Entries Categorized as 'Advanced Readers'
Posted by Becca
Categories: Advanced Readers, Fiction, Review
Tags:Dogs, Eric Knight, Flying, Sam Small, World War II, Yorkshire
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Sam Small is the most extraordinary man in Yorkshire, which, of course, means the whole world. Throughout the book, Sam manages to get into several absurd situations, such as splitting his personality so that there are two Sams, finding a talking dog, learning how to fly, and turning into a German officer and planning an attack on Britain by accident.
Sam Small is in an episodic format, so each of the ten stories can stand alone. Some of the stories contain material that is unsuitable for younger readers, similar to James Herriot’s books, and much of the humor may not be understood by a younger reader. Older readers will find Sam Small to be enjoyable and hilarious. Do not skip author’s note as it explains the origins of the main character and includes a beautiful piece about writing in general. The Yorkshire dialect takes a bit of getting used to, but the book is well worth it. Despite the title, Sam Small Flies Again is Eric Knight’s only book about Sam.
Posted by Jordan
Categories: Advanced Readers, Fiction, Incredibook!, Review
Tags:atheism, Bryan Davis, contemporary, joy, Sad
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Two fathers, one an atheist, the other a former pastor, must deal with the reality of death. This book explores how they respond to suffering, and how each of them is ministered to by a young girl’s passionate faith in God.
The story contained within these pages will not fail to move you. As Bryan Davis brings this touching narrative to a close, you will be hard put to keep your eyes from brimming with tears of sadness and joy. Curl up with this powerful book and discover why the angels dance — and come away with a desire to make them dance again.
Posted by Rebekah
Categories: Advanced Readers, Adventure, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Review
Tags:Colonial Jamestown, England, Indians, Mary Johnston, New World, Seafaring
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Captain Ralph Percy of Colonial Jamestown has been a soldier and bachelor for many, many years. At the urging of his friend, John Rolfe, he decides to consider the idea of marriage, provided God directs him that way. God does so and Capt. Percy marries a beautiful, yet mysterious newcomer to the colony. Little does he know that she has fled to the New World to escape a forced marriage and that trouble will pursue her across the sea. With Indians turning on the settlers, an angry king in England, and a cold, distant wife, Ralph must seriously consider the vow he made, and at all odds, protect the lady he has promised to have and to hold.
This is one of those “hard to put in a nutshell” books. The plot is so well executed, with so many twist and turns, the poor reviewer has to stick to the bare bones and leave the rest to the reader’s imagination. I, for one, found this Vision Forum revision to be well worth reading. It has action, adventure, a little intrigue, a nice kind of romance, and above all a focus on God that is truly refreshing. For more sensitive readers, be aware that they do mention some unpleasant things about how the Indians occasionally kill their victims. But be encouraged that I, the easy to be upset one, made it through. It’s handled very tactfully.
Posted by Ruth
Categories: Advanced Readers, Fiction, Review
Tags:Jane Austen, Long Read
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The arrival of an unmarried young gentleman by the name of Mr. Bingley is a matter of great interest to everyone in the small town. Mrs. Bennett in particular is hoping he will take notice of one of her five daughters and sets about ensuring several meetings at dinners and the local balls, etc. Elizabeth Bennett, the second-oldest, finds it of little consequence—but she does take an immediate disliking to Bingley’s friend Mr. Darcy, who seems undoubtedly proud and conceited. However, as the months go by and many, many scenarios unfold, she begins to see his true character. But surely her change of opinion is too late now?
Perhaps not everyone can enjoy Jane Austen’s writings, but I personally find them to be delightful reads of an “every now and then” sort. While not fast-moving, they keep me interested throughout the entirety—and surprising plot twists are not uncommon. Pride and Prejudice must certainly be Austen’s most famous novel (so if you haven’t read it, give it a try); however, I have enjoyed some of her others like Mansfield Park and Persuasion equally well.
Posted by Rebekah
Categories: Advanced Readers, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Review
Tags:Animals, Horses, Long Read, Walter Scott
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Sir Wilfried of Ivanhoe returns from France with his friend, King Richard, in the hopes of re-winning his father’s favor and securing the hand of the lovely Rowena. But danger is quick to follow him. Richard’s brother, John of Anjou, is scheming to rebel against Richard, and Ivanhoe soon finds himself embroiled in the feudal battles of merry England. Chases, escapes (some closer than others), plots, renegade knights, and a surprise appearance by Robin of Locksley give this book more than a dash of adventure.
Sounds good, right? But before you rush off and buy it, let me warn you. It has misplaced romance out the ears. One whole subplot is a knight trying to win a Jewess by fair means (at first), then foul. Unless you don’t consider kidnapping her and and letting her father almost be tortured foul . . . Nothing inappropriate actually happens, but it’s up to you whether you want to wade through all the long talks between them.
Now, on a happier note, there’s some rip-snorting adventure in here. Well-written, edge of your chair, “What’s going to happen next?” adventure. With enough comedy to keep things from getting too heavy. True, it’s written in the older style, but there are very few classics that aren’t, and it lends so much to the story.
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