Penny's Reviews and Chat

MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY
A Shadow of Fear by Janet Ann Collins

"A Shadow of Fear" is Janet Ann Collins' new Christian ‘tween novella. Since I’ve read, enjoyed, and reviewed all of her children's books, I was very much looking forward to this one.  The story is about ten year old Ben, a boy with a lot of fears to overcome and some maturity to gain before his parents will let him go to camp with his older brother Tom. Ben has to demonstrate he’s responsible as well. 

Ben is the little brother we all know. He wants to tag along with the older kids, but he’s afraid of the dark, afraid of dogs, still sleeps with a night light, and maybe even a special comfort toy. How can young Ben show he’s old enough to camp and sleep away from home? 

Ben gets some chances to show he’s more mature when he helps with the church rummage sale. He must also do his chores and keep his own room tidy. He seems to be on the right path, the “What- would-Jesus-do” path. His friend, Mary, who’s in a wheelchair gives him another opportunity to overcome his fear of dogs when she gets Max, a trained service dog. But when Max gets out and is lost, that’s where Ben’s faith and resolve are really tested. Can he get over his fear and help search for Max in the dark? Can he show the kind of strength of purpose and character that Jesus demonstrated? You’ll have to read the story to find out.

This is a good story for kids struggling with the same issues as Ben. Kids who have small and large fears to overcome, who need to show they’re maturing and can take on more responsibility, and those trying to follow the teachings and example of Jesus. There are other things we all have to do as we grow up, such as take responsibility for our choices and actions, even if they’re not the choices we should be making. We have to learn to speak up sometimes for what we believe in, but at other times learn to hold our tongue and keep from saying things that won’t help. Kids need to learn that gaining maturity is a process and doesn’t happen overnight. There will always be lessons to learn, but developing character, conscience, and caring will go a long way toward being the type of teen and young adult that our parents want us to become.

"A Shadow of Fear" is published by Mantle Rock Publishing, http://www.MantleRockPublishing.com 
and is available from quality online booksellers like Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Powell's.

More information on Janet Ann Collins is at http://www.janetanncollins.com

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Tags:  
A Shadow of Fear, Janet Ann Collins, Mantle Rock Publishing, Ben, Tom, growth, maturity, following Jesus, Christian children's book, camping, church, Max.