Henner’s Lydia

Our rating: ***

Lydia, a girl in an Amish family, wants to go to Lancaster with her father like her older brother and sister. She can go as soon as her hooked rug is finished, but after a certain disaster I won’t mention so it isn’t spoiled, Lydia feels her chances are ruined for a long time.

This is a fairly short book with a fairly simple plot with fairly interesting speech. In regard to the latter, the Amish speak a mixture of German and English. I suppose this book might be hard to read aloud with their kind of talk, but I think it might make a good read aloud otherwise. Henner’s Lydia might be aimed for children younger than I am, but it’s alright. Not one of my favorites, though. If you’re looking for a simple, somewhat educational book to relax with, this book might be for you!

The Door in the Wall

Our rating: ****

In this medieval story, young Robin falls ill and loses the power of moving both his legs. With his father in the army and his mother called to serve the queen, he is left alone with a few servants. Then, when the servants catch the Plague, Brother Luke comes and takes Robin to the hospice, where Robin learns useful skills, while at the same time learning patience. Sir Peter summons Robin to the castle, so Robin, Brother Luke and John-in-the-Wynd set out. After having several adventures, they arrive at the castle and Robin finds his “door in the wall” when the castle is besieged by a Welsh army.

Pretty good book! You can learn more about medieval times and also have adventure along the way!