnclePete to keep it real while allowing the twins andtheir sidekick, Pedro, plenty of time to findadventure. History and geography are such anintegral part of the setting and story—kids won’teven realize they are learning.Justin and Jennifer share their Christian faithwith Pedro near the beginning of the book andthrough the adventure, he witnesses the savingstrength of their God. Windle, who grew up inSouth America as the child of missionaries,handles the subject well as Pedro sorts out hisdoubts about Christ. The relationship betweenthe kids seems natural, not preachy.A nice read for middle school children that willkeep them turning pages and anxious for booktwo. Recommended.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaComeback Cagers / Clair Bee; updated byRandall and Cynthia Bee Farley. (ChipHilton sports series; 21.) LCCN2001035737. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2001. PAP, 0805421009, $5.99.Middle school (High school). Rating: 4F. NCAA Basketball Tournment--Fiction; Basketball--Fiction; Sportsmanship--Fiction; Universities andcolleges--Fiction. 177 p.Even though State’s basketball team hasn’t beenmathematically eliminated, the NCAA selectioncommittee won’t consider them for the NationalTournament because, as the third place team, thetiebreaker game they may force would causehavoc with the tournament schedule. Chip’s palSoapy starts a letter writing campaign thatchanges the committee’s mind: State can makethe tournament if they win their conferenceC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONchampionship. But to win it, they must win allthree remaining games, against their toughestopponents.There’s a lot at stake in Comeback Cagers,volume 21 in the Chip Hilton series, and theState-as-underdog theme is appealing. Thebasketball action is exciting and detailed. Asubplot of Chip helping a classmate’s fatherseems weak, and the religious passages (addedto the revised volumes) seem tacked on. Thelong descriptive passages may put off reluctantreaders, but probably won’t matter to ChipHilton fans.At twenty-four volumes, Chip Hilton may beexpensive for smaller libraries, but it’s a goodrole model series. Chip and his teammates don’tjust want to win, they want to be worthy ofwinning, which comes as much from hard workas it does from talent. They make mistakes, butalways learn from them.The original books influenced youngsters intheir careers and in life, judging from thetestimonials printed in each new volume. It’s atradition Randall and Cynthia Bee Farley hopeto carry on. This series is highly recommendedfor church and school libraries, and for BigBrother type programs looking to make adifference in kids’ lives.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkThe Diary of a Chickabiddy Baby / EmmaKallok. Berkeley: Tricycle Press, TenSpeed Press,. HBB, 1883672872, $14.95;PAP, 1883672902, $4.95. Middle school.Rating: 1F. Diaries--Fiction. 128 p.Prudence Brinker’s fictional diary gives thereader a close up view of the action packedsummer of her eleventh year. It includes a visitfrom the grandparents, Pru’s budding interest inboys and her first love triangle, friendship withthe new neighbor girl, summer reading, and twoweeks vacation at the lake.The amazing author of this book is ten-year-old,Emma Kallok who shows a sophisticatedunderstanding of human interaction. Thecomplicated family and friend relationships ringtrue. However, there are some things to beaware of before choosing this book. Prudenceuses the euphemisms “Oh, Deity!” and in onecase slips and uses “Oh, God!” Her Aunt Cathyspends the summer at a nudist colony, which isonly mentioned in passing, and then finds truelove through a newspaper personals ad.Pru’s mother is Catholic and her father isJewish. They have chosen to not raise theirchildren in either tradition with the idea that thechildren will choose a religion on their own.These concerns aside, the book is well written.For children aged five to seven.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, Warner Pacific College,Portland, OregonThe Mayflower adventure / Colleen L.Reece. (The American adventure series.)LCCN 98007226. Philadelphia: ChelseaHouse, 1998. HBB, 0791050416, $18.55.Middle school. Rating: 4F. Mayflower (Ship)--Fiction; Pilgrims (NewPlymouth Colony)--Fiction; Voyages and travels--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction. 135 p.You won’t find John and Sarah Smythe inhistory books or even on the passenger list of theMayflower. Yet they are real in the sense thatthe author, Colleen Reece, created them torepresent the brave children and teenagers whofled with their parents from England andHolland almost four hundred years ago.John and his ten year-old-sister, Sarah, havelived in Holland all of their lives, but now aresetting off on a grand adventure to America.John couldn’t be more excited, filled withanticipation for the New World. Sarah is not soconvinced but John tries to treat her gently, ashis mother cautions, and encourages his littlesister that all will be well; that the adventure willbe worth the sacrifices they are making.The Smythe family is convinced God will gowith them as they travel but what they can’tanticipate are the storms that try to tear their shipapart, sailors with hateful attitudes toward thePilgrims, and sickness among their friends andrelatives. Some won’t even survive to see theirnew home.The Mayflower Adventure is good children’shistorical fiction, giving the reader a fair idea ofthe perils and trials experienced by those whofled to the New World. It is written forelementary and early middle school readers andaccording to the author’s note, the events arereal or based on real happenings. Young peoplethat read this book may be interested in readingthe sequel, Plymouth Pioneers.Ceil Carey, Public Librarian, LTA College of DuPage, Plano,Illinois. Credit: Today’s LibrariesPhoto perfect / Beverly Lewis. (Girls only(GO!); 7.) LCCN 2001001325.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2001. PAP,1556616422, $5.99. Middle school(Elementary). Rating: 4F. Weight control--Fiction; Ice skating--Fiction;Brothers and sisters--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction.124 p.When Heather Beck, a twelve-year-old icedancer, falls during a lift, her knee isn’t the onlything injured. Her confidence is bruised as well.How could Kevin, her brother and skatingpartner, drop her on a variation of a move they’ddone so many times before?“If you weren’t so heavy...” Kevin explains tohis sister in a moment of anger. Scrutinizingevery inch of her frame against the pin-thinmodels in a teen magazine, Heather begins towonder if her brother is right. She embarks on aplan to become “skinny.” With friends from theGirls Only club, she compiles a healthycookbook. Determined to reach her goal, sheadds extra exercise to her already gruelingroutine. A modeling agency is in town screeninggirls. Can she have the look they want in time?What about the new boy who suddenly seemsinterested? Surely no one sees how greatthinness can be. When a friend explains thegrave dangers of anorexia, Heather reflects onher weakened physical condition. 1 Timothy4:8 keeps recurring in her spiritual life. Is Godtrying to tell her something?This book tackles the tough subject of bodyimage in a powerful way. Strong, ambitiousgirls like Heather may be pressured intooverlooking their health to measure up to theunrealistic standards of the media. Girls arereminded that “godliness has value for allthings, holding promise for both the present lifeand the life to come.”Marilynn Griffith, Freelance Writer, Tallahassee, FloridaStrike two / Amy Goldman Koss. LCCN00038365. New York: Dial Books forYoung Readers, Penguin Putnam, 2001.HBB, 0803726074, $16.99. Middle school.Rating: 4F. Strikes and lockouts--Fiction; Softball--Fiction;Cousins--Fiction. 134 p.Gwen and Jess are cousins and best friends whohave played on the same baseball team for years.This year they hope to win the series and thebaseball championship. Their fathers work forthe Press Gazette, the sponsor of the girl’sbaseball team. When the newspaper goes onstrike it divides labor and management, alongwith Gwen and Jess’ dads and their families, andgames are cancelled, which ends their dreams ofa championship year.As the strike progresses Gwen accompanies herdad to headquarters, enjoying the activity. Shemarches in the picket line, babysits the toddlers,eats donuts, and talks with the coolest guy intown. When the strikers become violent andGwen’s dad talks about getting another job,Gwen becomes frightened. She is tired of goingto Gram’s family dinners where the two familiestreat each other with the politeness of strangers.She befriends Vicky, a girl from the old PressGazette team, who helps out at StrikeHeadquarters but dislikes not having a bestfriend to share her feelings.When she sees Jess with another friend and themanagement girls resurrecting the old baseballteam, she knows something must be done.Through wit and sensitivity she conveys amessage of making new friends and preservingloyalties. Gwen can’t stop the strike but sheorganizes a plan only the kids know about andF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

MIDDLE SCHOOLFICTIONshows the adults what is happening in theirtown.Amy Goldman Koss’credible characters capturethe preteen world in language, action, andinnocence. Strike Two is a good story forathletes.Maxine Cambra, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaThunderstorm in church / Louise A.Vernon; illustrated by Allan Eitzen.LCCN 74005009. Scottdale, Pa.: HeraldPress, 2002. PAP, 0836117409, $7.99.Middle school. Rating: 5F. Luther, Johannes, 1526-1575--Fiction; Luther,Martin, 1483-1546--Fiction. 133 p.Kids who have famous parents have difficulttimes escaping their parent’s shadow. But whatif their father took on the entire religioushierarchy of the day—and split its very core?How would they feel? Young Hans Luther’sfamous father is always busy and their house iscontinually full of extra people. Worst of all,everyone asks Hans if he is going to grow up tobe like his father. Through a variety ofexperiences such as fights, a wedding, and theplague, Hans begins to mature. By the end ofthe story he finally discovers that he is who Godmade him to be and that he does not have to belike his father when he grows up.Thunderstorm in Church, written by Louise A.Vernon, is a fictional biography of MartinLuther seen through the eyes of his son, Hans. Itwas originally published in 1967. Used ascurriculum by many Christian schools, the bookstands the test of time. The flow of the book isnot as smooth as it could be but it covers a greatdeal of information about Luther and his family.The chapters were written to stand alone, thecommon thread of Hans’ confusion ties themtogether.Placing the reader in the center of the storythrough Hans, it is still the best fictionalizedbiography of Martin Luther available forchildren or adults. If it were available inhardcover, I’d order five copies.Kelley Westenhoff, Parent-Librarian, Dominion Christian School,Oakton,The two princesses of Bamarre / by GailCarson Levine. LCCN 00047953. NewYork: HarperCollins, 2001. HBB,0060293152, $15.99. Middle school.Rating: 5F. Princesses--Fiction; Wizards--Fiction; Magic--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction; Self-confidence--Fiction.241 p.The two princesses of Bamarre are Meryl, whois strong and courageous, and Adelina, who istimid and shy. The sisters are inseparable andlove each other deeply. A strange disease, theGray Death, plagues their land, but no one canfind a cure for it. Unfortunately, Meryl becomesill and Addie must summon the courage to finda cure. She embarks on an amazing adventure,taking on a dragon for the sake of her sister, andfinding the cure that eliminates Gray Death fromthe land.Bamarre is an imaginary land where there aredragons, dwarfs, and elves. A major character isa wizard and Addie is given several magic giftsto aid her on her adventure.Gail Carson Levine is the author of EllaEnchanted (HarperCollins, 1997), a 1998Newbery Honor Book. This is a marvelousstory of devotion, courage, and duty. Highlyrecommended.Karla Castle, Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville, WashingtonWild thing / Dandi Daley Mackall.(Winnie the horse gentler; 1.) Wheaton,Ill.: Tyndale Kids, Tyndale House, 2002.PAP, 0824355421, $5.99. Middle school.Rating: 3F. Horses--Fiction. 171 p.Eager Star / Dandi Daley Mackall.(Winnie the horse gentler; 2.) Wheaton,Ill.: Tyndale Kids, 2002. PAP,082435543X, $5.99. Middle school.Rating: 3F. Horses--Fiction. 181 p.Readers familiar with Dandi Daley Mackall’sHorsefeathers series (Concordia, 2000) will findmany similarities in Winnie the Horse Gentler.Winnie, an introspective girl with an amazingability to gentle horses, is nearly identical toSarah Coop from Horsefeathers; othercharacters in the series are similar, too.In Wild Thing, twelve-year-old Winnie Willisblames herself for her mother’s death in a carcrash two years ago where only Winniesurvived. Neither Winnie nor her father havegotten over the tragedy and both have turnedaway from God. They have moved five timesand now Winnie’s in a new town with thechance to buy the horse of her dreams… but herfather wants to move again.Eager Star has Winnie facing a new challenge.She wants to be a horse gentler but her onlyclient is her best friend. She’ll get a secondclient if she can gentle his horse in one week’stime. No problem. Winnie is confident in herability with horses. It’s her ability with boys shedoubts, and the horse’s owner is Grant, thecutest, most popular boy in school.Mackall’s a fine writer. The book’s first personnarration will easily draw in readers touched byWinnie’s loneliness and lack of self-esteem.Her struggles to fit in are poignantly balancedwith her growing realization that compromisingherself to do so is not a solution.Winnie may suffer a bit too much from teenangst, sometimes rebels against authority, andhas a rocky relationship with her father, butshe’s a caring, intensely honest girl whoultimately tries to treat everyone in a godly way.(Her faith wavers, but she’s learning to trust Godagain.)Middle school girls should enjoy both books.Winnie’s sister, Lizzy, is spunky and likeable.There’s a hint of romance and the interplaybetween the snobby Spidell siblings and plain,poor Winnie is a plot trick that’s been delightinggirls for generations. The only caution: thesecondary characters are types rather than wellroundedindividuals.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 7 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSMIDDLE SCHOOL NONFICTIONDinosaurs : exploring the scientific mysteryof God's creation / Michael and CarolineCarroll. (Exploring God's world withMichael and Caroline Carroll.) LCCN00708755. Colorado Springs: Faith Kids,Cook Communications, 2000. HBB,0781433665, $15.99. Middle School(Elementary). Rating: 4567.9. Dinosaurs; Fossils; Paleontology. 47 p.Are dinosaurs in the Bible? Are dinosaursreptiles or are they birds? How are fossilsformed? Dinosaurs, by Michael and CarolineCarroll, answers these and other questions bycombining what science reveals about dinosaurswith what the Bible says about how God createdthe world. Topics covered include whatdinosaurs looked like and what they are called,how they lived and what they ate, how theykilled their prey, and why they became extinct.For adults wondering how the authors combinescience and the Bible, Christian scientists’opinions are given and a Christian worldview isused. The authors frequently state that scienceand the Bible don’t have to contradict eachother, that God’s truths are found in the Bibleand in His creation, and that issues such aswhether the earth was created in six twenty-fourhour days or six longer “days” don’t matter asmuch as that the world was lovingly designed bya wonderful creator who sent His son Jesus totake away our sins.The book is advertised as being for ages eight totwelve. Its simple style and many photos,sidebars, and illustrations break up the text, butsome pages are still wordy and some of thetechnical detail might confuse a younger reader.Its picture-book size may turn off older readers.But a child truly interested in the subject wouldfind it fascinating.Dinosaurs is beautifully produced andillustrated, with glossy pages and a solidlyconstructed,full-color cover that will hold upthrough many readings. Other features ofinterest: a detailed glossary and three lists: theseven “great dino vacation spots in the U.S.,”the top five dino web sites for kids, and whatdinosaur names mean (that pterodactyl, forexample, means “winged finger”). A “DinosaurHabitat” playset, with plastic dinosaurs, sceneryand backdrop, can be purchased separately.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkThe inside-out beauty book : tips and toolsfor girls like you / by Sandra Byrd. LCCN2002002712. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2002. PAP, 076422493X, $7.99.Middle school. Rating: 4646.7'046. Grooming for girls; Girls--Health andhygiene; Beauty, Personal; Grooming; Health;Christian life. 117 p.One hundred twenty pages of beauty tips andgodly advice, this book is aimed at eleven tofourteen year olds (tweenagers). Well-balancedbetween preaching the gospel and dispensinghealth advice, The Inside-Out Beauty Book,written by Sandra Byrd, stresses beauty from theinside out. The ten short chapters on hair, makeup,nails, manners, and other similar topics areinteractive and reader-friendly.Each chapter features:Scripture or an appropriate quoteEye-catching graphicsOne girl’s personal storyQuestions from readersTips on using beauty toolsTry It At HomeDid You Know?Some chapters contain diagrams such as how toFrench braid, or a sample thank-you note. A funbook to read, most girls will learn somethingnew about the way God made their bodies.Anita Goldman Horning, Parent/Teacher/Writer, Lawrenceville,GeorgiaExploring ancient cities of the Bible /Michael and Caroline Carroll.(Exploring God's world with Michael andCaroline Carroll.) Colorado Springs:Faith Kids, Cook Communications, 2002.HBB, 0781436958, $13.99. Middle school(High school, Elementary). Rating: 4939'.4. Cities and towns--Middle East--History.;Middle East--History--To 622. 47 p.Kids will enjoy this friendly, informative book.Exploring Ancient Cities of the Bible’s authors,Michael and Caroline Carroll, cleverly use Biblequotes and history as well as details of past andcurrent archeological discoveries to explainwhat life was like in Bible cities such as Jericho,Babylon, Jerusalem, and Rome. Trivia, photosof strange objects the reader must identify, andbonuses like how to fix a Bible dinner enlivenwhat could be dry subject matter, as do theliberal use of illustrations, graphs, sidebars, andcaptions. Topics range from the basic (whatdoes an archeologist really do?) to the esoteric(was the tower of Babel a ziggurat or a roundtower?). Quirky details (how did the Romanskeep clean?) mixed with a cheeky humor(mummification is likened to being placed in aZiploc bag; Joseph and Jacob are labeled“portable patriarchs” because they weremummified and carried back to their homeland)will keep kids reading. A nice touch for parentsand librarians: the book is beautifully produced,with full-color illustrations and photos, andshould hold up through many readings.The text takes a neutral stance on explainingcertain Bible events (mentioning, for instance,that Noah’s flood “likely” happened or that“some people” believe God used an earthquaketo topple Jericho’s walls). But there’s a definiteChristian point of view, as seen in the sidebarstressing the good news of Jesus being raisedfrom the dead.The age group for the book is advertised as nineand up. The text may be a bit too detailed for theyoungest end of this group, but it will appeal tomiddle school children as well as preteens andhigh schoolers. A terrific choice for mostlibraries. (A related trivia game, Ark of theCovenant casting kit, and dig-for-artifacts toyare available for separate purchase).Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, The Bronx, New YorkThe middle road : American politics, 1945-2000 / by Christopher Collier and JamesLincoln Collier. (Drama of Americanhistory.) LCCN 2001025615. New York,Benchmark Books, 2001. 0761413189,HBB, $20.95. Level: Middle school.Rating: 4.973.92. United States--Politics and government--1945-; United States--Politics and government. 95 p.Written by authors of My Brother Sam Is Dead,the brothers Collier have generated a helpfulseries called The Drama of American History.This particular title covers the national politicalsituation the later half of the 20th century. Theauthors are clear regarding their goals and biasesin this series. They seek to strip history down toits essential core. They hope to bring out thethemes of American history and what they meanto citizens now. They refer to what isaccomplished as “citizenship education.” Theseries is a stand alone, thematic historicalsystem. With little repetition the authors seek tocreate an understanding of the situation and timeF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

MIDDLE SCHOOLNONFICTIONdiscussed in each book. The additional goal ofwhen a student reads the book he or she willhave the story explained in such a way the use ofadditional materials is unnecessary.Written in short, powerful paragraphs withmany helpful photographs or maps the studentwill learn about the presidency from 1945 to2000. The chapters themselves present theperiod and an analysis of the presidents and thepeople who ran against them. Issues such ascorruption and misuse of power are not avoidednor over glamorized. There are personalassessments made periodically in the text butthey do not overwhelm the benefits of the text.Overall, there is an even handedness to the viewof the presidency by these men. Thebibliography is divided into materials forstudents and teachers. The index is completeand useful. As the text is only ninety-five pagesit is a nice addition to a library reference section.Bianca Elliott, Educator, Linwood, KansasBorn to be a cowgirl : a spirited ridethrough the old West / Candace Savage.LCCN 00061559. Berkeley: TricyclePress, Ten Speed Press, 2001. PAP,1582460205, $9.95; Middle school.Rating: 5978. Cowgirls; Frontier and pioneer life--West (U.S.);West (U.S.)--Social life and customs. 64 p.Photographs, quotes, illustrations, and rodeoposters give us a glimpse into the lives ofcowgirls in the early American West in Born tobe a Cowgirl. Their love of horses and hardwork are clear in the writings of these women.Annie Oakley and Calamity Jane are included,but other lesser known women carry themajority of this book.This is an aspect of frontier history that is oftenoverlooked. Candace Savage has provided uswith a fitting tribute to these courageouswomen.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, Warner Pacific College,Portland, OregonC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 2 9 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSHIGH SCHOOL FICTIONAshes of roses / Mary Jane Auch. LCCN2001002666. New York: Henry Holt, 2002.HBB, 0805066861, $16.95. High school(Middle school). Rating: *5F. Triangle Shirtwaist Company--Fire, 1911--Fiction;Immigrants--New York (N.Y.)--Fiction; IrishAmericans--Fiction; Emigration and immigration--Fiction; New York (N.Y.)--History--1898-1951--Fiction. 250 p.Set in 1911 New York City, Rose Nolan alongwith her family seeks to have a fresh start in thisnew country. Emigrating from Ireland, Roseand her family arrive at Ellis Island with muchstress and confusion. There it is discovered thather little brother Joseph has trachoma and isn’tallowed into the country. This forces the fatherto get back on the ship to return to Ireland withthe child while his wife and daughters go on toestablish themselves. The women go to the onlyfamily they have in New York, a brother to thefather, Uncle Patrick, but the rest of his family isnot so happy. Rose’s family is treated so poorlythat plans are made to leave as soon as they haveenough money to move out. Rose gets a job ina rough part of town but when she is almostraped she looks for another place to work. Sheis befriended by Gussela Garoff, a Jewess, whonot only sees to it that she and her sister move inwith her and her father, but she also gets her ajob at the Triangle Shirtwaist factory atop theAsch Building. The top three floors are wherewomen sew for long hours under unsafeconditions. This becomes evident when thebuilding catches on fire and one hundred fortysixpeople die. After this, the garment industrychanges a little regarding how they work theiremployees, and the conditions they work under.Told in such a manner that one feels all theemotions of each situation, Ashes of Roses takesthe reader into one person’s life. Discoveries aremade regarding the similarities of people nomatter what heritage they have. Fictionalizing atrue story is difficult, but Mary Jane Auch doesa wonderful job intertwining fact and fiction.The reader is compelled to continue reading tosee what will happen next. Strong dialogue anddescriptive words capture the essence of thestory. The fire scenes are graphic without beingdisrespectful. The style appeals to those inupper middle school and high school students.The level of interest should be relatively highand is a wonderful asset to public and privatelibraries.Bianca Elliott, Teacher, Linwood, KansasBorderlands / by Jennifer Owings Dewey.LCCN 2001047025. New York: MarshallCavendish, 2002. HBB, 0761451145,$14.95. High school. Rating: 2F. Suicide--Fiction; Emotional problems--Fiction;Family problems--Fiction. 160 p.No longer able to face the lifelong abuse bythose close to her, seventeen-year-old Jamieenters the borderlands of madness, attemptingsuicide. She is admitted to a psychiatric ward,which gives her the space for putting backtogether the jigsaw puzzle of her life. Withaching honesty, Jamie narrates her own story.Slowly revealing her desperate secrets, sentenceby sentence, reticent to face her past, full ofshame, Jamie pulls her audience into theintricacies of her personal horror story. Seeingmuch of her life as beyond sense, Jamieillustrates her story with effective quotes fromAlice in Wonderland. Several caretakers and ademented boy, Adam, help her to move towardshealth. Not meant to be a book of answers andonly an episode in Jamie’s life, the story ends asher life moves away from the psychiatric wardand starts, perhaps, a more profitable time in herlife.Borderlands is award winning natural historyauthor Jennifer Dewey’s first foray into this typeof fiction. An item to note about this book:Jamie values a magic talisman given by hergrandfather, but the actual talisman is the lovingwords given with it. The caregivers do act andsometimes speak in accordance withJudeo/Christian morals. Borderlands’ strengthlies in its ability to engage the reader, drawempathetic responses, and start discussions.Suicide is not romanticized: life is presented asthe better choice. Jamie’s problems areextremely real. Abuse victims will identify withher.Donna Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaFiery fullback / Coach Clair Bee; updatedby Randall and Cynthia Bee Farley.(Chip Hilton sports series; 24.) Nashville:Broadman & Holman, 2002. PAP,0805423958, $5.99. High school. Rating:4F. Football--Fiction. 196 p.Fiery Fullback begins like a typical Chip Hiltonstory. A surly player damages his team’schances of winning by insisting on playingfullback even though he’s not the best player.But there’s a twist. Usually the surly playerdespises Chip. This one, Greg Hansen, likeshim. Greg befriends Chip, and even introduceshim to his family. Greg’s mother is a sweetwoman. His father is a sullen, wheelchairboundman who hates football. Yet it’s obviousGreg worships him. What does this have to dowith Greg’s attitude towards playing football,and what can Chip do to help?Clair Bee wrote Fiery Fullback in the 1960s, butthe Chip Hilton series ended before it could bepublished. His daughter and son-in-law had theoriginal, unedited manuscript published in 2002.It’s a warm, well-written story, which, like allChip Hiltons, stresses loyalty, honesty, andfamily values. Chip likes Greg as much as Greglikes him, despite his teammates’ hostility toGreg. Chip also realizes Greg’s father’saloofness is behind most of Greg’s problems.This subplot works out a bit too neatly (amisunderstanding caused the problem, not anyreal antagonism between father and son) but itdoes clearly show the importance of a lovingfather figure in a young man’s life.A plus for football fans: the sports action takesup about two-thirds of the book. Every detail ofthe games is recounted, including much of thestrategy involved in football. That can be aminus for reluctant readers, however; largeportions of the book are pure description withlittle dialog. But Chip Hilton fans will enjoy thebook. Football fans will, too. And adults whoread the original series may be especiallypleased to find there’s a new volume waiting forthem to discover.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, Bronx, New YorkWhen lightning strikes / Hugh Allen Smith.LCCN 98017230. Scottdale, Pa.: HeraldPress, 2001. PAP, 0836191641, $12.99.High school. Rating: 4F. Hutterite Brethren--Fiction; Boys--Fiction;Russians--United States--Fiction; Immigrant children--Fiction; Russia--Emigration and immigration--Fiction.180 p.Set in Russia during the 1870s, twelve-year-oldPaul Wipf, a Hutterite, makes difficult choicesand carries hurt in his heart over his parents’death in a freak lighting strike. Now Paul mustdecide if he should stay in Russia or go toAmerica to pursue his dreams. Paul decides togo to America with his Hutterite community butthere is a problem; Hannah, another Hutteritechild goes with him everywhere. He doesn’twant to be responsible for anyone other thanhimself, and yet she doesn’t want to leave hisside. Through many adventures and perils, theHutterite band arrives in America where the landis cheap and they can practice their religionfreely. Arriving in Nebraska, the band must facedisease and disaster repeatedly. Paul decides toF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

HIGH SCHOOLFICTIONrun away and goes aboard a steamboat. Therehe learns things about himself, and comes topeace and eventually returns home.Short, moving chapters keep the story andemotions riding high. The reader is immediatelyabsorbed not only into Russia, but also into theHutterite manner of living and worshipping.The strong religious emphasis is developedthroughout the book through Paul’s thoughtsand decisions. The addition of Hannah to thestory gives stability to Paul and makes himconfront issues from a Christian point of view.The maps showing the routes traveled will helpthe reader visualize the trip taken by Paul. Aglossary of Hutterite German facilitates not onlythe understanding of the story, but also teaches anew language. There is also a brief notes sectionfor readers to consider for more information.Hugh Alan Smith is more than qualified to writethis book as he is not only a teacher, but heworks in a Hutterite community. This is his firstnovel and would be a good addition to a publicor private library.Bianca Elliott, Teacher, Linwood, KansasWhite water / Linda I. Shands. LCCN2001047187. Grand Rapids: FlemingRevell, Baker Books, 2001. PAP,0800757726, $5.99. High school. Rating:4F. Single-parent families--Fiction; Christian life--Fiction; Ranch life--Oregon--Fiction; Oregon--Fiction.165 p.White Water is a young adult novel stronglyreminiscent of Patricia Rushford’s JennieMcGrady books (Bethany House), (but withoutthe mysteries) or Lauraine Snelling’s GoldenFilly (Bethany House) and High Hurdles(Bethany House) books (without the shows,races, or competitions). It’s a gently written,simple story of a girl and her horse, her friends,and their day-to-day adventures. There’s a twist,though: Wakara is half Native American.Wakara (she’s usually called Kara) is fifteen.She loves horses and wants to be a vet, but sheisn’t a horse gentler like girls in recent horsebooks. She lives with her widowed father, herolder brother Greg and her seven-year-oldbrother Ryan on a ranch in Lariat, Oregon. Alsoliving with them is strong, silent, sexy Colin, anineteen-year-old ranch hand. He and Wakarafall in love, much to Mr. Sheridan’s dismay.Although Linda I. Shands’ writing is quiet andintrospective, the plot has rapid-fire action.There’s a white water rafting accident thatnearly kills Ryan. Ryan gets lost in the woods.He, several other characters, and their horses arenearly killed by bears. There’s a “screaminggirl” cover (showing the point where little Ryanfalls overboard) and a back cover blurbpromising enough twists for seven novels. Yetthe book is surprisingly realistic.There are scenes of prayer, of resting in thecomfort of God’s peace, and a subplot stressingWakara’s need to forgive someone who has hurther. The mystery is weak (what is the truthabout Wakara’s grandmother?) and is barelymentioned, but since White Water isn’t marketedas a mystery, that shouldn’t be a problem. Thebook is nicely done, and its characters areengaging. Recommended for teen and preteengirls, especially girls who are strong readers.Rosemarie DiCristo, Freelance Writer, Bronx, New YorkWho I am, by Caitlin O'Conner / MelodyCarlson. (Diary of a teenage girl; 3.)LCCN 2001007013. Sisters, Ore.:Multnomah, 2002. PAP, 1576738906,$12.99. High school. Rating: 4F. Teenagers--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 254 p.On my own, by Caitlin O'Conner / byMelody Carlson. (Diary of a teenage girl;4.) LCCN 2002002723. Sisters, Ore.:Multnomah, 2002. PAP, 1590520173,$12.99. High school. Rating: 5F. Christian life--Fiction; Universities and colleges--Fiction; Interpersonal relations--Fiction; Conduct oflife--Fiction; Diaries--Fiction. 172 p.Caitlin O’Conner continues her diary writings asshe concludes her senior year in Who I Am,moving on to college—in life in On My Own. Indiary format, author Melody Carlson is able tocover important, relevant topics for teens suchas commitment, dating, family, and future plans.Caitlin is a vivacious, often emotional teen whois making the frequently painful transition intoadulthood. She learns that leaning on God’swisdom and not her own is the best way to copewith all the situations she encounters in theprocess. Readers familiar with the other twobooks will want to continue Caitlin’s story, andlibraries will want to make room for thisrefreshingly honest, thought-provoking series.Who I Am—it’s finally senior year, and it isalmost busier than Caitlin can cope with. Shecan almost see where she wants to go, andbegins to see how far she has come. There arestill moments, though, when she realizes howmuch more there is to learn when faced withissues like racial prejudice, teen suicide, andputting her own plans on hold.On My Own—perhaps the best of the wholeseries, as we find Caitlin off to college. Butcollege is not what she thought it would be at all.For one thing she is not at the private Christiancollege with her friends like she hoped, andlongtime friend Josh has transferred to anotherschool. And then there is her roommate, whosemanic mood swings make life fairly unbearable.Without friends and family nearby Caitlinbegins to see that the best way to look up is tostart from the inside out. She takes a goodinward look at herself and realizes she hasleaned on her friends and family far too much,for far too long. With clarity and insight notrevealed to her before, Caitlin realizes God doeshave her best interests in mind, and as her yearconcludes things turn out far better than shethought they possibly could.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoWinter's secret / Lyn Cote. (Northernintrigue.) LCCN 2001005375. Wheaton,Ill.: Tyndale House, 2002. PAP,0842335560, $9.99. High school (Adult).Rating: 4F. Nurses--Fiction; Sheriffs--Fiction; Wisconsin--Fiction. 268 p.Winter’s Secret by Lyn Cote is the first in thethree-book Northern Intrigue series. In thisbook a string of burglaries shatters the quiettown of Steadfast, Wisconsin. As Sheriff RoddDurand investigates, he finds a similar MO ineach case. Each elderly victim has a suddenmedical emergency that leaves the victim’shome vacant overnight. The only clues in eachcase are snowmobile tracks and the involvementof Wendy Carey, the emergency nurse. Roddand Wendy join together to investigate.Although attracted to each other, each facespersonal problems and reputations that hampertheir relationship. Can they solve the mysteryand protect the elderly? Can they overcome theundercurrent of fear and nastiness that hides inthe town?Lyn Cotes’ main characters are believable andwell drawn. The relationships and interaction ofthe people within the town indicates the author’sunderstanding of small town intrigue, gossip,and feuds. Besides the main romance, theauthor chronicles the growing love of a youngersister and her boyfriend as well as an elderlycouples’ devotion. All the characters showpositive growth and acceptance of each others’differences. Each of the characters learn to giveproblems to the Lord, and His input is animportant aspect of their lives.Paula Stewart Marks, School Principal, Bend, OregonC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSHIGH SCHOOL NONFICTIONRevelation for teens / Daymond R. Duck;[edited by] Larry Richards, Ph.D. LCCN2001001228. Lancaster, Pa.: StarburstPublishers, 2002. PAP, 1892016559,$14.99. High school. Rating: 5228’.07. Bible. N.T. Revelation--Criticism,interpretation, etc.. 256 p.The first ever commentary for teens on the bookof Revelation in the Bible is easy to use, andincludes emphasis on areas of particularrelevance to teens. Its chapter divisionscorrespond to the chapters of Revelation andinclude the entire text of the book of Revelation.Chapters make use of sidebars, icons, bullets,illustrations, definitions, study questions (withanswers in back), and index. Some adults willenjoy using the ease-of-use, and will be drawnto the book by the key symbols highlights andexplained, e.g., The Great City, Seven Heads,Seven Angels.Teen Bible study groups have a natural guidehere. The verse-by-verse study makes it a musttitle for church and Christian school libraries.The use of the New International Version andthe many illustrations make this a title for publiclibrary collections, both in Young Adultcollections and in the general Bible section forsome adults are sure to delight in the easy guide.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaReal life to the extreme : finding God’s willfor your life / Bruce & Stan. LCCN2001003127. Ann Arbor, Mich.: VineBooks, Servant Publications, 2001. PAP,1569552002, $12.99. High school (Adult).Rating: 4248.8’3. Teenagers--Religious life; Teenagers--Conduct of life. 161 p.Bickel and Jantz (known better by their firstnames, Bruce and Stan), authors of twenty-fivesome books, offer this fourth title in the RealLife series for single adults. This follows RealLife Begins After High School (Vine Books,2000) (life after leaving home), Real Life Is aContact Sport (Vine Books, 2000) (buildingrelationships), and Real Life Has No ExpirationDate (Vine Books, 2001) (overcoming the fearof failure).In probing what it means to find and followGod’s will, they offer the young adult a blend ofpractical insight and challenging perspective.Strength in the writing is a natural knack forincluding examples that enable the reader torelate from life experiences. Scripture isinterwoven into the discussion, making it seemthat with God, one enters the world of thesupernatural, part of an extreme world.Frequent examples will encourage teens tocontinue reading. The discussion is so seamlessone may not notice the frequent references. Forexample, ‘living life is like floating on water ina boat’ (followed with examples of rivers versuslakes in terms of steering on water) or ‘actionmovies where the hero saves the world and getsthe girl in less than two hours but that’s not reallife’ (followed with examples of what to do inrelationships).School and public libraries can add this in YAcollections for the language is current, and givesteens a chance to think about growing up issueswithout being preached at. Youth groups canuse this as a basis for fruitful discussion. As agift, Real Life To The Extreme, is sure to find aplace in back packs.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaSex as God’s gift / featuring Mary Ronan.Vision Video, . VID, 1563644673, $79.99.High school. Rating: *5613.907. Sex education for children; Teenagers--Sexual behavior; Sex--Religious aspects--Christianity;Sexual ethics; Christian life. 3 videocassettes, 150min.Vision Video, a division of Gateway Films,provides educational resources for families,schools, and churches. Add to the list their newvideo series targeting younger teen students whoare learning about the role of sex and romance intheir relationships.Mary Ronan’s video series entitled Sex as God’sGift is a welcome addition for students and theirparents. Ronan, a registered nurse whospecializes in reproductive health issues,presents six brief sessions taped before a schoolagedaudience. The sessions are packaged inthree videotapes. Each session is less than thirtyminutes long making them ideal for use in aneducational setting where questions ordiscussion might follow.Included along with the Ronan video set is aworkbook with re-producible pages for eachprogram. A fairly extensive bibliography ofresources is included here as well. A separateproduction, a stand-alone video, “Raising YourChildren in an Ungodly World,” is alsoincluded. This aims to help parents of teensthink through the issues their students arefacing. A book by the same title accompaniesthis video.Ronan’s work is impressive. She is articulate,lively, credible, and clever as she relates to aroomful of young teens. She cites crediblesources, including her own experiences as ahealth educator. She emphasizes making wisedecisions rather than focusing on avoiding thephysical act (and its consequences) that is sooften the emphasis in this genre. Her discussionof sexually transmitted diseases is clinical, butmay strike some viewers as being graphic. Theentire package is presented in good taste with athoroughly Christian perspective. This serieswould be an important addition to family,school, and church libraries.Parents of teens : here’s what you need toknow / featuring Ellen Marie and JasonEvert. Vision Video, VID, 1563645408,$19.99. High school. Rating: 4613.907. Sex education for children; Teenagers--Sexual behavior; Sex-- Religious aspects--Christianity;Sexual ethics; Christian life. 1 viceocassette, 87 min.Teen relationships and sexual pressure /featuring Ellen Marie and Jason Evert.Vision Video, VID, 1563645378, $19.99.High school. Rating: 4613.907. Sex education for children; Teenagers--Sexual behavior; Sex-- Religious aspects--Christianity;Sexual ethics; Christian life. 1 viceocassette, 65 min.Hard questions, straight answers : for guysonly / featuring Jason Evert. Vision Video,VID, 1563645386, $14.99. High school.Rating: 4613.907. Sex education for children; Teenagers--Sexual behavior; Sex-- Religious aspects--Christianity;Sexual ethics; Christian life.1 viceocassette, 25 min.Hard questions, straight answers : for girlsonly / featuring Ellen Marie. Vision Video,VID, 1563645394, $14.99. High school.Rating: 4613.907. Sex education for children; Teenagers--Sexual behavior; Sex-- Religious aspects--Christianity;Sexual ethics; Christian life. 1 viceocassette, 29 min.The second group of video lectures from VisionVideo is disappointing. Ellen Marie and JasonEvert independently lecture about sex andrelationships within a Christian context.Collectively, they have released four videotapedpresentations. They speak to groups ofstudents and their parents on a regular basis. Inthe present series of individually marketedtapes, Marie and Evert combine their efforts,taking turns speaking before a live audience inboth “Parents of Teens” and “Teen Relationshipsand Sexual Pressure.” The message of these twosingle speakers is positive: rather than preachingpre-marital abstinence, they advocate the meritsF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

HIGH SCHOOLNONFICTIONof chastity. The message is upbeat as theyencourage teens to embrace the physical,emotional, and relational benefits of purity.The two additional video lectures feature Evertspeaking on Hard Questions, Straight Answers:For Guys Only and Marie speaking on HardQuestions, Straight Answers: For Girls Only.There is nothing in either video presentation thatis distasteful or inappropriate for students ofeither sex to view. Each session features therespective speaker answering previouslysubmitted questions from their audience. Theimpromptu responses address the issues of “howfar is too far?” oral sex, and masturbation.Recovering from the emotional damage of premaritalsexual activity is also addressed.Ultimately, the videos provide a message ofhope in the context of the Gospel message.The Ellen Marie and Jason Evert videopresentations are largely anecdotal; they areweak on systematic or technical evidence. Onoccasion, statistics are cited that areunbelievable (“Guys who get married asvirgins—their divorce rate is 71% lower thanthose who wait until marriage.”) or irresponsible(“Couples who do not use contraception inmarriage…have a divorce rate 1000% lower”than those who do. Presumably, this is anegative divorce rate.) “The Internet” is cited asa source more than once. Evert touts the virtuesof natural family planning and eschews the useof all contraception underscoring the (nowdisavowed)“fact” that links contraceptive usewith a dramatic increase in breast cancer. It isunfortunate that a resource bibliography forfurther study is not included. Such an additionwould have added to their credibility as well.Daniel S. Brown, Ph.D., Professor of Communication, Grove CityCollege, Grove City, PennsylvaniaLectures on the Pilgrim’s progress. LCCN93014663. Grants Pass, Ore.: SATPublications, , 2000. HBB, $16.00. Highschool (Adult). Rating: *5828. Bunyan, John, 1628-1688. Pilgrim’s progress.279 p.During the late eighteen-hundreds, Bunyan’sPilgrim’s Progress captured the sanctifiedimagination of a dedicated pastor, Rev. G. B.Cheever. An all time best seller, Pilgrim’sProgress still captures the imagination.Similarly, this facsimile reproduction ofCheever’s Lectures on the Pilgrim’s Progress(Wiley and Putnam, 1844), captures the reader’sinterest, raising and answering many importantquestions. Using pertinent quotes fromBunyan’s book, some of Bunyan’s ownproblems, and scripture references, Cheeverweaves his insights and comments throughoutan abridgement of the Pilgrim’s Progress. Inthese ten non-sectarian lectures, the author aimsto honor only his Lord, and to activate readerstoward self-application of the lessons. The lastlecture fittingly ends with a plea to become apilgrim, taking God as your strength and portionfor ever.Producing calm, the rhythm of this quaint,innovative book is slower, the wording moreinvolved than that produced today. Theessential ideas, expressed in readilyunderstandable yet scholarly phrasing, areengaging, clear, and thought provoking. Usefulas both a study and a research aid, the Table ofContents gives a brief but thorough overview ofeach lecture. Coming from an earlier, lessfamiliar era, this facsimile reproduction catchesthe eye. When opened by the hand that can’trefuse its antique delight, it also catches themind. Anyone mature enough to read andunderstand the Pilgrim’s Progress will enjoythese lectures. Lectures on the Pilgrim’sProgress makes a valuable addition to the home,the church, the school, and the public library.Donna J. Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaBlack potatoes : the story of the great Irishfamine, 1845-1850 / Susan CampbellBartoletti. LCCN 2001024156. Boston:Houghton Mifflin, 2001. HBB,0618002715, $18.00. High school. Rating:5941.5081. Ireland--History--Famine 1845-1852. 184p.Black Potatoes by Susan Campbell Bartolettipresents the context, contributing factors,effects, and consequences of the potato faminein Ireland 1845-1850. This is an excellent workthat clearly explains how this tragedy occurred,what made it unnecessarily worse, and whatimpact it has had, not only on Ireland, but alsoon England and America.Illustrations include three maps and a multitudeof illustrations from the English and Americannewspapers during that time period.Other children’s books on this topic areavailable, such as Feed the Children First(Atheneum Books for Young Readers, c2002),which is a picture book containing many of thesame illustrations in Black Potatoes. BlackPotatoes is the only children’s book thisreviewer has found with the in-depth coveragethat students will need. No library historycollection should be without this work. Anyonestudying nineteenth century history should readthis book. Highly recommended.Karla Castle, Public Services Librarian, Warner Pacific College,Portland, OregonC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 3 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSADULT FICTIONAll the way home / by Ann Tatlock. LCCN2002002470. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2002. PAP, 0764226630, $11.99.Adult. Rating: *5F. Japanese Americans--Evacuation and relocation,1942-1945--Fiction; Japanese American families--Fiction; Women journalists--Fiction; Race relations--Fiction; Racism--Fiction; Mississippi--Fiction. 447 p.When Augusta Schuler’s father dies in apreplanned accident, her unstable worldbecomes even more precarious. Her mother, ingrief and desperation, buys bus tickets andtravels unannounced from San Bernardino toLos Angeles to inform her brother Finn of hisduty to take her and her children in. Augie, theyoungest of six children, feels unwanted,unloved, and unattached to her now expandedfamily. By chance she meets Hatsune “Sunny”Yamagata, an American girl of Japanesedescent. Sunny and her family slowly weaveAugie into their own family, and Augie not onlyfeels wanted, she feels the love and belongingshe has been craving her few short years. WhenPearl Harbor erupts, her beloved Yamagatas arewhisked off to an internment camp. Theinjustice devastates Augie, as she is torn fromwhat she feels is her true family. Separated bythe war and her Uncle’s hatred of the Japanese,Augie does not find the Yamagatas until nearlytwenty years later when she is doing anundercover article on civil rights in the race-tornstate of Mississippi. Racial differences still faceAugie, but as she gathers material for hermagazine she uncovers a love once lost and anew love discovered.Ann Tatlock is proving herself to be a writer ofdistinction. Her characters are vibrantly drawnout, her subject matter enthralling, and herwriting is without reproach. Her portrait of howa wounded spirit finds solace in the long journeyhomeward speaks loudly of how resilient thehuman heart really is. Augie’s pilgrimagethrough abuse, separation, loneliness,reconciliation, and forgiveness has the readerrejoicing when Augie finds the courage to goagainst Thomas Wolfe’s admonition, and findher way back home. Readers looking for solidwriting, and Christian fiction with impact, willbe on the lookout for Tatlock’s books.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoCape Light / Thomas Kinkade &Katherine Spencer. LCCN 2001052936.New York: Berkley Books, PenguinPutnam, 2002. HBB, 0425183378, $22.95.Adult. Rating: 3F. City and town life--Fiction; New England--Fiction.359 p.Home song : a Cape Light novel / ThomasKindade and Katherine Spencer. LCCN2002074425. New York: Berkley Books,Penguin Putnam, 2002. HBB,0425186245, $22.95. Adult. Rating: 3F. Birthmothers--Fiction; Mothers and daughters--Fiction; New England--Fiction. 377 p.When Boston-based Jessica Warwick comeshome to care for her ailing mother, she does notexpect to find love in Cape Light, the smallseaside town. Though her budding romancewith Sam has Jessica’s heart jumping, Mother isnot pleased. She does not consider him to be thekind of man who is good enough for theWarwick clan.Emily, the town mayor and Jessica’s sister, findsthat she has political competition from CharlieBates. As she works together with Jessica tohelp their convalescing mother, she also readiesfor the upcoming election. In an intriguingsubplot, the mayor does not know that herdaughter, who was given up for adoption twentyyears before, is working as a waitress at theBates’s Clam Box, the local eatery.Cape Light is the first in the trilogy of the samename by Thomas Kinkade and KatherineSpencer. Written in the fashion of a folksyMitford tale, it opens with too many charactersand little conflict. Because the cast is sonumerous, it is difficult to keep them straight orcare about their woes. However, if the readercan stay with the book, the plot thickens andgives a surprisingly pleasant read. One mightexpect that venturing into new territory, a novelco-written by the famous Painter of Light, mightturn out a less than sterling effort. But the bookis nicely written with a strong, if predictable,spiritual theme. Folks who choose to read CapeLight will enjoy it, but should expect to read thenext in the series as well. It is not a stand-alonenovel.Readers of Cape Light, the first in the trilogy byThomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer, willfind more of the same in the second offering bythe duo, Home Song: A Cape Light Novel.Picking up the thread of the previous story,Jessica’s wedding plans are under way and onlymaking her mother furious. Lillian knows thather daughter can do better than Bible-thumper,Sam Morgan, and is not afraid to make heropinion known to any who will listen. Any veilof family harmony is ripped away as Lillianthreatens to boycott the wedding.Emily Warwick, Jessica’s sister, is facing aheated election challenge from Clam Boxowner, Charlie Bates. Sara, the daughter Emilygave up for adoption after the death of herhusband over twenty years ago, wonders if thetime is right for her to reveal her identity. Newarrival in Cape Light, Luke McAllister, sets up ahalfway house for troubled teens and also whipsthe town into turmoil over whether or not toaccept these misfits into the community.Kinkade and Spencer deal with issues such astolerance, friendship, and forgiveness. Whiletheir approach may be fairly simple, theconcepts are there and give some take-away tothe story. New characters are introduced, but itis not difficult to keep them straight if the readerhas already become familiar with the littleseaside town’s inhabitants. Again, this is not astand-alone book and, for the most satisfaction,should be read after the first book in the series.Fans of Cape Light will enjoy a pleasant, ifpredictable, read in Home Song.Cathy M. Elliott, Freelance Writer, Anderson, CaliforniaThe Darwin conspiracy : the confessions ofSir Max Busby / James Scott Bell. LCCN2001006386. Nashville: Broadman &Holman,2002. PAP, 0805425004, $12.99.Adult. Rating: 4F. Evolution--Fiction; Creation--Fiction. 264 p.An unusual work by one of my favorite fictionauthors, James Scott Bell has written himselfinto this novel, by his own definition, “partsatire, part historical fiction, part essay—ahybrid ... ” As you might suspect from the title,this story is about Darwinism, and theperception of the author that attempts topersuade that evolution is more than a theorytook some conspiring.Sir Max Busby is purely fictional and acharacter you love to hate. But even Sir Maxcannot withstand the power of love and powerof prayer. Busby’s fictional manuscript is thecenterpiece of the novel, but Bell has cleverlyinserted a contemporary mystery (featuringhimself) full of danger, intrigue, and even aninterchange with Geraldo Rivera into the mix.Anyone who still waivers in their belief that ourearth was created, or that it evolved will learnfrom this novel. Those who enjoy a friendlyF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTFICTIONpoke at evolutionary “theories” will cackle withjoy at Bell’s tongue-in-cheek presentation. Belluses endnotes to clarify Busby’s manuscript—many of them reveal the truth behind some ofthe outlandish theories that continue to bepresented as fact in American classrooms.This book is an easy and delightful read.Families should read and discuss it together,clearing up any questions their children mighthave about how the “theory of evolution” cameto be.Helen Hunter, Freelance Writer, Church Librarian, Cedar Rapids,OhioThe distant beacon / Janette Oke & T.Davis Bunn. (Song of Acadia; 4.) LCCN2001005676. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2002. PAP, 0764226002, $11.99;HBB, 0764226010, $15.99; LGP,0764226037, $15.99; CAS, 0764226029,$15.99. Adult. Rating: 4F. Acadians--Fiction; United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783--Fiction. 271 p.This sequel to The Birthright and book four ofthe Song of Acadia series takes the reader intothe world and times of the AmericanRevolution. Nicole Harrow, the Viscountess,must leave England to attend to her uncle’sestate in America. Helping her to reach theestate is a British Captain Gordon Goodwind.With courtliness and wile, Gordon avoids manytroubles as he takes Nicole to her estate, only tofind it in shambles because of the pending war.With his hand chosen men, Gordon continues tohelp Nicole in her struggle for her estate. Nicoleis torn between her feelings of responsibility toher heritage, the war, and her heart. She thenmust further decide her allegiance when her“father” is shown to be an evil man.This book may be enjoyed on its own but thereviewer felt left out because she has not readthe previous books. Reading the previous bookshelps the reader to understand the intricacies ofthe story line. There are many twists and turnsin the story such as the relationship betweenNicole and Anne, as well as the politicalsituation at that time in history. The plot with itsmain story line and the many subplots can be alittle confusing if the book is read alone. Gooddialogue and graphic word pictures help thereader to feel the ocean spray or smell thegunpowder. One can almost hear the horses onthe cobblestones of Boston. The pair of Oke andBunn have once again created a world betweentwo book covers. The book would do well in apublic library or as a gift to a woman.Bianca Elliott, Educator, Linwood, KansasEmbrace the dawn / Kathleen Morgan.LCCN 200200070. Wheaton, Ill.: TyndaleHouse, 2002. PAP, 0842340971, $12.99.Adult (High School). Rating: 5F. Mothers and sons--Fiction; Scotland--History--17thcentury--Fiction; Highlands (Scotland)--Fiction. 399p.Fighting for her life Killian Campbell flees herabusive husband, only to be caught by him in theScottish forest. Killian is rescued by RuarcMacDonald, but she accidentally kills herhusband in the struggle. Ruarc is captured bythe Campbell clan, who believe he is the killer.Desperate to save his life in return for his gooddeed to her, Killian declares that she wishes tomarry him, not kill him, even though theMacDonald clan and the Campbell clan are inthe midst of a fierce feud.Ruarc and Killian marry, but their relationship isquite troubled, both by the baggage of Killian’sviolent first marriage, and by the baggage ofRuarc’s first wife, who played the harlot, andwas eventually murdered. As the two of themstruggle through issues of love, trust, andpolitical unrest, Killian finds her strength in theLord. Plunged into the midst of the feud, shefinds herself uniquely positioned to plant seedsof forgiveness that grow to reconciliation andhealing, not only between Ruarc and herself, butbetween Ruarc and his stepmother, between thetwo Scottish clans, and ultimately betweenRuarc and God.Kathleen Morgan has written a powerful novelof forgiveness in Embrace the Dawn. Filledwith historical people and events, Morgan’snovel skillfully intertwines the fictitious with thereal, and creates a captivating story thatpowerfully illustrates important biblical truthsplayed out in the difficult situations of hercharacters’ lives. Her characters learn theimportance of total submission to God–trustingHim even when it seems hard or nonsensical—knowing that while the night may be long, joywill come in the morning.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High School, Medford,OregonThe faded flower / Paul McCusker. LCCN2001026582. Grand Rapids: Zondervan,2001. HBB, 0310235545, $12.99. Adult.Rating: 4F. Adult children of aging parents--Fiction; Fathersand sons--Fiction; Nursing homes--Fiction;Unemployed--Fiction. 144 p.Frank Reynolds' well-organized world comescrashing down in a day. His schedule at theBradley Publishing Company, up until 4:45 PMthat day, is routine. He has worked for thecompany twenty-two years and pictures the restof his career at the same office. His boss callshim in and explains that the publishing housewho bought them out, despite their promises, islaying Frank off. When Frank arrives home, hisworries about how to share this news with hiswife, Colleen, are sidetracked by a letter fromAunt Minnie. Frank's father, Pap, hasAlzheimers. Aunt Minnie wants them to comedown for Pap's birthday and convince him tomove to The Faded Flower nursing home.These events set Frank, Colleen and their twochildren, Greg and Vicki, for a life change noneof them would have imagined. Frank is forcedto either accept God's control overcircumstances or to focus his bitterness towardGod, isolating himself from his family.Paul McCusker uses an interesting choice ofvoice in The Faded Flower. The book beginsmore objectively in third person. The last thirdof the book, however, switches to first person,allowing greater understanding into the heart ofFrank, who narrates it. Although the book dealswith serious, lifelike situations, McCuskerweaves humor throughout, making the novellaenjoyable to read and the characters realistic andenduring.Katy R. Pent, freelance writer, Redding, CaliforniaHidden gifts / Rick Hamlin. LCCN2001002500. Minneapolis: BethanyHouse, 2001. PAP, 0764223275, $10.99.Adult. Rating: 2F. Singers--Fiction. 314 p.Hidden Gifts by Rick Hamlin gives an insiders’look at the music industry and the demandsplaced upon those in the limelight. RogerKimmelman takes a break from his hecticperforming schedule as a popular singer/musician to fly back to his old church, FirstChurch, in California, to give a benefit concertfor the church. Reuniting with his old churchchoir director, pastor, and a classmate givesRoger pause as he considers the value of theirlives and the validity of his work. Unsure if hewants to continue the frenetic pace as aperformer, Roger re-evaluates his life and comesto conclusions sure to change his destiny.Involved in this soul-wrenching journey is abudding love interest with his former classmatewho now works at the church directing thejunior choir and children’s choir. Whenlaryngitis forces Roger to bow out of his benefitconcert, Leslie, the love interest, is forced toperform with her two choirs. Meanwhile, Rogerseeks medical attention for his throat problemsand winds up being healed through the prayersof a faith-filled church member. Remainingmute, Roger allows Leslie to follow throughwith her performance. Through a few twists andmiscommunications, Leslie and Roger agree topursue their relationship; Roger decides to quitthe music industry and seeks a job at FirstChurch helping his old choir director.Hamlin takes an interesting concept but fails todeliver strong character development or plotdevelopment. It’s obvious the author hasfirsthand knowledge of the inner workings ofthe music industry, which does lend credibilityto the plot. However, it isn’t enough to drawreaders into the novel itself.Eileen Zygarlicke, Freelance Writer, Grand Forks, North DakotaC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTFICTIONHome of the brave / Allen Say. LCCN2001005862. Boston: Houghton Mifflin,2002. HBB, 061821223X, $17.00. Adult(High school). Rating: 2F. Japanese Americans--Fiction; Indians of NorthAmerica--Fiction; World War, 1939-1945--Evacuationof civilians--Fiction; Indian reservations--Fiction. 32p.Home of the Brave, for all practical purposes,looks like a picture book for children. Itnumbers 32 pages, has the format of a picturebook and is written by well-known children’sauthor, Allen Say.The book itself is almost surrealistic in itscontent. In dreamlike sequence, a mansymbolically confronts the trauma ofincarceration in an internment camp. He beginshis journey in a kayak and after an accident,seems to experience the feelings of Japanesechildren interned during World War II.According to the flyleaf, the author’s intention isto capture “the confusion, desolation, andhelplessness those prisoners must have felt.”The illustrations are haunting and well-done butthe content of the book is surely beyond theunderstanding of a child of the usual picturebook age. This must certainly be written forchildren in middle school and above, yet mighttruly not be fully understood by some adults.Say’s hope for a future when Americans will beseen as one people is an honorable one. Hisbook, I’m afraid, will only have a limitedaudience because the presentation of his ideaswill be puzzling to most readers.If purchased, Home of the Brave would ofnecessity be placed in the collection in an areafor older readers. It is appropriate for a public orschool library.Ceil Carey, Young Adult Librarian, Public Library, Plano, IllinoisIn this mountain / Jan Karon. LCCN2002000969. New York: Viking, 2002.HBB, 0670031046, $25.95. Adult. Rating:5F. Mitford (N.C. : Imaginary place)--Fiction; City andtown life--Fiction; North Carolina--Fiction; Christianfiction; Domestic fiction. 382 p.Reading In This Mountain is like going backhome and finding old friends, including thewinsome animals, Barnabas and Violet, stillhanging around. Everyone has the familiarfoibles, and can be counted on to react in thesame loving, harsh, or humorous manner.Connecting once more with retired Father TimKavanaugh and his beloved Cynthia takesreaders into Mitford, the peaceful, yet livelyrural village.George Gaynor, the Man in the Attic, returns toMitford after his eight years in prison. Hispresence brings hope to more than one resident.Edith Mallory, still rich and obnoxious, isgenerous with her dollars. While Cynthia isaway on the whirlwind author’s tour, Edithpurposefully places Tim in a compromisingsituation.Emma Newland pushes Father Tim into thetwenty-first century when she insists that he buya computer, which he does. His e-mail notesserve to keep readers informed about variousinterests in his life.Tim’s desire to find Dooley Barlow’s brothersruns throughout the story. Dooley, the priests’adopted son and now a handsome collegestudent, isn’t sure at first about his feelings whenTim finds one brother, Sammy.A sense of restlessness overcomes Father Tim.What should they do now that he is fully retired?A diabetic, his health comes into question. Aserious accident that affects more than himselffollows his failure to pay proper attention to hisbody’s warning signs. A slow recovery plungeshim into physical weakness and emotionaldarkness. Then, at last, with the help of others,he reaches “. . . the mountaintop after a longtrek through a parched valley.”Jan Karon has written another engaging storyfilled with characters common to small town lifeeverywhere. In This Mountain is the seventh inthe Mitford series, yet readers who have notbeen there before will enjoy this book. Herskillful way of holding the story threads keepsreaders in continual touch with the entire villagepopulation and their reaction to present events.Not only does Karon guide readers alongsideFather Tim in his dark days, she includesScriptures that help him find his way to goodhealth. She also shows one character the way ofsalvation. Even readers who do not ordinarilyturn to inspirational reading will find In ThisMountain significant.Story threads left dangling leave readers hopefulthat Mitford #8 will soon follow this satisfying#7.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker, Newberg,OregonJabez : a novel / Thom Lemmons. LCCN2001046798. Euless, Tex.: WaterBrookPress, 2001. HBB, 1578565634, $10.95.Adult. Rating: 4F. Jabez (Biblical figure)--Fiction; Bible. O.T.Chronicles--History of biblical events--Fiction; Bible.O.T. Judges--History of biblical events--Fiction;Jews--History--To 586 B.C.--Fiction. 129 p.Jabez from the very essence of childhood wasseparated from others. His name, his identity,meant “pain.” And this was his distinction, tosuffer because he had caused suffering to hismother. Jabez longs to be a joy to his mother;however, he can see his existence causes hergrief. Speculations of him being another’s manchild separate him from his brothers and peersalike, shaping him to become distant, yetseeking to close the gap somehow. Jabezreceives the opportunity to transform hisidentity when he returns from war, released asimpressed soldier. His prize is the knife given tohim by his captor, a man who is strangely woveninto Jabez’s life history. Granted, owning aknife, possessing metal, elevates Jabez’ status inhis poverty-worn village, yet the moreoutstanding prize is having the companionship,trust, and even friendship of a warrior. Thissudden status catapults Jabez into a prominentposition. When the truth of how his mothercame to name him comes forth, Jabez is releasedfrom an emotional prison. His freedom inspireshim to pray to God, who no longer is the distantand nameless god of the desert stories. Andfrom his lips, his heart and soul, Jabez soinspires generations later. Truly his territory hasbeen enlarged.Who was Jabez? Considering how little there isof him in the Bible, the man has reached throughthe centuries and has impacted our Christianculture. For those familiar with The Prayer ofJabez, this compact little book of ThomLemmons, simply entitled Jabez, should beconsidered a complement or a companionreading. Although Lemmons manages to bringJabez to life, and does so thoughtfully, basinghis storyline on historical research, the story isstill a fictional rendering. And this is animportant aspect to reflect on—how far shouldwe go in fictionalizing biblical passages?Lemmons is a talented storyteller, yet there is aconcern how supposition can overlay fact. Thisis a purchase to consider if other fictionalizedBible accounts are part of the collection, or forthose interested in further considerations of ThePrayer of Jabez.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoThe long trail home / Stephen Bly.(Fortunes of the Black Hills; 3.) LCCN00060821. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2001. PAP, 0805423567, $12.99.Adult. Rating: 4F. Black Hills (S.D. and Wyo.)--Fiction. 257 p.Stephen Bly writes a humorous Old West,historical novel, centered on the 1880's in theOklahoma Territory. Sam Fortune, recentlyreleased from prison, travels with his Indiansidekick, Kiowa, trying to avoid trouble, andmake a reasonable living. As they travel andhelp out old friends, Sam finds himself breakinghorses, having his boss shot, needing to delivera note for over twenty-thousand dollars,overcoming deception, delivering a baby,having a whole town become family, and finallymeeting a girl who believes in him.Bly’s writing has a quirky humor, and his maincharacter is pure fun. Sam, throughout the book,runs from God, but constantly consults and talksto God in his thoughts. In the end, Sam has todecide whether he can commit himself to otherpeople and follow God’s best for his life. As aF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTFICTIONformer outlaw and gunslinger, is his ownpresence too dangerous for the people he caresabout? Or does God know how to work outeverything? Each book in the Fortunes of theBlack Hill Series can be read independently.Paula Stewart Marks, School Principal, Bend, OregonA name of her own / Jane Kirkpatrick.(Tender ties historical series; 1.) LCCN2002008686. Colorado Springs:WaterBrook Press, 2002. PAP,1578564999, $13.99. Adult. Rating: 3F. Dorion, Marie, 1786-1850--Fiction; Overlandjourneys to the Pacific--Fiction; Women pioneers--Fiction; Northwest, Pacific--Fiction. .Marie Dorion, a member of the Ioway Indiannation: daring, determined, courageous, strong,wise, dedicated to her husband and children. InA Name of Her Own, Jane Kirkpatrick, alreadyan award-winning writer, tells Marie’s story, oneof survival. She calls it “a true story imagined.”Pierre, Marie’s husband of mixed-blood, signson as interpreter for an expedition heading west.She, however, cannot bear to stay behind for thetwo or three years it will take him to travel theround trip. What would she, five-year-oldBaptiste, and Paul, a toddler, “who learns at hisown stuttering pace,” do without Pierre?She forms a plan and speaks it, shaming herhusband. He then can do nothing but negotiatewith Wilson Price Hunt, the expedition leader.Hunt agrees to allow Marie and the boys to goalong. Soon after the journey begins, Marie’splan turns against her. Many times from St.Louis to Astoria, she wonders if she has the rightto subject her sons to the hardships anddeprivations. She gives birth to their baby girl,who dies, and Marie’s guilt grows.She also must deal with her husband’s moodsand his love of whiskey. Soon after theexpedition arrives in Astoria, Marie findsstrength and wisdom to subdue his volatilenature. Even at the end of the trail, shecontinually faces decisions. As long as she hasher hair comb and the knife Sacagawea gaveher, she has hope and a way to provide for herfamily.In July 1813, Pierre and Marie decide to headback east. They know that means “ . . . enteringinto a winter of risk.” On that journey Mariefaces the biggest challenges yet, but through thelife changes that happen, she gains self-esteem,meaning a name of her own.Kirkpatrick’s research for A Name of Her Ownis impressive. Readers learn much about Indianways and about the white traders, also. Anyoneinterested in that era will find this first book inthe Tender Ties Historical Series valuablereading.With a long list of historical figures, Kirkpatrickneeded only to add five fictional characters toround out the story. Sometimes the largenumber of people becomes confusing, althoughshe provides an identification list. Herdescriptive writing draws the reader into thesetting and into Marie’s feelings. The storymoves slowly at times, while at other times fullyengages the reader’s interest.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker. Newberg,OregonPrelude / by B.J. Hoff. (Americananthem; 1.) LCCN 2002006156.Nashville: W Publishing, Thomas Nelson,2002. PAP, 0849943892, $12.99. Adult(High School). Rating: 3F. Immigrants--Fiction; Singers--Fiction; Opera--Fiction; Blind--Fiction; New York (N.Y.)--Fiction. .Prelude, by B.J. Hoff, is book one in her newestseries, American Anthem. As is typical of herstyle, Hoff weaves together the lives andstorylines of a wide variety of characters,including such notable figures as D.L. Moody,Ira Sankey, and Fanny Crosby. As the titleindicates, music is the theme that threads its waythrough the story and ties the characterstogether.Michael Emmanuel is a brilliant composer andconductor, who has given up singing in theopera after losing his sight, and later loses hiswife in a mysterious carriage accident. SusannaFallon, his deceased wife’s sister, has come fromIreland to care for Michael’s daughter, Caterina,and to find out the truth about her sister’s death.Dr. Andrew Carmichael and Dr. Bethany Colejoin forces in an unexpected partnership as theyshare a medical practice in an immigrant districtof New York City. And the strugglingMacGovern family, seeking a better life inAmerica than they found in Ireland, embarks ona journey with an unexpected addition to theirfamily in tow: Renny Magee, a rag-tag streeturchin with thieving ways, a silver tongue,golden voice, and a warm heart.The story gently unfolds with intriguingcharacters, and the sound of music, which Hoffmanages to make fly off the page with herglorious and passionate descriptions. As the titlesuggests, this story is the prelude to the booksthat will follow, and leaves readers tantalizedand hanging until Cadence is released in thespring of 2003.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonThe prodigy : a novel of suspense / AltonGansky. LCCN 00054992. GrandRapids: Zondervan, 2001. PAP,0310235561, $12.99. Adult (High School).Rating: 4F. Extrasensory perception—Fiction; Boys—Fiction.340 p.The Prodigy, by Alton Gansky, begins rathermysteriously with the birth of a child that seemssomehow ominous and full of portent. Leavingthat storyline, Gansky tantalizes the reader byswitching between several other characters,describing a pair of tornado chasers, the host ofa radio talk show about the paranormal, awealthy businessman riddled with cancer, abrilliant but searching theology student, and hisprofessor. Weaving these unlikely characterstogether, Gansky creates a provocative storysomewhat reminiscent of Peretti’s TheVisitation.The child, Toby, is a true prodigy, and also hasmiraculous powers which allow him to healanyone. At first it is not clear if this gift isheaven-sent, or demonic. Toby knows nothingof God or the Bible, yet his gift is unmistakable.As he and his mother are exploited by a “get richquick” opportunist, Toby becomes increasinglyterrified of the “Shadowman” who seems tomanifest himself whenever evil is being done,and who even assumes possession of people’sbodies and minds. Led to the truth about Christ,Toby becomes the center of a cosmic strugglebetween good and pure evil. The novel builds toa riveting, if violent, climax of spiritual warfarethat is battled ferociously in the physical realm,but won with heavenly strength.The Prodigy is an arresting book. In one scene,two men are bound hand and foot and throwninto the ocean to drown; their struggle to unbindthemselves and survive is described is suchdetail, one would think Gansky himself hadlived through such an experience. Readersshould be cautioned, however, that the climax isequally descriptive in the final spiritual battleplayed out violently in the physical realm.However, those who are familiar with Gansky’sstyle from his other novels will enjoy this bookequally well.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonThe sacrifice / Robert Whitlow. LCCN2002016724. Nashville: W Publishing,Thomas Nelson, 2002. PAP, 0849943183,$14.99. Adult. Rating: 4F. Mock trials--Fiction; High school students--Fiction;Christian fiction; Legal stories. 400 p.As a novice lawyer, Scott Ellis gets his firstcriminal trial case—a teen arrested for shootingwildly at a crowd assembled for an outdoorbaptismal service. Simultaneously, Kay, hishigh school sweetheart, re-enters his life againwhen he volunteers to advise high schoolers in amock trial program. As he works his waythrough the pre-trial investigation, Ellisencounters racial prejudice and spiritualquestions. A variety of characters—lawyers,rednecks, students and a Vietnamese immigrantworking—all come into play as the storyprogresses. Suspense weaves occasionally intoThe Sacrifice until the climax where everythingseems to happen at once and Ellis reconsidershis attitudes towards teenagers, God, and Kay.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 7 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTFICTIONAs with Robert Whitlow’s previous twonovels—The List, The Trial—individual andgroup prayer plays a role, though not as vital, inthe plot. The theme of school violence ishandled realistically, the racial attitudes ofcharacters are authentic and believable.However, Ellis’s character lacks an emotionalside, and the character of Tao Pang, theVietnamese immigrant, is disappointinglyunderdeveloped. Despite its heavy subjectmatter, The Sacrifice does deliver meaningfulmessages about the significance and outcomesof prayer. Compared to The Trial, this bookdoesn’t show off Whitlow’s writing skill as well.However, in the Christian fiction genre,Whitlow is still an author well worth reading.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer/Editor, Marysville, WashingtonSadie's song / Linda Hall. LCCN 13148.Sisters, Ore.: Multnomah, 2001. PAP,1576736598, $10.99. Adult. Rating: 5F. Women detectives--Maine--Fiction; Missingchildren--Fiction; Maine--Fiction. 301 p.Sadie and Troy’s marriage shows troublesomeaspects within the first couple of chapters. Thisfast-paced read reveals that abuse happens inhomes where both the husband and wife arechurchgoing Christians. I found myself urgingSadie to “get out” when it was clear that abuseaffected not only Sadie, but four of her fivechildren. One child expressed deep anger bythrowing things and hurting small animals; onesucked her hair when she was afraid andconstantly whined “I can’t”, twin girls turnedcompletely to each other, shutting out the worldof pain in which they lived. Only the stillnursing baby was yet immune to the dailytumult in this chaotic home.Prior to her marriage Sadie, an accomplishedstudent of both the piano and oboe, had pursueda dream of a music degree. Forced to give upher dream because of the demands of her largefamily, her piano sits unused. To keep the pagesturning, Linda Hall weaves into the story themysterious disappearance of a young girl and anunknown melody that Sadie hears in times ofdistress. In addition, both male and femalecharacters knowledgeable about spousal abuseare cast in friendship roles with Sadie and Troy.Sadie is a sympathetic heroine—one you willcry with and cheer for as she struggles to admitthat Troy abuses her and the children, and as sheseeks a holy path out of an unholy situation.Helen Hunter, Author, Freelance Writer, and Church Librarian,Cedar Rapids, IowaSecond opinion / Hannah Alexander. (Thehealing touch; 1.) LCCN 2001005681.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2002. PAP,0764225286, $11.99. Adult. Rating: 4F. Emergency physicians--Fiction; Medical personnel--Fiction. 345 p.Continuing on from an earlier Christian medicalseries (Sacred Trust, Solemn Oath and SilentPledge), Hannah Alexander focuses on nurseLauren McCaffrey in this new series, TheHealing Touch. As introduced in the previousseries, Lauren is a likable, dedicated nurse whotakes her faith to work. She decides to escapethe pressures of well-meaning friends andfamily to marry her off, and goes to work in asmall community hospital in Dogwood Springs,Missouri. Lauren has difficulties fitting into thisoutwardly picturesque little town, yet shedesires to make a go of her new locale. WhenGrant, an older attractive widower who has teentwins arrives, things begin to change for theworse, and for the better for Lauren. Laurenfinds herself battling her feelings for Grant, asshe contends with a suspected drug ring, andtries to solve a medical mystery.Hannah Alexander is the pen name of thehusband and wife writing team of Melvin andCheryl Hodde. Their combined talent, andknowledge of writing and medicine make for arealistic and enthralling novel. The charactersare believable, as are the situations. There is afine balance of drama and humor as the plotmoves swiftly along. Those seeking suspense,as well as human drama will be interested inSecond Opinion. And those who became fans ofthe previous Alexander series will definitely beputting this one on the to- read list.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint, IdahoThe secret life of bees / Sue Monk Kidd.LCCN 2001026310. New York: Viking,Penguin Putnam, 2002. HBB,0670894605, $24.95. Adult. Rating: 4F. Teenage girls--Fiction; African American women--Fiction; Maternal deprivation--Fiction; Race relations--Fiction; Beekeepers--Fiction; Sisters--Fiction; SouthCarolina--Fiction. 301 p.White, fourteen-year-old Lily Owens tells herown poignant, emotional, and enthralling storyset in South Carolina in the summer of 1964.Her remembrances begin the day her motherdied ten years earlier: the open suitcase, franticactions, her father’s approaching footsteps,yelling, and the shot when Lily picks up the gun.A plucky, determined, deceitful girl, Lily leadsRosaleen, their colored help, to safety after aninjurious racial encounter. The picture of ablack Mary, mother of Jesus, which hadbelonged to Lily’s mother, guides them toTiburon, South Carolina. Lily lies about herselfand Rosaleen, and they end up at the pink houseof black beekeepers, August, May, and JuneBoatwright.With nothing more than the picture in hand, Lilyfeels certain her mother had once lived here.Toward summer’s end, she discovers thesurprising truth. In spite of guilt over hermother’s death, fear that she and Rosaleen willbe found out, and racial prejudice from others,Lily revels in life and friendship with thecalendar sisters. August teaches her manythings, including the secret life of bees, “. . .justlike the one I was living.” Lily learns to say theHail Marys in front of the black wooden Marywith the sisters and their friends. By the end ofthe summer Lily trades in a “pack of lies for apack of truths,” and life at last offers hope forLily and Rosaleen.While probably not for many Protestant churchand school libraries, The Secret Life of Bees hasmuch to commend it. Sue Monk Kidd drawsreaders into Lily’s story, even from the firstpage, with pictorial writing. The diction,including swear words, remains appropriate tothe place, time, and Lily’s age. Each characterexhibits a distinct, engaging personality.Questions that concern Lily throughout her storyeventually concern readers, who willingly turnpages to find the answers. Kidd resolves theknotty problems in convincing ways. She usesthe right touch of humor in otherwise humorlesssituations.The story pictures racial prejudice and the hurt itbrings. Kidd also allows Lily new insight intoher father, whose actions originally aroused onlyhate.Rather than showing Lily seeking comfort inGod, Kidd writes that Mary, mother of Jesus, inboth the picture and the black wooden carving,gives solace to Lily. Information about beesadds unusual interest to the story.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker, Newberg,OregonSpring rain / Gayle Roper. (Seasideseasons; 1) LCCN 2001000992. Sisters,Ore.: Multnomah, 2001. PAP,1576736385, $11.99. Adult. Rating: 3F. Single mothers—Fiction; Mothers and sons—Fiction; Ex-convicts—Fiction; Christian fiction;Domestic fiction, 348 p.Leigh Spenser has just received a package fromthe prison where her late father wasincarcerated. Wanting nothing to do withJohnny’s things, she sets it aside, much to thechagrin of her ten-year old son, Billy. SoonClay will arrive and Leigh is filled with thoughtsof how best to avoid this man from her past.Trouble is, she lives in the garage apartment ofhis mother Julia’s home and is involved incaring for his twin, Ted, who is dying fromAIDS.As soon as Clay arrives, Leigh begins gettingmysterious and threatening phone calls from astranger. However, the daily struggles of singlemotherhood, dealing with a fatal illness, andcoping with unrequited love are well developedthrough the story, interwoven with suspense andpossible danger.Complex relationships explored within thebook’s pages are perceptive and provocative,allowing the twists and turns to be a vehicle forF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTFICTIONpromoting God’s design for marriage, dating,and sexuality in healthy ways that will reachteens and adults alike.In Spring Rain, Roper holds true to biblicalteaching regarding sin, repentance andforgiveness without preaching. She also dealscompassionately with the issue of AIDS, whileclearly expounding the message thathomosexuality is wrong. Abstinence for alloutside the biblical confines of marriage isfound throughout the book, yet Roper is able toshow that romance need not be avoided.Well-written, but somewhat predictable, thisbook will be an enjoyable read for adults andteens who like a little drama with their romance.Laurie Woolery, Freelance Writer, Cottonwood, CaliforniaSunrise on Stradbury Square / Doris ElaineFell. LCCN 2001051896. Grand Rapids:Fleming H. Revell, Baker Books, 2002.PAP, 0800757505, $11.99. Adult. Rating:4F. Teacher-student relationships--Fiction; Womencollege teachers--Fiction; Leukemia--Patients--Fiction;Reunions--Fiction; Psychological fiction. 304 p.The third book in the Sagas of a Kindred HeartSeries continues the story of Rachel McCully,university English professor, and a number ofher former students. Fell skillfully weaves inmemories and characters who have appeared inthe previous stories, filling in blanks for readerswho have not read the first two books in theseries.McCully discovers that she has leukemia andthat the treatment provided in the United Statesisn’t doing her any good. In an effort to takecontrol of her life, she heads for London wherean unorthodox form of treatment is taking place.Readers who love England will enjoy the sightsand sounds of the Cotswolds and theCumberlands where Wordsworth and Coleridgewrote some of their famous poems.The book is filled with mystery, romance,broken relationships, the theft of valuable artand artifacts, all carefully interwoven withRachel McCully’s Christian testimony. Asrelationships grow and develop, some of theoutcomes seem predictable and in a couple ofinstances the lives of characters are leftdangling. This, of course, leaves the door openfor another book in the series. Still it is a lovelystory of God’s redemptive grace, all set in abeautiful spot in His creation.Helen Hunter, Freelance Writer,/Editor, Cedar Rapids, IowaThe touch / Patricia Hickman; based onthe painting by Ron DiCianni. LCCN2002000235. Wheaton, Ill.: TyndaleHouse, 2002. PAP, 0842340173, $12.99.Adult (High School). Rating: 4F. Parent and adult child--Fiction; Fathers anddaughters--Fiction; Children of clergy--Fiction; Cityand town life--Fiction; Abused wives--Fiction; Clergy--Fiction. 178 p.Patricia Hickman’s novella The Touch is basedon the painting by Ron DiCianni, whichillustrates the woman who suffered a lifetime ofhemorrhaging reaching out to touch the hem ofJesus’ robe for healing. The contemporarysetting of Hickman’s story encompasses abroader view of this biblical story as shedescribes a pastor’s daughter on the run from anabusive husband. Feeling like she has neverbeen able to measure up to her father’sexpectations, Sydney is too ashamed to callhome and ask for help.Pastor Wade, notified of their plight by a secretphone message left by his young grandson,attempts to track them down to bring themsafely home. What starts out as a journey toright the wrongs in Sydney’s life, and show herwhat poor choices she made in marrying such aloser turns out to be a heart-changing event forWade. He is mugged, injured, and spends thenight on the streets where he is mistaken for adrunkard; in this sorry state he endures thejudgmental stares of people like himself, whoassume the worst. Shown kindness by ahomeless man who gets him the help he needs,Wade prays that if he is able to find his daughter,she will be willing to forgive him for all thejudgmental hurts he inflicted on her over theyears with his disappointed silences, anddisapproving stares.Desperate, Sydney cries out to the Lord,metaphorically reaching out to touch the hem ofhis robe for healing—and he hears her cry anddelivers her, and restores her relationship withher father. For such a slim volume, The Touchavoids being trite and cliche; the book containsan amazing amount of substance in both thestoryline and character development, as well asits illustration of the relevance of biblical truth.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonTrue honor / Dee Henderson.(Uncommon heroes; 3.) LCCN2002007206. Sisters, Ore: Multnomah,2002. PAP, 1590520432, $11.99. Adult(High School). Rating: 4F. Intelligence officers--Fiction; Terrorism--Prevention--Fiction. 350 p.The events of September 11 occurred during thewriting of True Honor, book three in DeeHenderson’s Uncommon Heroes series, and, asa result, became part of the author’s healingprocess as she struggled to come to terms withthe tragedy. Her story allows her readers tobenefit as well, as her characters grapple withthe aftermath of preventing more terrorismbefore it happens. Darcy St. James, a retiredCIA spy, is called into service just prior toSeptember 11, to make contact with Sergey, atrusted Russian spy who makes a shockingattempt on her life. How this event, and thedeath of two other CIA agents tie in to the eventsof September 11, and what follows is the basisfor Henderson’s story.As Darcy works to unravel the clues of moneytransfers and the murder of a rogue sniper, shebegins to put together the puzzle that will allowher team to track down Luther, one of the keyplayers involved in terrorist activities. Assistedby SEAL sniper Sam “Cougar” Houston and histeam, and a surprise appearance by Sergey,Luther is taken down and a massive shipment ofexplosives intended to blow up a United Statesoil refinery and gas pipeline is intercepted.True Honor allows readers to more fullyappreciate the frustrating, time-consuming, andoften dangerous work being done behind thescenes daily in order to keep our nation—andour world—safe. Darcy and Sam’s intenselycaptivating story reminds us that God is incontrol, whether or not we understand the bigpicture, and that we should trust him, endure,and fight the good fight against all that is evil.Sherri Beeler, Teacher, Cascade Christian High, Medford, OregonValley of the shadow / Stephanie GraceWhitson. (Dakota moons; 1.) LCCN00046571. Nashville: Thomas Nelson,2000. PAP, 0785268227, $12.99. Adult.Rating: 4F. Women missionaries--Fiction; Dakota Indians--Fiction; Minnesota--Fiction. 295 p.Edge of the wilderness / Stephanie GraceWhitson. (Dakota moons; 2.) LCCN2001030395. Nashville: Thomas Nelson,2001. PAP, 0785268235, $13.99. Adult.Rating: 4F. Women missionaries--Fiction; Dakota Indians--Fiction; Minnesota--Fiction. 263 p.Heart of the sandhills / Stephanie GraceWhitson. (Dakota moons; 3.) LCCN2001054370. Nashville: Thomas Nelson,2002. PAP, 0785268243, $13.99. Adult.Rating: 4F. Women missionaries--Fiction; Dakota Indians--Fiction; Minnesota--Fiction; Married people--Fiction.298 p.Author Stephanie Grace Whitson tackles thedifficult topic of treatment of Native Americansin her historical fiction series Dakota Moons. Inthe first book, Valley of the Shadow, the reader isintroduced to Ellen and Simon Dane,missionaries to the Dakota Indians inMinnesota. Struggling for over ten years amongthe Dakota with no fruit for their labors, Simongrows even colder and more distant. Ellen, rearsher children without the input of her husband,assisted by their new boarder and friend, a partFrench, part Dakota named Genevieve LaCroix.The strained relationship is put to the test asEllen endures a high-risk pregnancy. The familyand Gen return east to Ellen’s home where shefinally dies in childbirth. Simon, despondent,C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 3 9 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTFICTIONwithdraws even more from his children as heflagellates himself over his poor treatment of hiswife. Through a conversation with Gen, Simoncomes to terms with his past and determines toright his behavior in the future.The family returns to the frontier only tobecome enmeshed in the Minnesota SiouxUprising. Gen and the children, Aaron and Meg,are captured and taken prisoner. Through thebravery of their friend, Daniel Two Stars, thetrio are rescued and taken to safety.In book two, Edge of the Wilderness, Simon andhis family are reunited, and learn of the death oftheir friend Two Stars. Gen, secretly in lovewith Daniel, mourns his death as Simonmourned Ellen’s. Simon, however, decides topropose to Gen. Through a series of internalstruggles, Gen finally agrees to the proposal.With the uncertainty of the Indian situation,Simon is confronted by his brother-in-law,Elliot, about the wisdom of remaining with thechildren in such hostile territory. He wants totake Meg and Aaron back to New York with himso they can become well educated. Elliot,facing his own fears from Antietam and his losthand, pushes his point. A fellow missionaryteacher, Miss Jane, takes on Elliot and hisprejudices and forces him to reconsider hisrequest. The journey west changes Elliot andhelps him see the value of the work among theIndians, and the change in Simon.Gen settles into married life with Simon andgrows to love him. However, Simon worksincessantly, wears himself out and catchespneumonia. The family returns east to NewYork so Simon can recuperate, but instead hedies. However, before passing away, Simonasks Elliot and his new wife Jane, to becomeguardians of his children so Gen can find DanielTwo Stars, whom Simon has known to be alivefor some time. Two Stars is an Army scout; Genreturns to the west where she is reunited andmarried to Two Stars.Book Three picks up with Daniel and Genattempting to make a life for themselves amongthe whites in the area where they once lived.Daniel and his friend Robert live on the land ofa sympathetic white and the two become farmlaborers and carpenters. However, neighborscomplain about the presence of Indians and onein particular tries to rile the others into takingaction to route the Indians. Faced withescalating violence and unhappy as a farmer,Daniel decides to rejoin the Army as a scout,with the hope of eventually moving to thereservation in Nebraska.Meanwhile, Elliot has become a champion forIndian causes in Congress and works tirelesslyto bring about positive changes in the treatmentand handling of the Indian population. On a tripwest to meet with Indian chiefs and gain peaceaccords, Elliot is joined by Aaron, nowseventeen, who dreams of joining the Army andserving in the Indian territory. They meet upwith Daniel and the small Army contingent andbegin to travel to various tribes documentingtheir findings and encouraging the chiefs to signpeace accords.Encountering more Sioux uprisings and battles,Two Stars fights with resolve, wanting nothingmore than a peaceful existence with his wife andsoon-to-be-born child. In a freak accident, TwoStars is seriously hurt and tended to by a“healing” Indian, Two Moons. She takes TwoStars to her Lakota village where finally hemends and is reunited with his wife. The TwoStars family journeys to Nebraska where theybecome ranchers and live a full life.Whitson takes a difficult topic, Indian treatmentduring the Civil War, and presents it from theIndian point-of-view. She rights misconceptionsand forces the reader to confront wrong ideas onthis topic. Strong character development and aplot filled with twists leave no room forpredictability in these stories.Eileen Zygarlicke, Freelance Writer, Grand Forks, North DakotaWritten on her heart / Alan Maki. LCCN2001037850. Nashville: Broadman &Holman, 2002. HBB, 0805424881, $14.99.Adult. Rating: 2F. Disfigured persons—Fiction; Women teachers—Fiction; First loves—Fiction; Veterans—Fiction. 152p.Thirty years have passed and Molly Meyersremains broken-hearted by the memory of hersweetheart, James Wade, who lost his life in theVietnam War. Molly is single still, and teachesat an elementary school in Montana. Molly’sloyal friend, Stephanie, comes for a visit. Whileplacing her belongings in a drawer Stephaniediscovers some old love poems written by Jamesto Molly many years past. Some of these samepoems are found in a book that Stephanie haspurchased as a gift to Molly. The book,however, shows the author to be JonathanRoseland. Questions begin to form. HasJonathan Roseland somehow stolen the writingsof James Wade? Or is it possible that JamesWade is still alive?James Wade is alive and has kept it a secret forthirty years. Molly and James meet again.Molly is angry for the pain he has caused herand the years that are lost. She struggles withthese feelings while Stephanie serves as friendand counsel. James has his own suffering thathe must face. As the story concludes fate bringsMolly and James together again in dramaticfashion.Author Alan Maki has offered the reader aglimpse into some of the pain war and itsrepercussions can impose on people. He hasalso portrayed the struggle of forgiveness whena loved one breaks trust. In addition, a vitalspiritual message prevails. When the road islong and the days are tough we need someonegreater than ourselves to see us through. God isthat strong refuge and the One who is able tohelp us through the storm.The backdrop of the story brings an informativeand interesting account of a destructive firesweeping its way through the forest and towardsMolly’s home. Towards the last pages of thestory Maki carries the reader through a firebeing swept over an occupied house.The central story lacks strength in a few areas.Molly seems to never shift from the samedroning sound of complaining. The dialoguelacks spark and all the pieces fall into place fartoo easily.This book is for adults and possibly may be ofinterest to those who must face life with adisfigurement or disability.Karen Cranfill, Freelance Writer, Cottonwood, California.F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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 REVIEWSADULT NONFICTIONIsrael in crisis : what lies ahead? / DavidDolan. LCCN 2001048621. GrandRapids: Fleming H. Revell, Baker Books,2001. PAP, 0800758048, $12.99. Adult.Rating: *5220.1’5. Bible--Prophecies--Jews; Bible--Prophecies--Palestine; Arab-Israeli conflict; Eschatology--Biblicalteaching; Israel--History--Prophecies. 184 p.The best way to summarize the content of Israelin Crisis is by its sub-title: “What Lies Ahead.”David Dolan presents pertinent informationwhich will instruct the reader, both in terms ofcurrent events and in biblical knowledge. Hehas an entertaining, easy to read way ofpresenting lots of historical, political, biblical,and current events material—using a questionand answer format to introduce the contents ofeach chapter. Following the introduction, newand relevant information is given to provokefurther thought and study.His unique credentials include having been asecular newscaster, a long term involvedresident of Jerusalem, a Hebrew speaker andscholar, and a Bible student of pre-millennialpersuasion. He is up to date, but able to relate toancient facts and events in a startling way. Heanswers those questions that come to your mindas you read or listen to the daily news—the onesyou feel it not quite politically correct to ask intoday’s intimidating culture. This book is ahandy reference guide—not one you will readonce and shelve but one you will want to keep athand plus have a few copies to share with yourfriends of all political and religious persuasionsto add veracity and factual material to yourdiscussions.For those interested in prophecy, must-readchapters include “Israel’s Next War,” “The Sonof Thunder,” and “The End Time Temple.” Iappreciated the humble way of offering hisideas, the biblical way of defending hisconvictions, his intimate sharing of God’sspeaking to him, his courage in offering out ofthe mainstream interpretations of biblicalpassages (see his understanding of the holocaustin the Psalms), and his take it or leave it sharingof his more surface hypotheses. If Dolan doeserr, it is in a somewhat repetitious way hereminds readers of his qualifications: but that issomewhat understandable when taking intoconsideration the topics and views covered. Ihighly recommend this book for Christian aswell as public and church libraries. It is one ofthe best considering the plethora of hastilywritten books on these subjects.Rosalee Stent, Retired Missionary, Lamplighter Reviewer, ChurchLibrarian, Avid Reader, Dallas, OregonThe story of the New Testament : men witha message / by John Stott; revised byStephen Motyer. Rev. ed. of: Men with amessage. LCCN 2001046121. GrandRapids: Baker Books, 2001. HBB,0801012317, $16.99. Adult (Middleschool, High school). Rating: *5225.6’1. Bible. N.T.--Introductions. 157 p.The story of the Old Testament : men with amessage / by Alec Motyer; revised by JohnStott. Rev. ed. LCCN 2001037931.Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2001. HBB,0801012309, $16.99. Adult (Middleschool, High school). Rating: *5221.6’1. Bible. O.T.--Introductions. 191 p.First published during the 1950’s, The Story ofthe New Testament by noted Bible scholar JohnStott is worth reading again, or for the first time,in this revision. Re-worded slightly for today’sreaders, with supplementary information, thestress still rests on the New Testament’swonderful message and the men who wrote itdown. Arranged in time sequence, each of thenine chapters presents an individual writer, hisunique background and personality, and thedistinctive and appropriate truth he conveyedunder the Holy Spirit’s inspiration. StephenMotyer revises The Story of the New Testamentwith a light, contemporary hand, and a deeprespect for John Stott. Both authors aim to exaltJesus Christ. The Story of the New Testamentwill interest scholars from middle schoolthrough adult.The Story of the Old Testament turns the tables.Alec Motyer, Stephen Motyer’s father,originally wrote this book. John Stott is thereviser. The main body of this book begins withJesus’ view of the Old Testament; followed byan introduction to the content of the OldTestament. The next sixteen chapters presentthe individuals who, under the superintendenceof the Holy Spirit, wrote out the uniquemessages that still impact our lives today. BothJohn Stott and Alec Motyer convey deep lovefor the Bible, winsomely urging the readertowards this love. Written in Stott’s ownanalytical style, The Story of the Old Testamentwill also be of interest to scholars from highschool through adult.In both of these books, sidebars tie characterstogether, give interesting additional data, andilluminate history. Relevant, eye catchingphotos and maps appear on every page. Allchapters end with a list for further reading. Theprefaces at the beginning of each book piqueinterest, and the indices at the end help thereader follow up resultant thoughts. Both bookswill serve many purposes, for example: researchtool, teacher’s aid, intriguing Bible studycourses, personal study, church leader’s tool.These books are recommended for all libraries,home schooling, family and church use, and ascoffee table picture books.Donna Eggett, Freelance Author, Radford, VirginiaA faith for all seasons : historic Christianbelief in its classical expression / Ted. M.Dorman. 2nd ed. LCCN 00048628.Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 2001.PAP, 0805423982, $24.99. Adult. Rating:5230. Theology, Doctrinal. 374 p.Ted M. Dorman revised his textbook, A Faithfor All Seasons (Broadman & Holmnan, 1995),in response to questions asked by his theologystudents at Taylor University. This new editioncontains additional information on MartinLuther and Eastern Orthodox traditions. Thefifteen chapters are arranged systematically.Some of the subjects Dorman covers are thedoctrines of scripture, God, creation,Christology, salvation, and last things. Dormanbegins each chapter with a basic explanation ofthe topic, which is followed by a detaileddiscussion of how the various denominationsagree or disagree and how they arrived at theirpresent belief.Each chapter is followed by a list of questionsdesigned to help the student master the material.This valuable section helps the reader to focuson the important parts of the chapter. Dormanuses charts to help the student find importantinformation quickly. The reader can see at aglance the comparisons being presented. Thereare a few selected photographs and maps. At theback of the book are extensive endnotes, anexcellent glossary of theological terms, and abibliography of books cited.The structure of the book and presentation of thediscussions make it obvious that the author isfrom a Protestant Reform, Calvinistbackground. This book could easily go beyondthe university classroom and be used in a churchadult Bible study class or for individual study.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTNONFICTIONBarbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonThe quest of the historical Jesus / AlbertSchweitzer. 1st complete ed. / edited byJohn Bowden, 1st Fortress Press ed.LCCN 00049032. Minneapolis: FortressPress, Augsburg Fortress, 2001. PAP,0800632885, $33.00. Adult. Rating: 5232.9’08. Jesus Christ--Biography--History andcriticism; Jesus Christ--Historicity. 562 p.This book not for the faint of heart nor is it forthe weak of faith. It is a challenge from start tofinish. It is huge: 562 pages total, 74 pages ofdetailed notes; tt is difficult: complex beyondthe ability of all but the most dedicated readers;and it is challenging—it is a book which willcall into question the most essential element ofChristianity, the life and nature of Jesus Christ ofNazareth. It will also come to a conclusionrejected by conservative Christians, namely that“Jesus…who came forward publicly as theMessiah, who preached the ethic of the kingdomof God, who founded the kingdom of heavenupon earth, and who died to give his work itsfinal consecration, never existed” (478). And itsays that the image of such a Jesus was createdthrough a complex process over time and thatthe image was “not destroyed form outside; ithas fallen to pieces, split and shatteredby…concrete historical problems…” (478).But it is also a book which should be in everyChristian library. In it are included seeminglyinnumerable amounts of information on thenature and implications of higher criticism. In itis a synthesis of that criticism which, whendigested, will give readers as thorough overviewof the subject as they could want.The Quest of the Historical Jesus will be achallenge for every reader. While many will notunderstand its complexity, they will understandits importance. This book is an indispensableresource for every field of biblical study.Dr. Raymond E. Legg, Chair, Dept. of English, Bryan College,Dayton, TennesseeThe path to holiness / Andrew Murray.LCCN 2001003783. Minneapolis:Bethany House, 2001. PAP, 0764225618,$8.99. Adult. Rating: 3234’.8. Holiness. 222 p.What R. C. Sproul and his Ligonier Ministriesseek to do for this present generation indeclaring God’s holiness as central to Scriptureand all of Christian living, Andrew Murray didfor his generation. A thorough comparison ofR.C.’s original book, The Holiness of God(Tyndale House, 1985), might suggest that Mr.Murray wrote more theologically in depthbecause his target audience were more adept inthis realm.Beginning with the preface dated November 16,1887, the book takes many of the occurrencesof the word ‘holy’ in their biblical chronologicalusage and explores them in context. Theauthor’s stated goal is to “discover in what senseGod uses the term so that it may mean to us whatit means to Him.” Applications are numerousand deliberately and forcefully stated. Themany and varied elements of true holiness areshown while emphasizing its unity andsimplicity as centered in the person of Jesus. Toeven partially apprehend all the written materialis to be led in worship, longing, and awerepeatedly. The lasting impressions are that therevelation of God, “I am holy” becomes thecommand “Be holy” and ultimately the gift of“You are holy in Christ.” Churches from allsides of the holiness debate will find the bookgreatly beneficial, Scripturally accurate, andconstantly challenging for thought and action.This edition, complete with a beautiful andthought provoking cover is truly a rebornclassic, and is meant to contain the essence ofthe original. The problem is knowing exactlywhat the processes of updating and editingactually do to the original text. A word ofexplanation from Bethany House would havebeen helpful in this regard.Rosalee Stent, Retired Missionary, Church Librarian, Avid Reader,Dallas, OregonA covenant to keep : meditations on thebiblical theme of justice / James W. Skillen.LCCN 37892. Grand Rapids: CRCPublications, 2000. PAP, 1562125443,$12.50. Adult. Rating: *5241’.622. Christianity and justice; Justice--Biblicalteaching. 219 p.A Covenant to Keep presents seventy-fivemeditations on the biblical theme of justice.James W. Skillen asks the reader to explore withhim biblical justice and how it fits into today’sworld. Convinced doing justice is not optional,he stresses the point that humans either act justlyor unjustly. Skillen draws from scripture toprove his point. Beginning with the Genesisaccount of creation he moves to God’s covenantwith Israel, Jesus birth, Paul, and Christ’ssecond coming in Revelation. In each he bringsout aspects of the story seldom discussed andchallenges the reader to put Christian justice intoaction.The book is divided into five sections of fifteenmeditations each. Each section begins with anessay that discusses how justice is required,restrained, administered, assured, or fulfilled.All of the meditations end with two topics forreflection and a suggestion for living out justice.One suggestion is to make a change in yourChristmas celebration, so it becomes a time oflooking forward to Christ’s return. Another ideais to pick a public official and either pray for thatperson for a week or write a note ofencouragement.Skillen has designed the book to be used insmall groups or by the individual. Written in aclear easily understood style, A Covenant toKeep challenges readers to rethink what theybelieve the scriptures say and encourages themto make the changes necessary to live a lifebased on justice. Information on The Center forPublic Justice is included.Barbara Bryden, Freelance Writer, Olympia, WashingtonPassion and purity : learning to bring yourlove life under Christ’s control / ElisabethElliot. 2nd ed. LCCN 2002018977.Grand Rapids: Fleming H. Revell, BakerBooks, 2002. PAP, 0800758188, $11.99.Adult (High school). Rating: *5241’.66. Elliot, Elisabeth; Sex--Religious aspects--Christianity; Christian life. 191 p.Many treasures can be found in this slightlyaltered edition of Passion and Purity byElisabeth Elliot, which is presented with a newcover, a more contemporary format, and a newforward by Joshua Harris, author of I KissedDating Goodbye (Multnomah Books, 1997).Perhaps not as easy to comprehend as themodern abstinence books, it is written so readerswill be delighted and enchanted. Rich andeloquent language peppered with godly wisdomis a special gift in this Bible-based book of love.Elisabeth Elliot reveals the passion it takes to bepure, not only in love but also in relationship toGod. In Passion and Purity, she shares personaldetails of her love for a man but an even deeperlove affair with her Savior.Practical sound advice is shared with thoselonging for purity in a world where innocencebecomes hard to protect.Quotes and scriptures are interwoven withintimate and impassioned diary entries andletters written between Elisabeth and herhusband Jim. During the long years beforemarriage, these record reveals a rich love storywhere each person’s relationship with Christ andultimate purity was the goal, and it can be usedto encourage readers by sharing stories oftemptations and victories Elliot faced in her ownlife while waiting upon the Lord.Meant for those seeking purity in love whileunmarried, the principles used are applicable foranyone wanting an intimate journey with Christ,and it will be especially helpful for ministeringto young adults. Any library wanting toencourage passion and true passion in oursociety should carry this book.Robin McCarley Rusk, Homeschooling Mother, Freelance Writer,Susanville, CaliforniaF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTNONFICTIONFinding God’s peace in perilous times /[compiled by Tammy Faxel]. LCCN2001006452. Wheaton, Ill.: TyndaleHouse, 2001. HBB, 0842370609, $10.99.Adult. Rating: 5242’.4. September 11 Terrorist Attacks, 2001;Terrorism--Religious aspects--Christianity--Prayerbooksand devotions--English. 179 p.Kenneth Taylor, Chairman of the Board ofTyndale House Publisher sets the stage forFinding God’s Peace in Perilous Times in hisprologue to this collection of meditations. “Thisbook is intended to offer hope, encouragement,and spiritual guidance to those facingconflicting thoughts and feelings about thisnational disaster.”While the focus is on the 9-11 disaster, the thrustof the meditations makes this book useful to anyvictim facing the aftermath of calamity. Linedspaces following the meditations allow thereaders to personalize the book with their ownthoughts. Tucked in the back cover is a CD ofmusic contributed by eight well-known artists.Twenty-four Christian authors combined theirefforts into thirty meditations on the 9-11disaster to produce this written memorial. Allproceeds from the sale of the book go to theSalvation Army’s Special Victim’s fund for 9-11disaster relief. The size and style of the bookmake it an excellent choice as a gift book. Thelength of the selections is well-suited for thoselooking for a short devotion to begin churchprograms and meetings.Judy A. Driscoll, Retired Teacher, Poulsbo, WashingtonThe music of his promises : listening to Godwith love, trust, and obedience / ElisabethElliot. LCCN 00032079. Ann Arbor,Mich.: Vine Books, Servant Publications,2000. PAP, 1569552169, $10.99. Adult.Rating: 3242’.5. God--Promises--Biblical teaching. 211 p.In her typically succinct, blunt prose, ElisabethElliot expounds promises God has givenbelievers. These brief readings present a wealthof promises such as God’s constant presence,His protection, his attention to our prayers, andthe end results of suffering. Elliot draws fromScripture both obscure personalities such asEleazar and Shammah who fought with David,as well as popular verses and the writings ofmany classic authors and songwriters. In eachreading she deals with a specific issue, problem,or need believers confront in their walk withChrist, and poses a rhetorical question orprovides a dose of encouragement. By the endof the book, readers will have encountered anarray of Christian virtues and a refresher on thecharacter qualities of God, receiving heartyspiritual meat to chew on meditatively.Although only a portion of the segments containScripture verses, the book could be used as adevotional supplement.The Music of His Promises isn’t about music,though the title and cover art of a violin on anopen Bible could lead one to expect a musicaltheme. However, as Elliot promises, herwritings do supply “grace notes for yourChristian life.” Her trademark straightforward,sometimes severe writing style is again evident.The content of the readings is best appreciatedby mature believers and those ready to grapplewith harder truths of the Christian life. Readersfamiliar with Elliot will observe topics she isfond of discussing, but all the readings in thisbook are new. Taken as a vitamin for spiritualgrowth and health, The Music of His Promisescan be a little tough going down at times, butwill prosper the earnest reader who needs aboost—or maybe a boot—of God’s promises.Karen Schmidt, Freelance Writer, Marysville, Washington.Visual faith : art, theology, and worship indialogue / William Dryness. (Engagingculture.) LCCN 2001037487. GrandRapids: Baker Academic, Baker Books,2001. PAP, 0801022975, $21.99. Adult.Rating: 5246.17. Christianity and art. 188 p.Another in the Baker Books “Engaging CultureSeries,” Visual Faith tackles the complex issueof the relationship between art, theology, andworship, issues which have been in tensionthroughout the history of the Church. Withchapters arranged chronologically from theearliest days of the Christian Church through theMiddle Ages, Reformation, and into the 20thcentury, Visual Faith “aims to extend and enricha Christian conversation on the visual arts” (9).Important here is that the book, like others in theseries, is meant to engender conversation aboutthe arts in hopes of providing Christians withknowledge, skills, and desire to engage modernculture and the debate about the nature of truthand beauty—to provide a grid through whichreaders can begin to look at their relationshipwith the arts.It is this last point that may be most helpful forreaders of Visual Faith. Among the firstpurposes of the book is to suggest that there is acrucial link between worship and the arts whichneeds to be addressed in the Church. In aclimate of critical assessment about the natureand structure of worship, Dyreness says thatdiscussion of these matters “is not onlyappropriate today, but it is more urgent now thanever before” (9). He says this urgency growsout of the “uneasy tension” that exists over whatkind of art should be included in the life of theChurch.Sensitive to varying perspectives on the artswithin the Church, Visual Faith, does notpretend to give all the answers to questionswhich grow out of a discussion like this. Whatit does do is present Christians with usefulsuggestions for building a perspective on themwhich can be constructed and articulated in aculture full of opinions on what constitutes art.This book is a must-read for anyone interestedin engaging and changing modern culture.Dr. Raymond E. Legg, Chair, Dept. of English, Bryan College,Dayton, TennesseeThe God catchers : experiencing themanifest presence of God / Tommy Tenney.LCCN 00067563. Nashville: ThomasNelson, 2001. HBB, 0785267107, $19.99.Adult. Rating: 4248. Spiritual life--Christianity. 207 p.In his previous book The God Chasers (DestinyImage, 1998), Tommy Tenney encouragedreaders to go beyond a set standard of worshipto pursue God. The result has affected howmillions of readers embrace and value God’spresence. Now in this sequel, Tenneychallenges readers to go and grow beyond thechase and encounter God.Relying heavily on the analogy of a fatherplaying “hidey-face” with his children, Tenneydraws parallels how a father delights in beingpursued almost as much as children delight inpursuing their father. Tenney believes Goddelights in our pursuit of Him, yet he reallydesires being found. The book underlines howwhen we seek God, we will find him.With simple clarity, woven with humorousfatherly insights, Tenney encourages readers togo beyond the thrill of pursuing, and to revel inthe finding, the reunion of finding what wasbeing sought—in this case, God’s presence.Tenney’s ministry is based just on this very idea,of living everyday in God’s presence, of notbeing satisfied with a one-time meeting. Forthose who have decided to go beyond the chaseand desire a deeper fellowship with God, andespecially for those who read his first book,Tenney’s current offering is worth pursuing.Pam Webb, Freelance Writer, Sandpoint IdahoForever ruined for the ordinary : theadventure of hearing and obeying God’svoice / Joy Dawson. LCCN 2001030126.Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2001. HBB,0785266828, $19.99. Adult (High school).Rating: 3248.4. Christian life. 195 p.God does speak personally to ordinaryindividual believers today! This is the messageJoy Dawson so ably brings to the notice of thereading public; citing Scripture references,God’s character, and experience as proof. Ifreaders want to hear God speaking, this is abasic primer describing conditions Scripturesets, steps to take when God seems silent, howto avoid deception, etc. to make it happen. Thematerial in the book could even be called “howto live with God.” It is all based on Scripture,practical, and full of insight into prayer,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 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTNONFICTIONguidance, and obedience. The theologypresented is consistently applicable to those whoare diligent seekers after God. It is capable ofcreating such a hunger and thirst for God thatjust in reading one is led on to holy desire andleft dissatisfied with the ordinary.The informal, friendly sharing of instruction,illustrated by experience, is well suited for thoseanywhere from pre-teen to any stage ofadulthood. There is something here for everypilgrim and it leaves a taste for more, muchmore, of the same. There are those who mightbe a little uncomfortable with some of theexperiences she narrates from her ministry inYWAM, but this is her story and she tells it withhumility and Godly reverence. There is need forcaution in nay-saying how God chooses to relateto His children, especially those whoconsistently bring others to know, love, andserve God.Appendix A is beneficial for those readers whomay not as yet have secured salvation or thoseseeking a printed sequence of evangelisticpoints. Appendix B is for those who havebelieved and yet need their feet set upon thefundamentals of discipleship.Rosalee Stent, Retired Missionary, Church Librarian, Avid Reader,Dallas, OregonIf you want to walk on water, you’ve got toget out of the boat / John Ortberg. LCCN47714. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2001.HBB, 0310228638, $16.99. Adult. Rating:4248.4. Bible. N.T. Matthew XIV, 22-33--Criticism,interpretation, etc.; Trust in God--Christianity. 212 p.Peter’s walking on water is an allegory of livinglife as Christ’s follower in If You Want to Walkon Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat.John Ortberg inspires the reader to say “yes” toGod by describing the common experiences ofindividuals choosing brave lives. Because fearis the enemy of bravery, he counters the fear offailure by explaining failure’s effectiveness inthe natural learning process. Ortberg alsodescribes the consequences of the cowardlyexistence; he is humorous and poignantsimultaneously, sneaking the Holy Spirit’sconviction in while the reader is still smiling.John Ortberg does not encourage traversingwaters Jesus has not first welcomed one to, so heilluminates in a refreshingly sober way “God’scalling.” Also noted is the great workaccomplished in the soul while waiting for God,not only when receiving from Him. Themajority of the book inspires God-given dreams,but, reminiscent of Ortberg’s The Life You’veAlways Wanted (Zondervan, 1997), it alsoinvites the reader to use particular spiritualdisciplines as modes to becoming brave.Saturated in inspiration, John Ortberg’s bookgives the reader courage to grasp opportunitiesto live life fully. If You Want to Walk on Water…would be useful in many adult and college smallgroups because all that is necessary to follow hisappeal is life-experience. Both new andpracticed followers of Christ can use this booktoward growth. While questions at the back ofeach chapter encourage genuinecommunication, they are broad enough thatindividuals have the freedom to disclosefeelings and experiences to the degreecomfortable to him or her. With the voice of aninsightful friend, John Ortberg delivers insightsin conceptually simple ways, giving him accessto a varied audience, without forfeiting anintelligent and compelling vision of thecourageous life.Paula R. Carrigan, History Teacher, Covenant Christian School,Brea, CaliforniaWoman of confidence: wisdom forachieving with integrity / Pam Farrel.LCCN 2001039357. Downers Grove, Ill.:InterVarsity Press, 2001. PAP,0830822488, $9.99. Adult. Rating: *5248.8’43. Christian women--Religious life; Success--Religious aspects--Christianity; Confidence--Religiousaspects--Christianity. 176 p.Pam Farrel speaks directly to issues thatchallenge every woman seeking to be thewoman God created her to be. Organized inshort chapters with titles like Priorities, Risk,Peace, Focus, Endurance, and Perspective, withan appendix on accountability, Mrs. Farrel usesthe stories of many women who have beenchallenged in each area with an outcome ofgrowth and achievement with God’s guidance.In the chapter on risk, a broadcaster withintegrity tells how she achieves her dream God’sway. John Hunter’s words “ for this I haveJesus,” help tell the story of the author’s owncrisis when her five-year-old boy was lost.Knowing that life is under God’s control was heronly peace. Joni Erickson Tada reminds us thatto endure, “Faith isn’t the ability to believe longand far into the misty future. It’s simply takingGod at His word and taking the next step.” Onecouple does that and gets through the red tape ofadoption in Rumania. In this effort as in all ofthe stories, readers are reminded that Goddoesn’t expect us to be alone. We are to functionas a body, calling on many to pray for and withus. In any pursuit of God’s will, “breakingbarriers is not for the faint of heart or theuninformed.” Usually as we change perspectiveto keep focused on God, we break the enemy’spower.In every chapter, the author encourages withscripture examples, probing questions andinsightful directives. She disciples readers tofocus on the “winning words” and actively“winning ways” that keep us better in tune withour God. That is where confidence is. There aremany points to meditate on, to draw out thecreative energy that God would have us use todo His will. “God has set the point ofdestination. We need to set our sights abovewhat we know or see.”If we define “exhortation” as called alongside tobring out the best in another, Pam Farrel does sowith compassionate encouragement, “puttingthe right thoughts into the minds of others.”Carol B. Taylor, Freelance Writer/Certified Social Worker, Poulsbo,WashingtonA woman’s high calling / Elizabeth George.LCCN 2001024086. Eugene, Ore.:Harvest House, 2001. PAP, 0736903275,$9.99. Adult. Rating: 5248.8’43. Christian women--Religious life. 296 p.A woman’s high calling : growth and studyguide / Elizabeth George. Eugene, Ore.:Harvest House, 2001. PAP, 0736904948,$6.99. Adult. Rating: 4248.8’43. Christian women--Religious life—Studyand teaching. 132 p.In a practical treatise on becoming a woman ofGod, George outlines ten essentials for godlyliving from Titus 2:3-5. They are wisdom,godly speech, love of husband, love of children,ministry to other women, purity, personaldiscipline, goodness, godly behavior, and loveof home. Each chapter addresses one of theseprinciples, asking even the most mature hardhittingquestions like “Are all my thoughts true,noble, just, pure, lovely, good, virtuous, andpraiseworthy?” or “What is the cause of yourgossiping tongue--an evil heart, hatred,foolishness, or idleness?”At a time when some books for Christianwomen pursue a “do the best you can”approach, this book and its accompanying studyguide urge readers to grow in wisdom, purity,and character through practical steps and studyquestions.Women’s ministry leaders looking for a goodbook for a Bible study group won’t bedisappointed. In the Growth and Study Guide,George outlines keys for a successful discussiongroup.Women looking for practical guidelines forgrowing in Christ will find George’s book agreat source of inspiration with a quiet timecalendar, twelve weeks of study, and greatinsight into God’s Word.Marilynn Griffith, Editor:Word Praize Ezine, Tallahassee, FloridaGrowing through conflict / Erwin Lutzer.LCCN 2001002948. Ann Arbor, Mich.:Vine Books, Servant Publications, 2001.PAP, 156955319X, $9.99. Adult. Rating:4248.8’6. Conflict management in the Bible; Conflictmanagement--Religious aspects--Christianity. 182 p.F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTNONFICTIONDavid—can any more be usefully written abouthim after we have been given so many classicstudies about the shepherd boy made king? Yes,and Erwin Lutzer does it by a simple study ofthe conflicts he faced from his earliest days.Writing with uncomplicated style and scripturalnotes, he gives us practical biblical wisdom forlife among fallen humanity. Each chaptercontains a case study of an instance of conflict,then goes on to a series of lessons. With dry, slyhumor and short pointed remarks we are leftwith the sword stuck in our hardened hearts,piercing and softening for attitude and actionmakeovers. Some are still as sharp as Goliath’ssword when used for beheading, so read withcaution! Watch out for such punch-lines as,“Unbelief said that Goliath was too big to hit;faith said he was too big to miss!” and “Saul’sfatal flaw was seeing the kingdom as belongingto himself and not God” among others.Did these hit their mark? From early childhoodto deathbed, David’s conflicts are scrutinizedwith humility and grace, and in the end Godcalls him, David my servant!Readers will find that they cannot help butsharpen their servanthood through this study. Itwill be time well spent. Just deciphering thecover design is a parable. Of particular interestto me was the epilogue which answered aquestion for me of long standing concern inMatthew 22:42-45 and Christ’s ‘punch line’: “IfDavid then calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He hisson?” I would like to see a similar book by thesame author covering Jesus’ expert handling ofthe conflicts he had with the Pharisees andSadducees. This is the first book I have read byDr. Lutzer but it will certainly not be the last!Rosalee Stent, Retired Missionary, Church Librarian, Avid Reader,Dallas, OregonGetting along with people @ work : a guideto building better relationships on the job /Mary Whelchel. LCCN 2001004951. AnnArbor, Mich.: Vine Books, ServantPublications, 2001. PAP, 156955241X,$10.99. Adult. Rating: 3248.8’8. Employees--Religious life; Christian life--Biblical teaching. 210 p.Love thy neighbor… But that certainly can’tmean the fellow worker who just told the boss alie about you, can it? Or the boss who justbelieved that lie? Want to go home from workwithout a headache, smiling? Getting AlongWith People @ Work gives the answers to theseand other questions of the same nature. Careerwoman, leader in several women’s ministries,Mary Whelchel knows what she is talking about.Facing difficult work mates, she finds in theBible the answers for coping victoriously.Chapter one deals with setting boundaries asJesus did. The reader then learns the biblicalprinciples for coping at work: empathy, love,listening, dependability, confrontation,willingness, integrity. The last few chapters dealwith working with difficult people and bossesand the joy of improved relationships.Part of a prolific genre, Getting Along WithPeople @ Work stands out from like volumes forseveral reasons. Pertinent scripture referencesand illustrations drawn from Whelchel’s ownlife as well as that of her friends provide anintimate, believable tone, encouraging readers toapply the principles. Each chapter in thisguidebook presents the principle, problems,remedies, application, and a personal review forjudging growth in this area. The easy tounderstand presentation clearly illuminates thesubject matter. With a little imagination, thereader will be able to apply these principles tomany troubled relationships at home, at school,in the classroom, anywhere. Getting Along WithPeople… is recommended for all libraries andwill be helpful for individual study, for groupstudy, as a business class text book, as well asfor those first entering or returning to the workarena.Donna J. Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaKing came preaching : the pulpit power ofDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. / Mervyn A.Warren; foreword by Gardner Taylor.LCCN 2001039356. Downers Grove, Ill.:InterVarsity Press, 2001. HBB,0830826580, $20.00. Adult. Rating: *5251’.0092. King, Martin Luther, Jr., 1929-1968;Progressive National Baptist Convention--Sermons;Preaching--United States--History--20th century;Sermons, American--African American authors;Sermons, American--20th century. 223 p.Mervyn Warren presents an eloquent, freshstudy on Martin Luther King in this slimvolume. Beginning with a homileticalbiography (that is, a biography focusing on themaking of the preacher), the author sets thestage for what is to come: a close analysis ofwhat made King the powerful, effective oratorhe was.The bulk of the narrative focuses on thehistorical context of King’s speeches, hisgeneralized audience, and the content of thespeeches themselves. Warren includes onechapter on the speaker’s character and anotherthat treats the speaker’s ideas and emotionalproof. Rather that focusing exclusively on thespeaker’s text and message, however, thisanalysis focuses on the convergence ofcircumstance and the social times with Dr.Martin Luther King’s formidable persona.Warren does not overlook King’s ethos, hispathos, and his logos. Each is treatedextensively. Separate chapters also treat King’ssermon themes, his language choices, and his“sermon design, preparation, and delivery.” Thefull transcripts of four lesser known and utilizedKing speeches are included as appendices.King Came Preaching is a breath of fresh air: adignified, academic treatment of the religiousand social oratory of one of the greatestAmerican speakers. And it is presented in aformat accessible to general readers. Eventhough this work was originally written as adoctoral dissertation, the reader finds noencumbering scholarly jargon. In addition toshowcasing the development of Dr. King as agreat speaker, the book serves as a model forscholars of oratory who wish to present theirresearch to a broader audience.The author’s neo-Aristotelian approach to agreat speaker is well chosen as it providesinsight to those who never heard Dr. King speak.It also provides reminders of his power to thosewho have heard Dr. King speak.Daniel S. Brown, Ph.D., Professor of Communication, Grove CityCollege, Grove City, PennsylvaniaHelping kids include kids with disabilities /Barbara J. Newman. LCCN 2001023690.Grand Rapids: Faith Alive, CRCPublications, 2001. PAP, 1562127772,$19.95. Adult. Rating: 5259’.44. Church work with children;Developmentally disabled children--Religious life. 95p.Helping Kids Include Kids with Disabilitiesspeaks directly to the church community.Author Barbara Newman brings years ofexperience in special education in the Christianschool context to give guidance to leaders inchurch ministry to children. To address the issueof effective inclusion of special needs childrenin church ministries, Newman starts byillustrating the problem through anecdotalreports.The first few chapters offer information andsuggested guidelines for churches. In the heartof the book, the author deals with severalspecific impairments, followed by other mildimpairments, and then severe impairments ingeneral. For each impairment she provides inlayman’s language: (1) a basic fact sheet aboutthe impairment, (2) an age-appropriatesuggested lesson plan for use with children—using a variety of props, and (3) an adaptableletter to families. The latter part of the bookincludes patterns for use with the lesson plans,two weeks of suggested devotions for families,and a bibliography of additional resources onthe various disabilities.Newman’s understanding of the Christiancommunity as a body mandates the lovinginclusion of individuals with special needs. Hergoal is that “each child understands that he orshe is a unique image bearer of God.” Toaccomplish this effectively she suggests that, aspart of each church’s children’s ministryprogram, some individual should coordinateministry to special needs children, providingcontinuity and consistency from one level toC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTNONFICTIONanother. Newman’s lesson plans point out thatnormally developing children benefitthemselves as they contribute to encouragingdevelopment in children with special needs.The understanding and cooperation of allparents is a crucial part of the process. Highlyrecommended to all leaders in church Christianeducation programs, this book also providesboth summary information and a neededperspective to educators in Christian dayschools and to concerned parents.Donna W. Bowling, Graduate Institute of Applied LinguisticsLibrary, Dallas, TexasSomebody cares : a guide to living out yourfaith / Doug Stringer. LCCN 2001031737.Ventura, Calif.: Regal Books, GospelLight, 2001. PAP, 0830728600, $10.99.Adult. Rating: 3267’.13. Somebody Cares (Organization);Evangelistic work. 154 p.Somebody Cares is an intense and heartfelt bookon service ministry and evangelism. AuthorDoug Stringer draws his examples from his ownextensive and intensive work in the Gospelharvest. When Stringer says what it will take toget involved in this type of ministry, he speaksfrom first hand knowledge.The work’s greatest strength and potentialweakness is the focus on Doug’s personalexperiences. His calling to begin and expandthe Somebody Cares network is obvious. Iwonder why the experiences of others from thenetwork were not source for material.This work is pointedly about serving others andsaving souls. Still Doug spends the last 3-4chapters speaking to current or potentialsalvation workers. How to get and keep yourhead and soul in Kingdom work is as importantas the work itself. It will not do to lose theharvesters.Well written and intense, this book can serve asa primer for “street ministry.” I stronglyrecommend it for anyone who feels the call todirect and intimate service ministry andevangelism.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College-Business &Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaFresh wind, fresh fire : what happens whenGod’s Spirit invades the heart of his people/ Jim Cymbala with Dean Merrill. LCCN96050966. Grand Rapids: Zondervan,Zondervan, 1997. HBB, 310211883,$18.99. Adult. Rating: 5269. Brooklyn Tabernacle (New York, N.Y.); Church.188 p.Fresh faith : what happens when real faithignites God’s people / Jim Cymbala withDean Merrill. LCCN 99035508. GrandRapids: Zondervan, Zondervan, 1999.HBB, 310230071, $18.99. Adult. Rating:5243. Faith. 219 p.Fresh power : experiencing the vastresources of the Spirit of God / JimCymbala with Dean Merrill. LCCN00049993. Grand Rapids: Zondervan,Zondervan, 2001. HBB, 031023008X,$18.99. Adult. Rating: 5231’.3. Holy Spirit. 204 p.Published in 1997, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire is adeeply moving book. After reading it Iremember wanting everyone I knew to read ittoo. Cymbala, assisted by Dean Merrill, tell thestory of the sorry, shabby Brooklyn TabernacleChurch that in 1972 could draw barely twentypeople to a worship service. Until, that is, theyhumbled themselves, got on their knees, andbegan to pray.In their twenties, Jim Cymbala, without anypastoral training, and Carol Cymbala, with alove for music but no formal training to eitherread or write music, turned this city centrerBrooklyn church into a mega ministry, and afledgling music group into the Grammy awardwinning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.Ironically, though, the size of the church and thepopularity of the music is of the leastimportance. It’s the prayer—prayer thattransforms and that reaches God. Cymbalatransparently shares anecdotes from the church’sprayer time—the most poignant is the story ofhis and Carol’s daughter who strayed from theLord at the age of sixteen and who was“labored” over in prayer by this church family.A great read!In Cymbala’s second book, the topic is faith.What has happened to our first love—that firstlove for Jesus? That voracious appetite forGod’s Word? Oh, sure, we still go to church.But the passionate love for the Lord has waned.Pastor Cymbala says, “It’s not too late. The zealand love for Christ you once had can berecovered.”Is your packed-out church a sign of churchhealth? “No,” says Cymbala, “but how activeand vibrant their faith is in the God they serve.”It is their faith level that is God’s concern—nothow full the church is. The faith-filled, truestories combined with the hallmark prayers ofthe Brooklyn Tabernacle believers make thisanother page turner.In the third book in the “Fresh” series, Cymbalatackles the issue of power. The answer is in thepower of the Holy Spirit. What is the question?Why are we trying to solve the hard cases we asChristians face today with only humanmethodology? We give up when our problemsseem hopeless—marriage under siege, waywardkids, spiritual weakness. The answers won’tcome from attending another seminar or insubmitting the problem to a committee, but incalling on God and asking Him through thepower of the Holy Spirit to intervene.Cymbala makes the point loud and clear thatChristianity is hopeless (and helpless) withoutthe person and work of the Holy Spirit. Therehave been numerous other books that present thesame message. Cymbala’s writing, though, is soclear because he uses a great balance betweennarrative, scripture, and personal anecdoteswhich illustrate exactly what he is trying to getacross.Helen Hunter, Freelance Writer/Editor, Cedar Rapids, IowaPrayer evangelism / Ed Silvoso. LCCN00055281. Ventura, Calif.: Regal Books,Gospel Light, 2000. PAP, 0830723978,$12.99. Adult. Rating: 3269’.2. Evangelistic work; Prayer--Christianity; Citiesand towns--Religious aspects--Christianity. 252 p.Prayer Evangelism by Ed Silvoso packs a twopartpunch. The first half of the book explainshis philosophy—prayer, and the second half ofthe book describes his goal—evangelism. Thephilosophies are good, although readers mayfind his scriptures stretching to fit some of hisideas. His strategies are fascinating.Silvoso’s plan, which he calls prayerevangelism, will inspire readers. Heintersperses true stories from the many prayerfairs that resulted from this strategy. This makesthe reading easier and the authenticity clearer.Scripture principles and parables are used aswell to exemplify his ideas.Similar to Jerry Cook’s Love, Acceptance, andForgiveness (Regal Books, 1979), this bookmandates that and more in the language of thenew millennium. Cook called the church aforce; Silvoso calls the church a movement.Cook’s ideal was one person at a time throughfriendship evangelism; Silvoso’s ideal is tosweep cities on a large scale, uniting pastors andcommunities. His four-step method is: speakpeace (they will feel it), fellowship (to developtrust), pray for their felt needs (to be a bridgebetween their need and the One who can solveit), and bring the Kingdom of God to them. Thisis easy on a one-to-one basis. When preparingfor a city-wide effort, it’s radical but doable asverified by Silvoso’s testimonies.A methodology of paradigms, doctrines, unity,intercession, and much more comprise PrayerEvangelism. It’s a huge bite for a community tochew. But it’s worth the effort. Just as PrayerEvangelism is worth wading through for pastorsand church leaders.Ginger McGrath, Freelance Writer, Leavenworth, WashingtonF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTNONFICTIONKeep coming, Holy Spirit : living in theheart of revival / Melinda Fish. LCCN2001047210. Grand Rapids: ChosenBooks, Baker Books, 2001. PAP,0800793823, $12.99. Adult. Rating: 2269’.24. Revivals. 206 p.If you are interested in Pentecostal-type revival,this well-written book will answer manyquestions for you. Melinda Fish, editor ofSpread the Fire magazine, speaks to questionsand concerns about revival, especially the typeseen in Toronto, Canada.This easy to read book is based on the doctrinalfoundation of such things as being drunk in theSpirit, slain in the Spirit, or laughing in theSpirit. The author speaks to many other spiritualneeds and areas of revival. Mrs. Fish usesScripture, church history, and firsthand accountsto make her points and illustrate the flowingriver of revival. She speaks passionately fromher own experience as a pastor’s wife and onewho has encountered all that she writes of.Libraries of Pentecostal churches and othersinterested in this subject should purchase thisbook.Ceil Carey, Young Adult Librarian, Public Library, Plano, IllinoisPraying for America / Dutch Sheets.LCCN 2001048314. Ventura, Calif.: RegalBooks, Gospel Light, 2001. PAP,0830728953, $9.99. Adult. Rating: 2277.3’083. Christianity and culture--United States;Christian life--United States; United States--Religion--1960-. 142 p.“We can either watch history being made or wecan make it,” asserts Dutch Sheets, senior pastorof Springs Harvest Fellowship in ColoradoSprings. Sheets makes a good case for this timein our country’s history as the time for revivaland renewal. He points out that we may be blindto the current invitation that God is giving us torepent and return to His ways.In Praying for America, Sheets says that everygeneration must choose whether it wants God’sblessings, to cross over into the land of God’spromises, or experience another forty years ofmoral downward slide. He urges that it is onlythrough prayer, fasting, sacrifice, repentance,and being willing to stand up against publicopinion that we will change America. He alsoexplains the process of “crossing over” intoGod’s promises for us. He encourages us bysaying that God will pass before us, that ourenemies will be terrified, that those who docross over are in covenant with God. Sheetsgives the best in-depth explanation of whatrepentance is and how we achieve it.Praying for America will inspire readers toexamine their lives and their choices in respectto America’s Christian future.Cynthia Washington, Review Columnist for Christian NewsNorthwest, Puyallup, WashingtonJohn Stott : a biography / Timothy Dudley-Smith. 2 vol. LCCN 99021813. DownersGrove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1999-2001.[HBB, v.1, 0830822070, $24.99]; HBB, v.2,0830822089, $24.99. Adult (High school).Rating: 3283’.092. Stott, John R.W.; Church of England--Clergy--Biography; Anglican Communion--England--Biography. 2 v.A Global Ministry is noted author and hymnwriter Timothy Dudley-Smith’s eagerly awaitedsecond volume of the life of one of the world’smost pivotal and respected evangelicalclergyman, Anglican John Stott. The firstvolume covered Stott’s early life. This secondvolume covers the years from 1960 through2000. A close friend and confidante of Stott,Dudley-Smith uses a large variety of data,including Stott’s own diaries, friends’reminiscences, articles and editorials, andcritics’ appraisals. Decade by decade, theaudience learns the intimate details of Stott’s lifeand the rise of contemporary evangelicalChristianity. Highlights include Stott’s:involvement with strategic Christian groups;organizations he founded; books he wrote;confrontations with other notable Christianleaders; glimpses of private life; correspondencefrom both great and small admirers. Theintroduction links the two volumes. Eachsection opens with a well presented summary ofthe events and atmosphere of that decade. Thebook closes with a useful notes section, anexhaustive bibliography, and a practical index.Dudley-Smith encourages the reader who hasnot read volume 1, The Making of a Leader, toperuse its introduction. A good substitute forthis introduction can be found by researchingvolume 1 on www.gospelcom.net. All readerswill constructively enjoy the later half of the lifeof this good and godly man. The author uses amaximum of history and a minimum ofanalyses, allowing the audience to deduce forthemselves. Scholarly, yet comprehensible byall, A Global Ministry presents a very realperson as a friend should, with some warts, anda lot of love. Arranged by decade, two sectionsof photos provide interest. This book will beuseful in the high school, university, and publiclibrary. All interested in evangelicalism will beinterested.Donna J. Eggett, Freelance Writer, Radford, VirginiaThe many faces of faith : a guide to worldreligions and Christian traditions / RichardR. Losch. LCCN 2001040274. GrandRapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001.HBB, 080283910X, $19.00. Adult (Highschool). Rating: 4291. Religions; Christian sects; Christianity and otherreligions. 192 p.In The Many Faces of Faith, Richard Losch setsout to familiarize the reader with the maincustoms and beliefs of the major world religionsand major Christian denominations. Trying toanticipate questions readers might have, he hassucceeded in his attempt and answered thosequestions.The individual religions are arrangedchronologically (a helpful feature) according tothe time at which each faith originated ordeveloped into its current form. World religionsinclude Hinduism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism,Taoism & Confucianism, Buddhism, Islam,Mormonism, Baha’i, Jehovah’s Witnesses,Neopaganism, Unitarian-Universalism, and thebenign cults, Unification Church and HareKrishna. The faces of Christianity include theEastern Orthodox, Roman Catholics, Lutherans,Anglicans, the Reformed Churches,Mennonites, Presbyterians, Baptists, Quakers,Methodists, Disciples of Christ, United Churchof Christ, the Holiness & PentecostalMovements, Adventists, and ChristianScientists.Public libraries will find this a natural additionfor Losch provides a readable and conciseamount of information in a short space. Highschool libraries can utilize the informative studyto help students read straight or as reference toolfor looking up particular faiths.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Ft MyersBeach, FloridaLove extravagantly / Marita Littauer,Chuck Noon. LCCN 2001002253.Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2001. PAP,0764222767, $11.99. Adult. Rating: 3306.85’0973. Marriage--United States; Marriage--United States--Religious aspects--Christianity;Remarriage--United States. 221 p.Love Extravagantly is a “how-to” book forChristian marriage. Authors Marita Littauer andChuck Noon use stories, personality theory, andScripture to counsel married couples throughthis book. For spouses willing to do the hardwork, this work could go a long way tostrengthening a marriage.The eighteen chapters are broken into five majorsections: Career, Financial, Ex-Spouses, StepFamilies, and Personal. Within each section,there are chapters covering specific issues.Starting with an illustrating story, variouscounseling and therapy professionals givemultiple suggestions or strategies for resolvingthe situation. At the end of each chapter is aseries of questions or exercises designed tomove the couple toward a healthy and biblicalsolution.Avoiding dogmatic, one-size-fits-all solutions,Littauer and Noon draw on a wealth of inputsources. They help families develop a uniqueyet healthy solution for their situation. In certainareas, the authors even direct readers to localcounseling for issues/situations likely to need“hands on” therapy.C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 7 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

ADULTNONFICTIONThis work respects that all healthy families don’tlook the same. Struggles may come, but theliberal use of love can help smooth the waves.Using flexibility without appearing uncertain orunprincipled, this book could help you find away.Kirk Hunt, Instructor, Pima County Community College-Business &Industry Division, Tucson, ArizonaThe name of the game : making a lastingconnection with your kids / Steve Schall;[foreword by Dennis Rainey]. LCCN99069242. [Green Forest, Ark.]: New LeafPress, [2001]. HBB, 0892214929, $12.99.Adult. Rating: 3306.874. Parent and child; Parenting; Parenting--Religious aspects--Christianity; Fatherhood. 96 p.Steve Schall, state representative of theArkansas General Assembly, is a tall (sevenfoot) man with a big heart. His main emphasisin The Name of the Game is helping people findways to connect with their children. What arethe most important aspects of the parentinggame? What aspects solidify relationships?How do unreal expectations damage the bestrelationships? How can parents make timespent with their children count for eternity?Schall suggests that parents need to evaluatetheir own parenting style, then adapt to theirchildren’s needs. Schall, as a former player,uses the analogy of basketball, and puttingtogether a winning team as a means of puttingtogether a winning parenting game. Honesty,discipline, practice, time, and follow through areall important aspects of basketball andparenting. Special pictures throughout the bookcapture vignettes of family life and emphasizethe collage of items that makes family life reallywork. The Name of the Game is written for allparents, but focuses especially on a Dad’s needto connect with his children in their formativeyears and keep that connection open.Paula Stewart Marks, School Principal, Bend, OregonReel spirituality : theology and film indialogue / Robert K. Johnston. (Engagingculture.) LCCN 00041358. GrandRapids: Baker Academic, Baker Books,2000. PAP, 080102241X, $16.99. Adult.Rating: 5791.43’682. Motion pictures--Religious aspects. 236p.I enjoy all of the classes I teach. Each onepresents unique challenges and each is gearedtoward better equipping enrolled students tomake the most of their educational experience atthe college. But there are some classes whichstudents seem to like more than others. Amongone of the most popular is the Medium of Filmclass wherein we view films from all eras,encouraging students to look critically at themaking, meaning, and, especially, the messageof the movies. To those ends, Reel Spiritualitywill be very helpful not only for students in theclass, but also for anyone who has everstruggled with how to interact with this verypowerful medium of communication.Part of Baker’s “Engaging Culture” series, ReelSpirituality is arranged in the most useful way.Beginning with chapter 1, “The Power of Film”,and continuing through chapters on “Becominga Film Critic” and “Responding to MoviesTheologically” Johnston has given readers avery helpful set of criteria by which to engageand interact with films and the film industry.Noting the power and popularity of film,Johnston says that he has written this book tofacilitate “Conversation” (his word) with andabout movies in the Christian community.As if to address critics from the start, Johnstonacknowledges that much of how we interactwith movies will be a matter of Christianmaturity, and that there are some for whommovies should be avoided. But, he says, for therest of the Christian community, his book isintended to be tool for helping movie goersbecome critics of an industry that has come tohave great influence on nearly every area ofmodern life. According to Johnston, ReelSpirituality is more about “seeing” than it isabout “looking.” It is about understanding theimages and making proper assessment of them.Reel Spirituality is a book that will be of benefitto everyone that reads it. With examples galore,extensive endnotes, and easy reading format,this book will be one to which readers returntime and time again. They may not agree withall Johnston says about movies, but they willhave to respond to it—at the very least it willmake them think.Dr. Raymond E. Legg, Chair, Dept. of English, Bryan College,Dayton, TennesseeThe invisible child : on reading and writingbooks for children / Katherine Paterson.LCCN 2001032447. New York: DuttonBooks, Penguin Putnam, 2001. HBB,0525464824, $24.99. Adult. Rating: 5808.06’8. Children’s literature--Authoring; Children--Books and reading. 266 p.Katherine Paterson first began to write books in1964, and since then has become an awardwinningauthor. “The chapters in this book,most of which originated as speeches, are likestepping-stones across those years,” saysPaterson in the introduction to The InvisibleChild. The sub-title, On Reading and WritingBooks for Children, prophesies the contents.In this collection, Paterson shows herself as areal person, one who sometimes struggles to getthe words right, yet one who clings tenaciouslyto her characters. More than writing about acharacter, she feels she is getting to know aperson. Paterson identifies her writingphilosophies, also. When she writes a book, sheasserts, it’s not to teach virtue. “I am trying totell a story…” She aims to help a child “…firstdiscover what books can do that nothing elsedoes quite as well.”Readers see Paterson’s spirit as shespeaks/writes passionately about books and theirimportance for children. She believes readersbring themselves into the story. “…eachcharacter in a novel has a visible self and aninvisible self…novels allow…that invisible selfto be open and available to the reader.”These speeches, some of which appearedpreviously in Gates of Excellence(Elsevier/Nelson Books, c1981) and The SpyingHeart (Lodestar Books, c1989), displayPaterson’s sense of humor. Readers discover thefabric of her life that makes her a caring andcompassionate writer. She answers questionsreaders often ask, and explains why some of hercharacters behave as they do.The Invisible Child is a treasure chest, wherewriters find jewels for the taking. It is the sortof book worth keeping on the desk to reread orsimply refer to often. Librarians will reapencouragement. Parents of young children willfind Paterson helpful as they seek books tonourish their children.Betty M. Hockett, Freelance Writer, Teacher, Speaker, Newberg,OregonMission possible : Paul Williscroft’s epicChristian struggle against Nazi andcommunist oppression / Gladys L.Williscroft. LCCN 99071746. Enterprise,Ore.: Biography Press, 1999. PAP,0091524377, $12.50; order direct:Biography Press, PO Box 398, Enterprise,OR 97828. 541-426-6095. Adult (Highschool). Rating: 3921 (266). Williscroft, Paul, 1913-1986;Missionaries--Germany; Missionaries--Poland. 414p.At times riveting, at times disturbing, GladysWilliscroft shares the events, feelings, andchallenges that she and her husband, PaulWilliscroft, experienced as they set out to bemissionaries in Europe from 1938 to Paul’sdeath in 1968. Her focus on husband, Paul,gives testimony to a story of personal risk, trust,and joy that is found in dedication to the Lord.Each chapter keeps the reader moving forwardas events take place that seem plausible and yetvery risky. At countless steps along the way, theingenuity of those who persevere is shown. Amoving biography, this book also serves topersonify the ways God engages a life dedicatedto Him. Though it reads like a novel for thoseinterested learning about Nazi and Communistoppression, it will also be helpful for those whoseek strength to respond to God’s call.Recommended for adult reading shelves inchurch libraries and for prayer groups seekingF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

ADULTNONFICTIONevidence of God’s activity in the world. Publiclibraries can add for historical, first-handaccounts of life under oppression, and forbiography shelves.Leroy Hommerding, Director, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaA life displaced : a Mennonite woman’sflight from war-torn Poland / by EdnaSchroeder Thiessen and Angela Showalter.(Mennonite reflections; 3.) LCCN00304636. Scottdale, Pa.: Pandora Press ,Herald Press, 2000. PAP, 0968554326,$20.00. Adult (High school). Rating: 4940.53’086’91. Thiessen, Edna Schroeder, 1926-;World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives. Polish;World War, 1939-1945--Refugees--Biography; WorldWar, 1939-1945--Mennonites; Women refugees--Poland--Biograpny; Women refugees--Canada--Biography. 217 p.What is it like to become the enemy when youare not the enemy? A Life Displaced tells us instraightforward, riveting detail. PolishMennonite Edna Thiessen was labeled with thedegrading epithet “German” in Poland duringWorld War II and the period just after. Hard andfrightening under the German occupation andresultant fighting, life became agonizing afterWorld War II when those who could be namedas ‘security risks’ effectively became slaves intheir own Polish homeland. The horrificexperiences Thiessen underwent kept her mutefor decades. Now, in her words, we begin tolearn the history of this significant, little knownpart of that era. This book is divided into foursections: several prefaces that give interestinginformation; the main body, Thiessen’s verypersonal story spanning the decade 1939-1949;personal photographs; relevant documents fromthat era. We learn of her family’s disintegration,her own physical and mental hardships, thepeople who came to help her but were hinderedby government regulations, her nearly 1000mile walk to freedom, and the welcome sheltershe finally found in Canada.Angela Showalter wisely edits Thiessen’snarrative of A Life Displaced only enough to addcoherence and grammatical regularity. Therhythm of Thiessen’s accent remains as she tellsher multi-faceted story. Her deep faith illuminesthe whole account. A useful map section isincluded. Interesting and full of importantperipheral data, the opening prefaces tend to beacademic. Relevant to the account, the blackand white photos add their own dimension.This book will interest many readers from highschool through adult, including historyenthusiasts and teachers, young adult girls,students who want to do an unusual book report,leaders in church, homeschooling, public andprivate schools. All libraries will want this one.Donna Eggett, Freelance Author, Radford, VirginiaC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 4 9 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

BOOK REVIEWSREFERENCEGood news : thematic bulletin boards forChristian classrooms / Barb Hilliard;illustrated by Sandy Trimble. (Schoollibrary media series; 22.) LCCN2001032775. Lanham, Md.: ScarecrowPress, 2001. PAP, 0810840790, $29.95.Reference. Rating: 5268'.635. Bulletin boards in Christian education. 229p.As a teacher, I am always looking for resourcematerials which will enrich the classroomexperience for students in my classes. Asteacher of future teachers, I am especiallyanxious to compile resource materials whichthey can use to make their transition into theteaching profession an easy one. To that end, Iwas drawn to Barb Hilliard’s Good News:Thematic Bulletin Board text.Among the features that make Good News, is thefact that its arrangement in themes makes it easyfor teachers to locate material for specific needs,and it is biblically based. Also, the instructionsare simple and straightforward, making themespecially attractive for those with limited timeand/or resources.Beginning with “September Days” (thebeginning of the school year) through “JuneDays” and “Summer Days,” Hilliard hascompiled ideas which can be adapted in anumber of ways to suit the needs of nearly anyclassroom setting (especially younger grades).Included in the book are chapters on the 3 Rs aswell as social studies and science. Interesting,too, are Hilliard’s chapters on BehaviorModification (Bible lessons, not psychology),and Bible and Sports Heroes which all worktogether to provide a good resource from whichto create interesting bulletin boards for theclassroom. The ideas can be copied directly orused as springboards for other ideas (dependingupon the creativity of the teacher).This will be a good resource for teachers inChristian schools or, possibly, to accompanySunday School themes throughout the churchyear.Raymond Legg, Bryan College, Dayton, TennesseeJudaism / by Martha Morrison, Stephen F.Brown. Rev. ed. (World religions.) LCCN2002023633. New York: Facts on File,2002. HBB, 0816047669, $30.00.Reference. Rating: 3296. Judaism. 144 p.Tracing Judaism from its earlier origins,Morrison and Brown discuss the various waysJudaism is practiced throughout the world today.Designed to appeal to both students and generalreaders, the text enables junior high students andolder to grasp the early history of the Jews andJudaism, the Hebrew Bible, the branches ofJudaism, the impact of Judaism, and thechallenges facing Judaism in the future.Public and private school libraries can includethis title for world religions, and public librariesfor Young Adult collections. Some black-andwhitephotos help to add clarity to the text. Aglossary and index enable the reader to locateand review specifics.Morrison specializes in the history of andliterature of the ancient Near East, and hasexcavated in Israel. Brown teaches theology andhas written several books on medievalphilosophy and theology.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Fort Myers,FloridaThe encyclopedia of weather and climate /Michael Allaby. (Facts on File sciencelibrary.) LCCN 2001023103. New York:Facts on File, 2001. HBB, 0816040710,$150.00. Reference. Rating: 4551.6'03. Meteorology--Encyclopedias; Climatology--Encyclopedias. 2 v.If we are to make informed decisions aboutclimate change and our human influence, weneed to know something of the way theatmosphere works, and of how our weather isproduce. The Encyclopedia of Weather andClimate addresses this succinctly. Among thenearly 3,000 entries, the reader finds simpledefinitions, short essays, 300 illustrations, andtables. High school juniors and seniors, and thegeneral adult reader can understand most of theentries. The detail provided enables collegestudents and adults probing processes such ascloud formation, atmospheric phenomena suchas rainbows, or techniques and instruments usedto study the atmosphere, to have adequate detailsand cross-references in capital letters for deeperprobing.Allaby’s text and scope of topics lends itself forinclusion in small and medium sized high schooland public libraries. Appendices provides achronology of disasters, chronology ofdiscovery, tornadoes of the past, web sitesrelated to the topics, and a helpful thirty-fourpage index making cross-referencing andlocation of more minor aspects of this subjecteasy.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Fort Myers,FloridaTimetables of world literature / GeorgeThomas Kurian. LCCN 2002003891. NewYork: Facts on File, 2003. HBB ,0816041970, $65.00. Reference. Rating: 4809'.002'02; Literature—Chronology. 416 p.Who wrote what when? Want to place authorsand their works in the context of their times?Timetables of World Literature is a chronicle ofliterary works from the seventh century B.C.through 2000 A.D. For every year after 1500,Timetables provides annual chronologies.Kurian is an experienced hand at compilingreference books, having worked on library andtrade reference books, and encyclopedias forFacts on File, Congressional Quarterly, HenryHolt, Macmillan, Oxford, and M.E. Sharpe.Medium and large size public libraries canprovide this comprehensive in scope tool forstudents and researchers, and browsers. Each ofthe seven sections begins with a brief discussionof literary developments of the age and therelationship of literature to the general politicaland social climate. This relationship is awelcome asset for Christian libraries andteachers who seek to encourage students andresearchers to recognize the context and abilityto separate the wheat from the chaff.Dr. Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Fort Myers,FloridaAtlas of medieval Europe / Angus Konstam;[maps, Roger Kean]. LCCN 00030004.New York: Checkmark, Facts on File,2000. HBB, 0816044694, $35.00.Reference. Rating: 1911'.4. Civilization, Medieval--Maps; Geography,Medieval--Europe--Maps; Europe--Historicalgeography--Maps; Atlases. 192 p.The Atlas of Medieval Europe by AngusKonstam appears to be misnamed; it functionsmore like a series of essays than as an atlas.Oversize at nine by twelve inches, most of themaps are no more than four by four inches, andat that they are somewhat less than adequate fora book that styles itself an atlas,serving toadvance the text rather being a prime focus inthemselves.Organized into ten main categories each withabout seven or eight subtopics, the text isannoyingly repetitive if read straight through.For example, information on the Moors in Spainis found in the first section on the “Recovery ofF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

REFERENCEEurope” and again in the fourth section, entitled,“God Wills It—the Crusades. Similarlyinformation on people such as Urban II, PopeGregory VII, Eleanor of Aquitaine, etc. isinterspersed throughout several categories.Each subtopic within a category has a two-pagespread, some of which also provide a timelineacross the bottom of both pages. Achronological approach would have been mucheasier on the reader and facilitated reference useof the maps.The book is profusely illustrated with colormaps, photos, and art reproductions. There aregenealogical tables of rulers and a list of popesincluded, as well as an index. The typeface ofthe text is small, probably no more than eightpoint.Although the text appears to be competentlywritten and is current with modern scholarship,it lacks a bibliography. The writing is accessibleto most interested laypersons, if not exactlylively. An editorial error indicated the birth anddeath dates of Pope Alexander II as being onehundred years earlier than they actually were.David W. Rash, History Instructor, Everett Community College,Everett, WashingtonAfrican-American social leaders andactivists / by Jack Rummel. (A to Z ofAfrican Americans) LCCN 2002007915.New York: Facts on File, 2003. HBB,0816048401, $44.00. Reference. Rating: 4920'.009296073. African Americans—Biography;African American social reformers—Biography;African American political activists—Biography. 246p.African-Americans in science, math, andinvention / Ray Spangenburg and KitMoser. (A to Z of African Americans)LCCN 2002008763. New York: Facts onFile, 2003. HBB, 0816048061, $44.00.Reference. Rating: 4920 (509.2'273. African American scientists—Biograpny; African American scientists—Directories.254 p.African-American Social Leaders and Activists,and African-Americans in Science, Math, andInvention are part of the A to Z of AfricanAmericans ten volume collection ofbiographical dictionaries. Written for studentsand general readers in clear and cogent prose,the stories profile 160 individuals in eachvolume and contribute to understanding both theindividual and their accomplishment.Each entry provides a biographical profile,significant events in that person’s life related tohis or her accomplishments, and a reading listfor further information.The expertise of the authors is evident, withRummel having worked as a writer and editorfor more than twenty years, and Spangenburgand Moser as science journalists and authorswho have coauthored more than fifty booksprimarily on the history of science andtechnology.Recommended for public library referencecollections where demand for African Americanbiographies, and research on social issues, callsfor concise and inclusive coverage. Smalllibraries can add a single volume and feelconfident that fields are well covered.Dr. Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, FortMyers, FloridaEncyclopedia of the Roman Empire, rev.ed. / Matthew Bunson. (Facts on Filelibrary of world history.) LCCN2001053253. New York, Facts on File,2002. HBB, 0816045623, $75.00Reference. Rating: 4937'.06. Rome--History--Empire, 30 B.C.-476 A.D.—Encyclopedias. 636 p.The Encyclopedia of the Roman Empire is anupdated version of an earlier 1994 edition. Thisone volume encyclopedia covers all aspects ofRoman history, including people, terms, andgeographical locations from the time of JuliusCaesar in 59 B.C. to the fall of the empire inA.D. 476. Numerous names and places relevantto church history and New Testament history arealso covered. For example, there are articles onAntioch, Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi,Thessalonica, Galilee, Herod Antipas, Agrippa Iand II, Pharisees, Sadducees, Athanasius,Eusebius, and others. (It is difficult tounderstand, however, why the author wouldinclude articles on James, the brother of Jesusand Paul of Tarsus, but nothing on Jesus). Mostarticles range in length from a few lines to a fullcolumn, though some are longer—the article onJerusalem, for example, is over two full pages inlength. The encyclopedia contains fourteenmaps, over seventy illustrations or pictures, andsome articles that include lists of suggestedreadings.The Encyclopedia of the Roman Empire is anexcellent source of information on ancientRoman history as well as information relevant toNew Testament and church history. The articlesare well written and appear to be geared for highschool and college students. According to theintroduction, this work “remains the onlycomprehensive A-Z reference to the more than500-year period of Roman imperialcivilization.” This may be a little misleading.While The Oxford Classical Dictionary (OxfordUniversity Press, 3rd ed. 1996) covers morethan just Roman history, it provides a muchmore scholarly and extensive treatment ofRoman history. And while the Encyclopedia ofRoman History was written by only one author,dozens of scholars contributed to The OxfordClassical Dictionary. For high schools andcolleges that need a good basic encyclopedia ofRoman history, the Encyclopedia of RomanHistory is highly recommended. For collegesand graduate schools that want a more in-depthand scholarly treatment, The Oxford ClassicalDictionary is to be preferred. For schools on atight budget, Matthew Bunson also has a morecompact Dictionary of the Roman Empire inpaperback for $21.50 (Oxford University Press,1995).Dennis Ingolfsland, M.A., M.AL.S., D.Phil., Director of LibraryServices, Associate Professor of Bible, Crown College, St.Bonifacius, MinnesotaThe history of Europe : from ancientcivilizations to the dawn of the thirdmillennium / [John Stevenson]. LCCN2002027125. New York: Facts on File,2002. HBB, 0816051526, $75.00.Reference. Rating: 4940. Europe--History; Europe—Civilization.What has it meant to be a European through theages? Charting the broad sweep of history, thiswell-written, clear archive explores the politicsand influential people of each era which gives ahelpful answer to the question, from theperspective of being a European, and from thatof being outside Europe. By offering a varietyof articles written by a team of experts, thereader is provided an objective and authoritativeinsight into the society and culture of the time inthis volume. From ancient Greece (2500 BC) toa United Europe (2001), both students andreaders are able to see how Europe spread itsvalues across the world.It provides an illustrated timeline thataccompanies each of the major eleven sections,making a quick grasp of the section possible,and complimenting the 320 colorful photos andillustrations and twenty maps that appearthroughout the book. A colorful block in thelower right corner of each page highlights theperiod and year being considered.Those familiar with The Longman Handbook ofModern European History, 1763-1997(Longman, 1998) will recognize the touches ofhistorian and editor, Stevenson. This work lendsitself for use in high school public and privateschool libraries, and is a timeless addition forpublic library history collections.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Fort Myers,FloridaAmerican political leaders / by Richard L.Wilson. (American biographies.) LCCN2002001293. New York: Facts on File,2002. HBB, 0816045364, $65.00.Reference. Rating: 3973'.09'9. Politicians; Statesmen; United States--Biography; United States--Politics and government.Providing students and general readers with aconcise guide to more than 250 present and pastleaders in U.S. politics, American PoliticalLeaders is an authoritative and readable guideby Richard Wilson. Profile and black & whiteportraits or photographs for sixty of theC H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 1 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

REFERENCEindividuals included were chosen based on areview of the most important political leadersmentioned in secondary and college textbooksin U.S. history and political science. Those notwidely mentioned in textbooks but oftenmentioned in newspaper and media files werealso included. Profiles are indexed by categoriesof offices held and by the decade in which theywere born. Each alphabetical entry concludeswith references for further study.This serves as a helpful resource for high school,college, and public libraries where biographiesare in heavy demand, and where a review ofpolitical personages is done.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Ft Myers,FloridaCold War America, 1946-1990 / RossGregory. (Almanacs of American life.)LCCN 2001051136. New York: Facts onFile, 2002. HBB, 0816038686, $105.00.Reference. Rating: 4973.92. Cold War--Social aspects--United States;United States--History--1945-; United States--Socialconditions--1945-. 670 p.Gregory, professor of history, examines aspectsof life in the United States during the years 1946to 1990 with precision and interest. Ofparticular value to high school students (andteachers) is the careful blending of tabulararrangements of statistics with introductions,essays, and personal profiles. Archivalphotographs visually document various eventsand statistics and invite public library users tobrowse through the volume.The comprehensive scope of Cold War Americachronicles changes in the economy, trends inentertainment, politics, the growth oftelecommunications, the course of religion(encouraging that religion is seen and viewed aspart of the regular course of events), and vitalstatistics and health care. A forty-five pageindex enables general readers and students tofind information with ease. A fifteen page list oftables gives a quick overview of the manystatistics offered.Recommended for small and medium publicand private school libraries, and for publiclibraries seeking to offer easy access referencematerial.Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. District, Ft Myers,FloridaF E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

INDEXA to Z of African Americans 51Adventures in ancient Greece 16African-American social leaders andactivists 51African-Americans in science, math,and invention 51Alexander, Hannah 38All the way home 34Allaby, Michael 50Alley, R. W. 13Almanacs of American life 52Alphabeasts 10American adventure series 26American anthem 37American biographies 51American political leaders 51Angelo 16Appelt, Kathi 11Arquette, Kerry 15Aruego, Jose 21Ashes of roses 30Atlas of medieval Europe 50Auch, Mary Jane 30Austere academy 8Ayliffe, Alex 23Bad beginning 8Badger's new house 10Bailey, Linda 16Bang, Molly 18Bang-Campbell, Monika 18Bartoletti, Susan Campbell 33Bee, Clair 25,30Bell, James Scott 34Best single mom in the world 11Bickel, Bruce 32Billin-Frye, Paige 15Birthday present mystery 16Black potatoes 33Bladholm, Cheri 13Bly, Stephen A. 36Bond, Higgins 20Book of dragons 25Borderlands 30Born to be a cowgirl 29Bourgeois, Paulette 12Bowden, John 42Braving the fire 25Brian, Janeen 15Brown, Stephen F. 50Bruchac, Joseph 4,5Brumbeau, Jeff 14Brunello, John Bendall 12Bryd, Sandra 28Bubba and Beau, best friends 11Buchanan, Sue 12Bullfrog at Magnolia Circle 11Bunn, T. Davis 35Bunson, Matthew 51Bunting, Eve 13Burkett, Larry 23Butterfly 22Camp Wanna Banana mysteries 18Canadian Museum of Nature book 22Cape Light 34Carlson, Melody 31Carnivorous carnival 8Carroll, Caroline 28Carroll, Michael W. 28Cartwright, Shannon 23Cave of the Inca Re 25Chalk drawings mystery 16Cheever, George Barrell 33Cherry, Lynne 5Chicken chickens 11Chip Hilton sports series 25,30Clark, Brenda 12Cold War America 52Collard, Sneed B. 22Collier, Christopher 28Collier, James Lincoln 28Comeback Cagers 25Conlan, Kathleen Elizabeth 22Cote, Lyn 31Covenant to keep 42Cow goes for a ride 11Cow in the rain 11Cow under the Big Top 11Cowles, Rose 22Cymbala, Jim 46Cyrus, Kurt 14Dakota moons 39Darwin conspiracy 34Davenier, Christine 12Dawson, Joy 43De Angeli, Marguerite 19de Marcken, Gail 14Deines, Brian 5,6Dennard, Deborah 11,12Dewey, Ariane 21Dewey, Jennifer 30Diary of a chickabiddy baby 26Diary of a teenage girl 31Dickson, Louise 22Difference between babies and cookies12Dig dig digging 23Dinosaurs 28Distant beacon 35Dolan, David 41Dorman, Theodore Martin 41Drama of American history 28Dreamcatcher 5Duck, Daymond R. 32Dudley-Smith, Timothy 47Dunning, Joan 22Durrant, Lynda 5Dyrness, William A. 43Eager Star 27Edge of the wilderness 39Edwards, Wallace 10Eitzen, Allan 27Elliot, Elisabeth 42,43Embrace the dawn 35Encyclopedia of the Roman Empire 51Encyclopedia of weather and climate 50Engaging culture 43, 48Ermine's new home 17Ernst, Kathleen 6Erstaz elevator 8Escape underground 17Evert, Jason 32Evert, Jason 32Exploring ancient cities of the Bible28Exploring God's world with Michael andCaroline Carroll 28Facts on File library of world history51Facts on File science library 50Faded flower 35Faith for all seasons 41Farley, Cynthia Bee 25,30Farley, Randall K. 25,30Farrel, Pam 44Faxel, Tammy 43Fell, Doris Elaine 39Fell, Herbert Granville 25Feltner, Linda 22Fiery fullback 30Finding God's peace in perilous times43Fiore, Peter 24First thing my mama told me 12Fish, Melinda 47Forever ruined for the ordinary 43Fortunes of the Black Hills 36Fraggalosch, Audrey 20Franklin says I love you 12Freeman, Becky 18Fresh wind, fresh fire 46Fresh wind, fresh fire 46Fresh wind, fresh fire 46Gansky, Alton 37George, Elizabeth 44Getting along with people @ work 45Giant chicken mystery 17Girls only (GO!) 26Giving thanks 4,5God catchers 43C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 3 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3

INDEXGood news 50Good News Travel Agency 16Gorbachev, Valeri 11Grandmother's dreamcatcher 6Gray wolf pup's adventure 17Gregory, Ross 52Grimm, Jacob; Grimm, Wilhelm 21Growing through conflict 44Hall, Linda 38Hamlin, Rick 35Hansa : the true story of an Asianelephant baby 22Hanson, Mary Elizabeth 12Hard questions, straight answers : forgirls only 32Hard questions, straight answers : forguys only 32Hartung, Susan Kathleen 14Haseley, Dennis 15Hayashi, Nancy 15Healing touch 38Heart of a chief 4,5Heart of the sandhills 39Hedgehog haven 12Helping kids include kids withdisabilities 45Helquist, Brett 8Henderson, Dee 39Henley, Karyn 14Henry David's house 24Heritage builders 17Hickman, Patricia 39Hidden gifts 35Hilliard, Barb 50Himler, Ronald 4History of Europe 51Hodges, Lynn 12Hoff, B.J. 37Home of the brave 36Home song : a Cape Light novel 34Hostile hospital 8How our house works 23Howard, Arthur 11Hynes, Robert 12,17,19I love you this much 12If you want to walk on water… 44Iijima, Geneva Cobb 15In English, of course 13In this mountain 36Incredible worlds of Wally McDoogle18Indian shoes 17Ininatig's gift of sugar 5,6Inside-out beauty book 28Invisible child 48Iroquois 4Israel in crisis 41Jabez : a novel 36Jantz, Stan 32John Stott : a biography 47Johnston, Robert K. 48Jonah and the whale 21Judaism 50Just like Mama 13Kakkak, Dale 5,6Kallok, Emma 26Karon, Jan 36Kean, Roger 50Keep coming, Holy Spirit 47Kelly, Clint 17Kernly, Kathleen Hadam 20Kest, Kristin 11Kidd, Sue Monk 38KidWitness tales 17Kiesler, Kate 24King came preaching 45King, Stephen Michael 15Kinkade, Thomas 34Kirk, Connie Ann 5Kirkpatrick, Jane 37Klondike cat 18Konstam, Angus 50Koss, Amy Goldman 26Kunstreich, Pieter 13Kurian, George Thomas 50LaMarche, Jim 15Lanning, Rosemary 21Larry Burkett's how things work 23Lawson, Julie 18Learn the Word series 14Leaving home 22Lectures on the Pilgrim's progress 33Lemmons, Thom 36Letwenko, Ed 23Levine, Gail Carson 27Lewis, Beverly 13,26Life cycles 22Life displaced 49Littauer, Marita 47Little Badger's just-about birthday 13Little Flower 13Little Raccoon always knows best 13Little Rat sets sail 18Long trail home 36Losch, Richard R. 47Love extravagantly 47Lutzer, Erwin W. 44Lynx twins grow up 17Macaulay, David 16Mackall, Dandi Daley 27MacLeod, Elizabeth 24Madsen, Jim 17Maki, Alan 40Many faces of faith 47Marie, Ellen 32Mayflower adventure 26Mayo, Margaret 23McCain, Becky Ray 6McCusker, Paul 35Meeker, Clare Hodgson 22Mennonite reflections 49Merrill, Dean 46Middle road 28Millar, H.R. 25Miserable mill 8Mission possible 48Mohawks of North America 5Mombourquette, Paul 18Morgan, Kathleen 35Morning on the lake 6Morrison, Martha A. 50Moser, Diane 51Mother Holly 21Motyer, J.A. 41Motyer, Stephen 41Muller, Robin 10Munger, Nancy 16,17Murphy, Elspeth Campbell 16,17Murray, Andrew 42Music of his promises 43My life as a skysurfing skateboarder18Myers, Bill 18Mysterious you 22Name of her own 37Name of the game 48Neal, C.W. 2Nesbit, Edith 25New kids media 11Newman, Barbara J. 45Nobisso, Josephine 13,20Noon, Chuck 47Noonan, Diana 22Northern intrigue 31Oke, Janette 35On my own, by Caitlin O'Conner 31Ortberg, John 44Osofsky, Audrey 5Parents of teens 32Parker Twins series 25Passion and purity 42Paterson, Katherine 18,48Path to holiness 42Pham, LeUyen 13Photo perfect 26Platypus 14Prayer evangelism 46Praying for America 47Prelude 37Printup, Erwin 4,5F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3 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

INDEXProdigy 37Quest of the historical Jesus 42Quiltmaker's gift 14Rag Baby 14Rand, Gloria 13Randall, Sally 23Real life to the extreme 32Recheis, Kathe 13Reczuch, Karen 6Reece, Colleen L. 26Reed, Nat 6Reel spirituality 48Reptile room 8Revelation for teens 32Riddell, Chris 14Riddles from the hope chest 18Riddles, Libby 23River ran wild 5Romanek, Trudee 22Ronan, Mary 32Roper, Gayle G. 38Rummel, Jack 51Sacrifice 37Sadie's song 38Same stuff as stars 18Savage, Candace Sherk 29Say, Allen 36Schall, Steve 48Schnur, Steven 24School library media series 50Schuett, Stacey 6Schweitzer, Albert 42Seaside seasons 38Second opinion 38Secret life of bees 38Series of unfortunate events 8Severance, John B. 25Sex as God's gift 32Shands, Linda I. 31Sharratt, Nick 19Sheets, Dutch 47Showalter, Angela 49Sign of the beaver 4Silvoso, Ed 46Sixteen cows 14Skillen, James W. 42Skysisters 5,6Slavin, Bill 16Small 15Smith, Cynthia Leitich 17Smith, Hugh Alan 30Smith, Stephanie 17,19Smith, Todd Aaron 11Smithsonian's backyard 11Sneaky thief mystery 16Sneve, Virginia Driving Hawk 4Snicket, Lemony 7,8Snowshoe hare's family 19Somebody cares 46Song of Acadia 35Soundprints' read-and-discover 17,19Soundprints wild habitat series 12Spangenburg, Ray 51Speare, Elizabeth George 4Spencer, Katherine 34Spider Storch, rotten runner 19Spring rain 38Stevenson, John 51Stewig, John W. 21Storm Run 23Story for Bear 15Story of the New Testament 41Story of the Old Testament 41Stott, John R.W. 41Stott, John R.W. 41Strike two 26Stringer, Doug 46Sun song 23Sunrise on Stradbury Square 39Sutton, Susan 23Swamp, Jake 4,5Swanson, Susan Marie 12Szegedi, Katalin 20Tatlock, Ann 34Taylor, Jeannie 20Teen relationships & sexual pressure32Tender ties historical series 37Tenney, Tommy 43Thee, Hannah! 19Thiessen, Edna Schroeder 49Thoreau, Henry David 24Thunderbird gold 6Thunderstorm in church 27Tilley, Debbie 12Timetables of world literature 50Touch 39Trails above the tree line 20Trimble, Sandy 50Trouble at Fort La Pointe 6True honor 39Turtle clan jouurney 5Two princesses of Bamarre 27Unauthorized autobiography of LemonySnickett 7,8Uncommon heroes 39Under the ice 22Valley of the shadow 39Vernon, Louise A. 27Vile village 8Visual faith 43Vulliamy, Clara 15Waboose, Jan Bourdeau 5,6Wakara of Eagle Lodge 24Warren, Mervyn A. 45Watts, Bernadette 21Way we do it in Japan 15Weight of a mass 20Weird friends 21Westerman, Johanna 21What did you do today? 15What difference does it make? 21What do you see when you see me? 20What's a Christian to do with HarryPotter 2Wheeler, Lisa 14Whelchel, Mary 45When lightning strikes 30Where does Thursday go? 15White water 31Whitlow, Robert 37Whitson, Stephanie Grace 39Who I am, by Caitlin O'Conner 31Wide window 8Wild thing 27Williscroft, Gladys L. 48Willner-Pardo, Gina 19Wilson, Richard L. 51Windle, Jeanette 25Wings on the wind : bird poems 24Winnie the horse gentler 27Winter's secret 31Wittstock, Laura Waterman 5,6Woman of confidence 44Woman's high calling 44Woman's high calling 44World religions 50Wright brothers : a flying start 24Written on her heart 40Young cousins mysteries 16,17Young, Ed 5Ziborova, Dasha 13Zisk, Mary 11Zzz… : the most interesting… 22C H R I S T I A N L I B R A R Y J O U R N A L 5 5 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 3