Plumfield Moms

“Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked” (1 John 2:6). The apostle John began his first letter by reminding us that he was an eyewitness to Jesus’s life on earth. He adamantly proclaimed that Jesus came in the flesh so we can have fellowship, along with John, in the Father and in Jesus the Christ. But saying we have that fellowship isn’t enough. After some severe pronouncements about the opposition of darkness and light, truth and lies, John made the statement that whoever says he abides in Jesus ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.

Sara Masarik’s References In Defense of Beverly Cleary Blog Post Clementine by Sara Pennypacker Lily's Victory Garden by Helen L. Wilbur Friend of Freedom River by Gloria Whela Mackinac Bridge by Gloria Whelan The Scarlet Stocking Spy by Trinka Hakes Noble The Town that Fooled the British by Lisa Papp Rudy Rides the Rails Dandi Daley Mackall The Impossible Journey by Gloria Whelan Ideas have Consequences by Richard M. Weaver After Virtue by Alasdair MacIntyre How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler Sarah Kim’s References Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan Angel on the Square by Gloria Whelan An Experiment in Criticism by C. S. Lewis Watership Down by Richard Adams Diane’s References The Tempest by William Shakespeare The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald Amos Fortune Freeman by Elizabeth Yates Starship Troopers by Robert Heinlein Tanya’s References The Door in the Wall General References Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Mighty Networks Shelf Notes

The more Ann Rinaldi I read, the more her writing disappoints me. Brooklyn Rose had the potential to be a charming and interesting historical novel, but several recurring flaws render it unsuitable for a thoughtful young adult audience or a library that aims to provide living books and quality historical fiction. The book centers around Rose Frampton, a young Southern belle who, in 1900, enters into a marriage of convenience with a wealthy, older man named Renee. Rose is innocent and idealistic, hoping that her mother is right and that love will grow with time. The story unfolds through her diary entries as she adjusts to life in Brooklyn, New York which is the center of her husband’s business affairs. Renee, who is kind, gentle, and generous, dotes on Rose, but the differences in their ages and maturity levels is obvious and it is very hard to see a partnership between them. Though the historical setting initially draws you in, Rinaldi’s use of modern expressions breaks the period feel, creating jarring anachronisms that detract from the novel’s authenticity. The language lacks richness and complexity, which may appeal to a younger audience on a surface level but ultimately underserves the depth that historical fiction readers expect. Beyond these stylistic issues, the plot is poorly constructed. For example, early in the story, we hear of a plague sweeping port cities, but this detail is soon abandoned. We meet a cast of characters, including Rose’s family and the Irish servants, yet none of their arcs develop in meaningful ways. In fact, I even wondered if the plague would show up in their stories somehow, but that was not the case. Even Rose’s prized horse, a symbolic connection to her Southern roots, is mentioned as shipped to Brooklyn but then simply disappears from the narrative. These plot holes create an experience that feels disjointed, superficial, lacking direction, and lacking any real storytelling. Sadly, there is an undercurrent of adult themes, presented in a way that feels inappropriate for the intended teen audience. First, we have a small line about how Renee’s kisses make her feel in her body. Then, she tells her journal how tender and loving Renee is and how it was easy to “give herself to him” on their wedding night and how that has created new intimacy between them. Rinaldi could have approached Rose’s coming-of-age journey through emotional development, yet she bypasses this in favor of superficial interactions and just enough veiled comments about sexual intimacy to make a young reader curious. Most concerningly, Rinaldi hints at deeper marital issues that our young readers do not need to be exposed to. Rose tells us again and again that Renee doesn’t tell her many things about himself, his past, or his family, revealing a lack of emotional intimacy between them. I thought that this might be a plot point that would resolve in her coming-of-age story, but that never really happens. Additionally, she tells us how Renee routinely calls her “child” and treats her as one. Kind as he is, he doesn’t really respect her as an equal or something other than a favorite pet. And, when Renee’s mother’s arrival brings a bizarre level of conflict to Rose’s new life, Renee is unwilling to defend his young wife, and this worsens Rose’s confusion, culminating in an illogical scene where she runs away to test her husband’s love. Overall, Brooklyn Rose seems to lack a clear purpose. The writing feels overly simplistic, the historical elements are thinly developed, and the themes are ill-suited to a young readership. While I wanted to like this novel, Brooklyn Roseultimately feels like a quickly assembled tale without the substance that would make it memorable. For libraries seeking compelling historical fiction for young readers, this book falls short on many fronts. I have found Ann Rinaldi books to be uneven. Some I have liked, some I have not. You can read my review of others here: A Break With Charity The Fifth of March The Education of Mary https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/brooklyn-rose-cautionary-review

Lad: A Dog by Albert Payson Terhune is a classic that captures the heart of any dog lover with its vivid language and realistic storytelling. Set in the peaceful countryside of Sunnybank, the book follows the adventures of Lad, a noble collie, whose loyalty, intelligence, and bravery are celebrated in a series of charming and heartfelt anecdotes. The strength of this book lies in Terhune’s ability to bring the world of dogs to life. His language is rich and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the interactions between Lad and his human family, his experiences at show competitions, and his interactions with other dogs. Each chapter showcases a different aspect of Lad’s character, whether it’s his fierce protection of his home, his gentle patience with his female companion, or his unwavering devotion to his owners. However, readers should be aware that there are some dated elements in the book. Terhune’s portrayal of the “bulgar” as Black, while not malicious in intent, reflects racial views that modern audiences may find troubling. Similarly, the emphasis on Lad’s pedigree and bloodline—while appropriate for the time—might feel excessive to today’s readers, especially those who care less about purebred status and more about the personalities of their pets. Additionally, there is some level of dog-on-dog violence, and the traditional methods of discipline and training depicted in the book may not resonate with contemporary approaches to animal care. That said, for dog lovers, Lad: A Dog remains a treasure. The bond between Lad and his family is beautifully portrayed, and Terhune’s admiration for the dog’s noble spirit shines through. Those who appreciate dogs will likely find themselves swept up in Lad’s world, admiring the qualities that make him such a worthy companion. Despite its dated elements, the core message of love, loyalty, and the unique bond between dogs and humans shines through, making it a worthwhile read for anyone who appreciates the loyalty and love of a good dog. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/lad-a-dog

"One of the most disturbing instances of idol worship in the Old Testament is when the Israelites were waiting at the foot of Mt. Sinai for Moses to come back down. They decided Moses wasn’t coming back, so they demanded that Aaron make them a god. And he did! 'And they made a calf in those days, and offered a sacrifice to the idol and were rejoicing in the works of their hands' (Acts 7:41). It’s easy for us to wonder what in the world was wrong with those Israelites. They had recently witnessed their Creator miraculously plague their captors. They had seen the cloud that baffled the Egyptian army while the entire nation of Israel crossed the Red Sea on dry land! They had eaten manna and had drunk water that poured from a rock. And yet, when circumstances became a bit uncomfortable, the people who had witnessed God’s mighty works reverted to their ingrained way of thinking. Like children not yet able to comprehend anything they can’t see or touch, they preferred the work of their own hands. Oh, those silly, childish Israelites! Thank God we aren’t like that. Truly, if you can say without hesitation you aren’t like that, thank God. I feel the need to examine my heart."

In this conversation, the Plumfield Moms and Bethlehem Books discuss the origins and mission of the publishing company, which focuses on providing quality children's literature rooted in a culture that values faith and education. They explore the community aspect of their work, the influence of Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy, and the journey from a bakery to a publishing house, culminating in the release of their first book. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the world of children's literature, sharing their passion for beloved books and the journey of publishing. They discuss the significance of community and faith in their publishing endeavors, the revival of the periodical 'In Review' as a valuable resource for book lovers, and the importance of quality in book production. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling and the impact of literature on young minds. They explore the significance of forgotten books, cultural heritage, and the evolution of publishing in the digital age. The discussion also touches on navigating grief, the importance of imagination in literature, and the role of community in fostering a love for reading. They emphasize the need for good literature and the positive influence it can have on individuals and families. Bethlehem Books is a small press focused on bringing beautiful out of print living books back into print. Their catalog is a treasure trove of vibrant, faith filled, wholesome, and family friendly living history stories. We are not affiliated with Bethelehem Books but Sara’s family is always reading something of theirs. This page has links to all of our reviews from this catalog of books. As we review more, we will update the page. The Cottage At Bantry Bay Drovers Road Series Enemy Brothers Five for Victory (The Mitchells) Good Old Archibald Happy Little Family Happy Times in Noisy Village The Hedge School Miracle of St. Nicholas Old Sam Dakota Trotter Philomena Reb and the Redcoats Red Falcons of Tremoine The Red Keep Sun Slower Sun Faster The Strange Intruder The Winged Watchman Year of the Black Pony

“So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him” (2. Cor. 5:9 ESV). What really got me thinking about how we use these words were the two translations that said, “We try our best.” Because what Paul says he is “trying his best” to do is to please Jesus. And the reason is that we are all going to appear before his judgment seat to receive what is our due for what we have done. I’m afraid we have become quite glib about tossing about the phrase, “I tried my best.” It has a feeling of finality about it. Well, I tried. It didn’t work out. I guess I don’t need to do that again. I’m certain that is not what Paul meant! I’ve been thinking about this verse this way: I make it my ambition to please him. An ambition is an eager or strong desire to achieve something. A strong desire to achieve something doesn’t allow me to give it a try and give up if it doesn’t work out.

Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies by Hillary Morgan Ferrer Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott Green Writer Share your library story Link for Mail Bag Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Mighty Networks Shelf Notes Picture Book Preschool LibraryThing TinyCat Find us at The Card Catalog Website: https://thecardcataloglibrarians.com/

Angel on the Square by Gloria Whelan transports readers to pre-revolutionary Russia through the eyes of a young aristocrat. We explore how this captivating historical novel brings the Russian Revolution to life, showing the fall of the Romanovs and the rise of the Soviet regime. With rich storytelling and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for those who love history and stories of resilience. Check out our full review to see why it's a perfect living book for young readers!

"Knowledge makes for stability. Peter’s intention is to remind us of important points though we know and are established in the truth. That is, we are set fast, firmly fixed in the truth. Ignorant and unstable people will twist Scripture “to their own destruction.” We have been warned so we won’t be carried away with their errors and lose our own . The prophetic word we have is firmly fixed, sure and certain. It is something reliable enough that we can build on it. Peter writes with urgency because the Lord had made it clear to him that the end of his life was near. While he still has time, he will make every effort so that after his departure we may be able at any time to recall these things. (2 Pet. 1:15) He was willing to make every effort to remind us, but we still have to do our part. We can’t remember things we don’t know. Peter exhorts us to be all the more diligent to make our calling and election sure. We will never fall if we practice adding virtues to our faith. We have to pay attention and 'be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace' (2 Pet. 3:14). We must take care not to be carried away with the errors of lawless people."

In this conversation, we discuss the value of picture books in both education and personal enjoyment. Sara Masarik delves into the works of Gloria Whelan, highlighting her contributions to historical fiction, specifically mentioning, The Hedge School, The Miracle of St. Nicholas, Small Acts of Amazing Courage, The Angel on the Square, and Homeless Bird. The discussion also touches on the significance of setting in storytelling and the connection between literature and geography. Sarah Kim talks about Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture as well as Dorothy Sayer's Gaudy Night. The discussion highlights the richness of Sayer's storytelling and its connection to her personal life. Diane explored the significance of a book club focused on 'Mama Bear Apologetics' and convinced all of us to buy it (while we were recording!). She also shared the beautiful story, Mountain Born. Tanya shared the remarkable story of Jim Key, a horse that demonstrated extraordinary intelligence and abilities, leading to a movement for kindness towards animals. She also discussed the relatable and timeless experiences of family life depicted in Hilda von Stockum's books, particularly focusing on the Mitchells' adventures during World War II. The discussion highlights the importance of kindness, education, and the shared experiences of parenting, making it a rich and engaging dialogue for listeners. Sara Masarik’s References The Hedge School by Gloria Whelan The Miracle of Saint Nicholas by Gloria Whelan Small Acts of Amazing Courage by Gloria Whelan The Angel on the Square by Gloria Whelan Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan Gary D. Schmidt The Mistmantle Chronicles by M. I. McAllister The Borrowed House by Hilda Van Stockum The Tangled Skein by Alta Halverson Seymour Hilda Van Stockum Alta Halverson Seymour Lines of Courage by Jennifer Nielsen Jeeves and Wooster by P. G. Wodehouse Hilda Van Stockum Page at Biblioguides Sarah Kim’s References The Found Boys by S. D. Smith Brunelleschi’s Dome by Ross King Murder Must Advertise by Dorothy Sayers Whose Body by Dorothy Sayers Gaudy Night by Dorothy Sayers Diane’s References Mountain Born by Elizabeth Yates Amos Fortune, Free Man by Elizabeth Yates Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies by Hillary Morgan Ferrer Tanya’s References The Town That Fooled the British by Lisa Papp Step Right Up: How Doc and Jim Key Taught the World about Kindness by Donna Janell Bowman The Mitchells: Five for Victory by Hilda Van Stockum The Borrowed House by Hilda Van Stockum The Winged Watchman by Hilda Van Stockum Interview with Bethlehem Books General References Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Mighty Networks Shelf Notes

Earlier this month I reviewed Hidden Yellow Stars by Rebecca Connolly and celebrated it as being perfect for the “hopeful stories from WWII” category. When I finished, I went looking to see what else she had written and was delighted to see that she had a historical fiction novel that was released last year about Edith Cavell and WWI. I instantly grabbed it. My Greta loves Edith Cavell and here at Plumfield, we have been actively looking for more WWI novels that would be appropriate for teen readers. Under the Cover of Mercy absolutely fits the bill. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/edith-cavell-under-the-cover-of-mercy

"I believe that Jesus was teaching us that true thanksgiving is concurring with God’s right judgments. Whether circumstances look good to me or not, I want to be transformed by the renewal of my mind. "For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?’ But we have the mind of Christ' (I Cor. 2:16)."

In this engaging conversation, Sara, Diane, and Kevin T. Ford discuss the journey of becoming an author and the creative process behind his book 'Lepunia'. They explore themes of family, writing inspiration, and the importance of understanding the target audience for children's literature. Kevin shares insights into his writing style, future projects, and the unique experiences that shaped his storytelling. Ford emphasizes the importance of creating believable characters, particularly in the context of animal protagonists, and how these characters can convey deeper themes of relationship and identity. The discussion also touches on the significance of place in storytelling, drawing from personal experiences in the Great Plains, and the collaboration with illustrator Michael Genova to bring the story to life visually. In this engaging conversation, Kevin T Ford shares insights into the importance of crafting a read-aloud experience for families and anticipates the release of his sequel, emphasizing the value of community engagement and the moral lessons embedded in his stories.

Inspired by true events in World War II of the Warsaw librarians’ resistance, Madeline Martin’s 2023 historical fiction novel, The Keeper of Hidden Books is her strongest novel so far. As Poland tries to avoid succumbing to the invasion of Germany, young Poles are organizing themselves into various forms of resistance work. Zofia and her Jewish friend Janina are assigned to assist the Warsaw public librarians as they work to preserve and protect Poland’s national collections. When Poland falls and the Germans take control of the libraries, the librarians work to hide and protect the books from the German eradication of all works which do not support Hitler’s agenda. This story is powerful and very well done. I continue to be very impressed with Martin’s ability to tell clean and exciting stories that have literary value and historical significance. For mamas and teen readers, these books are more elegantly written and more complex than Jennifer Nielsen’s YA novels but have much of the same flavor and interest. I cannot wait to see what she writes next! https://plumfieldandpaideia.com/keeper-of-hidden-books-warsaw-librarians-resistance/

If Paul considered his affliction light and momentary, what are we called to think about ours? He didn’t have anything we can’t have. When he told the Ephesians to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might,” it wasn’t a suggestion. It was a command followed by instructions on how to do that. “Put on the whole armor of God,” and when you have done everything, “stand firm.” When he wrote to the Corinthians, Paul didn’t say he had exclusive access to the mind of Christ. He said we have the mind of Christ. We’re not competing with horses on our own power. “It is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13).

The story: The Blair family has recently moved to the country from Detroit. Dad and Mom had to go back to the city for a few days so they left the four kids to take care of things at the new house. The oldest sister is college-age, so that’s okay. Their very first night alone in the house, the two boys hear a noise in the attic that needs to be investigated. Hollis, the oldest boy, maybe twelve years old, wants so badly to have a mystery to solve that everyone assumes he’s making a big deal out of nothing. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-picture-book-reviews/who-walks-the-attic

“Nothing that exists by nature can form a habit contrary to its nature . . . Neither by nature, then, nor contrary to nature do the virtues arise in us; rather we are adapted by nature to receive them, and are made perfect by habit.”

Tanya’s References The Librarian Spy by Madeline Martin The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan Henry Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner Sarah Kim’s References The Betrothed by Alessandro Manzoni Beneath the Magnificent Dome by Anna Iakovou Sara Masarik’s References A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller, Jr. Lord of the World by Robert Hugh Benson Alas Babylon by Pat Frank Dead-Eye Dan and the Cimarron Kid by Glenn McCarty Diane’s References Irena’s Gift by Karen Kirsten War Diaries by Astrid Lindgren Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan

I have been on a Connie Willis kick lately. You may have read my review of To Say Nothing of the Dog – the hilarious comedy that reminds me of Jeeves and Wooster or The Importance of Being Earnest. Or, you may have heard me raving about Blackout and All Clear. At Christmas, I read and reviewed her collection of Christmas-themed short stories, A Lot Like Christmas. And I just re-read Doomsday and reviewed it, here. This review is for something totally different from Willis, Crosstalk. Crosstalk is part sci-fi and part psychological adventure with a little romance thrown in. No time travel. This book was a lot of fun to read and had an intriguing premise. That said, I will not give it to my teens as there is frequent discussion about unmarried characters having sex, and the plot revolves around sexual attraction. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/crosstalk

The life of Joseph, in the Old Testament, is a vivid example of the shade of God’s hand. Joseph was a favored son of his father. He also had the gift of interpreting dreams. While it would have been prudent for him not to advertise his dreams in front of his brothers, he wasn’t responsible for the hatred that drove them to be willing to kill him. As Pharaoh’s slave, and later in prison for something he didn’t do, Joseph may have been wondering if he would have been better off dead. When he interpreted dreams for two fellow prisoners, he must have thought he’d bought his ticket out. The men he helped didn’t return the favor, and he sat in prison for two more years. “Is my gloom, after all, Shade of His hand, outstretched caressingly?”

“The aftermath of World War II brought great suffering to people in Europe. Thousands of Americans responded, healing the wounds of war with kindness. My grandparents, Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom, headed one relief effort initiated by American ornithologists. This is their story. They enlisted the help of fellow scientists, and together they sent care packages to more than three thousand people in fifteen countries throughout Europe.” Judge learned the story when she discovered a box of foot tracings in her grandmother’s attic. Then her mother began to remember details. Now Judge shares with us the story of regular people who quietly helped thousands of suffering strangers. Like many, many others of the Greatest Generation, they did it because it was the right thing to do. When the job was done, they didn’t expect to be hailed as heroes or awarded medals. Sometimes they didn’t even tell their grandchildren. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-picture-book-reviews/one-thousand-tracings-healing-the-wounds-of-world-war-ii

"When I doubt my own abilities, God has me right where he wants me. My faith is not to be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. To those who are called, that power is the word of the cross. Thank God, if my faith is in his power, I don’t need to worry about my own lack of eloquence or qualifications. I am assured that it is Jesus Christ who will sustain me, and that God who called me is faithful. If I am trying to appear wise and capable in my own right, I had better give it up. “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, ‘He catches the wise in their craftiness,’ and again, ‘The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.’ So let no one boast in men” (1 Cor. 3:18-21)."

I usually steer clear of apocalyptic novels because they tend to be depressing, strange, and godless. So when my Tuesday Night Classics Club chose the science fiction novel, A Canticle for Leibowitz, I was hesitant. However, since it is highlighted in Joseph Pearce’s Literature: What Every Catholic Should Know, I decided to give it a chance. To my surprise, it became one of the most thought-provoking books our group has discussed. Set after a global nuclear war known as the “Flame Deluge,” the novel explores humanity’s struggle to rebuild civilization amidst the ruins. In the wake of the war, there is a violent backlash against knowledge and technology, culminating in the “Simplification,” where mobs of “Simpletons” destroy books and kill anyone with learning. Interestingly, a Jewish electrical engineer named Isaac Edward Leibowitz survives the chaos and joins a Cistercian monastery. He is convinced that he must dedicate his life to preserving human knowledge through the secretive “booklegging” of hidden texts. Eventually, he founds the Albertian Order of Leibowitz in the desert of the American Southwest, whose charism is rooted in the preservation of any remnants of scientific and cultural knowledge they can find. The novel is divided into three sections or “canticles,” each set centuries apart. The first, Fiat Homo (“Let There Be Man”), was especially fascinating to me. Set in the 26th century, civilization has regressed to a medieval-like way of living. The story opens during Lent with Brother Francis, a religious novice, fasting and praying in the desert. While keeping vigil, Brother Francis stumbles upon a fallout shelter containing artifacts from the Venerable Leibowitz, igniting a series of events that reflect the tension in the Abbey between honoring Leibowitz and his values and the need to survive in a culture that wants nothing to do with the past or its knowledge. The second canticle, Fiat Lux (“Let There Be Light”), was more difficult for me. Set in 3174, civilization has evolved to an Industrial Revolution-like state. The Abbey, at this point, is both a place of spiritual significance and a center of technological discovery, as the monks work to discover electricity. They have heard the myths that electricity existed before, but many do not believe it, because they cannot believe that man, having had such luxury, would waste it on war. The third Canticle, though, brings the novel to a powerful close. In 3781, the now technologically advanced society prepares for another nuclear war. The Abbey is assembling a group of priests, sisters, and children to colonize the moon. The Abbot is convinced that history is about to repeat itself, so he sends the gospel, sacraments, relics of knowledge, and innocent children away (never to return) so that mankind can have another chance somewhere away from the nuclear holocaust that has begun. As the Abbot feared, the bombs begin to drop and the Abbey is overrun with victims and refugees. While the Abbot works to send pilgrims away, he still has to tend to the flock that remained behind. This canticle has an incredible storyline exploring euthanasia as compassionate care. The Abbot and a doctor engage in a powerful debate about what is true care for those who are suffering. In each section, the Gospel persists. And in each, Christians are faced with intense and interesting ethical dilemmas. The novel’s exploration of faith, human resilience, and the cyclical nature of history is profound. Although I found parts of the second canticle slow and frustrating, the novel as a whole was a rewarding experience. A Canticle for Leibowitz offers a rare blend of science fiction, history, and theology, and I can see why Joseph Pearce considers it essential reading. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/a-canticle-for-leibowitz

Set in the exciting backdrop of the Old West, Dead-Eye Dan and the Cimarron Kid by Glenn McCarty opens with a man in pain who can’t remember who or where he is. At first, he wonders if he’s a lawman—but quickly concludes he must be a poor one, given his state. Then, fearing he might be an outlaw, he feels shame and wonders if outlaws feel shame, and if they do, why it doesn’t convince them to quit their outlaw ways. But within a few pages, it’s clear to the reader–this is no villain. While the man may be strong and dangerous to his enemies, his noble, respectful, and gentle demeanor proves that he is very much the good guy. ‌ Written with a light and hopeful tone, McCarty’s language is both lovely and lively, pulling readers into a fast-paced story that holds attention from the first page to the last. Dead-Eye Dan, the story’s central figure, is the quintessential cowboy in a white hat—dangerous only to those who try to thwart justice. More importantly, even when he cannot remember who he is, he figures that he’s a man who stands by those in need. Rescued by a mute boy and his widowed mother, Dan arrives at their farm just in time to be a blessing to them and they to him. As he works with them to protect their crop from blight and their land from one of those bad guys, their kindness to him helps his memories return. When he realizes that he is Dead-Eye Dan, a U.S. Marshall from Santa Fe, everything begins to click into place. This book hits the perfect sweet spot for family reading—enjoyable for both kids and parents alike. First in a series, it has the hallmarks of a classic Western but with a refreshingly fun and sweet twist that makes it suitable for all ages. McCarty’s Tumbleweed books feature a main character who reads all of the “dime-novel” Dead-Eye Dan stories, which adds a fun layer of connection between McCarty’s worlds. ‌ While Dead-Eye Dan and the Cimarron Kid maintains a youthful tone, it echoes the spirit of classic Western writers like Owen Wister, Louis L’Amour, and even Willa Cather. It’s the kind of book that would make an excellent family read-aloud or car ride audiobook— well written and refreshingly wholesome and fun for everyone. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/dead-eye-dan-and-the-cimarron-kid

Join us as we talk about the newly revised and expanded Picture Book Preschool from Sherry Early! Picture Book Preschool, Expanded Edition Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Mighty Networks Shelf Notes LibraryThing TinyCat

It’s clear from this language, and my own experience, that my old self isn’t going to come off as easily as that itchy dress I was supposed to wear. I have to formally disown it and divest it of all authority. The t.v. show was called “Branded” because the soldier had been convicted of cowardice. That is what I have to do to the things that are earthly in me; rip off all vestiges of their authority, expose their pathetically pale underbelly, and renounce their cravenness. That is what those earthly things are. They are garments and accessories my old self uses to disguise its abject impotence before its Creator.

This is another one from the archives. Have you ever heard our conversation with SD Smith in the Potato Peel Pie Book group? Check out our SD Smith page on our website: https://plumfieldmoms.com/favorite-authors/s-d-smith

Swallows and Amazons, written by Arthur Ransome in 1930, is one of the most perfect children’s adventure novels I have ever read. My only regret is in taking so darn long to get to it. Despite being a reader and lover of English children’s literature, somehow I never knew about Swallows and Amazons until I started homeschooling. When I sampled it, I knew that the literary value was extremely high, but I wasn’t in a place where I could appreciate the adventure of it all. I wasn’t feeling well back then, and my kids weren’t old enough to enjoy it yet. I acknowledged its value and made a note to have it in my home, but then moved on to things that were better suited to the season we were in. When I opened my library, all of that changed. My patrons (boys 8-12 in particular) could not get enough of the series. Longish books, written with sophisticated English, and full of old-fashioned references, this series didn’t seem like it would appeal to the average boy reader of today. I do have above-average boys in my library, but I wasn’t expecting how popular this series would be with them. When my own Jack read it and loved it and insisted that I try it again, I considered it. Still, there were so many things making claims on my attention, that I wasn’t sure I had the time to commit to it. In between other books, however, I tried. And the first two or three chapters were interesting, but not compelling. I set it aside feeling more disappointed in myself than in the book. Finally, this summer marked the close of a particularly stressful and intense season for us. My brain was ready for adventure. Plus, the weather was warm and inviting, and I was ready to read about children camping on an island. I started anew. And this time I was swept up in the magic and found the story very hard to put down. I offer all of this context in case the mama reading has, like me, tried and failed to love these books. I offer that if you are reading this, maybe you too were in the wrong season? Maybe it is worth a try again. “…with a lake as big as a small sea, a fourteen-foot dinghy with a brown sail waiting in the boathouse, and the little wooded island waiting for explorers, nothing but a sailing voyage of discovery seemed worth thinking about.” The Walker family is a normal English family in the non-specific time between WWI and WWII. Father, a sea captain, is away on a voyage to Hong Kong, and Mother has taken a cottage for the summer on a small lake. The children (John-12, Susan-11, Titty-9, and Roger-7) are smitten with the idea of “discovering” the uninhabited island in the middle of their lake, and they petition their parents to let them camp out on the island by themselves. “BETTER DROWNED THAN DUFFERS IF NOT DUFFERS WONT DROWN” read Daddy’s telegram which meant, of course, that he gave his approval to the idea. And so, Mother set to work making tents and packing provisions while the children made “Ship’s Articles,” and prepared the dinghy named Swallow for sail. As a mother, I was a little aghast at the idea that Mrs. Walker would turn her children loose on a lake and let them camp on the island unsupervised for an extended period of time. But Mother is smart. She arranges with a local farmer to have milk and other provisions available daily for the children and requires them to sail over to the farm every morning to collect their goods and check-in. She also wisely pops in unannounced periodically and recruits the help of other locals to keep an eye on the children. It is a great scheme! The kids have a true adventure and Mother keeps a distant but watchful eye. Once the idea is realized, the children adopt the language and imagined life of a sailing crew. They delight in the morning baths in the lake, living off of sea-worthy provisions, fishing in Shark Bay, pearl-diving, and the joy of exploring Wild Cat Island and the area around it. But to make this a true adventure story, there needs to be a foil to their crew. And, they find it in the crew of the Amazon. “The four explorers of the Swallow stood facing the two pirate girls from the Amazon. The Amazons were bigger than most of the Swallows. One of them was bigger than Captain John. The other was about the same size. If it had come to a fight, it might have been a very near thing. But it did not come to a fight. ‘Let’s parley first and fight afterwards,’ said the leader of the Amazons” Nancy (12) and Peggy (11) Blackett and their widowed mother are residents of Holly Howe farm, and they have their own dinghy named Amazon. The Amazons claim Wildcat Island as their own from years of visiting it. The two crews decide to be friendly enemies and to band together against the evil houseboat captain who seems to hate them all. (Many have speculated that the houseboat captain is, in fact, Arthur Ransome himself.) This is high imagination at its best! It has all of the wonder and fun of Narnia but the children are firmly in this world. They take everything they are doing and pret

Shipwrecked cover What a coincidence that Shipwrecked was donated to my library just as Sara and I were putting the finishing touches on our Kensuke’s Kingdom book club packet, for which we are using this same cover! In the Author’s Note for Shipwrecked, Blumberg says she became fascinated with Manjiro while doing research for her book about Commodore Perry. “Instead of accounts of landmark events and world-famous leaders, here is the story of a poor fisher boy who became a famous samurai, a rescued castaway who became the first Japanese person to live in the United States. Manjiro subsequently worked on New England whale ships, then risked his life when he returned to Japan as an outcast. . . . His life reveals much about the social and political climate of Japan and the United States during the mid-nineteenth century. Manjiro’s ordeals, adventures, and accomplishments seem sensational, melodramatic, and fiction, but they are true.” Manjiro was nine years old in 1836. With the death of his father, he became responsible for supporting his mother, three sisters, and two brothers. Because his father had been a fisherman, he had to be a fisherman as well. That had been a law in Japan for hundreds of years. When Manjiro was fourteen years old, he was hired onto a fishing boat. On his first trip out, their boat was damaged by a fierce storm. They were blown off course and rode out the storm for a week. On the eighth day, a strong current carried the boat to a truly deserted island. They survived on the island for five months eating seaweed, raw albatross meat, and whatever shellfish they could find clinging to the rocks. The only fresh water was what they could find trapped in hollow rocks after it rained. This was the time of the Great Peace, the 250-year period of a strict closed-door policy in Japan. The Japanese people were forbidden contact with anyone from another country. Foreigners were not allowed to come into the country, and Japanese people were not allowed to leave. If they did, they were considered to have been poisoned by barbarians and were not allowed to come home. Manjiro and the six men with him were rescued by a whaling boat, the John Howland, captained by William H. Whitfield. Though the John Howland sailed near Japan, it was too risky for Captain Whitfield to sail close enough to take Manjiro and his friends home, because the Japanese would try to destroy the ship. Even if Whitfield had been successful in getting them close enough to put them ashore, because of their contact with the foreign ship, the Japanese men would likely have been put in prison rather than being allowed to go home. When the ship eventually docked at Honolulu, Manjiro’s friends decided to stay in Hawaii, but Manjiro chose to stay with Captain Whitfield’s ship. After two and a half years away from home, Manjiro arrived in New Bedford, Massachusetts. He “was the first Japanese person to set foot in the United States.” Captain Whitfield had no children, so he took Manjiro in as a foster son. He sent Manjiro to school when he was sixteen. After two and a half years of school, Manjiro was an apprentice to an oil-cask maker, then he went to sea again. On this voyage, after some tragic events, he became first mate. When Manjiro heard news of the Gold Rush in California, he decided to try his hand at mining. After two months of panning, he had $600, which was enough to attempt returning to Japan. He stopped in Honolulu and picked up two of his friends who also longed to go home, then waited for a ship that would dare to take them to Japan. Once they were back in Japan, they were imprisoned for six months and went to trial eighteen times. Because of Manjiro’s experience with Americans, and because he spoke English so well, when Commodore Matthew Perry came to Japan and demanded an audience with the emperor, Manjiro was sent to interpret. He proved to be an excellent ambassador and was instrumental in helping open Japan to the western world. Manjiro’s life was full of exciting twists and turns. It is truly incredible that a lowly son of a fisherman rose to the level of samurai, and his life is an example of industry, diligence and perseverance earning him respect everywhere he went. This book is available at Amazon. Please visit biblioguides.com to see other buying options for Shipwrecked.

Captain Kidd was commissioned to capture pirates and, as Britain was perpetually at war with France, he was also authorized to capture French ships. This type of venture could be extremely profitable for everyone involved in the voyage, from the financial backers to individual sailors, as each of them would receive some percentage of the take. But somehow, Kidd was able to sail for months in pirate-infested waters and never encounter a pirate. This meant the crew was away from home working for nothing. There seems always to be a risk of mutiny when sailors get too discontent. What’s a captain to do when his crew rebels in the middle of the ocean thousands of miles from home? And whose testimony will be believed if the matter comes to trial. Typically, the captain’s. But what if the crew has burned his meticulously kept ship’s log? And what if crew members have been bribed with their lives to lie? https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/the-mysterious-voyage-of-captain-kidd

"My meditation on Acts 22:26 is something like, My flesh shall pitch a tent in confident expectation. This is not a confident expectation that God will arrange things in my life for my comfort and convenience. This is an expectation that God, who cannot lie, will do what he has promised."

Plumfield Reads Guides Plumfield Reads Guides: Ben-Hur Plumfield Reads Guides: Kensuke’s Kingdom Plumfield Reads Guides: Snow Treasure, Coming Soon! Rascal by Sterling North Lepunia Kingdom of the Gallopers by Kevin Ford The Found Boy by S. D. Smith Kensuke’s Kingdom by Michael Morpurgo Little Men by Louisa May Alcott (Smidgen Press) The Mysterious Voyage of Captain Kidd by A. B. C. Whipple Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott Wonder Boxes The Green Writer by S. D. Smith Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Shelf Notes Picture Book Preschool Find us at The Card Catalog website: https://thecardcataloglibrarians.com/

Connie Willis is a master storyteller who loves old movies (and new movies) almost as much as she loves great literature. Consequently, her storytelling is richly visual, and when reading, it often feels like I am watching a movie in my mind. In 1992, she crafted a novel that was set in 2054 as well as during the Medieval Bubonic Plague. I read the Doomsday Book in February and March of 2020. Actually, I finished reading it a mere four to six hours before my husband called to tell me that the schools were shutting down for two weeks because of growing concerns over the devastating illness in New York. Willis’s incredible and vivid descriptions haunted me throughout our COVID quarantine! https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/doomsday-book

"When God was leading his people through the wilderness and laying down his laws, he gave instructions for things that were to be set up for worshiping him and remembering his deeds. He gave detailed directions for setting up the tabernacle. Often, he commanded an altar or monument to be set up as a sign or memorial. God knows we need tangible reminders, but he was always specific that these be set up at his direction. Serious problems arose when God’s people started setting things up on their own. In the time of the Judges, when everyone was doing what was right in their own eyes, one tribe set up their own idols and appointed their own priests. King Saul went terribly wrong when he set up a monument for himself. Many of the kings of Israel and Judah set up their own pillars and monuments. At times, the people even set up their own king."

"In this story, there is an accident while Michael is sailing, but he is with his parents at the time. They are a small, happy family on a trip around the world in their yacht. It’s not an every-day situation, to be sure, but I found it refreshing that the parents aren’t the bad guys. It isn’t long before Michael discovers that he is not the only human on the island. But the other person isn’t at all happy to see Michael. Why the man is there and why he doesn’t appreciate company is a mystery that unfolds over time. He may be a recluse, but he isn’t going to watch Michael starve or get hurt without trying to help him. The story is as much about the relationship between Michael and Kensuke as it is about deserted island survival. Kensuke has been on the island for a very long time, and considers it his kingdom. He considers the animals to be under his care, and he does his best to guard them from hunters."

In this lively interview with S. D. Smith, we chat about his new book: The Found Boys. We also talk a little bit about his most recent release, the sequel to Jack Zulu, Jack Zulu And The Girl With The Golden Wings. As things so often do when we chat with Sam, we dug into some of the big cultural questions that we are all facing today. You can find Sara's review of The Found Boys here: https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/new-book-the-found-boys You can find Sara's review of Jack Zulu 2 here: https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/jack-zulu-and-the-girl-with-the-golden-wings SD Smith Page: https://plumfieldmoms.com/favorite-authors Green Writer: https://plumfieldmoms.com/green-writer-program

"Despite some over-the-top incidents, such as Jane being instrumental in capturing an escaped circus lion, she is a loveable character. Montgomery gives her some unbelievable wisdom and talents for a girl her age, which isn’t unusual for Montgomery’s heroines. Bringing Jane’s parents together because of a life-threatening illness is an awfully tired device, one that has been used by some of the best authors. In the end, the good people are happy and the not-so-good people get their come-uppance, which is a neat ending for a children’s story. The way the ending landed for me reminds me of how I felt about Pat of Silverbush. Montgomery didn’t seem to know how to manage a well-adjusted family. Not only is neither of Jane’s parents well-suited to keeping house as well as their twelve-year-old daughter can, but she is also going to have to keep an eye on their marriage? Throughout the story, the responsibility Jane felt for taking care of the adults in her life was slightly off kilter, but I hoped that when her parents got together again, they would lift that responsibility from her young shoulders. For me, the story ended completely out of balance." https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/jane-of-lantern-hill

The Found Boys by S. D. Smith is an exciting and interesting story about ordinary boys growing up in two churches on either side of the river in 1980s West Virginia. Scott and Tommy are white boys from Valley Baptist Church who like to jump off of swings, shoot hoops, run along the shoreline, and chase after adventure. Dooley is a black kid from Mt. Zion Baptist church who likes to do pretty much the same things. When the boys agree not to fight over their differences but instead join together on a mission to steal something from the junkyard, they get a lot more than they bargained for. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/new-book-the-found-boys

John’s gospel says that Jesus asked Philip where they were going to get enough food for all the people and that, “He said this to test him for he himself knew what he would do” (John 6:6). In any case, the disciples went to find out exactly how much food was available - five loaves of bread and two fish. What in the world could anyone do with that? Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.”

Books and Links: Margi's Website Margi's Facebook Page Mistmantle Book Reviews Mistmantle Book Club Podcast with the ladies of Biblioguides Mistmantle books at Purple House Press A Friend for Rachel/The Secret Mice Father Brown TV Series Father Brown Books Jo March & Plumfield Aslan Sings Narnia into Existence Hold My Hand and Run James Herriot Elizabeth Gouge Join the conversation: Mistmantle Book Clubs at the Plumfield Reads corner of the Biblioguides Mighty Networks Plumfield and Paideia Facebook Page Plumfield Moms Podcast Page

I was wrong. The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin is not cheesy. It is, in fact, quite lovely. I must have been in a mid-winter funk when I read it the first time. This time, I was quite taken with it. Now, that said, it is not as strong as The Librarian Spyor The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, or my real favorites, Blackout and All Clear. But, it is absolutely lovely and a fun read that I will re-read again. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/the-last-bookshop-in-london

"Contrary to the shrill voices we hear from the world more loudly every day, John says, “I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth” (2:21). The definition of truth hasn’t changed. The Greek word for truth is aletheia. It is “the unveiled reality lying at the basis of and agreeing with an appearance.” In 1828, Noah Webster defined it as “conformity to fact and reality.” The 1984 edition of Webster’s says truth is “conformity to fact or actuality.” Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary declares truth is, “the body of real things, events, and facts.” No lie is of the truth, and even today, you know it."

“In the old days, no one but a King could have a dog for a pet.” One day one of the King’s dogs runs to a boy named Ben and doesn’t want to go back to the King. Ben wants to keep the dog, but he knows only a King can have a dog, so he asks what he would have to do to become a King. I won’t tell you how he does it, but “that is how Ben came to have a dog in the days when no one but a King could have one.” The full title of the book is The Big Jump and Other Stories. The next story is called “Something New.” These are fun stories about a boy who is learning to think and to do difficult things to help others. But he is also willing to listen to the advice of adults rather than being smarter and wiser than they are. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-picture-book-reviews/the-big-jump

I have had ten copies of Mooses with Bazookas in my library since it was released last fall, and all of them are constantly checked out. As one copy gets returned, someone grabs it out of the return pile and asks to have it checked back in immediately so they can check it out themselves. If you search my TinyCat account right now (while I am writing this) you will see that there is one copy available. And, it is only available because I stole it from circulation so I could finally write this review. This hilarious collection of short comedic stories is the single most popular book in my 8,000-book catalog and has been checked out dozens of times, because it somehow blends the ridiculous with the clever without being offensive or degrading into unsavory humor. Mooses with Bazookas is silly, sweet in places, absolutely goofy in other places, and always interesting. It is brilliant for family read-aloud but the audio is extra special good (with an extra ending that left me extra giggling). https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/mooses-with-bazookas

"We see expressions of God’s kindness in the Psalms with words such as lovingkindness, mercy, goodness and faithfulness. Note, however, that David and other writers often plead with this same God to shame their enemies. They expect him to break the teeth of the wicked and melt them like wax."

"When American men began to go to war by the hundreds of thousands, women took up the slack. They filled the jobs men left open, planted Victory Gardens, sold war bonds, worked with the Red Cross, and conserved food and fuel. But women had never been allowed in the army. They didn’t even have the right to vote. These women went to war anyway. They loved their country and wanted to help win the war and to support the boys in the trenches. They faced the dangers and hardships of war without complaining. Almost all the Signal Corps women worked and hoped to be sent as near the front as possible." https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-picture-book-reviews/grace-banker-and-her-hello-girls-answer-the-call-the-heroic-story-of-wwi-telephone-operators

"Am I like the people of the Gadarenes or like the Samaritans? Do I pray, 'Dear God, please make me happy, but don’t change me'? Have I ever said, 'Thank you, Jesus, for the miracle, now please go away so I can get back to normal'?

Fans of The Green Ember and Mistmantle will be delighted with Lepunia: Kingdom of the Gallopers by Kevin T. Ford! This new middle-grade fantasy series starter is beautifully written and tells the kind of story that we love being inside of while reading and want to return to once we are done. Not only does this exciting story have interesting world-building, lovable characters, and beautiful language, but it also builds well and is accompanied by lovely illustrations by Michael Genova. https://plumfieldmoms.com/plumfield-moms-book-reviews/lepunia-kingdom-of-the-gallopers

Welcome to our July 2024 episode of Our Reading Life where we chat with our dear friends, Tanya Arnold and Sarah Kim from Biblioguides about our reading lives. We are so glad that you are here! Tanya’s References Let’s Play Math by Denise Gaskins The Librarian Spy by Madeline Martin Sarah Kim’s References Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Glowrushes by Robert Piumini One Big Open Sky by Lesa Cline-Ransome Sara Masarik’s References Lepunia: Kingdom of the Gallopers by Kevin T. Ford The Green Ember Series by S. D. Smith The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin The Keeper of the Hidden Books by Madeline Martin Diane’s References Kensuke's Kingdom by Michael Morpurgo Michael Morpurgo: War Child to War Horse by Maggie Fergusson A Mathematician's Lament by Paul Lockhart General References Biblioguides Semicolon Book Review Roundup Mighty Networks Shelf Notes