Every child should read Arnold Lobel’s stories of Frog and Toad. These stories are pure, unashamed delight. Once upon a time, all children’s stories were a pleasant romp, an indulgence in something lovely. Think of Mother Goose, The Wind in the Willows, The Tale of the Pie and the Patty Pan. As our times have … Read more
Pa was a wild man. He uprooted wife and children—moving them away from comfort and plenty, community and family—to brave a perilous journey to an unknown, desolate and dangerous land. Ma was a mild woman. She was a baker of bread, maker of beds and gentle keeper of the household order. And yet she agreed … Read more
If ever there was an author whose writings overflow with praise of the Lord, it is James Herriot. This humble country vet of the Yorkshire dales was so full of wonder and animated love of life that it could not be contained. It spilled out of him in profusion onto the pages of four wonderful … Read more
A popular condemnation of Grimm’s Fairy Tales is that they are too violent for children. Many parents would sooner provide mindless stories with bad art and no story line than something classic like “Hansel and Gretel.” This is done with a true—though misplaced—concern for their children. They don’t want their children to be acquainted with … Read more