Chuck Black

Some of my siblings came across this series close to a year ago, and had great fun listening to the books. They told me I ought to read them, too, but it took a while to work them into my reading schedule. After seeing someone reviewing the first book in the series, I decided it was time to experience it for myself. And what fun it turned out to be!

I haven’t read any sci-fi in years. It isn’t a genre I’m super familiar with, but so far, I’ve loved everything I’ve read in the genre, and this book was not a letdown! Combining sci-fi with Biblical allegory, Chuck Black weaves a compelling story of darkness meeting light and hope shining out of the most dire circumstances.

There were many delightful, almost playful elements to this story. Along with a few bits of well-placed humor, an engaging plot, and relatable characters, this made for a fast, easy read. I’m guessing this book’s intended audience is YA, but as an adult, I enjoyed it just as much as I imagine a younger person would (or maybe that’s just the child in me speaking). I was impressed by how well-formulated this space world is, and especially struck by the allegorical side of the story. A very enjoyable read, and I can’t wait to read book #2 in the series!… (mehr)

I’m currently working on reading through this series again, and I greatly enjoyed rereading this book. This is at least the third time I’ve read the series, and although I’m well beyond the age of the book’s intended audience, I enjoyed it just as much this time around as I have other times. Chuck Black writes books with heart, adventure, and a wonderful respect for God and His work in people’s lives. I love the way he brings true Bible stories into a new setting, and it’s fun guessing, as the stories go on, which characters represent which people from the Bible. This book also has a decent amount of adventure—I particularly enjoyed how the story of Daniel in the lion’s den and the three Hebrew children were combined to make a powerful scene. Overall, recommended, if you enjoy fantasy from an allegorical Biblical perspective!… (mehr)

I’ve read this book three or four times now. I was first introduced to the story as a pre-teen, and I’ve loved it ever since. I have always been a bit sad that this book has a slow start, because I think that could be a bit off-putting to younger readers (or maybe I’m mistaken, because even though I was a slow reader when I first got the book, I still found it gripping?). I love the way Chuck Black has taken familiar Bible stories and woven them into this clever allegory. Leinad and Tess have always been sweet, relatable characters, and I love how they choose what is right even when it’s hard, and in the process, help other people. A great story, with enough adventure to keep even the more distractible readers entertained. Recommended for the 10-13 age range.… (mehr)