Shepherd, Potter, Spy — and the Star Namer by Peggy Consolver ~ Homeschool Crew Review

 

It is no secret that we enjoy historical fiction.  Even more so, historical fiction relating to favorite events from history, specifically Biblical history.  That is exactly what we found in Shepherd, Potter, Spy — and the Star Namer from Peggy Consolver – Author.  Biblical history comes  to life in the story of the Gibeonites referred to in Joshua 9 & 10.

 Even from the cover, I knew I was going to enjoy this story. We begin our trek through this Old Testament-related story with Keshub, a 13 year old shepherd boy from a family known for their pottery. A thrilling event drew my younger children in right away as I read aloud. As the story went on, their interest ebbed and flowed, while mine stayed fixed. I could not wait to see how things unfolded and what was going to happen next. Eventually, I went on without them. We’ll revisit the story when the hot days of summer have us inside more often and there are not too many distractions.

One of my teen daughters is also reading this independently. She is a slower reader, but is enjoying this just as much as I did. We have had some interesting discussions sparked in part by her own questions and observations and the additional study guide that is available.  After using the sample, I purchased the full study guide, Digging Deeper Into HIStory.  It is serving her well as a tool for deep study.  She is not only studying deeper into Shepherd, Potter, Spy but into the related areas of Scripture as well.  The study guide also includes links for videos related to the tools, life, and weapons of the era.  Using a sling for stone throwing and making a bow are two that all of us enjoyed.

As a family that lives close to the land and planting/harvesting cycles, learning about the Gezer calendar was especially interesting.  All of my children have had at least a passing interest in archaeology – inspired by equal parts young Indiana Jones and their own random finds from our own backyard.  Reading of the author’s experience not just with an archaeological dig, but a dig in study guide added even more to our experience and enjoyment of this well-written story.  I love it when our children see evidence supporting our belief that Scripture is truth, that these events really did happen.

While my younger children might enjoy some of the more exciting events in Shepherd, Potter, Spy — and the Star Namer by Peggy Consolver, it is my teens who are getting the most out of it.  To read more of the Crew families’ experiences with this great Biblical historical fiction title, click the image below.