Rating: 
Summary: A recommended book for homeschoolers....
Review: We included this title for our 6th grade son's home school reading for the ancient history time period. You can read from other reviews what the book is about. My review is targeted for those using the book for education vs. entertainment.The book is an entertaining read. It held my attention and I have read so many books that a novel must be well-written for me to enjoy it. The flavor of the book reminded me a bit of Louis L'Amour's "The Walking Drum" - which was one of my favorite easy-read's for a long time. The book does a good job showing the character development of it's principle character. He goes from being selfish to being responsible for others. We see him change as he really opens his eyes to the world & people around him. One aspect I like about the book is that the author lets you "live" in the character's shoes. Kids will relate to the idealism, daring & comradery. As the main character grows emotionally & spiritually, we begin to see that life is much more dangerous, complex & frightening than a youth might appreciate. Your friends are not always your true friends and those who irritate you might be your salvation. The book has a strong element of Christianity which will appeal to those who are of that faith. Christ plays a somewhat significant role in the book. While I didn't nec. agree with the description of "the piercing eyes" and all that jazz..the book was able to portray that "God's ways are not our ways" and "God's thoughts are not our thoughts." In the end, the young man is able to let go of his hatred & live for the first time in his life at peace with God & man. I do recommend the book for it's readability & lessons, however I have it a 4 instead of a 5 because it is not heavy on history, not even as much as a Louis L'Amour novel is...or GA Henty. Hope this helps
Rating: 
Summary: It started out as a school project, but my view changed.....
Review: When I first received the book in my grade eight class, I thought, oh man, another book that will have no affect on me whatsover, etc etc. I was wrong. Though it took quite a few chapters to find out what the bronze bow was, I definitely feel that it's one of the best books I've read. The author, Elizabeth George Speare, portrayed the characters, especially Daniel, very, very well. I couldn't put the book down! Soon it didn't become just a reading homework assignment. While reviewing the book and making up questions, I found it very interesting, the way love was shown. Jesus' love was quite evident and I loved the way Daniel was drawn to Him. As a Christian, I belive Jesus was portrayed very well. The plot was good, new problems peaking around every corner, and Samson really touched my heart :). I recommend it for anyone my age to 90! Also, in the book it shows that love can overcome war and hate that Daniel has towards the Romans. Hate can try to bend a bow of bronze (taken from a psalm of David, this was there "password"), but love does a much better job. :)
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