Book Review: Amon's Adventure

Arnold Ytreeide has written a series, three so far, of books for Advent. Each is set during the time of the birth of Jesus. We have loved every one of them and recommend them highly.

For the first time, Ytreeide has written a book for Lent. Amon's Adventure tells the tale of a young Jewish boy who has just become a man. He is a student of the rabbi Gamaliel and is a brilliant scholar and inventor. The story is set during the time of the ministry of Jesus. 

There is much confusion about who Jesus is and Amon's intellect struggles with his spirit as he sifts through all the events he witnesses. Will he choose to believe or will his mind refuse to receive Christ as the Messiah?

Each of Ytreeide's books is filled with hair-raising adventures and excitement, sprinkled with a good deal of humor that never ceases to cause lots of laughter at our house. The clever story lines and use of historical figures gives authenticity to the tales and allows the reader a view into the life and times of the characters. 


This one is definitely our favorite so far. I couldn't finish reading it without weeping. The kids know when I get started crying, they just have to wait it out. The way Ammon's life intertwines with the Crucifixion is quite compelling. Ammon is brought to a crisis of belief, just as the Disciples of Christ were. 

Even if you do not celebrate Lent, the story can be read as a tale of Christ. Ytreeide ends each chapter so that you hold your breath, then closes it with a Scripture and some very thought provoking questions, all of which point to having a deep relationship with Jesus. 


At almost 200 pages, it wasn't enough! We wanted this one to go on forever. 


I am linking up to two places with this one. The first is a lovely site called A Path Made Straight, where Elise reviews books on Mondays. 

And for the 52 in 52 challenge, this is number 16.