But Not Forsaken by Helen Good Brenneman

Setting: Germany, late 1940s-50s
Summary: Hans and Maria Penner were Russian Mennonites, a small, despised, German-speaking religious minority, living in the heart of the Soviet Union. Facing harsh oppression from Soviet authorities, they welcomed the invading German army as liberators. So, when the Germans retreated west, the Penners, like many Mennonites, fled with them. Now that the war is over, the Penners must survive in Soviet-occupied Germany, keeping out of the way of the authorities that want to exile them to Siberia, with all that that entails. There is only one hope for the Penners, and that is to flee west, out of the grip of the Soviets.  While in East Germany, their youngest daughter is ill and Hans takes her to the hospital where she dies. While he is away, the Soviets come to arrest their Mennonite neighbour but Maria, with Hansie and Rosie, are able to escape. Hans returns to their home to be told that his family had been taken away. Distraught, Hans starts to travel west, believing his family had been taken East to Siberia, never to be seen again. Meanwhile, Maria also returns home and is told by the neightbour that Hans has left, possibly for Siberia. Hoping against hope, Maria, with the two children, start their perilous journey to West Germany, dreaming that one day they will meet up with Hans. Through God's faithfulness, the family are able to cross the border and are placed in a Mennonite Refugee Camp where Maria's health is restored and the children are cared for.
Hans, who unlike his wife, had lost his faith in God while travelling from the Ukraine but God arrests his heart and turns him back. Through amazing 'conicidences' the family is finally reunited.

Other: The author worked in the Mennonite Refugee Camps in the late 1940s and heard many stories of answers to prayer and saw how God worked through many hardships. Although the book is fiction, it is based on many real-life tales told by refugees.

Reading level: 16 years to Adult

Paperback.
Pages: 266
Size: 133 x 210mm
Christian Light Publications. 1983

Bible Version: KJV

Also available as an audiobook:
5 CD
6 hours long

A Hive of Busy Bees by Effie Williams

Click here to see some sample pages.

Contents

• How It Happened
• The Sting of the Bee
• Another Kind of Bee (Bee Obedient)
• Honesty Always Pays (Bee Honest)
• Because He Left The Gate Open (Bee Truthful)
• A Wonderful Day for Fishing (Bee Kind)
• Who Threw Those Stones? (Bee Polite)
• Why Jake Couldn't Catch the Horse (Bee Gentle)
• Grandpa Could Really Rope Them (Bee Helpful)
• The Tree With a Strange Knot (Bee Careful)
• A Horse Rang the Bell that Day (Bee Grateful)
• You Couldn't Help but Love Her (Bee Loving)
• The Strangest Lamb (Bee Accepted)
• Protected From Danger (Bee Confident)
• The Best Story - Yet! (Bee Content)
• The Note that Fell from the Window (Be Giving)
• Everyone Ran Away From Her (Bee Clean)
• When Things Go Wrong (Bee Forgiving)
• The Man Who Could Not Shoot (Bee Prayerful)
• Home Again!

Setting: Rural USA

Summary: Don and Joyce's family normally visit their grandparents' farm every summer but when their parents decide to go on a fishing trip instead the children are sad to think they will miss out on time on the farm. However, their parents decide to allow the children to travel to their grandparents alone.

Thus the great adventure begins and 12 year old Joyce and 10 year old Don go to visit Grandpa and Grandma during the summer. On the first day at the farm, Joyce is stung by a bee. Grandma takes to opportunity to teach the children about the habits and life of a bee. Each day after that she tells the children a story which teaches them about another BEE. The children have a fun time of the farm with horses, pigs, turkeys and many other creatures to see and help Grandpa care for. Even their visit to church is life-changing as the children finally understand that the Lord wants to be their Shepherd and they seek forgiveness for going their own way. However, when it comes time to leave and return to their parents, Joyce knows that what she enjoyed the most about their stay on the farm was Grandma's stories.

Message: These stories are told to help build character and teach Biblical truths. A clear gospel message included.

Other: Originally published in 1939. Line drawings illustrate some pages.

Reading level: Read to 5-7 years, Read myself 8-10 years.

Paperback.
Pages: 158
Size: 139 x 215mm
Publisher: Sure Foundation.
Bible Version: KJV

Also available: Audiobook on 3 CDS or Audio Cassette

Click here to listen to a sample.

Search to Belong by Christmas Carol Kauffman

Setting: USA, from about 1913 to 1935

Summary: When little David Grant came to live in their home, the Aaron Loomases didn't know who he really was, or where his real parents were. Neither did Melvin Kolb or the workers at the Children's Home, where David had spent his first three years of life.

This is the story of David's search to belong to someone. Despite the love and care he received from his carer from the Children's Home, his friends, his foster siblings, and especially his foster parents, David always wonders where he came from. His foster parents want to adopt him but David holds out, clinging to the hope that one day his real mother would come to claim him.

Only read the following if you like to know the end of the story before reading it for yourself:

David's biological mother, Shana was duped into marrying an already married man who she'd known as a salesman back in her native land of Scotland. After a few months of marriage, Shana's sister tells her of his first marriage. Disappointed and heartbroken, Shana tells her 'husband' to leave. He returns to the UK to get a divorce but unable to do so is unable to return to Shana and a few years later is killed in World War One.

Meanwhile, Shana gives birth to David and following the birth is bullied by her sister into giving him up. Her sister abandons David at a Gospel Mission before he is placed in a Christian Children's Home for three years where Sister Lora, a worker in the home, develops a close relationship with him. Then he goes into the care of godly Aaron and Rosa Loomas where David is loved, accepted and treated as their own flesh.

After Shana learns of the death of David's father, she marries again to Anthony. Still heartbroken over the loss of David she begs to find him. Anthony traces David to the Children's Home but being very jealous and not wanting David to be found, he tells Shana that David had died as a baby. Not long after this Anthony is struck down with some form of mental illness and is ill until his death 17 years later.

Meanwhile, David has grown and matured through all the hard experiences of life. Teased and bullied at school and having to listen to gossip and people asking him where he came from, David struggles to fit it. However, when he realises that God is his Father and accepts Christ as his Saviour, an anchor for David is found. Friends and other special people in his life encourage him onwards. A boy with a high intellect and a sweet personality and depth of character, David still struggles to see past his, possibly illegitimate, beginnings. However, with God's help he overcomes and marries. Soon after his marriage he finally finds his biological mother.

Other: This biographical story is based on an actual experience but all the names are fictitious and the author has created some details. Written to encourage foster children and foster parents, encourage those who work with children with no or broken families and to help the general reader to understand the needs of the foster child.

Reading level: 16 years to Adult

Paperback.
Pages: 341
Size: 128 x 191mm
Conestoga Valley Bindery

Bible Version: KJV

God Made Them All by Miriam Crisenbery

Click here to view sample pages



Contents:

Bunny

Rhinoceros

Cheery Chipmunk

Puppies

Elephant

Little Goose

Hamster

Flamingo

Hippopotamus

Toad

Duck

Giraffe

Raccoon

Funny Monkey

Moth

Rooster

Graceful Swan

Bear

Kittens

The Tiger!

Toby Turtle

Gorilla

Summary: Poems and full color photographs of 22 animals. The poems not only emphasize the animals as gifts from God, but also include lessons we can learn from them.

Reading level: Read to 3-5 years; Read myself 6-8 years

Paperback.
Pages: 46
Size: 155 x 218mm
Christian Light Publications. 1991

Bible Version: none

God's Miracle - Me by Rebecca Newswanger

Excerpt:
God made me,
Look and see;
You are special too.
Head to feet,
All complete,
Think what we can do.
Close your eyes,
Now surprise!
Blink them open wide;
You can see,
I can see,
Birds and trees outside.

Summary: Beautiful pencil drawings of children playing, exploring, and using their five senses accompany simple verses for preschoolers. God is honored as the maker, sustainer, and healer of our wonderful bodies. Even children with physical handicaps are included in praising God for the miracle of themselves.

Other: Pictures of women have Mennonite head coverings.
Readng level: Read to 3-5 years; Read myself 6-7 years

Paperback.
Pages: 28
Size: 152 x 210mm
Christian Light Publications. 2008

Bible Version: none

God's Miracle - An Egg by Rebecca Newswanger

Click here to look inside the book

Excerpt:
Let's peek inside our chicken house;
Oh, look! See what I found
In this soft nest; it still feels warm;
It's hard and kind of round.
An egg! An egg! You guessed it right!
Who could have put it there?
Our pretty chicken laid this egg
Let's handle it with care.

Summary: Illustrated verse helps children understand how God makes a chicken come from an egg.

Other: Pictures of women have Mennonite head coverings.
Reading level: Read to 3-5 years; Read myself 6-7 years

Paperback.
Pages: 32
Size: 152 x 210mm
Christian Light Publications. 2009

Bible Version: none

God's Miracle - A Raindrop by Rebecca Newswanger

Click here to see inside the book.

Excerpt:
I hear a rumble far away,
"Oh, Mother, will it rain today?"
My mother smiles and answers me,
"I really hope; we'll wait and see."
The garden's dry and needing rain,
So all the plants can grow again.
The sky grows black, and blacker still;
I see dark clouds behind the hill.

Summary: As thunder rumbles, lightning flashes across a darkening sky, and rain begins to fall, a mother explains to her curious son the amazing miracle of the water cycle.

Other: Pictures of women have Mennonite head coverings.
Reading level: Read to 3-5; Read myself 6-7

Paperback.
Pages: 32
Size: 152 x 210mm
Christian Light Publications. 2006

Bible Version: none

God's Miracle - A Seed by Rebecca Newswanger

Click here to see inside the book

Excerpts:

(First page)
Look! here's a tiny grain of corn;
Inside is God's surprise;
For no one else could make a seed
But our great God so wise!

(Last page)
This winter, cows will eat the corn
The farmer grinds—and then
We'll wait until next spring to watch
God's miracle again.

Summary: Illustrated verses help children marvel at God's wisdom in creating seeds that germinate, and grow to produce food and more seeds. Reading level: Read to 3-5; Read myself 6-7 Paperback. Pages: 36 Size: 152 x 210mm Christian Light Publications. 2004 Bible Version: none

The Work of Thy Fingers by Pablo Yoder

Click here to see 20 pages from the book

Excerpt:
How big are your fingers?
How big are God's fingers?
What can your fingers make?
What did God's fingers make?
When I consider thy heavens,
the work of thy fingers,
the moon and the stars...
What is man, that thou art mindful of him?
—Psalm 8:3-4
My fingers can make some little things. But God's fingers made the earth, the oceans, the sky, and all that is in them. His fingers made heavens, moons, and stars. Everything we see out there was made by God's fingers!

Amazing!

Contents

• Introduction
• 1. Poison Dart Frog
• 2. Rufous Hornero
• 3. Porcupine Fish
• 4. Hercules Beetle
• 5. Water Opossum
• 6. Orchids
• 7. Dancing Ladies
• 8. Common Tody Flycatcher
• 9. Sea Bean
• 10. Mosquito Trapping Worm
• 11. White-throated Crake
• 12. Green Turtle
• 13. Iguazú Falls
• 14. Little Green Heron
• 15. Bucket Orchid
• 16. Bat Falcon
• 17. Smoky Jungle Frog
• 18. South American Termite
• 19. Montezuma Oropendola
• 20. Common Crab
• 21. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl
• 22. Acacia Ant
• 23. Bare-throated Bellbird
• 24. Greater Spear-nosed Bat
• 25. White-collared Swift
• 26. Gaudy Leaf Frog
• 27. Ochre-bellied Flycatcher
• 28. Common Opossum
• 29. Mombacho Salamander
• 30. Long-tailed Hermit Hummingbird
• 31. Peperomia-like Epidendrum
• 32. Boa Constrictor
• 33. Stinky Cactus
• 34. House Wren
• 35. Miniature Orchids
• 36. Northern Jacana
• 37. Mantled Howler Monkey
• 38. Scarlet Macaw
• 39. Kapok Tree
• 40. Ant Lion
• 41. Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift
• 42. Holland Shoe Orchid
• 43. White-collared Manakin
• 44. Wild Ginger
• 45. Southern Lapwing
• 46. Vanilla Orchid
• 47. Olive Ridley Turtle
• About the Author & Primary Photographer

Summary: Let Pablo Yoder take you on a tour of nature’s paradise in Latin America and see the handiwork of God’s fingers. Whether you simply gaze at the photos, go deeper and read the stories, or get serious enough to digest the scientific information, this is one tour you can enjoy over and over again.

Other: Spectacular photography throughout.

Reading level: 10 years - Adult

Hardcover
Pages: 231
Size: 285 x 224mm
Christian Light Publications. 2009

Bible Version: KJV

My Father's World by Pablo Yoder

Click here to view pages from the book

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• 1. The Dry Branch That Blinked
• 2. Little Green Hitchhiker
• 3. The Bird That's as Tall as You Are
• 4. Someone Has Been Here!
• 5. Little Black Sambo
• 6. Tiny, Spiny Farmers
• 7. The Monkey-Faced Orchid
• 8. The Blind, Headless, Tailless Creature
• 9. The White Tent-Making Bats
• 10. The Meanest Sting in the Jungle
• 11. Blue Creek
• 12. The Bug With the Big Nose
• 13. The Daddy That Carries His Baby on His Back
• 14. Black and White
• 15. The Little Rooster With the Hat
• 16. A Repast in the Woods
• 17. The Invisible Vine Snake
• 18. The Dogtooth Wasp
• 19. The Little Opossum With Pink Ears
• 20. Candy Cane
• 21. The Birds That Do Everything Together
• 22. The Beetle Knight
• 23. The Boldest Creature I've Met
• 24. Thorns That Hop
• 25. In Search of a Story
• Pronunciation Guide
• About the Photographer/Author

Summary: A beautifull presented book full of fascinating information about flora and fauna of Soth America described in a very interesting manner.God is honoured as Creator throughout and creation is not to be worshiped. However, the gift of His Son is even greater.

Other: Full-colour throughout. Spectacular photography.

Reading level: 10 years- Adult

Hardcover.
Pages: 150
Size: 200 x 262mm
TGS International. 2010

Bible Version: KJV

Justin's Jungle Adventure by Mary Currier

Setting: The jungle of Congo

Summary: Justin's parents were missionaries in the jungle of Congo and Justin always tried to obey his parents immediately. Dangerous animals lived in the jungle and Justin knew he could never go there. So when Justin built his play hut under the leafy bubinga tree, he thought he was safe. Suddenly, his father called him to come immediately. He obeyed and he was saved from a snake. Justin and his father thank God for His protection.

Other: Stunning artwork on every page. Large print.Short sentences

Reading level: Read to ages 3 to 6.

Paperback.
Pages: 24
Size: 167 x 204mm
Christian Light Publications. 2010

Bible Version: none

Hannah is a Helper by Laverne K Eby

Click here to view sample pages.

Setting: Rural

Summary: One morning, Hannah decides she will be a helper. So she helps mother wash the dishes and a few other chores and helps to look after her brother. By the end of the day she was so tired but so very happy and thanked GOd for a happy day.

Other: Large print. Line drawings throughout.

Reading level: Read to 3-6 years.

Paperback.
Pages: 25
Size:133 x 191mm
Christian Light Publications. 1990

Bible Version: none

Building With Daddy by Sharon L Eby

Click here to see sample pages

Setting: Contemporary Western society

Summary: Christopher, at almost 7 years of age, enjoys watching his father work in his shop building sheds and is only too willing to assist Daddy in any way possible. As he watches and helps, Daddy teaches him how the work he does is like building one's life and the need to build on a solid foundation - the Lord Jesus. At each stage there are exciting things to see, little things to help with and many lessons to learn. Christopher can't wait to grow up and build sheds just like Daddy. In the meantime, he decides to build a doghouse with just a bit of help from Daddy and with his little sister as his assistant. He has learnt so much from Daddy, especially that if you are faithful in little things, then you'll be trusted with bigger things later.

Reading level: 6-8 years

Paperback.
Pages: 46
Size: 169 x 203mm
Christian Light Publications. 2010

Bible Version: none

Aurie's Wooden Leg by Lionel A Hunt

Click here to view an excerpt from the book

Setting: Edmonton and northern Canada. Sometime before World War One, when X-rays, telephones, automobiles, etc were new inventions.

Summary: Twins, Tony and Valerie Johnson (no age given in the story, although they were old enough to go to school and should have been able to read fluently - lack of schooling meant they were delayed) have recently lost their mother and now their father is very sick. The doctor has given up hope and told Mr Johnson to finish up his affairs and arrange for the children's care. This is done and the twins (with $8000 for their support) are given to Mr and Mrs Davis, a couple who have no scruples, are uneducated, selfish and decide to keep the money for themselves.
Aurie, as Tony calls Valerie, knows the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour and Friend but Tony cannot understand how the Lord's death could save him. Before leaving their father, Aurie promises to 'bring' Tony to the truth so the family will meet one day in heaven. The children are also given a package each from their mother, which contains a Bible, a message and $10. Very quickly the Davis' find one Bible, which is burnt, and one $10 note, which they steal from the children. The children are rather neglected and forced into slaving for the couple.
Wanting to escape with the money, Mr Davis arranges for Tony to be placed in an orphanage (he is too sharp) and Aurie is taken with the couple on a long and dangerous journey to the wilds of Canada where the Davis settle and build a farm. On the way, Aurie meets a girl, Laura, who she confides her life story in and also leads the girl to the Lord.
Some time later, Laura is lost in a town and a man finds her. As it turns out it is Mr Johnson, recovered from his illness and now searching for his lost children. Through his meeting with Laura and her family, he is able to get enough clues to find Tony and then go off with Tony on the trip to find Aurie. By this time Aurie has had many adventures and has found that the Davis are related to a criminal wanted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Just as the Davis are trying to escape, leaving Aurie behind, Mr Johnson and Tony arrive. Tony and Aurie are locked in a barn during a blizzard and Tony sacrifices his leg for the life of his sister. Thus, his wooden leg becomes known as 'Aurie's wooden leg' and he learns the meaning behind the verse "The Son of God loved me, and gave Himself for me."

Message: A very clear gospel message simply told in terms that children can understand. The Lord will never leave or forsake His own.

Other: At the beginning of the book, it mentions that television and radio are "wonderful" things. "Wonderful" possibly means "amazing." Definitely fiction as the story is very hard to believe!

Reading level: 7-10 years.

Paperback.
Pages:160
Size: 133 x 191mm
AB Publishing. 2006

Bible Version: KJV

One Woman Against the Reich by Helmut W Ziefle

Click here to see inside the book

Setting: Nazi Germany, 1938-1945

Summary: The story of a German Christian family during World War Two.

Georg and Maria Ziefle had three children when Adolf Hitler took over Germany: 13 year old Reinhold, 11 year old Kurt, and 10 year old Ruth. As the influence of Hitler took over, the pressure placed on the children at school to join the Hitler Youth and other activities.  Kurt was lured into the glitter and prestige of being a leader in his Hitler Youth group but the other children faced persecution. Maria's heart ached for the safety of her children. Not only for their physical and emotional safety but their spiritual lives.
A Protestant family who refused to compromised with the regime, even at home the pressure was unrelenting and unforgiving. Even the neighbours harassed and threatened. When Maria discovered she was expecting another baby she was terrified of what this child would face. However, God's comfort and assurance gave her strength and Helmut (the author) was born in 1938. When the war began Georg was conscripted but mercifully allowed to work in the local Red Cross station. As the boys matured their parents agonised over what would happen to them. Reinhold was conscripted and sent to some of the most dangerous places but God worked in amazing ways, removing him at just the right times. At war's end he was imprisoned by the Russians but his life spared until his release in 1950. Kurt joined the Air Force but before he actually joined the action he was seriously injured and thus his life was spared.
In the heavy bombing of Heilbronn, their hometown, as the Allies gained supremacy, the family was again and again spared in amazing ways. A story of God's protection, providence and provision.

Message: A powerful portrayal of the courage and determination of a Christian parent to remain obedient to God in spite of the enticements and assaults of a hostile culture. This struggle continues today. Our secular culture, filled with enticing messages and explicit images, applies relentless pressure on our children.

Other: Originally written in German in 2000

Reading level: 16 years - Adult

Paperback.
Pages: 189
Size:152 x 230mm
Kregel Publications. 2003

Bible Version: KJV

Peep Behind the Scenes by Mrs OF Walton

Setting: 19th century England

Summary:
Living in a carnival would be so exciting. All the bright colours and fun that go with the fair would be pure joy. At least that's what the local children thought. Bu they didn't know of Rosalie and her family.

Twelve-year-old Rosalie's life is anything but fun. Her father manages a theatrical company which travels from fairground to fairground. He doesn't take time to think about his family's needs or wants. When he's not working he's enjoying himself with the local people, only coming to the family to pressure them to keep working.

Rosalie's mother is very sick. So sick that she can't act in any of the shows, much to her husband's chagrin and wrath. But she loves Rosalie and tries to shield her from evils of the fairground.

Rosalie has to stay up late working very hard with the acting troupe. Life behind the scenes is anything but exciting. One day, a stranger gives Rosalie a picture of a shepherd holding a lamb. The man tells the young girl and her mother about the Good Shepherd, Jesus, and how He longs to show His love for them. This brings back memories from her childhood and Rosalie's mother shares her past with her daughter, explaining how she was lured into the glitter of the stage and came to marry an actor. Her past sins and sorrows loom large in her mind. One day, Rosalie gets to see her aunt for the first time and her mother instructs her to go to her aunt when she dies.

Before the mother dies, she finds peace and joy through repentance of sins and faith in Christ. Rosalie also finds the Good Shepherd and shares her joy with all she meets. Her father soon remarries a very selfish woman and when he is killed in an accident, Rosalie knows she must escape. Finding her way to her aunt, she finds finally finds a refuge and love.

Message: A clear message on the false happiness of the world, the glitter of the world is nothing compared to the peace and joy found in the Lord Jesus Christ. Clear gospel message.

Other: Classic fiction. Reprint: first published in 1877

Reading level: 10-14 years

Paperback.
Pages: 255
Size: 130 x 195mm
AB Publishing
Bible Version: KJV

Bible Puzzles for Young & Old

Click here to view sample pages.

Complied by Martha Yoder.

An assortment of word puzzles on inspirational themes. Word searching, letter unscrambling, and crossword fill-ins are some of the puzzle types in this collection.

Sixty-four puzzles for all age levels.

Other: Originally published as Bible Puzzles for Young Readers

Contents

• God Is
• Our Great Creator
• God's Handiwork
• ...
• Easter Word Search
• Our Lord and Saviour
• Wonderful Words
• A Promise
• ...
• Obey God
• Our Great High Priest
• Jesus Will Come Again
• Sowing and Reaping
• A Great Reward
• A New Body
• In Heaven
• Puzzle Answer Key

Paperback.

81 pages.

Size: 134 x 217mm

Christian Light Publications.

Bible Version: KJV

My Bible ABC by Catherine Mackenzie

Summary:

A is for Adam - the first man made by God
B is for badness - sin came into the world
C is for care - God loves us and expects us to obey Him
D is for don't - God gave a command to Adam and Eve
E is for Eve - the first person to disobey God
F is for friends - once they sinned, Adam and Eve could no longer be friends with God.
G is for gave - God gave them clothes and a punishment
H is for hard - sin lead to difficulties
I is for illness - brought into the world through sin
.... and so it goes through the message of man's fall and God's way of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

This Bible activity book is full of drawings to colour, seek-and-find items, activity ideas and exciting information about God's Son and how he loves us. An excellent introduction to the gospel for young readers. Very simple but yet covering many Bible truths. Includes Bible references. Can be used as a help for Sunday School or Scripture teachers.

Ages 4-8.

Paperback.
Pages: 64
Size: 212 x 210mm
Christian Focus Publications. 2001
Bible version: only one verse included which uses the author's paraphrase

Red, Yellow, Black, & White by Dwayne & Lois Stoltzfus

Summary: A book of full-colour photographs of children from many countries around the world, their lives and trials. Written in poetic narrative with only 2 lines of large print per page.

Excerpt:
What do you have on your table to eat -
Peaches, potatoes, or some kind of meat?
The children of Haiti are happy if they
Have rice and beans at school every day.
About all they have at home is bread
When they wake up or go to bed.
Good water in Kenya is so hard to find
That's free from diseases of every kind....

Hi, little children!
You look happy and sweet.
If I'd give a Bible,
Would that be a treat?
"Oh, yes, yes!" you say. "In China, it's true,
There aren't many Bibles - only a few!"....

You needed a doctor, but none was nearby;
So she walked and she walked. Did you have to cry?
We'll give you some lotion; we'll give you a pill.
Ans soon you'll feel better and not quite so ill.
Here at the clinic you'll find that we care,
And we'll lift you up to our Jesus in prayer....

Reading level: Read to 2-6 years.
Paperback.
Pages: 55
Size: 137 x 205mm
Publisher: TGS International. 2010
Bible Version: no Scriptures quoted.

Light from Heaven by Christmas Carol Kauffman

Setting: Rural America, early 20th century

Summary: Annie Stokes married a young man who everyone thought was a fine Christian but within a week of her marriage she'd learnt that it was a facade that he liked to present to the public. Hypocritical, harsh and self-centred he made life miserable for his family and it seemed he had an extra strong dislike for his oldest son, Joseph. He showed more concern for his farm and horses than for his wife and children. Work was first. Mishaps were dealt with harshly. Praise was a foreign language.
Deprived of her husband's love and confidence, Annie poured her affection on her children, especially Joseph. Sometimes she intervened when discipline was unjust and merciful. The abuse was hard to understand. To provide for and protect the children, she and Joseph shared secret and made plans behind his father's back.
Annie prayed devoutly for her children. When her husband refused to provide for basic needs the Lord worked in marvellous ways. And though Joseph struggled, he was determined to have right attitudes toward his father. As he permitted his trials to deepen his faith, his life became a blessing to others. Although the home was a hotbed for bitterness and emotional desolation, a devout mother bridged the gap, loving her children, teaching them Bible stories, teaching them to respect their father and praying fervently for their safety and salvation. Those prayers were heard and the children learnt to forgive and rise above their circumstances to a life of purpose and peace.

Message: Points to the one true hope for all man's miseries - Jesus Christ. The power of God despite a horrendous family situation. The tremendous influence of a praying mother.

Other: This story is basically true. For continuity and interest, the author drew from her own imagination and knowledge of the characters and their times. So while the characters are true and the main events are true the conversations etc are based on what happened and not particularly what was said.

Reading level: 16 years - Adult

Paperback.

Publisher: Christian Light Publications

Pages: 537

Size: 134 x 210mm

Bible version: KJV

Granny Han's Breakfast by Sheila Groves

Setting: Taiwan, prior to 1985

Summary: An American missionary, known as Granny Han, in Taiwan arranges for a young people's conference and trusts the Lord to pay for expenses. When the money arrives she hides it away but it stolen anyway. Believing the thirf to be her house-helper, Oo-lan, but with no proof, Granny Han takes the matter to the Lord. With no money and no food in the house, Granny Han asks God to show Oo-lan that He is faithful and true. God answers her prayers in amazing ways, providing all that is needed. After some years Oo-lan confesses her guilt and commited her life to the Lord.

Other: Photographs throughout.

Reading Level: Read to 6-8 years, Read myself 8-10 years.

Publisher: Overseas Missionary Fellowship, 1985
Paperback.
Pages: 24
Size: 134 x 210mm
Bible Version: none

For One Moment by Christmas Carol Kauffman

Setting: Germany, World War I to about 1950


Summary: At 5 years of age, Herbe's life is turned completely upside-down when, instead of returning home from fighting in Italy, his father divorces his mother and demands that Herbe and his 9 year-old brother go to live with him and his new wife in Austria. Unwanted by their stepmother, Herbe is sent to Czechoslovakia to attend a Catholic school for preparation for priesthood. While there his beloved brother dies breaking Herbe's heart. He also is disillusioned about the Catholic church and finally persuades his father to allow him to become an apprentice for a glazier. Years pass and Herbe continues to experience many hurts and disappointments. When Hitler comes to power, Herbe believes that Hitler will be the answer to all his troubles. Joining the army he risks all for the regime he completely believes in. When Hitler commits suicide Herbe wonders if life is a mindless progression of disappointments. Is it a wasteland of pain and dashed hopes? Must it be empty of purpose and meaning?
Bitter, frustrated, fighting against a God he doesn't know or understand, Herbe comes to a moment of crisis. Almost shot as a spy, Herbe realises his need to know God. He soon realises that God had His hand over every detail of his life. From that time on Herbe's life was dedicated to serving the Lord.


Message: The importance of love, the emptiness of the world and the goodness of God which leads to repentance.


Reading level: 16 years to Adult


Paperback.
Pages: 353
Publisher: Christian Light Publications. Originally published 1960.
Size: 108 x 177mm


Bible Version: KJV

A Small Price to Pay by Harvey Yoder

Setting: Soviet Union 1930s to 1986


Summary: Mikhail Khorev was born in to a Christian family. Not just any Christian family but one where the father was extremely strong in his faith and refused to bow to the state. When he was 8, Mikhail's father was arrested and within two years had died in prison for his faith. This left Mikhail's mother to raise her three daughters and son at an extremely difficult time as the Second World War was in progress. Through God's great goodness they were able to escape before the effects of the Siege of Leningrad claimed their lives. For the next four years the family wandered from place to place looking for a way to survive before they could finally return to their city.
At 17 Mikhail finally makes his parents' faith his own as the Word of God, which he had heard all his life, sunk in and the Holy Spirit did a work in his soul. From that day forward, Mikhail's whole goal in life was to serve the Lord despite the restrictions placed on the church by the government. As the situation worsened in the churches, Mikhail became one of the leaders in urging the church to seperate from the registered churches, puppets of the state. As Mikhail travelled around the Soviet Union encouraging believers to stand firm for the Lord, he was arrested several times and served several prison sentences. Through this all, Mikhail served the Lord wherever he was, sharing with anyone he could about the love and grace of God. His final prison term ended in 1986 but despite being released he was placed under house arrest, restricting his ability to serve the Lord. Thus until the fall of communism, Mikhail lived in hiding but continued preaching and teaching.


Message: God provides the grace to endure every trial. God answers prayer. Anything that we can give is a small price to pay for what Christ has done for us.


Reading level: 16 years - Adult


Bible version: KJV

Paperback.
Publisher: TGS International. 2006
Pages: 251
Size: 228 x 154mm

Deep Calleth Unto Deep: A Solo Sailor's Nightmare by David Zaharik

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Setting: Strait of Georgia, British Columbia, Canada. 6th September 2003

Summary: 45 year old David, a pilot with Air Canada, fell off a 37 foot sailing yacht while motoring on autopilot. He fell into ice cold waters almost 5 miles offshore without a life jacket. David knew that survival was impossible and so he turned to God. Somehow he lasted for over three hours in the water before making it to land.

Message: God is a faithful, merciful and loving. His love leads Him to test and teach each of His own. God is sovereign.

Reading level: 16 years to Adult
Bible version: KJV
Pamphlet.
Pages: 46
Size: 133 x 203mm
Publisher: Bible Truth Publisher. 2004

God Knows My Size! by Harvey Yoder

Setting: Communist Romania, 1950s to 1980s

Summary: Silvia Tarniceriu was one of nine surviving children in a poor Christian family in Romania. Life was difficult with minimal wages and the continual harrassment experienced by Christians. To help reduce the number of mouths to feed, Silvia is sent to live with rich relatives but finds that family and love is more important that having an abundance of food and possessions.
When she was 13 years old, Silvia faced the question: Is there really a God? Her teachers laughed at the mere idea of God. Yet her parents and pastor not only believed in God , but served Him devotedly. Which of them was right?
So Silvia decided to find out for herself if God was real. She asked Him for three things - a pair of shoes, a sweater, and a coat. For a large, poor, Christian family these were almost impossible to buy. How could she expect a miracle?
But it happened! God answered her prayer in a way far more beautiful than she expected! And the truth He showed her then sustained her later as she faced persecution for her vibrant faith and later when she was sent to prison for trying to escape Romania.
Silvia's uncompromising faith and dedication to Christ is rewarded over and over as the Lord constantly helps, strengthens and comforts her throughout her ordeals.

Message: God is faithful and will honour those who honour Him. His presence and love is unfailing. Obedience and service are vital to Christianity.

Other: This is a companion volume to Elena by Harvey Yoder as it Elena and Silvia were good friends. However, both books stand alone.

Paperback.
Reading level: 16 to adult.
Bible version: KJV
Pages: 248
Size: 153 x 230mm
Publisher: TGS International. 1999

Also available as an Audiobook (Set of 7 CDs)

Elena by Harvey Yoder

Setting: Communist Romania 1950s to 1980s

Summary: Growing up in a poor Christian home in communist Romania brought its own kind of suffering for Elena. Losing both her grandfather and father also took a toll on the young girl. With nine children to raise, Elena's mother was encouraged to send some of the children to boarding school, especially as the state had confiscated the family's land. At the age of eleven, Elena was sent to a distant state boarding school where she endured loneliness, ridicule and abuse.
As she grew older, Elena found her niche in running. The Christian teaching she had received at home faded to the background as she trained with a vengeance to become the fastest runner in Romania. Her goal seemed close, when God's loving call changed her life's course!
After making a total commitment to Christ, Elena was kept under surveillance by the communists due to her involvement in children's work in the church, contact with foreigners and Bible smuggling. Nevertheless, she was determined to work for the Lord. Finally, she tried unsuccessfully to escape from Romania twice. The second attempt landed her in prison. There, although suffering many hardships and more ridicule, Elena found that our sovereign God can use trials to strengthen His children and increase their faith in Him. Finally, through pressure put on the government by foreign Christians, Elena was released from prison and later permitted to emigrate to the USA.

Message: God is able to give us strength to endure the worst of circumstances. If we rely on other people, no matter how godly they are, God will often place us in situations where we learn to rely solely on Him.

Reading level: 16 - Adult

Publisher: TGS International. 2003

Pages: 240
Paperback.
Size: 150 x 223mm

Bible version: KJV

Through Thick & Thin by Anna Malison

Setting: Contemporary North America, perhaps in a semi-rural area

Summary: While playing in an old barn with her siblings, 14 year old Becky, is seriously injured. While their two younger brothers go for help, 12 year old Amy is left with Becky. As she waits for the paramedics, Amy’s mind goes back to the many things she and her siblings had learnt in the past year. A crazy aunt, neighbourhood bullies, arrogant cousins, humiliating accidents, as well as vivid imaginations ensure an exciting and eventful life. Through thick and thin Amy has learnt that the awful experiences of life are fresh opportunities to rely on the Lord for courage, wisdom and help.

Message: The way of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is clearly explained throughout the book. Also the need for reliance upon the Lord for help and strength.

Reading level: 10-14 years

Other: Although the children in the story are homeschooled it is only a small part of the book. Fiction.

Bible version: KJV

Paperback.

Publisher: Gospel Folio Press. 2005

Pages: 129 pages

Size: 136 x 204mm

Paula the Waldensian by Eva Lecomte

Setting: Villar-Pelice, France in the ?late 1800s or early 1900s

Summary: Into the home of an interesting but self-centred family in old France comes Paula, a 10 year old orphaned cousin, from the Waldensian Valley. Though she had lived simply on a farm, Paula had been brought up to know and love the Lord Jesus and read the Scriptures. Her Lord and His Word are the centre of her life. This causes many complications, for her cousins’ home is one where “religion” was a forbidden subject and Paula soon is forbidden from reading her precious Bible.

Despite these troubles, Paula’s loving obedience, friendliness and charm, her overflowing love for everyone she meets, wins the hearts of all, family and neighbours alike, and causes many a change in the village. Follow the story of the family during the five years Paula lived with them and the impact which she had on her cousins – selfish Lisita (9), arrogant Louis (10), studious Rosa and crippled Catalina (18) – and her uncle and their servant, Teresa.

Message: The gospel is clearly presented throughout this book and the love of God, His care and concern for each of His creatures. His holiness and the need of complete obedience is another theme.

Reading level: 12 and above. (Very confident readers of 10 years may also enjoy it but the print is small.)

Other: Originally written in French.

Bible version: KJV

Publisher: AB Publishing

Paperback.
Pages: 191

Size: 132 x 194mm

Stand By, Boys! by Klaas Norel

 

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Setting: The Netherlands, 1^st February 1953

Summary:  Teenage boys Len and Art with Art’s sister, Coba, and their families live in Zeeland, a part of the Netherlands which had been reclaimed from the sea. Dikes had been built to keep the sea back and everyone thought they were safe. But a combination of high tide and a storm threatens the island. Len and Art become heroes when they sound the alert about a potential breach in the dike on the north side of the island and help with stopping the breach. However, the south dike is broken and half the island is flooded.  Coba also is heroic, rescuing a baby from the floods and almost losing her own life. But will all members of  both families survive?

Message: True safety is found in Christ and even though one may lose their physical life, through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ eternal life is assured. Peace is not found in circumstances but is found in Christ.

Reading level: 12 and above

Other: Reprint (originally printed in 1955)

Bible version: KJV

Paperback.

Publisher: Bible Truth Publishers

Pages: 81

Size: 118 x 181mm

Probable Sons by Amy LeFeurve

Setting: Late 1800s England.

Summary: Young  Milly becomes an orphan and is sent to live with her uncle, Sir Edward Wentworth, who does not want her or know how to treat her. Despite being unloved by anyone but her nurse, Milly knows God’s presence, comfort and care, as the Bible is her greatest inspiration and source of games. Milly acts out many Bible stories in her play time but her favourite is the story of the prodigal son which  Milly pronounces as “probable sons.” After befriending her uncle’s head keeper and his wife, Milly has some adventures as she has a tender heart for prodigal sons but through it all she wins the heart of her uncle. He is seriously injured in an accident but through this and Milly’s chatter he realises that he needs to make changes to his life as he is one of God’s “probable sons.”

Message: The need for “coming home” to a forgiving and loving God is very strong in this book. Obedience is another strong lesson.

Reading level: for any confident reader 8 years or above.

Other: Fiction. Reprint (originally printed in nineteenth century)

Bible version: KJV

Publisher: Inheritance Publications. 1996

Paperback.

Pages: 94

Size: 134 x 204mm