We love reading great stories that bring to life people and places from history. These living history books are our favorite way to study history. Often, the ones we find are out of print – still available as e-books in various formats. We read a fair amount of those. But, it is nice to have a real book in your hands. Thanks to publishers like Salem Ridge Press some of those great older books are being reprinted for current generations to enjoy.
We’ve been reading Margarethe by Emma Leslie. It was originally published in 1879 and is available in print again thanks to Salem Ridge Press. Emma Leslie wrote many historical books with a Christian worldview. We have read others as they have related to our studies in history. These living books are a wonderful way to be immersed into the past.
This particular story, Margarethe, is set in Germany and Switzerland right in the midst of the Reformation. The title character, Margarethe, feels she has no use for religion. She thinks that God is only interested in making life miserable. The story opens with her brother returning from a trip, bringing an Indulgence for her. Her younger sister is also preparing to enter a convent. These things bring more confusion to Margarethe. Confusion and questions which lead her to Aunt Ermengarde for answers. The revelation that religion wasn’t always this way sets Margarethe on a life-changing path.
I don’t want to give the story away, but it is a wonderful story that many will relate to for various reasons. There are some simple illustrations spread throughout, but this is not a picture book. The books is recommended for ages twelve and up. This might be based upon reading ability as we have not found anything for older children only. The older girls are enjoying this more than the youngers, but they are all eagerly listening in as I read aloud. I have been reading only a chapter at a time (though they frequently ask for more!)
Being written in the 1800s some of the language may be unfamiliar (or not). There are notes at the bottom of the pages for clarification should you need them. My girls are used to looking something up in the dictionary if needed, but it was quite handy to be found right on the same page. Whenever Scriptures are referenced, these are noted as well. There is also a map and timeline in the front of the book. All of these things are helpful in using this for more than just a good story and part of our history studies.
If you are looking for historical reading or adding living history books to your library, the titles offered at Salem Ridge Press will be great additions. We received the softcover version ($14.95) and a hardcover is available as well ($24.95). Some of the titles are bundled together at a discount. Other Crew members reviewed various titles. Be sure to check all the reviews by clicking the banner below.
