I read 75% non-fiction books. I consider
fiction books to be a “break” in my routine. After I’ve read 4-6 non-fiction
books, my brain usually feels like it needs a break. J
But I’m also pretty picky about the fiction books I read. If I’m really in need
of a mental break, I reach for Nancy Drew. J Other than that, the only fiction
books I normally read are historical fiction books (but NOT historical
romances.)
Most of my favorite historical fiction books
have come from Vision Forum. I highly
trust their company and the appropriateness of their materials, and have never
been disappointed. One book I received as a Christmas gift from their catalogue
is called “Glaucia the
Greek Slave” by Emma Leslie. It is the first in a series of 6 books on the
history of the early church. The series was written in the late 1800’s, and
thus uses “older” language.
The story follows a young Greek girl named
Glaucia. It begins with Glaucia and her brother in the market, being sold as
slaves. Their mother had abandoned their family years before, and when their
father passes away, they are sold to pay off his debts. Glaucia is sold to an
elite Roman family headed for Athens, while her brother escapes and also begins
to make his way to Athens to free his sister and find their mother.
During their respective journeys, they become
aware of the early church movement. A man named Paul is preaching about a God
who loves even slaves. Both Glaucia and her brother become curious about this “Christianity.”
The main reason I enjoyed the book, is that
it brought to life part of church history. I learn and retain history through
stories. Books like “Glaucia the Greek Slave” help me see history through a
different perspective than what comes through a text book. I would definitely
recommend this book for ages 10 and up (because of the older style language. It
could be read aloud to younger children, but parents use discretion.)
I will close with my favorite quote from the
book:
“‘Nay,
I possess nothing,’ answered Glaucia. ‘The Lord hath taken my empty heart and
filled it with His love, and I—I have nothing to give but this love, His own
gift, in return.’”
Sounds like a cool book!
ReplyDeleteIf you like historical fiction, G. A. Henty are good books. They also come from Vision Forum.
In HIS Service,
Caleb
Thank you for your comment, Caleb! I have read "In the Heart of the Rockies" by Henty, and would love to read more of his works!
ReplyDelete~Bianca
Thank you so much for this review, I have read the book now and it is a truly
ReplyDeleteincredible story. Thanks you:)