The House with Two Grandmothers – Book Review
Book Details
- Title: The House with Two Grandmothers
- Author: Rebecca Martin
- Publisher: Christian Light Publications, Inc.
- Genre: Fiction
- Number of Pages: 125
- Theme: Small town life during the Depression
- Age Range: 9-13
Summary
The realities of the Depression creep into the life of the Burky family, spurring them on to good deeds as they help those less fortunate than themselves. Mabel is sure that God will protect them from the effects of the Depression just as the Israelites were protected in the land of Goshen. See how God provides for their needs and teaches valuable lessons in an unexpected way in this charming story.
This look at the Depression years from the perspective of a Mennonite teen in small town America would be a good book to add to your history studies of modern times. It covers such topics as job-loss, homelessness, bank failures, and soup kitchens in an authentic, yet gentle way, making it a great book for young teens or a read-aloud for the whole family.
SAW Rating System
Good Qualities – 4/5
Great Qualities – 4/5
Red Flags
- Romance and morality – No issues
- Disturbing content – No issues
- Language – No issues
- Alcohol and drug use – No issues
- Spiritual content – The book is written from a Mennonite perspective; however, as no doctrinal issues are discussed, it is a valuable book regardless of your denominational beliefs. The family responds in a biblical way to their struggles and sins. Scripture is quoted and prayer takes place in the story.
- Family roles and behavior – There are several instances of selfish behavior and complaining in the oldest teenage daughter. These are resolved before the end of the story, but could be an issue for children already tempted in these areas.
- Mature subject matter – Topics of the depression are clearly presented, but without gratuitous information which could be upsetting to younger children.