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Alec Forbes and His Friend Annie, by George McDonald, tells of young Annie, who is distraught when her father dies, and even more upset when her greedy aunt sends her off to live with the unpleasant Bruce family. Tormented at “home” and at school, Annie finds comfort only in God and in the gentle care of her friend Alec. Little wonder that her friendship soon becomes something more... but Alec doesn’t seem to agree.
The Archives of Anthropos series by John White. In The Sword Bearer, 13-year-old John is suddenly transported to the far-off fantasy land of Anthropos, where he quickly becomes “John of the Swift Sword” and finds his heritage. In the later books of the series, Lisa, Kurt, Wesley and Mary also make their way to Anthropos, with the help of “Uncle” John, and the four youths join forces with the good king Gaal. This fall, the series has been concluded at last with the exciting and action packed sixth book, The Dark Lord’s Demise. Recommended for fans of the Chronicles of Narnia.
The Hawk and the Dove, by Penelope Wilcock. Most teen girls wouldn’t turn to a 13th century monastery for help with the trials and tribulations of today’s world. Then again, Melissa is different. In this compelling trilogy, Melissa turns to her mother’s stories of Father Peregrine and his monks for comfort when all the world seems to misunderstand her. As the monks work through the troubles of humiliation, misunderstanding, and Christianity, Melissa begins to see how the lessons she learns apply to her daily life and personal walk with God.
Treasures in the Snow, by Patricia St. John, tells the touching story of a motherless girl (Annette) and her litttle brother (Danny), tormented and teased for years by the village bully (Lucien). When the teasing one day goes too far, the ensuing chaos is painful for both families, and Lucien is shunned by everyone he knows. Lucien's reactions and attempts of reconciliation are beautiful and heartbreaking to read, and the conclusion of the story carries a pure and beautiful ideal. A must-read for all ages.