2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Great Cloud of Witnesses, November 27, 2008
In "Heroes in Black History," co-authors Dave and Neta Jackson take from their forty-book Trailblazers series fourteen hall of faith African American heroes. Appropriate for children of all races from ages six-to-twelve, "Heroes" provides historical fiction in summary form. Each of the fourteen stories also includes a discussion guide with application for today. While written for young children, parents will find the book helpful for imparting life lessons from the legacy of African American Christianity. For a similar book written for adults, consider: Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction
Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Beyond the Suffering," "Soul Physicians," and "Spiritual Friends."
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4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An indispensable introduction, October 25, 2008
In Heroes in Black History, the Jacksons have drawn from their existing work in the Hero Tales series and combined it with fresh, new material to present a titillating introduction to the lives and achievements of prominent black Christians stretching back over the past two hundred years and into the present. Fourteen heroes of the faith are introduced to young readers through a stunningly expressive portrait drawn rendered in charcoal by Toni Auble and a biographical segment that outlines the course of each life.
This is followed by three stories, each illustrating the strengths of his or her Christian character. The stories are written in a narrative form that is true to life, though it reads like the best historical fiction. Written for children in the 7 - 12 year-old age range, adults will also find the readings informative and thought-provoking.
Each story is followed by contemplative questions for use in group discussions such as Sunday school or family devotions. We read this title together at bedtimes and many of the discussion prompts were beyond my five-year-old at that time of night. Some of the questions are based upon the text of the story, others are deeply questioning and open ended, asking as to how these character traits can be applied in ones own life.
A concluding statement about the character quality woven throughout the story is made at the end of each, as well as a Bible verse that further drives home the story's main thrust. Each section of text, whether introductory biography or character building story is short, from 2 - 4 pages in length; perfect for children's brief attention spans and short periods, or where the readings will only make up part of a larger program such as an integrated unit study or Sunday school class. Reading Heroes in Black History inspires a wealth of ways in which to share these lives with your children or those you teach.
The heroes of the faith we come to know are male and female, old and young, married and single, from Africa and from the U.S., sons of slaves and tribal princes, evangelists, musicians and brain surgeons. A wide range of talents, gifts and denominations within the body of Christ are represented within.
Some names are familiar: Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ben Carson. Others are new to me: Samuel Morris, Eliza Davis George, John Perkins and Festo Kivengere.
Through their lives many themes are explored: racial injustice, social activism, the importance of generosity, evangelism, praise and so many others are brought to life through the true experiences of these believers. Learning of these individuals and others, reading their stories, has blessed my children, my husband and myself. God has used these stories to speak to our hearts and to drive us further in our walk with Him.
I highly recommend Heroes in Black History for any time of year; it is an indispensable introduction to these brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us.
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3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Modern Day Classic, October 14, 2008
Dave and Neta Jackson have produced a modern day classic here. School age youth of all colors can benefit from this resource.
Use it in a Sunday school class (for youth or adults) to as a character study. The highlights traits like boldness, love, and reconciliation using the lives of well-known positive figures in black history and in today's news. Each short chapter includes a short Bible study and talking points.
Why wait for February to develop racial sensitivity and character inspiration?
Listen. Learn. Love.
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Linda Leigh Hargrove is the author of two works of fiction: The Making of Isaac Hunt (2007) and Loving Cee Cee Johnson (2008). Her writings blend suspense, humor, and faith into compelling stories about race and class in America.
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