Light Across the River by Stephanie Reed

Light Across the River is the sequel to Across the Wide River. Both historical novels by Stephanie Reed tell the story of the Rankin family, conductors for the Underground Railroad. Reed’s careful research shows in the authentic dialogue and settings.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and recommend reading it first, but this book stands on its own. Reading the exciting and heartwarming adventure told through the eyes of Johnny Rankin and Eliza, a runaway slave, I cried, I laughed, and I learned. I shivered as the chunks of ice gave way under Eliza’s feet as she navigated the Ohio River in her desperate escape from slavery. Taking in shallow breaths, I could almost hear the slave hunters’ dogs and prayed that Eliza wouldn’t be found before she made her way to freedom – something we take for granted.

You’ll never forget the story. What a treasure trove of information and inspiration! Though designated as juvenile fiction, this is a book for all ages.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 216 pages
Publisher: Kregel Publications; 1st edition (April 30, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0825435749
ISBN-13: 978-0825435744

The Fairy Chronicles by J.H. Sweet (Illustrated by Tara Larsen Chang)

The Fairy Chronicles is a set of books written by J.H. Sweet beautifully illustrated by Tara Larsen Chang. On the front of the first book, Marigold and the Feather of Hope, The Journey Begins, it says “…where some girls are also fairies.” The fairy teams consists of normal girls who find out that they are, in fact, not so normal. They can switch to being fairies, and do many good things, go on exciting adventures, and meet other fairies and magical characters in the fairy kingdom.

The fairies each have a different gift, and work as a team to help people and solve problems. Although I’m not fond of ‘magic,’ the underlying theme is one of good versus evil – an enduring and very real problem in all of our lives.

In addition to the adventure in each book, you’re treated to detailed descriptions of each fairy, with Fairy Fun and Facts with recipes and crafts.

I liked it that the author has a sense of humor. One of the older fairies in the second book, Dragonfly and the Web of Dreams, is addicted to caffeine – a trait with which I can identify! And children will identify with the characters in these books. Each one is very well-developed with unique traits, gifts, and mentors.

I believe that our creativity is a gift given by God, and this author and illustrator team is richly blessed. The Fairy Chronicles are imaginative and extremely creative. A fun read! Although recommended for ages 7 and up, I think children from 4 and up would enjoy having the books read to them. One piece of advice - buy a bag of lemon jellybeans, as all fairies like them, you know!

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 120 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Language: English

The Legend of Zoey by Candie Moonshower

Candie Moonshower has seamlessly meshed the experiences of two girls in two different eras into a delightful tale in The Legend of Zoey. Against the background of real events, she has written a fun and at times, poignant story and manages to teach the reader, too. Writing about time travel and using two points of view can be tricky, but Moonshower makes the transition between points of time and view with ease. I look for more great books from Candie Moonshower.

Product Details:
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers (July 11, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0385732805
ISBN-13: 978-0385732802

Across the Wide River by Stephanie Reed

Across the Wide River is a work of fiction, but based on a real family, the Rankin Family, living in a time of slavery and abolition. The story, with its rich descriptions, draws you into the struggle for freedom so much so that you feel the anquish and intense longing of those desiring freedom and those who work so valiantly to secure that goal.

Stephanie Reed introduces us to Lowry Rankin, nothing but a boy in the beginning of the book, who must face constant danger and moral dilemmas when confronted with the reality of the 'family business.' Will he become a preacher and abolitionist like his father? Or will his shyness overtake his desire to help the slaves and preach the Word of God?

This is a story of courage and compassion with even a pinch of romance, but most of all - a story that won't be forgotten. Join Lowry in his adventures, and journey Across the Wide River.

Product Details:
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Kregel Publications (November 25, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN: 0825435765