No name

The Lances of Lynwood

Author(s): 
Charlotte M. Yonge
Number of pages: 
264 pages
Publisher: 
Lepanto Press
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Historical Fiction
Setting: 
14th century
Grade / Age level: 
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Review: 
"Virtue Conquers" is the theme of this charming, wholesome adventure story set in the Middle Ages, during the reign of Edward III of England. Eustace, the scholarly but valiant brother-in-law of Sir Reginald Lynwood, goes as his squire to Spain under the banner of the English sovereign. In his first battle, he loses his brother-in-law but gains a knight's spurs for his courage. His future looks very bright, but soon his prospects sour through no fault of his own, as he runs afoul of an unscrupulous kinsman who is trying to abduct his nephew Arthur, the heir to the earldom, in order to control his inheritance. Suspicion, rumors of wizardry, and attempts on his life now replace the earlier praise and honor, and how he confronts injustice and preserves his nephew's safety makes an interesting read full of chivalry and adventure.

This book might be enjoyed by children who are fans of the historical books of G.A. Henty - it has the same historical detail and the same kind of noble, virtuous protagonist -- but has the added benefit of being thoroughly Catholic. The reading level is probably best suited for ten to fourteen year olds, but there is nothing in its content which would make it unsuitable for even much younger children.

The Lances of Lynwood is part of the Knights and Ladies line recently reprinted by Lepanto Press, and is handsomely bound in a hard cover.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Additional notes: 

This book was donated for review by Lepanto Press.

Reviewed by: 
Willa Ryan
First reviewed: 
1998-99

The Lark on the Wing

Author(s): 
Elfrida Vipont
Illustrator(s): 
T. R. Freeman
Copyright: 
2008
Publisher: 
Bethlehem Books
Setting: 
20th century
Europe
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Review: 
Set during the late 1940’s, The Lark on the Wing is the story of a young woman on the brink of a new career. Seventeen-year-old Kit desires with all her heart to sing professionally, but one obstacle after another pops up in her way. Will she be able to overcome all these obstacles to fulfill her life’s dream? The Lark on the Wing captures the doubts, the excitement, and the energy of young people on the brink of adulthood with a world of myriad choices before them, including young love. The plot is fast-paced, effortlessly moving from one scene to the next. With a variety of personalities, it is also a story about relationships. Using the popular idiomatic language of the 1940's, we travel back into time as the characters express their thoughts, emotions, and favorite pastimes. The Lark on the Wing also presents a realistic picture of love, with all the emotional ups and downs, without the modern day garbage. In other words, people have real relationships. Sometimes they work out. Sometimes they don’t. People don’t always say or do the right thing at the right time. As Kit grows and matures, she must decide what a serious relationship involves. With all the intense emotions swirling about, it is also a story about virtue, building up patience, kindness, and forbearance. How will Kit react to those around her, the person who goads her to do something she shouldn’t do or thwarts her plans or good intentions through power or money? The Lark on the Wing also provides an interesting peek into Quaker life during the 1940’s, presenting them as an active, vibrant, socially conscious group, breaking the stereotype of a quiet and serious people. Along the way, we meet some unusual characters. Since Kit is studying music, for the reader seriously interested in music, there is a lot of wisdom to be learned. Even though she is learning about voice, much of her teacher’s advice could apply to other instruments. For the person who thinks singing is merely picking up a piece of music, the author clarifies the importance of training. For the young person, trying to make sense out of life, Kit offers a realistic picture of a young woman who is faced with numerous obstacles, yet perseveres in her life’s dream. A lovely young girl with sweetness and charm, searching to find her own way, Kit learns to ignore the voices of discouragement and laziness and forge her own path among the confusing voices. Will her perseverance pay off? Will she finally achieve her life's dreams? Immensely enjoyable, The Lark on the Wing is highly recommended!
Additional notes: 
The Lark on the Wing is a sequel to The Lark in the Morn.
Reviewed by: 
Elizabeth Yank
First reviewed: 
10-5-2008

The Last Crusader: Isabella of Spain

Book cover: The Last Crusader: Isabella of Spain
Author(s): 
William Thomas Walsh
Number of pages: 
515 pages
Copyright: 
1930
ISBN: 
9780895553201
Publisher: 
TAN Books and Publishers
Binding: 
Softcover
Sample Pages
Subject(s): 
Biographies
History
Setting: 
15th century
Grade / Age level: 
Mature Teens
Adults
Review: 

Queen Isabella (the Catholic) of Spain is one of the most influential and controversial women in history. She and her husband were responsible for supporting Columbus' voyages to the New World, the re-conquering of all of Spain from the Moors, the expulsion of the Jews, and the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition. Her daughter, Catherine of Aragon, was the unfortunate first wife of King Henry VIII of England (who founded the Anglican church because he didn't accept the Pope's refusal to grant him an annulment of his marriage to Catherine). The story is fast-paced and gripping (as well as complex), but also very sad and even disturbing at times. It's an important period of history for Catholic to understand as many aspects of this story are frequently used to attack the Church. Reading the whole story will also dispel some common myths about history in general – particularly ones that try to make blanket statements about history and assumptions that as history progresses things always get worse.

Recommended for upper high school or adult.

This book mentions at least one disturbing story of violence against a child that appears to follow the pattern of anti-Jewish myths debunked by the Church as early as Gregory X's 1272 document on "Papal Protection of the Jews". The link takes you to the document at the EWTN Library. In addition to reading this document (which particularly highlights problems with Christian violence against the Jews), further discussion and research are recommended on this topic.

Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
3-25-2000

The Last Lecture

Author(s): 
Randy Pausch
Jeffrey Zaslow
Number of pages: 
206 pages
Copyright: 
2008
Publisher: 
Hyperion
Binding: 
Glued Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Autobiography
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Adults
Review: 
What would you do if you knew you were going to die? For most of us, that is a reality that we push to the back of our minds as someday, but not soon. In the case of Randy Pausch, that reality came much sooner than he expected with a diagnosis of terminal, pancreatic cancer. In The Last Lecture, Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, shares the PowerPoint presentation he gave as his last lecture on September 18, 2007. Besides the salient points and accompanying stories from his lecture, The Last Lecture includes much more. Not in the least maudlin, The Last Lecture is a book about daring to dream the impossible and achieving those dreams. It is a book of hope and inspiration. He opens the story with the reasons that motivated him to consider this last lecture, then delves back into the past to show the many influences on his life’s journey, especially his remarkable, loving parents, mentors, teachers, or coaches who profoundly influenced his life. Each chapter is short and to the point. While it would be easy, as with any autobiography, to fall into the trap of naval gazing, it is a refreshingly honest portrait of his life and life’s situation, his strengths and human failings. In a world filled with negative news, it is uplifting to read his genuine love and admiration for his parents and those who encouraged him along the way, as well as had the honesty to point out his faults, so that he could become a better person. The book is broken down into five sections: The story behind the last lecture, achieving his dreams, the lessons he learned, enabling the dreams of others, “It’s about How to Live Your Life,” and closing thoughts. With humor, wit, and common sense, Pausch relates his quest for happiness through achieving his childhood dreams. Over the years, he has gained much wisdom, from his parents, mentors, teachers, and students. His advice as a teacher can be applied to many situations. In The Last Lecture, he shares this legacy of memories, hopes, and advice for his three young children to see someday. As a teacher, he wanted to continue to teach them long after he was not with them; the result was this inspiring lecture about the joy of life; each day is a gift. Incredibly uplifting, full of hope and inspiration! Thank you, Randy for sharing your story. Thank you, Jai for sharing Randy during your precious time together. Randy Pausch died on July 25, 2008.
Quibble:
Because this is a secular book with a few adult issues, the parent will want to read and discuss this with their teenage children. If you choose to view the lecture on YouTube, since the lecture is prepared for college-age students, the parents may want to preview it to determine the appropriate age of the children who are viewing it because of some language.
Perspective: 
Secular
Additional notes: 

His last lecture can be viewed on YouTube: Randy Pausch The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams.

In order to appeal to a wider audience, he avoids how his faith played a role in the development of his character.

Reviewed by: 
Elizabeth Yank
First reviewed: 
8-29-2008

The Last Straw

Book cover: The Last Straw
Author(s): 
Frederick Thury
Illustrator(s): 
Vlasta Van Kampen
Number of pages: 
32 pages
Copyright: 
2006
ISBN: 
0881061522
Publisher: 
Charlesbridge
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Advent and Christmas Stories
Fiction
Christmas
Grade / Age level: 
Preschool
Grades K-2
Resource Type: 
Picture Books
Review: 

To celebrate Christmas, in addition to baking Christmas cookies, setting up the manger scene, decorating the tree, and numerous other seasonal activities, we also like to pause in out preparations to cozy up together and read good books that encapsulate the true meaning of Christmas. The Last Straw by Frederick H. Thury is one such book.

Hoshmakaka is a grumpy, old camel, who would rather do anything than carry gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Bethlehem. He is sleeping peacefully one night when he is visited by voices informing him that the wise men have chosen him for this task. He balks at the idea, providing feeble excuses, but when a furious wind blows the sand, he changes his mind.

The next day as the servants of the wise men are placing the precious gifts on his back a group of young, admiring camels comments that he must be very special. His pride puffed up, he brags that he is “as strong as ten horses” and then allows the young camels to accompany him along the journey. This could be his downfall. Will they find out the truth?

Along the way, one after another person or animal begs Hoshmakaka to carry a gift to the newborn king, creating a mountainous pile on his back. Finally, he comes within sight of Bethlehem. Feeling the strain of the weight, he doubts he will make it when a small voice asks him to carry one more gift for the baby.

Can he do it? Will he make it?

The pictures are delightful. My children enjoyed picking out the gifts piling up on his back. It has also become a familiar line in our home to say, “My joints, my gout, my sciatica.” And the ending is superb! All ages will enjoy this wonderful story.

Perspective: 
Judeo-Christian
Reviewed by: 
Elizabeth Yank
First reviewed: 
12/4/2007

The Laviniad

Book cover: 'The Laviniad'
Author(s): 
Claudio Salvucci
Number of pages: 
80 pages
Copyright: 
1994
ISBN: 
0964423405
Publisher: 
Evolution Publishing
Binding: 
Sewn Hardcover
Subject(s): 
Historical Fiction
Setting: 
Ancient Rome
Grade / Age level: 
High School
Review: 
The Laviniad is a truly unique work; the story is unique and the book itself is unique.

First the story: The author successfully writes in the style of the ancient epic in modern English, picking up the thread of the story of the Aeneid. The Laviniad takes up the tale of the Trojan settlement of Latium following the death of Aeneas. His son, Ascanius, assumes the leadership and almost immediatley must deal with the threat of Italians still hostile to the Trojan presence.

There are some pleasant similarities to the ancient epics, such as prophecies that are fulfilled in not quite the way the people expect, and the descriptions of the deaths of the heroes. The Trojans prevail in the end and Lavinia, Aeneas' widow gives birth to his child, the true and final mix of the blood of the Latins and the Trojans. Hope is restored to a people wearied by years of war and loss of life. Lovers of classic tales will really appreciate the poetry and the plot.

The poem reads easily and naturally with the flow and flavor of the ancient epics. A complete glossary in the back will help anyone who has not read the Aeneid or the Iliad to understand the relationship of the characters and the various names of the Greeks, Trojans, and Latins. It is not, strictly speaking, a sequel, however, a knowledge of the events of the Aeneid is helpful. A highschooler could appreciate the story whether or not he has read the Aeneid.

Now the book: I learned from the publisher that the author hand makes each book, binding and all! The story is printed on parchment and handsewn, not glued. The outer cover is a light blue cloth cover. It is a beautiful, elegant edition, wonderful for gift giving.

Additional notes: 

Binding details: Hardback with cloth covering

Reviewed by: 
Margot Davidson
First reviewed: 
8-12-04

The Legend of Odysseus

Author(s): 
Peter Connolly
Number of pages: 
80 pages
Copyright: 
1986
Publisher: 
Oxford University Press
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
History
Literature
Setting: 
Ancient Greece
Grade / Age level: 
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
High School
Review: 
The Legend of Odysseus, by British author Peter Connolly, was first published in 1986. It tells the legend of the Trojan War and of the homecoming of Odysseus. The Legend of Odysseus is a wonderful recounting of Homer's classic tales, The Iliad and The Odyessey. The most outstanding feature is the vivid, full-color drawings in every page. This book is suitable for most children, ages 10-16. There are additonal informative pages telling about life in Ancient Greece. My only caution is that it has some questionable pictures in it. (Two of the goddesses aren't wearing any tops in three pictures.) This book is an excellent complement to any unit study on Ancient Greece.

Reviewed by: 
K.H.
First reviewed: 
1998-99

The Legend of the Poinsettia

Book cover: 'The Legend of the Poinsettia'
Author(s): 
Tomie de Paola
Illustrator(s): 
Tomie de Paola
Number of pages: 
32 pages
Copyright: 
1994
Publisher: 
Paperstar Books
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Advent and Christmas Stories
Grade / Age level: 
Preschool
Grades K-2
Review: 
This lovely retelling of an old Mexican legend transports us to the mountains of Mexico, where a young girl, Lucida, prepares for Christmas with her family. Her mother is a fine weaver, and the Padre asks her to make a new blanket for the Baby Jesus. When her mother falls ill, she longs to help finish the blanket, but only seems to make a mess of things. With no gift for the Baby Jesus, Lucida hides and watches the procession from afar. An old woman assures her that "any gift is beautiful because it is given" and that "Whatever you give, the Baby Jesus will love, because it comes from you."

Feeling more courageous, Lucida picks a bundle of weeds and brings them to the Baby Jesus in the manger scene at church, where they are beautifully transformed.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Reviewed by: 
Alicia Van Hecke
First reviewed: 
11-29-06

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