The Scarlet Pimpernel

Daring adventures, sword-fighting encounters, dangerous villains, virtuous heroes, and stirring romance – all memorably packaged in the twists and turns of each page composing The Scarlet Pimpernel. With its thrilling plot, succinct chapters, and substantive character arcs, this short novel could spark a love of reading in any high schooler and deepen the passion for books in those seeking their next engaging story.

Nestled within the context of the French Revolution, the storyline follows an English hero who bravely saves French aristocrats from the ravenous guillotine. Yet, the plot adds complexity when this hero must weave in and out of evil men seeking to capture him, a family that misperceives his true identity, and a yearning to protect those closest to him, even as he feels betrayed by them. In addition, each chapter averages about nine pages (in my copy, at least), making this an excellent work to focus on, a chapter per sitting. So, if you’re looking for a thrilling plot that is a manageable amount of reading for a novel, The Scarlet Pimpernel will be a phenomenal purchase for your student’s library.

By Josh Grover

White House America 250

In partnership with Hillsdale College and PragerU, the White House has been publishing videos that tell the story of America and videos of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Story of America playlist:

The Signers playlist:

I particularly enjoyed “The Shot Heard Round the World”: The Battles of Lexington and Concord.

I also enjoyed The Signer videos on John Witherspoon, Martha Washington, John Hancock, and Thomas Nelson, Jr.

Let me know what you think at info@fillthestage.com!

2026 Announcement

I’m making some changes.

1. MovingShip.com will be titled FillTheStage.com.
2. FillTheStage.com will become FillTheStageMiddleSchool.com.
3. FillTheStageHighSchool.com will remain the same.

FillTheStage communicates what I’m currently offering: Opportunities and experiences that help students grow in character, courage, and competence.

This year, I plan to continue publishing short articles on opportunities (generally once a week), offer book clubs (currently for middle school students), and post videos. The videos will show opportunities, including internships for high school students, and how to pursue them.

Happy New Year!

Daniel A. Dignan

P.S. – I enjoy hearing from parents! Please feel free to drop a line via info@fillthestage.com.

National Civics Bee

If you have a son or daughter who is particularly interested in American civics, government, and history, consider this National Civics Bee competition. Sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade students have until February 3rd to submit an essay on a local opportunity or problem and how to address it. Winners are selected for regional, state, and national competitions, as well as cash prizes.

This guide explains the essay requirements and judging criteria. The essay is short, but it does require some thought because the judges are looking for real opportunities and solutions. Here is the application portal for submitting essays.

Students selected for higher competition undergo a civics test and further questioning about their essays.

Lastly, you can find more information and important dates for the competition in the Educator’s Guide.

God’s Big Picture

God’s Big Picture: Tracing the Storyline of the Bible by Vaughan Roberts reveals the Bible’s overarching story. Roberts is the rector (a.k.a. pastor) of an evangelical Anglican Church in Oxford, called St. Ebbe’s. He studied theology in England. 

The story’s theme—the Kingdom of God— is clearly visible and progressively revealed. Roberts defines the Kingdom of God as “God’s people in God’s place under God’s rule and blessing.”

The author explains the Bible’s revelation of the Kingdom of God. Here are examples:

1. The pattern of God’s kingdom is shown in the Bible’s first book, Genesis.
2. The perished kingdom of God is first seen in the fall of man in Genesis 3.
3. The promised kingdom is first seen in the book of Genesis, in the life of Abraham, and is revealed through the Bible; it begins with the arrival of Jesus Christ.

Well, so what? Why does knowing this matter? Knowing the Bible’s story helps one make sense of the Bible’s texts, God’s good news, and our stories. In its light, we can make sense of what God wants us to know about what he has done, is doing, and will do, and how we should live.

Roberts quotes Psalm 95:3-7, in which, in poetic form, we learn that the Ultimate Being is both creator and King, and that man’s highest purpose and peace are found in devotion to Him.

“…good news of great joy…”

In A Charlie Brown Christmas, Linus explains the meaning of Christmas.

The Bible reveals the meaning of Christmas.

“The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.” (Isaiah 9, English Standard Bible (ESV))

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2, ESV)

God became a man: Jesus of Nazareth. The Bible reveals that he is the Messiah, or the Christ, and the promised King. He came as a Savior, and he is coming again as King.

Merry Christmas!

The Fourth Wise Man

This Christmas season, I want to share one of my favorite Christmas movies. Like me, you have probably watched Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Carol (1951) starring Alastair Sim, and It’s a Wonderful Life. They are classics and fun to watch.  You may have also enjoyed The Snowman, How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966), Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), and The Polar Express. They spark good memories and holiday cheer.

The Christmas film I want to share takes viewers back to the first Christmas and helps us imagine what it was like from the magi’s perspective. The magi were Persian kings-astrologers seeking heavenly signs of a newborn king. The Fourth Wise Man follows a particular magus who never made it to the manger in Bethlehem, but endeavors to find the child. It’s a moving tale that offers a glimpse of the meaning and joy of Christmas.

Christmas is truly a time of joy and celebration. I’m reminded of Charles Dickens’ character Mr. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol; his Christmas party was so grand and happy that guests had the time of their lives. But the secret of Mr. Fezziwig was not his money or the glamor or the building or the business; it was a heart enlarged by the truth and joy of Christmas.

When paired with the Bible’s story of Christmas in texts such as Isaiah 9 and Luke 2, movies like The Fourth Wise Man can help us get closer to that kind of celebration.

If you watch the movie, I’d love to hear what you thought of it.

Anne of Avonlea

Anne of Green Gables is about an adopted red-headed girl, about 11 years old, with heroic character traits. Her towering imagination, kindness, love of life, and the captivating story world made this book an all-time bestseller. The second book in the series, Anne of Avonlea, is a worthy sequel. Anne, about 17, fills the stage as a teacher, having given up college to help her adopted mother. The reader follows her efforts and sometimes delusional thinking as she inspires her pupils to become all they can be, but challenges await her in and outside the classroom.

This story features many learning opportunities for young readers. The author was a genius at crafting compelling chapters that delight and contain meaningful dialogue, making the scenes nearly irresistible. As Anne helps her neighbors and pupils, we see her slowly maturing into womanhood through a deepening understanding of what is genuinely true and good.

Some memorable scenes include her befriending an irate neighbor after her cow partially ruined his crops, her love for a young pupil who struggles after his mother’s death, and a new friendship with a woman who grieves over an early romance gone wrong.

The author brilliantly reveals the outworking of true religion, the purpose of education, and the realities and goodness of love and romance.

The British Are Coming

America’s 250th birthday is fast approaching, making this an excellent opportunity for students to learn about America’s founding. Rick Atkinson’s The British Are Coming: Young Readers Edition is a fast-paced and engaging read. It’s adapted from a more detailed three-volume series on America’s Revolutionary War by the same author.

Not only does Mr. Atkinson bring to life fascinating details about General George Washington and Revolutionary War battles, but he also tells a moving story. A former Washington Post senior editor, Mr. Atkinson has become a premier military historian, winning a Pulitzer Prize for An Army At Dawn, one of the books in his celebrated World War II trilogy.

The book covers some of the events that led to America’s War for Independence, the first two years of the war (1775-1777), and the first campaigns in Massachusetts, Canada, New York, and New Jersey. Events include the midnight ride of Paul Revere, the first shots in Concord and Lexington, the Battle of Bunker Hill, the Battle of Long Island, and the Battle of Trenton, which includes the famous crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Day.

Readers learn something about the views of both sides through firsthand accounts and correspondence of King George III and others. They gain awareness of both the brutal and civil aspects of the war, including an early attempt to end it in a meeting between Benjamin Franklin and British Admiral Lord Richard Howe.

Overall, the author underlines the price of freedom, the suffering and sacrifice of civilians, and the fact that many young men died.

The book might spur students to read more history about America and the West: a worthwhile outcome.

Finally, the battles described in the book are enlivened by numerous pictures and excellent maps that depict geography, towns, troop movements, and maneuvers, adding much to this educational experience.

Confronting the Presidents

Looking for highlights of each U.S. president’s time in office? This is the book for you. O’Reilly and Dugard excel at providing important information about each president in an upbeat, succinct style. Starting with Washington and ending with Biden, who was president when this book was published, the authors provide pros, cons, and historical context for each commander-in-chief. You may be surprised at the various and unsuspecting issues as well as victories these men experienced as they held the nation’s highest office.

On the other hand, if you want an in-depth analysis and biographical sketch for each president, I encourage you to look elsewhere. But it is reasonable that they don’t provide an exhaustive survey, since they have to discuss all the presidents; giving a lot of information on each would turn into a marathon reading project. Also, O’Reilly and Dugard do not rank all the presidents from worst to best based on their views, though they do provide some of their favorite and least favorite presidents throughout the book.

Consequently, this is a great book that offers a “30,000-foot” view of each president’s time in office without boring you with too many trivial details. Indeed, a good read for those wanting a helpful introduction to those who have held the most powerful office in the world.

By Josh Grover

Ten Important Books for Teen Leaders

I wrote a short book for teen leaders, promoting several books I have written about on this site. It’s available for download.

The idea is to provide parents and teens with a quick and easy summary of books that expand vision and teach character and leadership.

If you know a parent who might benefit from the book, please send the book page.

Veterans Day

Originally, Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I, Veterans Day honors all American military veterans. The holiday is an opportunity for young people to deepen their knowledge of and appreciation for our veterans.

My pastor shared Frank DeVita’s story at church. A World War II veteran, his D-Day story is astonishing. Here’s a two-minute introduction. More is available on YouTube.

If you are a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, thank you for your service!

The Walk

This is a different kind of book. It’s a guide to what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ, the benefits of following him, and how to follow him. It assumes no prior knowledge of Christianity or the Bible. The author calls it a “Discipleship for Dummies” book.

The book guides readers through the Bible’s Gospel of Mark (the first Gospel) and the book of Romans. Overall, it helps readers understand the story of Jesus.

One of the things I like about the book is that it addresses common questions about whether one has to go to church, how to read the Bible, and what words like “justification” and “sanctification” mean. The book is easy to read, yet it offers a systematic explanation of God’s good news.

The author is a pastor, and trusted Christian leaders, including Tim Keller and Carl Trueman, endorsed the book. My pastor uses the book to help new followers of Jesus grow in their faith. This is a significant benefit of the book; it can help you help others follow Jesus, too.

If you are interested in this topic, I highly recommend the book. The Walk is accessible, well-written, and suitable for middle and high school students. If you read the book, let me know what you think.

Nehemiah

An insightful commentary on Nehemiah, the best leadership book ever written. The commentary is short, entertaining, and provides leadership lessons appropriate for high school students and young adults.

I have read several commentaries on Nehemiah, and this one is the best, or at least top of the stack. James Montgomery Boice was a brilliant pastor, author, and leader in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the second half of the 20th century. He does a great job explaining the dynamics of leadership.

Nehemiah was a Persian official over 400 years before Christ who saw a need, formulated a plan, and executed it despite significant dangers and difficulties. The commentary explains the dynamics of Nehemiah’s leadership and how he accomplished the task of rebuilding Israel’s wall and reviving the nation.

Nehemiah is truly a leadership manual for those who want to lead and work with distinction.

Five Reasons Why Young People Should Go To Church

I interview Pastor Dan Ellis of Rileyville Baptist Church about reasons why young people should go to church.

Open Letter to President Trump About Heaven

Douglas Wilson is a well-known theologian, pastor, and author in Moscow, Idaho. He responds to President Donald J. Trump’s recent comments about heaven.

Amazing video.

How To Really Live It Up

A few weeks ago, I was scrolling through a list of books on Amazon by the late pastor James Montgomery Boice. I found an interestingly titled book, one of his first, at the bottom of the stack. It’s one of the most helpful short books I’ve ever read.

The book appeared to be about happiness, and I was not far off. Boice introduces the book in the preface as a practical work. Its purpose is to show what the Bible has to say about complex life problems and challenges.

Chapters include How to Become a Christian, How to Pray, How to Know the Will of God, How to Have a Happy Marriage, How to Be Happy as a Family, and How to Be Free From Worry.

The chapters are short, thought-provoking, and systematic. Overall, the book is profound and helpful. Boice was for many years a trusted Bible teacher and leader; his sermons were heard (and still are listened to) across the country on the radio and now via podcast.

Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables is the first in a series of eight stories about a young orphan girl who is adopted into a home on Prince Edward Island. Anne is not like other young girls. She sees the world through a thick, imaginative lens, often daydreaming about the beauty she notices around her. She is independent, resourceful, and kind. But her absentmindedness and pride frequently get her into trouble.

The story is full of scenes about friendship, country life, neighbors, school, and adolescent ambition. The dialogue is thrilling and enjoyable. The larger-than-life Anne is a heroic figure, astonishing her adopted parents, friends, and neighbors with her imaginative fervor, love of life, and courage.

One benefit for young readers is that they see Anne flourish in a world without smartphones and social media. Readers notice the fullness and beauty of life, including its difficulties. They experience the power of in-person relationships and the enrichment of nature in a world that is less distracted than our online one.

Through Anne, the reader gains glimpses of rigorous education and Christian upbringing. The author’s powerful and beautiful lines make one think seriously about the gift of life and relationships. And Anne’s self-sacrifice is a powerful picture of living life well. I strongly recommend this book to middle and high school students.

How to Gain Strong In-Person Friendships

David Morton, pastor, teacher, and musician, returns to talk about in-person relationships, something we have lost in our social media world. We discuss what a true friend is like, why strong in-person friendships matter (sharing examples), and how to gain strong friendships.

I have posted this video on the Fill the Stage site for middle school students, here.

Introducing Fill The Stage High School

I created a site for high school students called FillTheStageHighSchool.com. It offers a growing list of resources to help them become men and women of distinction.

Classical School Headmaster Interview

America Fest 2025

America Fest is “The Biggest Conservative Movement in the Country” for students. An opportunity of a lifetime for young people to make new friends, develop leadership skills, and widen their awareness of conservative organizations and opportunities.

I will be there. Let me know if you are coming. It would be an honor to meet you!

For conference and registration details, please see Turning Point USA.

High School Student Roadmap for Success

I recommend that students do the following:

First, read the Bible. (I recommend starting with Mark and Romans.)

Second, connect with a church that rigorously teaches the Bible, like this one.

Third, read a great book little by little. (I recommend reading at least 10 pages a day.) Here’s a guide.

Fourth, attend a Christian camp (i.e., leadership, adventure, or sports-related). (I’ve heard great things about Alert Academy.)

*Fifth: find a deep interest: something that you are interested in and that provides a service.

*Read Andy Kessler’s “There Are No Rules for Success.”  He recommends trying Replit and Cursor. (If your student is interested in tech, these tools might be worth investigating.)

If you have questions, drop me a line at info@movingship.com.

Photo by Stephen Monroe on Unsplash

An Epic Memorial Service

Frank Turek is a Christian apologist, a person who publicly defends the Christian faith. A friend of Charlie Kirk, he very clearly shared the Gospel at Kirk’s memorial service on Sunday.

Remembering Charlie Kirk

If you are within driving distance of Glendale, Arizona, consider attending Charlie Kirk’s public funeral. It will be held at State Farm Stadium, starting at 11 AM tomorrow. Details here. (The event will be livecast.)

The assassination of Charlie Kirk is a national tragedy. His funeral is an opportunity for young people to reflect on the brevity of life, to witness family and leaders honor a life well lived, and to consider how they want to steward the freedoms, opportunities, and time they’ve been given.

It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart. (Ecclesiastes 7:2, ESV)

Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”… (12:1, ESV)

Photo by Troutfarm27, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Introducing Fill The Stage Book Club

One of the most important things a student can gain a love for is reading books. One way to encourage this is by reading a book together. A great deal is achieved by joint reading and discussing great books; at the very least, it is really enjoyable.

I am a big fan of C.S. Lewis and his writings. His books for young students, The Chronicles of Narnia, are hard to beat. A few of my middle school students and I have been reading these books in an online book club.

If you know a middle school student who would enjoy reading The Chronicles of Narnia and discussing it with peers, see our book club page for details.

Charlie Kirk

Associated Press / Photo by Tess Crowley / The Deseret News

The political assassination of Charlie Kirk was not only intended to silence a conservative political influencer, but it was meant to silence conservative political leaders and millions of conservative young people across America.

Charlie Kirk was a man of consequence, one who will be long remembered. He bravely promoted the conservative principles of freedom of speech, free markets, and limited government, as his website makes clear. He believed conservative political principles conserve God’s great gifts to human beings, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Importantly, Charlie Kirk became a believer in and defender of the Christian faith. Realizing that God created all men and women in His image and that without God, order, freedom, and human flourishing are not possible.

Charlie Kirk was unafraid to take his beliefs into the public arena. He inspired many young people with the courage to stand up for their beliefs, even when it’s hard. May we never forget his example and determination to make the truth known.

Helpful commentary:

Albert Mohler

Matthew Continetti

Turning Point USA:

TPUSA.com 

An Interview about Reading Heroic Literature

I interviewed David Morton, pastor, musician, and an avid reader of heroic literature. We discussed examples, the value of reading heroic literature, and how to read it for maximum benefit.

Hand Me Another Brick

This book explains the Old Testament book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah is the best book ever written about leadership. It’s about an ordinary man (named Nehemiah) in the ancient Near East who accomplished extraordinary things.

Charles Swindoll is a well-known Bible teacher and author. He helps readers understand the leadership implications of Nehemiah and apply its lessons to their own lives.

Nehemiah is a Jewish official who served the Persian king Artaxerxes in the 5th century BC. At that time, Persia was the world’s superpower, having recently (under Cyrus the Great) defeated the Babylonian Empire.*

One day, Nehemiah received a report that Jerusalem was in dire straits. Nehemiah reveals that he prayed, planned, and persuaded the king to permit him to rebuild Jerusalem.

As the leader of a great project and eventually Judah’s governor, he faced many problems and dangers. He dealt with enemies and intimidation. And he had to handle promotion, success, and the temptations that high office and power introduce. But he became a great person with impeccable character and revived his nation.

I recommend this book to students interested in leadership and character development.

(*In 597 and 586 BC, the Babylonian Empire defeated, destroyed, and enslaved Judah and Jerusalem. (Nehemiah was likely a descendant of one of the Jewish captives.) In 538 BC, Cyrus decreed that the Jews could return. But things had not gone well.)

1 Samuel for You

This book is a chapter-by-chapter guide to Samuel. The author delves deeply into the literary and theological details, revealing great practical lessons in character and leadership.

Samuel is an epic in the Old Testament of the Bible that describes ancient Israel about 1,000 years before Christ. It’s a story about the rise and fall of the house of Saul, Israel’s first king, and the fall and rise of David, who defeated a giant named Goliath.

Samuel is a gateway to the Bible’s overarching story, helping learners understand the Bible as a whole. The guide Samuel For You is a great aid in understanding this.

By reading this book, young leaders will learn the following:

1. How friendships are made and lost
2. How to handle difficulties
3. How one of the greatest leaders led and treated those around him
4. How to become a happy person
5. Knowledge of the Bible’s story and message

State Capitol Tour

During a quick weekend trip, I visited the Iowa State Capitol building, which dominates the view of downtown Des Moines. Completed in 1886, it is one of the most beautiful state capitol buildings in the United States.

Here’s a short video.

Visiting your state capitol building is a great way to introduce a teen to the workings of state government and the law-making process.

I would recommend a tour. Much more of the building was available for exploration. You could ask about internships. There might also be state legislator shadowing opportunities. For that, you could contact your local state representative’s office.

Beowulf

Beowulf, a Scandinavian warrior, fights a monster named Grendel, then Grendel’s mother, and finally, years later, a fire-breathing dragon. Winning great honor, he eventually became a king and a bulwark of his people.

An ancient and renowned tale, Beowulf is over 1,000 years old and was originally written in Anglo-Saxon, or Old English. This translation is regarded as one of the finest—poetic, epic, and gripping. About 100 pages; it’s a quick read and hard to put down.

The unknown author offers a glimpse into the ancient heroic age of the Germanic peoples, who migrated to England and Denmark. They lived by the warrior code and sought glory through warfare. The author also offers a glimpse of Christianity’s influence.

Some of the great literary minds studied the tale. J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings, translated Beowulf and taught it for decades, writing a commentary. (I have not read it.) According to Joseph Loconte’s book The War for Middle Earth, it was a major influence on his writings.

Beowulf demonstrated great courage in his confrontation with pure evil. There are thrilling moments, happy seasons; however, a perceptive observer noted that the book begins and ends with a funeral, revealing that the world is not enough.

The epic tale is one I recommend to young people for its entertainment value and its clear example of a good, strong hero confronting evil characters (including a dragon). It forces the reader to think seriously about the need for courage, the importance of moral and physical preparation, and life after death.

In this translation, you can see the Old English on the left-facing pages; modern English is on the right.

Start Here

The Start Here page contains links to enrichment experiences and opportunities. I recommend books I’ve read and places I’ve visited that support character and leadership development. More coming!

Called to Lead

John MacArthur, the late pastor of Grace Community Church and chancellor of the Master’s University in California, wrote an excellent book on leadership principles drawn from the lives of St. Paul and Nehemiah.

Paul planted churches across the Roman Empire, wrote much of the New Testament, and is largely responsible for the rise of Christianity in the first century. Nehemiah served as King Artaxerxes’ cupbearer in the 5th century BC. He was a Jewish exile from Israel who received permission to rebuild his city, Jerusalem, which the Babylonians had destroyed in 586.

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Called to Lead transports readers to the time and place of Paul and Nehemiah and identifies what’s implied in the Bible about their leadership. The first lesson of leadership is trustworthiness. MacArthur explains how Paul gained trust and influence.

Students will not only gain insight into leadership but also deepen their understanding of the Bible’s meaning and message.

Churchill

The best leadership development opportunity for a student is finding ways to help others. This can be achieved through coaching, tutoring, counseling, or assisting younger children.

Along the way, an aspiring leader must observe and spend time with leaders. One way to do this is to read about them. Reading great biographies is not only enjoyable, it’s a good use of time. Biographies expand one’s knowledge, vision, and self-awareness. And they introduce one to new worlds, virtues, and opportunities.

In difficult times, one can think back on biographies read for inspiration, motivation, and wisdom.

A high school student can benefit from men, women, missionaries, business leaders, scientists, musicians, preachers, and politicians.

Some leaders, like Winston Churchill, are worth reading over the course of one’s entire life, for their lives offer numerous and profound lessons.

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Winston Churchill — war correspondent, war hero, grandson of a Duke, brilliant writer and speaker, member of Parliament, Prime Minister, savior of Western Civilization, gardener, brick layer, painter, historian, husband, and father — is hard to beat.

Over one thousand books have been written about him. The late Paul Johnson’s Churchill is arguably the best short single-volume biography of his life. Superbly written, the book introduces the life and times of a great man who had rare courage.

Saint Paul in Thessaloniki

After Philippi, Paul and Silas journeyed south to Thessaloniki (Acts 17:1-10, ESV). Located in the middle of Greece, and on the northwestern part of the Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki was (and is today) significant commercially and culturally. Named after Alexander the Great’s sister, it functioned as an independent city during Paul’s day, but would later become a Roman province.

Thessaloniki was highly valued among empires, changing hands several times. After Roman rule, Byzantium, the Bulgars, the Ottomans, and, starting in 1912, the Greeks ruled the city (Paul).

Paul’s preaching transformed the city, and the church he founded became influential. Though an angry mob forced him to leave, his New Testament letters to the church (1 and 2 Thessalonians) reveal that the church would go on to positively affect all of Greece (1 Thessalonians 1:6-9), and eventually, through the letters, the entire world.

One of the most famous passages in the letters regards the second coming of Christ (a future event), and Paul’s encouragement to Christians to be ready for that day. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11).

If you ever travel to Thessaloniki, be sure to notice the Roman forum, the medieval walls, and the ancient churches, particularly the fifth-century Basilica of St. Demetrius.

Basilica of St. Demetrius

The Death of Ivan Ilych

A successful middle-aged judge suffered a freak accident and faces a slow, terrible death. His family and friends aren’t much help. His pain, depression, and uncertainty grow.

Memories, including his childhood, ambitions, and career, crowd into his mind. He worries that he has not lived as he should have.

As his physical and mental agonies increase, a young servant boy shows mercy and cares for him. Ivan wonders if things can be made right.

This short story by Leo Tolstoy, regarded as one of the greatest novelists, is a shocking read. It makes one think seriously and question one’s own life: Am I living as I ought to live? Am I deceiving myself? Can what’s wrong be made right before it’s too late?

Literature professor Leland Ryken considers this book one of the best Christian classics of all time. High school students can benefit from the book. It will help them think about what really matters.

Spoiler alert:

Amidst his suffering, Ivan undergoes a radical transformation, dying in hope. His incremental yet sudden change makes sense in light of biblical teachings on regeneration and justification.

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Tom Brown’s Schooldays

School has never been easy, but in pre-Victorian England, schools were particularly challenging. Boys learned Latin and ancient Greek, read classical literature, attended chapel, and participated in sports such as cricket and rugby.

English public schools (i.e., private schools) were a primary instrument for helping boys become men through a strict daily regimen, challenging academic expectations, and rough-and-tumble free play. Headmasters and older students maintained order and discipline and were feared.

Rugby School is one of the oldest public boarding schools. Memorialized in the 1857 book Tom Brown’s Schooldays, it shaped the religious, moral, and academic imagination of generations of students.

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The book features the famous headmaster, Thomas Arnold, but the author (a former student of the school) follows the life and development of a fictional boy named Tom Brown, who represents a host of young men who benefited from such schools.

Tom Brown began his school days at Rugby as a pre-teen. His father encouraged him to stand against bullies and say his prayers. We see him grow up within the school’s thick culture and social life. He serves the older students, makes friends, and struggles to maintain his honor against a bully, an evil student who, at one point, holds him over a fire.

Tom develops courage, yet he breaks rules, jeopardizing his future at the school. The headmaster shows mercy, believing Brown needs a younger student to look after, if he is to overcome his rebellious ways.

The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at how boys became men in the forge of an Anglican boarding school, where students received a classical education, as well as instruction in the Christian religion and gentlemanly conduct.

Tom Brown became a leader; the story shows how it happened.

Today, parents face a challenge in helping their kids become responsible adults. Smartphones and social media have made a generation of young people anxious and depressed. (This is documented in Jonathan Haidt’s best-selling book.)

Children need parental involvement, real-world experiences (and fewer virtual ones), an education, rigorous Bible instruction, and physical challenges.

Tom Brown’s Schooldays shows what this used to look like, revealing the blessing of academic rigor, high expectations, biblical instruction, and quality friendship. Although Brown experienced dangers and bullies, the hardship and instruction made him a virtuous man.

Prince Caspian

After the events of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the children are once again called to Narnia—a Narnia that is unrecognizable. They find themselves near an old, deserted castle. A dictator rules Narnia, who has driven the talking animals and dwarfs into hiding, and the old beliefs in Aslan away. But there’s hope.

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A young prince named Caspian still believes in the ancient truths of Narnia. His nurse taught him the old stories, and later, a half-dwarf named Cornelius added to his knowledge of old Narnia and taught him the ways of leadership.

Suddenly, everything changes, and his life is in danger. He must flee, but unknown to him, an exciting adventure awaits.

Prince Caspian is about the old beliefs in Aslan, those who believe, and those who want to destroy those beliefs forever. A war looms. One that will test the courage of Caspian and his friends.

C.S. Lewis’s imagination is on full display: dancing trees, festive parties, a violent duel, and a heroic mouse. Surprises are woven through this page-turning story.

I strongly recommend this book to students. Lewis, philosopher and literature scholar, shows the way to the most profound truths about courage, happiness, and freedom.

Saint Paul in Philippi

During Paul’s first missionary journey, he and Barnabas traveled through Cyprus and south-central Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Many Jews and Gentiles responded to their message, but others rejected it and persuaded many to turn against Paul. In one city, an angry mob stoned him. Nonetheless, churches were established, and Christian leaders were appointed to carry on the work. (Acts 13 and 14.)

After a major Church Council (Acts 15), Paul began his second journey, traveling west through Asia Minor and returning to the churches he had founded. While in Lystra, Paul and his friend Silas met a young man named Timothy, who became Paul’s protege (Acts 16).

Together they journeyed northwest, where they were prevented from entering Northern Asia Minor (Bithynia). In Troas, of the famed Trojan War, unsure where to go, Paul had a vision:

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. (Acts 16:9-10, ESV)

They sailed across the northern Aegean Sea, reaching Philippi, in Northern Greece. Philippi was a Roman city named after Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. It is the site of the consequential Battle of Philippi, where Octavian (eventually Caesar Augustus) defeated Brutus. In Paul’s day, the city included a Roman forum, commercial buildings, and a theater. Mountains nearby were mined for gold. And the town had become a retirement destination for Roman soldiers.

The ruins can be seen today. The video below shows the city center.

Nearby, Paul and his team met a woman named Lydia, who sold purple clothing to wealthy leaders. She became the first convert to Christianity in Europe, and her house the site of the first church (Acts 16:11-15).

Soon after, Paul confronted a demon-possessed slave and was imprisoned, where a most extraordinary thing happened:

As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.

But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.

But when it was day, the magistrates sent the police, saying, “Let those men go.” And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, “The magistrates have sent to let you go. Therefore come out now and go in peace.” But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and do they now throw us out secretly? No! Let them come themselves and take us out.” The police reported these words to the magistrates, and they were afraid when they heard that they were Roman citizens. So they came and apologized to them. And they took them out and asked them to leave the city. So they went out of the prison and visited Lydia. And when they had seen the brothers, they encouraged them and departed. (Acts 16:16-40, ESV)

Paul’s message was consequential and comprises much of the New Testament of the Bible. He spoke of God’s future judgement, the debt humans owe to God, Christ’s atonement for sin on the cross, and forgiveness and imputation of righteousness by faith in Christ. We are told that some believed it, while others rejected it (Acts 14). In Philippi, after being beaten and put in stocks, Paul’s unusual behavior and the earthquake caught the jailer’s attention, and he and his family became followers of Christ.

When the city officials let Paul go, he did not leave quietly. His rights as a Roman citizen had been violated, and he had been publicly humiliated. He compelled the city leaders to acknowledge this. Roman and Christian convictions of the importance, privileges, and responsibilities of citizenship would go on to impact the modern world.

Greek and Shakespearian Drama

Classic movies and stories often incorporate elements of either tragedy or comedy. A classic modern tragedy is Gone with the Wind. The main character, Scarlett O’Hara, never learns and doubles down on her destructive behavior. The ending is sad, indeed. Conversely, comedies have happy endings.

What is the point?

Tragedies and comedies help us make sense of human experience. Leland Ryken notes that the exaggerated content encourages wisdom and virtue. A tragedy shocks our sensibilities, causing us to think more deeply about life. A comedy gently nudges us toward what is true, good, and beautiful. It helps us appreciate and love what should be valued.

William Shakespeare’s dramas are entertaining and unforgettable experiences. Some are haunting and serve as warnings to the reader. Who can forget Macbeth’s attempt to cleanse his hands of the blood he shed?

When C.S. Lewis was a child in Ireland during the early 20th century, he would read Shakespeare’s plays for entertainment. One of Lewis’s biographers, Dr. Harry Lee Poe, observed that attending a Shakespearean play was akin to watching a movie today.

If you plan on reading Shakespeare to your kids, read a couple of the best Greek dramas first. They form the foundation of the tradition that Shakespeare built upon. Tragedies like Oedipus Rex (Oedipus the King) and Antigone by Sophocles are the greatest dramas ever written. One commentator noted that the plot of Oedipus Rex might be the best.

Bénigne Gagneraux

The stories are not only gripping and entertaining, but lessons are apparent. (Antigone’s uncle Creon is a parable for power’s corrupting influence and the dangers of pride.)

In closing, Leland Ryken made an invaluable point about the difference between Greek and Shakespearean dramas: the focal point of Greek dramas is fate, while Shakespeare emphasizes human responsibility. In the former, the main characters had no final say in what happened to them; in the latter’s work, it’s as Sir Walter Scott so famously wrote: “Oh what a tangled web we weave….”

Saint Paul’s Heavenly Vision

Paul, originally Saul of Tarsus (a city in Asia Minor, now modern-day Turkey), is responsible for half of the books in the New Testament (NT) of the Bible. A titanic figure in his day, trained to be a Jewish religious leader by one of the most respected rabbis, a contemporary of Jesus Christ, he became early Christianity’s most aggressive persecutor: “But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.” (Acts 8:3, ESV)

Yet in the middle of his efforts to stamp out Christianity, on the road to Damascus, he was dramatically and forever changed by a vision of Jesus Christ.

But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. (Acts 9:1-9, ESV)

This tectonic event led to the spread of Christianity worldwide, particularly in Europe. Paul would undertake three missionary journeys, possibly four, preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, planting churches in key cities, and writing letters to the churches that became crucial to the New Testament’s message. This was documented by Luke, Paul’s physician, in the New Testament’s Acts of the Apostles.

Paul describes his early life and conversion in two places: Acts 22 and 26. On the first occasion, his audience was an angry mob that wanted to kill him. The second was before King Agrippa in Caesarea. Paul had become the most consequential person in the world. One whom kings, and eventually Caesar, were compelled to hear.

In Paul’s vision on the Damascus road, Jesus Christ told Paul the following:

But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (Acts 26:16-18, ESV)

This divine purpose continues to affect the world to this day and began to arise in Paul’s missionary journeys.

America’s Field Trip

America 250 is hosting a contest for students in grades 3 through 12. This is a fantastic opportunity. Visit America250.org for information.

One of the leaders of the associated U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission is Wilfred M. McClay, a historian recommended previously.

A Christian Guide to the Classics

This book is an excellent guide to acquiring an education. It describes what classic books are, why they should be read, and how to read them effectively. Moreover, the author shares a short list of classic book recommendations, most of which are suitable for high school students.

The book is concise, well-written, and features helpful quotes from Horace, Augustine, T.S. Eliot, and C.S. Lewis.

The author taught literature at Wheaton College, wrote many books, and was the primary literary advisor for the English Standard Bible translation.

In this book, Ryken provides an organized accounting and general commentary of the English and Western literary canon, helping newcomers make sense of it. Also, he describes key classics such as John Milton’s Paradise Lost. He dedicates chapters of the guide to the Bible, Christian classics, and secular works, helping the reader understand the difference between helpful and less helpful classics.

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Finally, Ryken emphasizes that classic literature helps one make sense of life and human experience and live well. I appreciated his emphasis on the enjoyment great books bring to readers. This is a book that a high school student can benefit from significantly.

Saint Paul

It’s impossible to exaggerate the influence of the Apostle Paul in the world, and particularly in the West. Only Jesus Christ has had a greater influence, and behind Paul, one would have to say that Aristotle or Plato are close to Paul’s impact, yet trail it. That is quite the company.

After Christ’s death and resurrection, Paul spread Christianity throughout the world. He founded churches in Asia and Europe, writing letters to these churches which have been read ever since in the Bible’s New Testament. The most famous is his letter to the church in Rome, titled Romans. In it, he explains the good news that Christ revealed.

In a nutshell, Paul declared:

“…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…” “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” “…But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” (3:23; 6:23; 5:8; 10:9,10 – English Standard Version)

Paul’s life, leadership, and letters have not only changed the lives of millions, perhaps billions, of people, helping them find happiness, but they have also served as a bulwark of the West’s historical commitment to human dignity and freedom. They are increasingly making their mark on Eastern cultures, the Middle East, and the Global South.

Paul’s letters include Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and 1 and 2 Thessalonians. The cities and, in some cases, the ruins of the ancient cities mentioned in these letters can be seen today. I recently visited several of these locations, and over the next several weeks, I will share highlights.

Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

Paul’s letters, carefully studied, are enjoyable, fascinating, terrifying, and life-changing. I recommend adding them to a reading plan for your high school and even middle school students.

In conclusion, numerous books have been written about Paul’s teachings and life. Some are intended for scholars, while others are for a popular audience. One of my favorite books is Called to Lead: 26 Leadership Lessons from the Life of the Apostle Paul.

“…a day full of memories.”

Transcript

Memorial Day

Tales of the Greek Heroes

For a young person to gain courage and to lead well, it is helpful to learn the wisdom of the past. Edmund Burke, the great conservative British statesman, said, “People will not look forward to posterity who never look backward to their ancestors.” Thus, the West’s history and ancient stories are a great boon.

Every civilization has ancient stories, some of which are historical and others mythic. Many of the West’s ancient stories come from Greece and Rome. The Greco-Roman stories include tales of gods and heroes, such as Prometheus’ gift of fire to humanity, Theseus and the Minotaur, and Hercules’ labors and battles against the giants. They are enjoyable to read.

The Greeks regarded physical strength, heroism in war, and hospitality as moral virtues. They also recognized the sacredness of one’s word, work, marriage, family, and city. They believed in a supernatural world, sin, and the need for atonement.

Many lessons can be learned: curiosity does not always lead to a good end (Pandora’s box); a happy marriage requires more than physical attraction and emotional attachment (Jason and Medea); individual human dignity matters (Procrustes’ bed); feelings and desires are not always legitimate and often lead to bad ends (Siren’s call); and the road to greatness requires enormous self-sacrifice (Hercules’ labors).

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Roger Lancelyn Green’s Tales of the Greek Heroes is a valuable resource for young people. By his admission, it is a simple retelling of the ancient stories. He weaves them into a unified narrative, remaining faithful to the originals, except for minor additions, which he notes.

Lastly, these stories provide the context for two of the most famous Greek tales about the Trojan War and the return of one of its heroes: Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey.

The Tale of Troy

An actor, teacher, and friend of C.S. Lewis, Roger Lancelyn Green was a gifted storyteller who wrote several short stories for children. (He encouraged Lewis to publish The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.) The Tale of Troy is about the Trojan War and the heroes’ return home.

If your son or daughter is not quite ready to read Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, this story is a good place to start. While staying true to the ancient stories, he shortened them, enabling a retelling of the whole. His enjoyable version includes the background, main events, what happened to the heroes, and Odysseus’s journey home to his wife, son, and kingdom.

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The tales of the central characters — Agamemnon, Menelaus, Paris, Helen, Achilles, Hector, Ajax, Aeneas, Odysseus, Telemachus, Penelope — are told.

Green’s book offers students a solid foundation in the West’s literature; it’s hard to think of a better choice. The book is well-written, action-packed, and moves quickly. I recommend reading it to your student(s).

Finally, the illustrations are by Pauline Baynes, the original illustrator of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior

I reread George Washington’s Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior, which a young Washington copied for personal use. According to Wikipedia, the instructions date back to the 16th century. Most of the maxims, except for two or three, apply today.

Some are quite clearly true: “In the presence of others sing not to yourself with a humming noise, nor drum with your fingers or feet.”

Some are humorous: “Do not laugh too much or too loud in public.”

Others are consequential, and for those who desire to lead. “Let your countenance be pleasant, but in serious matters somewhat grave.” “Let thy carriage be such as becomes a man: grave, settled, and attentive to that which is spoken. Contradict not at every turn what others say.” And “Think before you speak; pronounce not imperfectly nor bring out your words too hastily, but orderly & distinctly.”

Toward the end, the maxims help make others comfortable in your presence. This has the added benefit of giving one confidence in social settings. “Be not forward but friendly and courteous; be the first to salute, hear, and answer; & be not pensive when it’s time to converse.”

The most critical maxims deal with justice toward others. “Detract not from others; neither be excessive in commanding.” “Strive not with superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.”

While behavior like this has become a lost art, it is of timeless importance. The behavior requires acting with kindness and grace. I recommend the book to high school students. The maxims can be read in a single sitting. Their brevity and proverb-like construction make them memorable and enjoyable.

Teaching the Virtues

Have you ever wondered whether virtues can be taught and how to do so? David Hein’s book Teaching the Virtues is a good place to start. Hein defines essential virtues, such as faith, love, honor, and gratitude, and explains how to help students acquire them. He believes virtues are necessary for happiness, writing: “The virtues are what enable human beings to achieve their good ends….” (24)

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Hein begins by focusing on schools and learning communities. To improve, schools need to self-assess, learn from better schools, and determine if their students are becoming more virtuous. Schools cannot rely solely on passive learning methods; they must find ways to help students actively acquire virtues.

Next, Hein turns to writing. He believes it’s an active method for students to develop virtue. He argues that to become a good writer, one must build virtue. It requires diligence and patience. (Hein shares the writing advice he gives to college students (e.g., importance of rewriting.)

Honor is the topic of the next chapter. He describes two types of honor: the type motivated by personal glory and the type that comes from self-denial. While a student at the University of Virginia, he was struck by the meaning and significance of the honor code. He shares how it helped him develop integrity.

Descriptions of the theological and natural virtues, beginning with faith, are the core of the book. According to Hein, one’s values influence one’s decisions and behaviors. For example, one who values the God of the Bible tends to respect human dignity. On the other hand, a person who values personal autonomy over all would tend to regard personal desire and will.)

To see virtue in concrete human experience, Hein encourages the study of biographies. The book features short character sketches of George Washington, Hannah More, and Booker T. Washington. He underlines ways one might use them to discuss virtue.

In closing, Hein, a Christian, believes in the importance of piety—enjoying God and gratitude for His work (Genesis 1:1; John 1:1-5; John 3:16). Hein points out that many people demonstrate virtues like courage in the service of evil. The truth and piety orient virtue toward what is good.

Teaching the Virtues sharpens the reader’s understanding of virtues and methods for helping students acquire them. For continued study, Hein shares additional resources.

Easter Book

During the rise of Christianity, a pagan spring festival became a Christian celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. The four gospels–Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John–contain the story of the event that changed the world.

Did Christ, a Jewish carpenter in first century Rome, really rise again from the dead three days after he was crucified? Or is this story a fairy tale? If a fairy tale, Christianity is a lie and not worth bothering about. If the resurrection happened, there is hope beyond the grave.

In Did the Resurrection Really Happen? theologian and seminary professor Timothy Paul Jones, argues briefly that the first-century Christian leaders believed the resurrection happened, not against all evidence, but because of the evidence.

The author shares his own youthful doubts, the quality of the eye-witness testimonies, and the hope Christ’s resurrection offers. This is a short book suitable for high school students and readable in one sitting.

Jones counters major claims that Christ’s resurrection is a mere spin-off of ancient myths of dying and rising gods, that the Jews expected Christ to rise from the dead, that Christ’s followers hallucinated, and more. He shows how the New Testament record, eye-witness accounts, the empty tomb, and the martyrdom of Christian leaders makes claims against the resurrection challenging to believe.

Lastly, the author provides recommended books for those interested in learning more.

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National Naval Aviation Museum

A few months ago I visited the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. On the level of Washington D.C.’s National Air and Space Museum, it does not disappoint. Aviation collections span the history of air and military flight operations. Artifacts include World War I era planes, helicopters, spacecraft, Marine One, and jet aircraft.

The museum is overwhelming. Plan on at least 2-3 hours to walk through the entire museum. To make the experience more focused and educational, study the exhibit page beforehand. The purpose and missions of particular aircraft can help high school students appreciate the history and technology.

The museum offers several opportunities:

• Located within Naval Air Station Pensacola–home of the Blue Angels–visitors have opportunities to watch practices.
• The museum has flight simulators.
• Homeschool and STEM opportunities are offered, though I have not personally experienced these events.

It helps to go with someone who knows military aircraft. A couple staff members were knowledgeable about the exhibits. Military personnel were also stationed their supporting museum operations.

One book in the gift shop caught my attention: An Autobiography by Gen. James H. “Jimmy” Doolittle, I Could Never Bo So Lucky Again.

F-14 Tomcat

SH-60 Seahawk 

A Marine helicopter

Museum at a glance:

The Aeneid

According to Mortimer Adler, a great American educator, the Iliad, Odyssey, Aeneid, the Divine Comedy, Paradise Lost (the epics), and the Bible constitute the most serious reading program. Great thinkers and writers read them carefully and repeatedly.

Most of us only have time to read a small fraction of the great books. Even so, Adler recognized that reading well is more about quality than quantity. This means reading one great book well can seriously increase one’s understanding of the human condition, what ought to be desired, and happiness.

The Aeneid extends the stories of the Iliad and the Odyssey. Aeneas is a Trojan hero who fights to save his city and flees when all is lost, carrying his father on his shoulders. He leads his people across the sea to North Africa, where he is welcomed by a queen who falls in love with him, but has a tragic end. He is called to found a kingdom in Italy that would one day become Rome.

Virgil, the poet and author, lived during the reign of Octavian (Caesar Augustus) and likely had him in mind in his description of Aeneas’ personality and leadership.

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Robert Fitzgerald, the translator, provides a really good reading experience. His work is concise and forces one to feel the destruction, journey, danger, love, regret, sacrifice, battles, and hope. At the end, Fitzgerald provides a helpful synopsis of Rome’s early history and the themes of the Aeneid, like mercy and revenge.

During my teenage years, I was assigned chapters 1, 2, 4, 5, and 12 for a classics camp. Those chapters should not be skipped. The most memorable is chapter two, which is about Troy’s fall; it is an unforgettable reading experience. The reader is made to feel like he is there, seeing the walls fall and the city burn.

The description of hell and judgment in Chapter 6 is terrifying. Chapter 9 is the story of a secret military mission. Knowing the danger, one young man asks:

“This urge to action, do the gods instill it,

Or is each man’s desire a god to him,

Euryalus? For all these hours I’ve longed

To engage in battle, or to try some great

Adventure.”

Teen Leadership Camps

Last week, I attended the 25th anniversary celebration of Patrick Henry College, a top liberal arts college located in Purcellville, Virginia. Started by Mike Farris, constitutional attorney and Homeschool Legal Defense founder, it champions Christian, conservative, and classical education.

Patrick Henry College

While I did not attend the college, as a teenager, I participated in their Teen Leadership Camps, in particular, the spy and literature camps. They combined rigorous learning and instruction opportunities with evening games.

I am a believer in summer camps like these for teenagers. They help kids get out of their comfort zones, open new horizons, and help kids develop socially, spiritually, and intellectually.

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Drama and Theater Camps for Kids

I recently attended my second production of Logos Theater at Washington, D.C.’s Museum of the Bible. The production, costuming, and staging of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe were well done. I especially enjoyed seeing the props change quickly between scenes and the actors move from room to room as the setting changed.

Logos Theater does more than provide first-class theater. They give elementary, middle, and high school students immersive opportunities to learn acting, filmmaking, drama, and theater production in summer camps, co-ops, and traveling drama seminars. Moreover, they offer college-level acting classes and credit.

Acting was never my forte, but in college, I enrolled in several public speaking courses, including an acting course, to get out of my comfort zone. I have never forgotten my acting professor telling the class that we had better get our heads examined if we thought we could make it as professional actors. I think he said it in love, and all of us got the point. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the experience and became braver in public.

Even if your kid doesn’t want to become a professional actor, I recommend the experience. Theater can help kids develop self-awareness and friendships and open their artistic horizons. It’s also a lot of fun—no business is like show business!

Another benefit to Logos Theater is that it introduces students to classic and best-selling books like Narnia and Pilgrim’s Progress.

On Second Readings

I completed a second reading of C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (LWW). Leland Ryken and Marjorie Lamp Mead’s A Reader’s Guide Through the Wardrobe: Exploring C.S. Lewis’s Classic Story enriched the second beyond my initial expectations. The guide explains the storyteller’s craft and the purpose and meaning of story types (genres) like fairy tales and romance literature. Moreover, Ryken is exceptionally well-versed in C. S. Lewis.

At the end of his guide, Ryken quotes Lewis regarding the importance of reading great books more than once. Lewis believed that one could do well without reading some of the greatest writers, but he did not think that a reader of great books should be satisfied with a single read. This is because great books, by definition, offer more than a first reading can provide. Books like Homer’s Odyssey require many readings.

This is also true of modern works, such as Shakespeare’s tragedies and comedies, which can be read repeatedly for enjoyment and benefit. The great classics educator Mortimer Adler said as much in his book How to Read a Book: the best books cannot be fully mastered; they are over us and require more than a single reading to gain rich dividends of wisdom and insight.

The LWW is a classic, one that should be and is often read more than once. The ancient story type of the quest in pursuit of a noble goal, the journey, the coming of age story, the fight against evil, the nature of the good, the reality of a supernatural world, and ancient archetypes that picture these realities all make this classic a memorable and thought-provoking reread.

The most significant part of the LWW is its insight into human experience and the beautiful ways that it relates this to students, young and old.

A Reader’s Guide Through the Wardrobe

Through the Wardrobe is an enlightening guide to C.S. Lewis’s classic fairy tale The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Literature expert Leland Ryken provides readers with a chapter-by-chapter account of the story. Elements such as characterization, plot, story world, and archetypes are explained in an engaging and accessible manner. Throughout each chapter, he includes discussion and reflection questions that aid personal reading and group teaching. After reading the guide, the reader will be a more informed reader of fiction and will be greatly helped in understanding the truth and beauty Lewis conveys.

Ryken studied Lewis’s life and work in detail. (His suggested reading list at the end of the book is extensive.) Ryken also taught literature to college students and wrote over 60 books. In this book, he guides the reader through the ancient story types that Lewis enjoyed, studied, and drew upon in The Chronicles of Narnia, including romance literature, fairy tales, and myth. All of this is presented in concise chapters that are accessible to high school students.

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I enjoyed every chapter. In particular, the chapters on the White Witch and Edmund’s temptation, Peter’s first battle and romance literature, fairy tales, and Aslan were profound and educational. The final part of the book explains the origins of the Narnia books, their reception, their Christian vision, and biographical information about Lewis.

The guide will help your student enjoy the best literature and gain a deeper understanding of the Bible and human experience.

Guides to The Odyssey

Leland Ryken, one of the great literary minds of the 20th and 21st centuries, wrote a helpful short guide to The Odyssey. His great contribution is making the famous Greek narrative epic understandable and applicable to modern readers. The guide provides short summaries of the plot and profound commentaries of the important ideas in the epic. Ryken also provides helpful questions and thoughts for reflection, conversation, and study.

Ryken emphasizes the presence of the domestic code that governs the story of The Odyssey and helps one understand why the epic’s content is timeless and matters today. He points out Homer’s literary achievements, explains the essential parts of Odysseus’ adventures, trials, and tests during his journey home after the Trojan War, and underlines the significance of encounters and conversations that are difficult to pick up unless one carefully studies the book.

If you want a short guide to help your kid understand why The Odyssey matters and what lessons it teaches, I highly recommend the book.

Another enlightening and helpful resource is a talk Ryken gave a few years ago about Greek classics and The Odyssey in particular. In this talk he explains his approach to teaching the epic to college students, and what is true, good, and helpful about it.

The Odyssey

No book has had a more significant impact on the Western world and literature outside of the Bible than Homer’s Odyssey. The great literary philosopher Leland Ryken noted that it (along with Homer’s prequel, The Iliad) was a kind of bible for the ancient Greeks. One of the five great Western epics, it has influenced generations of thinkers and leaders with its captivating story, message, and lessons.

This adventure story follows the travels of the Greek hero Odysseus as he endeavors to return home after the Trojan War. Twelve temptations require various virtues to overcome. The hero’s son and wife also play prominent roles: Telemachus in his search for his father, and Penelope in her struggle against the evil suitors at home.

Who can forget the hero’s adventures? His struggle against the deadly witch, outsmarting the cyclops, leadership at sea, the Siren’s Call, faithfulness to his family and home, and patient planning to right wrongs all factor into an epic of endurance. He faced grave danger, overt temptation, and subtle dangers that require careful reading.

If read carefully and with help, a teenager can benefit from witnessing the virtues displayed in the face of temptations. I recommend Emily Wilson’s poetic translation; it was a joy to read.

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The Odyssey might be the best entry point if your son or daughter has never read Homer. The Iliad is fascinating but focuses on war and can be tiring. The Odyssey offers more variety, and the lessons are more apparent.

Why Every Student Should Become a Lifelong Reader

A friend, JP Shafer, shares the value of collecting and reading the best books.

How To Be A Friend

Cicero, the great Roman orator and statesman, wrote a short book on friendship that is helpful. By an older character talking to two younger men, he makes the case that friendship is critical to happiness, and that it is based chiefly on virtue. In fact, the greater one’s virtue, the greater one’s capacity for happy friendships.

There are gems in this book about how friendships flourish and die, the dangers of flattery, the importance of criticism, and how to be a true friend. It is the kind of book that one will want to read more than once.

A high school or middle school student can benefit from it.

The translator includes the Latin on the left-hand pages and the English translation on the right.

A Well-Ordered Life

As a Christian, I enjoy hearing preachers explain Bible texts. The Bible contains 66 books that form a unified whole. Each book has a purpose and a unique message, but the Bible can and should be read as a single story.

Charles Spurgeon was one of the greatest preachers and leaders in modern history. His sermons were read worldwide and are still widely read today. For decades, he preached to thousands in London every week.

I recommend that you read Spurgeon’s sermons to your kids. They are an excellent tool for helping young people understand the Bible’s message about God, man, Christ, and his future kingdom. While his language is a product of Victorian England, it can be understood with a little effort. A parent can help a kid make sense of more challenging words.

The following sermon is about living a well-ordered life, a life that leads to happiness. I have read it twice, and it is worth reading more than that. It is full of wisdom.

Becoming C.S. Lewis

Although C.S. Lewis’s writings and adult life are well-known, his childhood, adolescence, and the influences that shaped him are less so. Harry Lee Poe’s Becoming C.S. Lewis, the first of a three-volume biography, reveals the thinking and education of Lewis, the boy, and his transition to adulthood.

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As a boy, C.S. Lewis became deeply interested in stories about journeys or quests–the pursuit of something valuable. Stories like the Odyssey, the Arthurian legends, and The Faerie Queen shaped his thinking and imagination and eventually helped him understand what he was searching for. His childhood was marked by his mother’s death, books, music, long walks, difficult school experiences, and W.T. Kirkpatrick’s tutelage in Surrey, England.

The book does an excellent job of tracing his thinking (through his correspondence), intellectual and spiritual development, and his likes and dislikes. The author, deeply versed in the great books, helps the reader understand the great stories of Western Civilization and why they mattered to him.

I recommend this book for high school students and parents alike. It enables readers to think about and experience what made Lewis one of the greatest minds of Western Civilization.

Inklings Fellowship Events

The Inklings Fellowship is hosting two Narnia-related events in 2025. One will be in North Carolina in April and the other at Oxford University in July. The host is Harry Lee Poe, retired Union University professor and C.S. Lewis biographer.

At Oxford, C.S. Lewis became a renowned literature professor and established a lifelong friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien. For years, they and other writers met at the Eagle and Child across the street from the University to discuss their writings (including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) and enjoy each other’s company.

The trip includes free time to explore Oxford and its surroundings. Oxford is a beautiful town known for its University, culture, bookstores, restaurants, and shops. It is worth a visit.

Narnia on Stage

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will soon be performed at the Bible Museum’s theater in Washington, D.C.

I went to The Horse and His Boy a couple of years ago. It was very well done. The theater is large and world-class. I recommend it!

Jesus The Great Philosopher

Jesus The Great Philosopher provides a helpful introduction to ancient Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and the big philosophical domains they explored. The domains are what reality is (metaphysics), how we know what we know (epistemology), what is good (ethics), and how to order society for happiness (politics).

They sought to identify and show how to think and live to become happy and flourish.

Jonathan T. Pennington contends that while Christianity should certainly be viewed as a religion in that it deals with man’s relationship with God, it is also “a philosophy of happiness” (205).

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The author shows that the Bible provides thick answers to metaphysical, epistemological, ethical, and political questions, and intentionally so.

Moreover, ancient art and the Bible reveal that Jesus was not only considered to be the Messiah, the Son of God, the LORD, and the Savior, but also a philosopher. Pennington cites texts like John 10:10 and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) as evidence that Jesus was a philosopher of happiness.

The book explains the importance of emotions and relationships, examines ancient philosophical views that continue to affect Western civilization today, and discusses how Christianity provides emotional renewal and relational restoration between God and man, and between people. The author also helpfully discusses biblical disciplines like reflection and prayer.

The author believes that a lapse in serious reflection on ultimate philosophical questions and on the philosophy of Christianity has led to confusion about what’s necessary to think and live well.

The book is a page-turner and suitable for high school students, even if they are unfamiliar with Greek philosophy. Also, it’s a great introduction to Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, the primary philosophical questions, and the philosophy of the Bible.

Here are a few short videos from the author about the book.

May 2025 Armenia Tour

I am co-leading a tour with Chuck Holton to Armenia this spring. Armenia is a conservative, first-world country landlocked between Turkey to the west and Azerbaijan to the east. The capital, Yerevan, dates back 2,700 years. During the Greco-Roman age, Armenia fought to maintain independence from Persia and Rome, not always succeeding but building elite militaries and cultures. Xenophon, the great Greek General and philosopher, student of Socrates, and peer of Plato, led an army through the country and recorded his experiences.

Today, Armenia is a prosperous society with a thick culture. However, it needs friends and has turned to the West for support. Like the United States, Armenia has a Christian history. In A.D. 301, the king converted to Christianity. Armenia became the first nation to officially adopt Christianity due to the influence of Gregory the Illuminator, who spent many years in an Armenian dungeon. The dungeon remains under a monastery called Khor Virap near Mount Ararat.

The land surrounding the mountain served as the cradle of post-diluvian civilization, where Noah and his family lived and re-instituted society.

Descent of Noah from Ararat by Ivan Aivazovsky

In the 20th century, Armenia became a Soviet satellite country; this reality enormously influenced its culture, economics, and architecture. After the fall of the Soviet Union, Armenia gained independence.

Armenia is a window into the old world of Asia and Europe. The Silk Road crisscrosses the countryside and features ancient stone hotels. Other ancient landmarks, such as the Armenian Stonehenge, a massive mountain cave city, and old churches and fortresses, can be found on mountains and hills across the country.

Yerevan, the largest city, is an uncommonly safe, calm, and quiet modern metropolis. Near the central plaza, the Vernissage market offers Armenian handicrafts, like rugs, dolls, paintings, embroidery, chess boards, and old coins. It is worth a visit.

Armenia is an excellent place to vacation and explore: affordable, safe, first-world, calm, conservative, and enjoyable. The land is ancient and romantic and provides a window into ancient history and modern geopolitical challenges. The land of Armenia could have inspired the great C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia story world, and its beautiful land has inspired much virtue, art, and culture.

We will travel by bus through Yerevan, up the lush and picturesque north, and down to the mountainous southern tip. We will explore ancient places and enjoy Armenian food with Chuck Holton, a former Army Ranger, war correspondent, and world traveler.

Please let me know by the end of this month (January) if you want to join us. I look forward to meeting you there!

Top 10 Colleges Ranked for Opportunities

Top-ranked The Master’s University aerial view from Wikipedia. License CC BY 3.0. Unaltered image.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), from a survey of college students, found that several smaller private colleges and universities rank exceptionally well regarding career and learning opportunities. Rose Hulman Institute of Technology, The Master’s University, California Baptist University, Florida Institute of Technology, and Samford University are among the top ten ranked schools. Students rate them high for learning facilities and career-related opportunities that lead to jobs and other academic opportunities. Overall, students were impressed with the cross-department learning opportunities, career-focused learning, and return on investment.

Part of the reason for their high marks is their smaller class sizes and focused attention on each student. They also focus on student career outcomes and customer service.

Recommendation:

I recommend a liberal arts education (a.k.a, a mastery of the great books), but this must be gained over a lifetime. I also recommend writing a life plan and ensuring college is necessary for achieving one’s goals. Goals could include personal growth, and college can be a spiritually, intellectually, and socially enriching experience. So, if a family decides that a college education is best, it pays to find one with a track record of equipping students with marketable skills, career opportunities, and character.

The WSJ highly rates The Master’s University in California for character development. That is not something to take lightly. Winston Churchill famously said, “Character is destiny.”

You can learn more by clicking the following links.

https://www.jmacarthurtrust.org/people/wsj
https://www.masters.edu

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is a short and memorable book. The main character, Ebeneezer Scrooge, is a miser, dislikes people, and hates Christmas. The story begins in earnest, in the most haunting scene, when his old and dead business partner, Jacob Marley, appears on Christmas Eve and warns him of a “ponderous chain” awaiting him.

Subsequently, Scrooge is visited by three spirits: the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. His future is in grave danger.

The most significant scenes are Jacob Marley’s ghostly appearance and warning and the Spirit of Christmas Past, who reveals events and lessons from Scrooge’s early life that went unheeded. In this episode, Scrooge is confronted with a great man, his old boss, who kept Christmas well.

Dickens, one of the greatest storytellers, is known for his character development. His brief sketch of Fezziwig, Scrooge’s former boss, is insightful and makes one consider the importance of gracefully serving people.

Christmas is a great time to read this story, and it is an easy introduction to Dickens.

Film versions abound. The 1970 musical Scrooge, starring Albert Finney and Alec Guinness, is entertaining. However, the most famous and probably the best movie features Alastair Sim.

Finally, whether or not you decide to read the book or encourage your kid to do so, I recommend the article Dining with Scrooge. It highlights crucial lessons about service and celebrating Christmas.

Hidden Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas is one of my yearly favorites. In the story, Charlie Brown is down and unsure why. He can’t seem to get in the Christmas spirit. Eventually, Linus shares the meaning of Christmas by reciting the familiar passage about the angels appearing to shepherds and announcing the birth of Christ, the incarnation of the God-man.

Christmas is a time of gift-giving and family, yet many miss the surprising truth behind the holiday. Timothy Keller, the late New York Times bestselling author and pastor, carefully explains the meaning of the classic biblical texts that are part of American Christmas lore.

As a pastor in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York City, he spent decades studying the meaning of the Christmas story, distilling it into a short book.

I recommend the book to high school students. Understanding the Christmas story is crucial for comprehending the Bible, and even history and Western Civilization.

Keller reveals why the stories of Mary (the mother of Jesus), Joseph, the shepherds, King Herod, and Simeon matter today. The Christmas story reveals that hostility and fear have been overcome and that lasting peace and joy can be received and enjoyed.

Hidden Christmas is a short book and a meaningful Christmas gift.

Observing a Funeral and Taking Stock of Life

A colleague of mine died the day before Thanksgiving. I am grateful that my last conversation was friendly and meaningful, but I wish I could have had one more talk. The funeral was sad and hopeful.

He lived a full life: a pilot during the Vietnam War, a Navy officer, an industry man, a pastor, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a great-grandfather. He studied the Bible extensively and worked to help others understand it.

The officiant read from a Bible text that has given millions of people hope for thousands of years and is often read at military funerals.

I wouldn’t say I like going to funerals, but they are hidden opportunities.

1. A funeral is an opportunity for the family and friends of the deceased to learn how their loved one impacted others
2. A funeral is an opportunity to take stock of one’s own life.

James Hagerty, an obituary writer for the Wall Street Journal, described the questions he sought to answer when writing a death notice. He would investigate what the deceased tried to do, why, and how it worked out. These questions are worth thinking about before one dies.

High school kids should write a life plan using the obituary questions above. A plan includes some idea of what one is trying to do. For this, a good place to start is your funeral. What do you want others to say about you when you die? What do you want to be known for?

These questions help one live a useful and productive life.

Finally, I recommend allowing a funeral to catalyze inquiry into religious matters, such as finding lasting order, peace, beauty, and happiness. (For serious thoughts about this, read a chapter a day of the Gospel of John, the fourth book in the New Testament.)

Attending a funeral can be instrumental for a high school kid, helping him or her think seriously about what to do.

Handel’s Messiah

Thousands attend the Washington National Cathedral and the Kennedy Center’s performances of Handel’s Messiah every December in Washington, DC. First performed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1741, the Messiah is one of the world’s most excellent and recognized musical performances. Technically an oratorio, it was written by Charles Jennens and set to music by George Frideric Handel, a compositional genius.

Most known for the Hallelujah Chorus and the beautiful Scripture texts of the Old and New Testaments, the theme is the Messiah’s (Anointed One, or Christ) life, death, and resurrection. I have listened about a dozen times and always walk away profoundly moved.

Handel’s Messiah allows young listeners to become more familiar with one of the Bible’s primary themes and the Bible’s story. While attending an in-person performance is a good idea, you can watch the Washington National Cathedral’s December 8th live stream performance for free. You can also purchase a recording; I recommend the 1985 performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

If you attend or listen to a performance, let me know on my Facebook page or at info@movingship.com.

The Iliad – A Review

A second reading of the Iliad in six months, this time in poetic form, deepened my appreciation of its majesty, significance, and point. The Iliad is Homer’s sweeping epic about the Trojan War, particularly the wrath of Achilles, the Greek hero and greatest warrior.

Many heroes play a role, the foremost of whom are Achilles and Hector, heroes of the Greek and Trojan armies. They are supported by the mighty Diomedes, Ajax, Odysseus, and Trojan Aeneas. Many fight for glory, each other, and, in Hector’s case, his city and family.

The war unfolds on a plain between the Greek ships and the city of Troy in modern-day Turkey. The heroes are fearsome. Diomedes is so mighty that he is surrounded by a “crowd of champions” (126), and he leads from the front (185), putting his life on the line. Ajax is a towering warrior general; he fights with a mighty shield and spear. In one scene, he protects the ships and fights against seemingly impossible odds, knowing all might be lost. One is made to feel the difficulty and his overwhelming bravery and leadership:

“…a blast of weapons pounded Ajax, so he could not stand firm. He was forced back by Trojan fighters and the will of Zeus. His shining helmet, pummeled by the blows, clanged horribly around his battered skull. The blades kept hammering the ornate plates. His left arm wearied of the constant effort of holding up his flashing shield. But still the Trojans could not knock down his defense, hard though they pressed him with their constant strikes. His breath was labored and a flood of sweat drenched his whole body, and he could not rest. Danger was everywhere, pain piled on pain.” (382-383)

While thrilling, the fighting scenes are not the epic’s most critical parts. The scenes surrounding the war display the consequences of vice and virtue. The king wronged Achilles, leading to the loss of many lives. Achilles’ pride and wrath are partly to blame. The entire war began with adultery and the theft of someone’s wife. One sees the importance of diplomacy, friendship, experience, skill, competence, communication, charisma, and exercising one’s talents amid need and in the fray.

As I reread the Iliad, I grew concerned that I was missing the point—the forest for the trees. Is Homer trying to tell us something applicable and essential for all time, vital for living a good life, and perhaps even an extraordinary one?

I was thrilled to hear about this First Things podcast. The speaker’s interpretation fits the story and its conclusion. He says the poem is a love epic and that Homer wants us to ponder the necessity of forgiveness and loving one’s enemies. That is indeed a vital point.

A high school student can easily read 15 pages a day and finish the epic reasonably quickly. He or she should pay attention to the dull parts, the difficulties endured, the self-sacrifices made, the love shown, and the epic’s end.

Constitution of the United States

Scene at the Signing of the Constitution of the United States on September 17, 1787 by Howard Chandler Christy

The brief period between election day and the inauguration of a United States president is a grand opportunity to familiarize kids with the US Constitution. America’s supreme law is brief, beautifully written, and (as written constitutions go) unrivaled in longevity and wisdom.

In 1787, American founders like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin met in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall to improve America’s government, which the unsuccessful Articles of Confederation had established. The result was a constitution and, eventually, a Bill of Rights that harmonized the dual need for effective government and the protection of pre-political rights.

The triumph of the Constitution is its limitation on concentrated power through checks and balances and its support of the energies of the people in ways that protect natural rights, including:

1. Separation of Powers: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial
2. Division of national and state governments: Federalism
3. Election of representatives to Congress: Republicanism
4. Protection of minorities from majorities: Electoral College
5. Safeguarding of smaller states from larger ones: Senate

These are a few of the methods used to make the energies and self-interests of the American people promote the flourishing of all. Just as important, the American system prescribed by the Constitution makes public virtue a necessity and provides room for its cultivation by distributing power and government.

One enormous benefit of acquainting kids with the US Constitution is that they will gain insight into the thinking that made America a land of hope. To help the study, I recommend the introductory essays on the Constitution’s meaning and formation in The Heritage Guide to the Constitution–they are short and enlightening.

US Special Operations – Interview

Chuck Holton is a war correspondent and Army Ranger. He shares what an Army Ranger is, what training is like, and how to prepare for training and combat.

He also shares how military service benefited his career and character. Toward the end of the interview, he shares advice to young men considering special operations.

Please let me know what you think and subscribe!

Give me liberty or give me death!

Patrick Henry, one of America’s leading founding fathers, had humble beginnings but rose through determination, diligence, and grit. As a young man, he tried farming and store-keeping but failed. Deciding to become a lawyer, he taught himself law and public speaking. Well-argued cases, his friendliness, integrity, and a growing network of friends won him a seat in the Virginia legislature.

About ten years later, in 1775, because of Great Britain’s war preparations, Patrick Henry delivered a speech that persuaded the Virginia colony to fight for independence. “Give me liberty or give me death!” is America’s most famous and consequential speech. Eyewitnesses recall a slow beginning, a moving rise, and a conclusion that changed world history.

Patrick Henry became Virginia’s first governor. American founders, including George Washington, revered him. His prudence and wisdom led to the passage of the Bill of Rights.

I recommend reading the speech to your children and discussing it with them. Note how Henry defines reality and fires the imagination with allusions to the Odyssey and biblical texts.

Finally, I recommend this short biography.

Automatic Wealth for Grads…and Anyone Else Just Starting Out – Book Review

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This book is a practical guide for earning a living, perfect for getting started in life. It is filled with wisdom from an experienced and successful businessman and author on topics ranging from investing to selecting a career path, securing a job, earning a high income, and starting a business.

I have read the book multiple times and always find it beneficial. It can assist high school students in learning how to earn a high income and progress in their careers.

The author, Michael Masterson, helps young people develop a future perspective, determining how much money they need to afford their goals and to retire. He encourages investing in the stock market to maximize the compounding effect of interest.

Masterson summarizes primary career path categories, such as retail and wholesale, helping students understand what to expect, and recommends learning marketing, a skill that can be applied to any endeavor. The most valuable parts of the book are the chapters on how to get a job and earn a high income. He explains a step-by-step method based on direct marketing practices—an approach that offers significant benefits to those who employ it.

The chapter on earning a high income is based on the habits and behaviors that a successful person employs, such as paying attention to problems and solutions, and learning a valuable skill that the business highly values.

Nothing about this book is get-rich-quick. It’s a steady approach from a man who became an indispensable employee and went on to start numerous profitable businesses.

Toward the end of the book, Masterson offers real estate investing advice and tips on living like a billionaire. A lot is possible with a modest income.

I highly recommend the book. It offers a career advancement strategy that many young people never encounter; overall, it serves as a blueprint for wealth, a primer for starting a business, and a guide for managing resources wisely.

Common Sense Economics – Review

A short primer on economics for teenagers who want to learn the ingredients of strong economies. The reader will learn what makes nations prosper. The book will also help your teen learn how to become prosperous. (The economists share principles of personal finance.)

The book emphasizes key economic concepts such as “incentives matter,” “trade promotes economic progress,” and “the invisible hand” of market prices directs buyers and sellers toward activities that promote the general welfare.” The explanations are engaging and accessible to young people.

Significantly, the book goes beyond concepts to the architecture of economies: the essential parts that must be strong for economies to grow. Topics include the legal system, markets, and government regulations. One begins to understand why private property, contracts, and just (and limited) governments are so critical to the wealth of nations and people.

Lastly, the book will help your child think more intelligently about economics and identify good versus bad economic policy. It’s also an opportunity for parents to help their children absorb personal wealth-building practices, which are explained at the book’s end.

“Profit is a reward for transforming resources into something of greater value.” (18)

“Trade depends on property rights, and a legal system must protect property rights if an economy is to prosper.” (38)

“Exchange is productive; it helps us get more from the available resources. Regulatory policies that force traders to pass through various political roadblocks are almost always counterproductive. A country cannot realize its full potential unless restrictions that limit trade and increase the cost of doing business are kept to a minimum. The market is the best regulator.” (51)

“The deficits are a natural outgrowth of unrestrained democratic politics. If unconstrained by constitutional rules or strong convictions, politicians will use deficits to partially conceal the cost of their programs from voters.” (93)

“Finding the occupational or business activity in which you have a comparative advantage and specializing in it will help you earn more money than otherwise….” (127)

The Small Woman – Book Review

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In 1930, a young woman named Gladys Aylward boarded a train in England bound for China. She carried her clothes and food in two suitcases. Due to a war, the journey ended in Russia. She slept out in the Siberian cold and was eventually smuggled to Japan, where she made her way to China.

Gladys was called to be a missionary. She learned Chinese and started an inn with an older missionary woman in a small north-central town called Yangcheng. She began feeding, housing, and telling Bible stories to mule caravaners. At first, the townspeople distrusted her and threw mud at her, but over time, she gained respect.

One day, the town’s Mandarin (the philosopher-leader) asked her to work for him as the local foot inspector. She traveled from village to village, overseeing the end of female foot-binding.

All of a sudden, a prison riot broke out: prisoners were being killed. The town’s leadership asked her to put it down. Extremely frightened, she walked into the prison and witnessed horrors: a man with an axe was chasing and hacking fellow prisoners. The man approached her; terrified, she demanded that he hand over the axe.

Gladys experienced many difficulties and adventures. She traveled all around the area, establishing Christian communities.

Her most significant test came when the Japanese invaded northern China, bombing and pillaging towns and villages. When her town was bombed, she became the leader, nurse, and caregiver to many. She lived in the mountains and caves, caring for refugees. However, it became clear that she had to leave, with prisoners and nearly 100 orphans who considered Gladys their mother.

Her southwestern journey to the province of Sian achieved legendary status and is the book’s climax.

The author of Gladys Aylward’s biography, Alan Burgess, said she “is one of the most remarkable women of our generation.” Her heroic life and accomplishments began with a prayer that God would use her.

The book was published in 1957, and the following year, a movie starring Ingrid Bergman debuted. I like the film, though there are some critical differences, and I highly recommend reading the book before watching it.

This book is worthwhile for teenagers and adults. Her life is a testament to the fact that one can thrive in the midst of difficulty and that hardship is the pathway to an adventurous and great life.

Drawing Dinosaurs Vocationally and Advice for Young Artists

Aram Papazyan, an Armenian citizen and dinosaur artist–one of the best in the world–shares how he became interested in dinosaurs and honed his artistic skill.

Using simple tools, roller ball ink pens and markers, he patiently and diligently developed advanced techniques that make his dinosaur drawings unique, beautiful, and accurate. His keen knowledge of paleontology and fossils adds life and authenticity to his art.

He shares tips and advice for young artists, like the importance of patience and diligence, drawing what you love, and drawing challenging topics to make what you love drawing better.

His career and vocation began when his grandfather, an architect of Yerevan, noticed his skill and encouraged him to draw. Overall, self-taught, Aram pursued formal art education that pushed him out of his comfort zone to higher levels of artistic competence.

In the interview, Aram shares the difference between AI-generated art and real art, what he hopes to accomplish, and advice for young people interested in art as a profession.

You can follow Aram and see his amazing drawings at the following locations:

• Artstation : https://www.artstation.com/aram_rex (https://www.artstation.com/aram_rex)
• Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/arampapazyan.art/
• Youtube : https://m.youtube.com/c/ArtbyAP
• Facebook : https://m.facebook.com/ArtbyAramPapazyan/
• Patreon : www.patreon.com/ArtbyAP

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Book Review

The most famous of Narnia’s stories begins when four children are evacuated from London during the war to the countryside. They arrive at a large house with many rooms owned by a mysterious professor. Soon after, they are drawn into a world of talking animals and mythical creatures. And they are in danger.

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Connected to The Magician’s Nephew and the other stories that comprise C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia, this story has served as the entry point into the land of Narnia for millions of children and adults. It is the most significant of all the stories, though all are intensely enjoyable classics with essential lessons.

In this story, Narnia is “Always winter and never Christmas” and is ruled by a White Witch, who turns creatures into stone with a wave of her wand. Several famous scenes stick with you, like the temptation scene and the stone table.

The main characters, the children —Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy —struggle to overcome uncertainties and dangers. And they find that they need Aslan, the great lion’s help. However, they are unsure if he is safe, but they find him to be greater than imagined.

Lewis is a master storyteller; the book is not only great for young people, but it also improves with subsequent readings. 

I recommend The Complete Chronicles of Narnia, which features the illustrations of Pauline Baynes. You can purchase a single volume here.

The Iliad, Achilles, Hector, and What the Best Men Do Well

I interview JP Shafer about the Iliad—the Greek epic poem about the Trojan War and one of greatest books of all time. We discuss the story, highlights, themes, characters, what the best men do well, and why one should put the poem’s lessons into practice.

You can read the Iliad in prose or poetry. I recommend Emily Wilson’s poetic translation.

Mayflower Compact

The Mayflower Compact is one of the world’s most important documents. It marked the Pilgrams’ endeavor to order themselves for liberty and prosperity in the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts.

The Pilgrams sought freedom and a new life in a new world, and they knew they needed government to promote a flourishing community.

This short document reveals why they left home and were willing to face the unknown. It states, unequivacally, their commitment to their king, faith, each other, and a self-ruling community.

The language is old, but it is noble, profound, and worth comtemplation. It is langauge of a particular time and place, and for all times and places, because it highlights important realities, the purpose of government, and what is critical for prosperity and social happiness.

In the midst of terrifying dangers, the pilgrims wrote a humble document that foreshadowed the American project and experiement in constitutional self-government.

This is one of several documents I recommend having your kid read.

Great documents of Amerian history, coupled with beautifully written history books (e.g., Land of Hope), are one of the best ways to instill an appreciation for what made America unique and the American Dream a reality.

Text:

“In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereigne Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of Great Britaine, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, etc. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a Voyage to plant the first colony in the Northerne Parts of Virginia; doe, by these Presents, solemnly and mutually in the Presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civill Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid; And by Virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equall Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meete and convenient for the Generall Good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due Submission and Obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Raigne of our Sovereigne Lord, King James of England, France, and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland, the fiftie-fourth, Anno. Domini, 1620.”

Source

Making Men: Five Steps To Growing Up

Chuck Holton, an Army Ranger and war correspondent, endeavors to help young men live happier, more fulfilling lives by embracing hardship and responsibility. His book explains what growing up and becoming a man looks like.

The book is structured around five qualities of manhood. Chuck describes each quality and weaves his story through the book, showing how he learned of and adopted them.

The qualities are submission, honor, assessment and improvement, perish and provide, and engagement. Chuck makes a critical point: Real men sacrifice for the good of others by embracing difficulty and hardship. This selfless leadership leads to a healthy family, an adventurous life, and personal fulfillment.

According to Chuck, submission is the foundation of manhood. A man must submit to God and proper authority. This means submitting to the Ultimate Being and orienting one’s life according to his design and commands, revealed in nature and the Bible.

Chuck explains that to live honorably, one must value things rightly. Chuck writes: “Understanding honor requires nothing more than learning what is most important and living appropriately based on that knowledge.” (66). This requires desiring what is true and good, serious thinking, prioritization, and a willingness to take action.

Chuck’s third quality, assess and improve, is likened to a farmer walking down a field, evaluating the quality of his crops and rooting out weeds. Chuck believes in the importance of assessing one’s life, including career, religious beliefs, and physical health, to make needed changes.

The following quality, perish and provide, is the heart of manhood and leadership. A man considers the needs of others as more important than his own. He is devoted to his wife, kids, and colleagues and fulfills his duties. Importantly, this quality of sacrificial service is the key to a fulfilled life. Chuck writes, “The more hardship a man is willing to embrace, the more fulfilling his life will become….” (138).

Lastly, Chuck explains that a man must engage and execute. This is the opposite of passivity. Knowing what one ought to do is not enough. One must act. Action, the key to an adventurous and fulfilling life, is the capstone quality that separates men from boys.

The book is accessible and practical, with many interesting stories that emphasize and illustrate the qualities of manhood. It would benefit high school, college, and middle school students. Girls and young women interested in marriage can also benefit from learning what to look for in a husband.

How to Be a High School Superstar

This book can help your teenager develop an interest and discover opportunities. Top students across America have used the methods. Cal Newport shares their stories.

The main idea is that one ought to develop an interest that leads to skill development and productivity in an unusual yet valuable area of knowledge and service. The book functions as a guide to help teens access top colleges and universities, but its actual value lies in its career development and vocational aspects.

Newport emphasizes that developing an interest requires ample time for constructive leisure. This is because the interest cannot be contrived; it must be genuine. The interest must also drive one to serve people in ways that are valued. In other words, one must go beyond interests in ping-pong or extracurricular activities that anyone can do.

The book has three parts: unscheduling, focus, and innovation.

Overscheduling is a common problem, according to Newport. Many bright students do too much of what ultimately does not matter, such as taking challenging courses designed to impress college administrators. Underscheduling requires avoiding what does not matter and completing homework quickly so that evenings and weekends are free for the necessary trial and error to develop an interest. Students need time for reading, experimentation, volunteering, developing relationships, and working.

To complete schoolwork quickly, students must learn how to study effectively. Newport dedicates a portion of the book to examining the study habits of top students.

Next, regarding focus, Newport explains how to identify meaningful extracurricular activities. Not only should teens immerse themselves in the activities, but they should also investigate how others became effective. (This can be done by reading biographies.)

Finally, he explains how to innovate and turn an interest into something inexplicable and impressive. This can be achieved over time by volunteering and serving a particular community, gaining trust, and gradually taking on larger and more complicated projects as one gains experience, character, and knowledge.

All of this is explained in detail with many examples.

He shares how one high school student started a company and a successful entrepreneurship blog, leading to many opportunities. Another student became a teacher’s assistant and eventually transformed student reading programs. Another wrote a successful book, leading to speaking opportunities and significant relationships that helped a student become a sought-after expert and commentator.

In closing, this is the best career advancement book I’ve ever read. It could help your teen develop a plan of action and identify a calling years earlier than most.

I have read the book twice and found it personally helpful. Parents should read the book first; it could help them in their endeavors and in guiding their teenager.

How to Be a High School Superstar

How to Become a Straight-A Student

If your teenager needs to develop stronger study habits, I recommend Cal Newport’s How to Become a Straight-A Student. The author explains how top-college students earn high grades while studying less than their peers.

Topics include time management, note-taking, exam preparation, and research paper writing. The book is jam-packed with strategies, techniques, and tips from elite students and the author’s own academic experience.

Although college and university students are the target audience, middle and high school students could benefit from adopting the practices before facing the rigors of higher education. Moreover, those entering the workforce could also benefit because they need study skills for their careers.

The book is divided into three parts: basic study habits, quiz and exam preparation, and paper writing. The first part focuses on time management, limiting procrastination, and study tips. The exam preparation section shows how to take notes and study for tests, both technical and non-technical ones. The final section reveals how to research, write, and edit a paper — the author’s approach works for term papers, but it is also suitable for writing short nonfiction books. 

The most helpful parts are his strategies for time management, note-taking, test prep, and the research phase of paper writing. For note-taking, he teaches students to focus on the lecturer’s question, evidence, and conclusion. For test prep, Newport explains how prep ought to begin on day one of class. For paper writing, the most helpful section is the research section. He shows how to plan it out and find resources. He also emphasizes the need to separate the research, writing, and editing stages. (There is much more.)

I like how the book helps curb procrastination and encourages planning one’s activities, leaving room for interruptions and leisure. If followed, the book’s strategies and methods can lower stress and anxiety, and as the author contends, increase opportunities.

Takeaways: 

• Plan your school semester out in advance.
• Plan each week out in advance.
• Schedule time periods for each day’s known activities. 
• Jot tasks that come to mind throughout the day in a planner.
• Reschedule tasks that were not completed the previous day, and schedule tasks that were jotted down.
• When studying for a test, recall the main ideas and concepts, and explain them out loud. 

Warning: the book contains a few inappropriate references like “debauchery” and “party like a demon” (38).

Land of Hope: An Invitation to the Great American Story

At the beginning of the modern age, Christopher Columbus sailed across the Atlantic Ocean, seeking a shorter trade route to the Eastern lands, but discovered North America instead. Although he never understood the significance of his discovery, it changed the world forever. The story of America is inspiring and fascinating, yet few today comprehend its rise, struggles, triumphs, leaders, and what made it a land of hope.

Wilfred McClay’s best-selling book tells America’s story, helping readers see the big picture and revealing invaluable, meaningful lessons. I highly recommend the book to parents of middle and high school kids. This is a great book to read as we approach America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

McClay is a master historian who believes history contains valuable lessons that support a healthy patriotism and responsible citizenship. In this book, he focuses on America’s political history from colonial times to the present. He writes engagingly, avoids partisan politics, yet is open about his belief that America was and is a land of hope. 

The author does an excellent job explaining major events and their causes and effects in ways that delight and reveal. He explains what led to European settlement, and he continues into colonial America, the Great Awakening, the founding, the Civil War, the World Wars, the Depression, and the Cold War. The Louisiana Purchase, the Monroe Doctrine, Reconstruction, modernization, the Progressive Era, the civil rights movement, and Vietnam are also covered. 

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its treatment of America’s leaders. He interposes stories of George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln, and many other presidents. He also shares about lesser-known American leaders who played a significant role in America’s story. 

Some of the most interesting and helpful parts include chapter 3 “The Revolution of Self-Rule”, chapter 7 “The Age of Democracy” (where he describes the significance of Alexis de Tocqueville’s political and social analysis of America in his famous book Democracy in America), chapter 8 “The Old South and Slavery”, chapter 12 “A Nation Transformed” (about the Civil War’s aftermath), and chapter 14 “The Progressive Era.”

Land of Hope is suitable for teenagers who want to understand the time they find themselves in, what is happening around them, and what role they should play. 

In conclusion, here is a quote that McClay used to emphasize the importance of history:

Every generation rewrites the past. In easy times history is more or less of an ornamental art, but in times of danger we are driven to the written record by a pressing need to find answers to the riddles of today. We need to know what kind of firm ground other men, belonging to generations before us, have found to stand on. In spite of changing conditions of life they were not very different from ourselves, their thoughts were the grandfathers of our thoughts, they managed to meet situations as difficult as those we have to face, to meet them sometimes lightheartedly, and in some measure to make their hopes prevail. We need to know how they did it.

In times of change and danger when there is a quicksand of fear under men’s reasoning, a sense of continuity with generatoins gone before can stretch like a lifeline across the scary present and get us past that idiot delusion of the exceptional Now that blocks good thinking. That is why, in times like ours, when old institutions are caving in and being replaced by new institutions not necessarily in accord with most men’s preconceived hopes, political thought has to look backwards as well as forwards.

John Dos Passos “The Use of the Past,” from The Ground We Stand On: Some Examples from the History of a Political Creed (1941)

Land of Hope: An Invitation to the Great American Story

George Washington’s Epic Forest Adventure

George Washington’s behavior and achievements in the American War for Independence are legendary and heroic. Yet, his early life is not as well-known, though his energy, activity, bravery, and leadership were striking. James Thomas Flexner tells the story of a 21-year-old Washington leading six men through the wilderness on behalf of the King of England. This trek put George Washington on the map.

Functioning as an emissary and spy for the king, Washington embarked on a cold, dangerous, and grueling journey through forests and paths (known only to indians and explorers) from eastern Virginia to the Ohio Valley, south of Lake Erie. The result of his mission would be a world war, remarkable military leadership, and the command of the Virginia Regiment charged with the protection of the settlers and families of the Shenandoah Valley.

It all began when George Washington strongly pursued military responsibility and leadership. His “visible intelligence and energy” (52) marked him, as did his woodland experience as a surveyor, as one dependable for a unique and essential mission.

Here I tell the story that you can read about in Flexer’s wonderful book, in chapter 6: Forest Adventure:

George Washington: The Forge of Experience

David Balfour

Robert Louis Stevenson’s sequel to “Kidnapped” picks up where the first left off. David risks his life and fortune to testify for a man wrongly accused of murder. During this time, he falls in love with Catriona, a young woman with a perplexing and deceitful father. A page-turner to the end, David Balfour might be better than its more famous prequel. 

The story is set in mid-18th-century Scotland, six years after the English victory over the Scottish clans and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s attempt to restore his father to the British throne. 

The central characters include Lord William Grant Prestongrange, a powerful judge and politician, Alan Breck, a valiant warrior, the fiery and honorable Catriona, and James MacGregor Drummond, her father.

Early in the book, a man named Fraser—secretly directed by Prestongrange—sought to terrify David into changing his story about the accused man’s innocence. But David sought to speak truthfully even though it would have been easier, safer, and much to his economic and social advantage to drop his claims. (Read Kidnapped for a complete account of the murder.)

To block David’s testimony, Prestongrange kidnaps David, yet protects his life. (David’s relationship with the morally complicated and political Prestongrange vexes David, and is one of the most thought-provoking parts of the book.)

On a lighter note, although just interesting, a moving courtship between David and Catriona develops. Here’s a beautiful moment in their budding relationship:

“I have seen you but a small time, but I put you very high. You are true, you are brave; in time I think you will be more of a man yet. I will be proud to hear of that. If you should speed worse, if it will come to fall as we are afraid–O well! think you have the one friend. Long after you are dead and me an old wife, I will be telling the bairns about David Balfour, and my tears running. I will be telling how we parted, and what I said to you, and did to you. God go with you and guide you, prays your little friend: so I said–I will be telling them–and here is what I did.”

She took up my hand and kissed it. This so surprised my spirits that I cried out like one hurt. The color came strong in her face, and she looked at me and nodded.

“O yes, Mr. David,” said she, “that is what I think of you. The heart goes with the lips.”

Throughout the story, David experiences many challenges and decision points, including:

• Whether or not he is ready for marriage and fatherhood
• Whether to duel or flee due to a lack of training
• Pressure from Prestongrange and the political establishment to ignore the truth about a condemned man
• Do the right thing or help Prestongrange avoid calamity

Like other great classic works of fiction, David Balfour is an entertaining and thought-provoking experience. The reader is made to see that life is full of moral decisions and that drastic action is often required to avoid moral catastrophes. Teenagers need stories like this in their heads when moral challenges come their way.

Finally, the book is full of interesting tidbits of Scottish history, Highland dialogue, duels, political intrigue, romance, and lessons for all ages. Teens will learn the importance of convictions, ethics, education, and quality friends.

I recommend reading the N. C. Wyeth illustrated version from Charles Scribner’s Sons.

Reasons Why Trekking Is Worth The Pain

In this video I share reasons why trekking is worth all the difficulties you will face in preparation for and during the trip.

If you have another reason why trekking is worth the difficulties, please comment!

Aremenia Trekking Takeaways

Here are top takeaways from my trek through Armenia. These are intended to help your kid benefit from adventures.

Please subscribe for updates.

Armenia Trekking Preparation Recommendations

Trekking long distance is rewarding but it takes advanced preparation. In this video, I share recommendations to help make your family’s trek successful and a happy one.

More videos are coming. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel for updates.

Armenia Trek Highlights

I recorded a video of some of the highlights of my recent trekking trip to Armenia. If you want an amazing adventure, it’s hard to beat the land that Noah. 

Kidnapped – Book Review

Kidnapped, Robert Louis Stevenson’s epic tale set in the Scottish highlands, is a delightful read about David Balfour, a young man who, while seeking his rightful inheritance, is tricked by his uncle and committed to slavery in the Carolinas.

However, Balfour’s fate is checked by a most unusual man—the vainglorious and heroic Alan Breck, who David notes as “a man I would rather call my friend than my enemy.” One of the most colorful characters in literature, Alan would rather die than fail in his duty or forfeit his honor.

Early in the story, in an unforgettable scene, David—having been kidnapped by a Jekyll-like ship captain, forced to work as the ship’s bartender, and enticed by the captain to betray Alan—warns Alan of treachery.

”¦scarce had Alan spoken, when the captain showed his face in the open door.

“Stand!” cried Alan, and pointed his sword at him. The captain stood, indeed; but he neither winced nor drew back a foot.

“A naked sword?” says he. “This is a strange return for hospitality.”

“Do you see me?” said Alan. I come of kings; I bear a king’s name. My badge is the oak. Do you see my sword? It has slashed the heads of mair Whigmores than you have toes upon your feet. Call up your vermin to your back, sir, and fall on! The sooner the clash begins, the sooner ye’ll taste this steel throughout your vitals.

A fight ensued, two against all hands: Alan at the roundhouse door, David guarding the rear. The famous illustrator, N.C. Wyeth captured the deseparate moment well.

As the story progresses, their journey becomes increasingly difficult. Moreover, bad pride threatens their friendship and mission. David said: “So I went like a sick, silly and bad hearted schoolboy, feeding my anger against a fellow-man, when I would have been better on my knees, crying to God for mercy. And at each of Alan’s taunts, I hugged myself. “Ah!” thinks I to myself, “I have a better taunt in readiness; when I lie down and die, you will feel it like a buffet in your face; ah, what a revenge! ah, how you will regret your ingratitude and cruelty!”

A near death experience compels them to make amends and lay aside their anger.

The story’s incidents take place across the highlands and reveal old Scotland after England defeated the clans in a battle led by Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie. Stevenson, a Scotsman, gives readers an odyssey of an experience not unlike the great epic poem, reopening an old world of treachery, danger, adventure, and prowess.

Events like the ship sword fight, the murder of Roy Campbell, and the bagpipe dual are classic scenes worthy of reading. David Balfour is honest, brave, and conscientious, and Alan is heroic, charming, and indomitable. Both strive to fulfill their duties amid perilous circumstances.

Finally, the Walt Disney 1960 movie is wonderful (though some of the complexity of the plot and thinking of David Balfour is lost); it was one of my favorite childhood films.

This version of the book looks good.

This one has a lot of illustrations.

I read this paperback edition; it has grey versions of the classic N.C. Wyeth illustrations.

Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde – Book Review

Robert Louis Stevenson published this most famous book in 1886, about three years after Treasure Island. Almost immediately a sensation, the story explores the perils of human nature.

The great Russian writer and Soviet Union gulag survivor Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s famous quote is illustrated in Stevenson’s book:

“If only it were all so simple! If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. And who is willing to destroy a piece of his own heart?” (Gulag Archipelago)

The book is about a lawyer who seeks to understand a mystery about his friend, Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist who does not seem to be well, keeps to himself, and has willed his estate to an evil man named Mr. Hyde.

Known as one of the first horror books, it is shocking, and it is a warning to us all.

The court was very cool and a little damp, and full of premature twilight, although the sky, high up overhead, was still bright with sunset. The middle one of the three windows was half-way open; and sitting close beside it, taking the air with an infinite sadness of mien, like some disconsolate prisoner, Utterson saw Dr. Jekyll.

“What! Jekyll!” he cried. “I trust you are better.”

“I am very low, Utterson,” replied the doctor drearily, “very low. It will not last long, thank God.”

“You stay too much indoors,” said the lawyer. “You should be out, whipping up the circulation like Mr. Enfield and me. (This is my cousin—Mr. Enfield—Dr. Jekyll.) Come now; get your hat and take a quick turn with us.”

“You are very good,” sighed the other. “I should like to very much; but no, no, no, it is quite impossible; I dare not. But indeed, Utterson, I am very glad to see you; this is really a great pleasure; I would ask you and Mr. Enfield up, but the place is really not fit.”

“Why, then,” said the lawyer, good-naturedly, “the best thing we can do is to stay down here and speak with you from where we are.”

“That is just what I was about to venture to propose,” returned the doctor with a smile. But the words were hardly uttered, before the smile was struck out of his face and succeeded by an expression of such abject terror and despair, as froze the very blood of the two gentlemen below. They saw it but for a glimpse for the window was instantly thrust down; but that glimpse had been sufficient, and they turned and left the court without a word. In silence, too, they traversed the by-street; and it was not until they had come into a neighbouring thoroughfare, where even upon a Sunday there were still some stirrings of life, that Mr. Utterson at last turned and looked at his companion. They were both pale; and there was an answering horror in their eyes.

“God forgive us, God forgive us,” said Mr. Utterson.

But Mr. Enfield only nodded his head very seriously, and walked on once more in silence.

Jekyll thought he could rid himself of Hyde, then he thought Hyde could be managed, but he had no idea how bad he was.

Stevenson does the reader a service by helping him or her adopt the old Socratic maxim–know thyself–which was intended to make one truly wise.

As an aid to learning, I recommend Timothy Keller’s message which puts the book in context. (Keller was a best-selling author, and pastor.)

A free version of the book can be downloaded on Project Gutenberg.

Treasure Island – Book Review

Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic adventure book is a thrilling read. Known for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Kidnapped, Stevenson is one of the best fiction writers ever.

Jim Hawkins finds a treasure map and sets sail with his friends to find the treasure. However, a group of pirates led by Long John Silver are on the hunt for it, too. Jim’s courage saves his friends’ lives and forces the pirate captain to change course.

The story’s climax occurs when Jim confronts the pirate captain with the truth. His courage saves his life, his friends’ lives, and the pirate captain’s.

The most memorable events of the book are the ship captain’s warning, the fight at the fortress, Jim’s taking the ship, and the climax.

Five striking conversations between the main characters—one between the captain and the main characters and another between the captain and Long John Silver at the fort—are masterclasses in leadership. The captain is a noble and serious leader from whom readers can learn.

The most important theme- and why I recommend the book- is courage. Jim and the pirate captain, Long John Silver, both have it. However, their courage arises from different loves. Jim wants to do what is right, and he loves his friends. Captain Silver loves the treasure and himself more than anything else.

The object of their love contrasts nicely in this story.

I review more of the book here:

I recommend the N.C. Wyeth illustrated edition.

I also recommend the 1934 movie version:

I have not seen the Walt Disney movie version (1950); interestingly, it was Walt Disney’s first live-action film.

The Further Adventures of Robinson Crusoe – Book Review

Many have read Robinson Crusoe, but not as many have read or heard of the sequel. Like the first book, it is full of life lessons and just as thrilling. The reader follows Robinson Crusoe’s travels back to the island and across the world by sea and land, ultimately through China and Russia.

Early in the book, the most striking part is the starving ship. (The effects of starvation are described in detail.) Then, toward the middle, Crusoe is told about the cannibal wars that took place while he was gone and how the inhabitants found wives.

The reader is made to see the difference between the industrious islanders and those who were lazy and treacherous.

After leaving the island, Crusoe has several adventures. The reader witnesses his courage before, during, and after a massacre in Madagascar and during his treacherous journey through Tartar and Russian land.

In the book’s final part, he learns a valuable lesson during a conversation with an exiled Russian prince about contentment.

I read this print-on-demand version. (There is a lot of text on each page, so a Kindle version might be more readable for middle school kids.)

Robinson Crusoe – Book Review

If you’re looking for a fiction book for your middle or high school student to read, I suggest Robinson Crusoe. It is one of the most famous and read novels ever; it inspired adventure books like Swiss Family Robinson and movies like Cast Away.

Robinson Crusoe shipwrecks near an island and struggles to survive; he builds a fort, grows crops, and hews a boat using crude tools. The time and effort he spends doing these things is mind-boggling.

The reader feels as though he is on the island with Crusoe. I often wondered if I could do what he did. Would I survive? 

I recommend the book because it is full of life lessons and wisdom, like the importance of parental advice, duty, contentment, thankfulness, and diligence. Moreover, the book is an unforgettable experience. My father read it to my brother and me when we were kids. I have never forgotten the scene of Crusoe laboring to build his house. His agony and persistence are emblazoned on my mind.

Crusoe’s pain, sufferings, and terrors have a transforming effect. The book builds to a page-turning conclusion.

I recommend purchasing an N. C. Wyeth illustrated edition.