The Beginning takes young readers on an adventure to when the world was first created. Siblings Peter and Mary uncover secret scrolls in their great uncle's house that transports them back in time! The two must solve the scroll's riddle in order to return home.
Recommended age range: 6-9
Strengths:
- Well-written chapter book that pulls kids into the storyline.
- Provides good interiority in Peter and sets the stage for more adventure.
- Helps children explore the Bible in a fun way.
Weaknesses:
- Could strengthen the emotional arc of Peter.
- The medallion appearing at the end was a bit confusing. Will these medallions be important as the series progresses? This wasn't clear and could have used a bit more hinting at its role than what was given. Even another sentence with a clue would have been great! (But this is a very minor issue!)
Additional Notes:
- M.J. Thomas has a background in Bible Studies from Liberty University so I'm hopeful the series will be biblically grounded as it continues onward.
- I'm looking forward to exploring the Bible in this creative way with my son! And am thrilled to have a quality Christian chapter book series for kids!
- I found it interesting that the author started writing this books series because he saw a gap in Christian literature to engage kids in a fun way with the Bible—I started writing Christian kids fiction for the same reason (to help shape a Christian worldview in an imaginative way for children)!
Overall rating: 8 (out of 10)