Little Pilgrim’s Progress by Helen L. Taylor was delight to read because the language was easy for us to understand.  Just like the centuries old Pilgrims Progress classic,  this easier version details the journey of  Christian as he leaves the City of Destruction and heads to the Celestial city. This book is very spiritual and heavenly minded and Christian is challenged to see if he will be faithful. He faces many trials which are often difficult and scary.  My boys and I had many discussions during this story as we read about all of the trials that Christian and his friends went through.  In the end, the  point that came through for us was that God will be faithful to bring us through any trials  we face on our journey to the celestial city.

Although this book is an allegory full of adventures, battles, and giants, that my boys loved;  the message is serious, hopeful, yet quite sobering.  This book is not twaddle for sure and will be  a keeper for our library. We read it a few years ago….perhaps we will read it again  before we tackle John Bunyan’s version.  ~Anne

“Titus: Comrade of the Cross” is another book that probably should be read as a family unless your child is older. Titus is not graphic, but there are some distressing events, cruelty, illness,  and death that you might want to discuss with your children as you read.

In 1894 the publisher of this book rewarded Florence Kingsley with $1,000 for writing a story that would set a child’s heart on fire for Jesus Christ. Titus is a historical fiction set in the days of Christ’s ministry.  The characters in the Bible come alive as you read through the pages,  and Christ becomes so real; you feel as though you are walking the streets with this loving carpenter, his disciples,  and the boy Titus.  As you continue to read, you faith grows when you encounter Christ the healer, the friend, the Savior,  and King. Titus has a surprise ending that is good but sad.  You need a box of tissues for this one….. especially at the end. ~Anne

We read Johnny Tremain as a family read-aloud and I’m so glad we did.  My sister gave this book to her son to read on his own and he thought it was boring so he did not finish it.  If you read it as a family and talk about it together it won’t be boring but exciting and character building.

If you are studying American History, especially the Revolutionary War period….or even if you are not,  Johnny Tremain is a must.  I would encourage you to read it and discuss the many themes throughout the story with your family.

Johnny Tremain takes place in Boston during the 1700’s.  Johnny has no parents, is 14 years old,  and works as an apprentice for a silversmith. Johnny grows up in this story and learns about loyalty, humility, friendship, and the sin of pride.  He encounters evil and hypocrisy but also learns about courage, liberty,  and fighting against tyranny.

My boys and I gained a better understanding of life in Boston during the 1700’s.  As we read through the pages of Johnny Tremain, we encountered John Hancock, Sam Adams, James Otis, Paul Revere, Joseph Warren, Josiah Quincy,  and the Son’s of Liberty.  We gained a better understanding of  The Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s ride and the Battles of Lexington and Concord. First and foremost though we learned about the bravery and character of our founding fathers.  We learned that brave men and women fought against Tyranny “So that a man can stand.” Johnny Tremain is a keeper for us and will remain in our Library or be added to my “Grandmother Box.” ~Anne