May. 11, 2007 - Audio Book Review -- Beric The Briton
About the Book
Beric the Briton by G.A. Henty is a historical novel for boys typical for Henty's style. Each Henty novel follows the life of a young boy through adulthood, steeping the characters in real life history, and realistic tragedy, trauma, and triumph. Along they way, the boy usually meets several real historical characters including Bible characters, converts to Christianity, and protects a female who eventually becomes his wife. In this case, a young Briton boy is enslaved by Romans and raised in the home of a Roman official. He eventually gains his freedom; and returns to his home only to rise to leadership in the British rebellion. I find the Henty novels to be full of suspense, action, intrigue and thrills; even if I do know the plot ahead of time! These books are recommended by Vision Forum and we have enjoyed as a family each one we have listened to. This is another book that my husband put on his IPOD! One word of caution is that the books do contain some pretty intense battle detail; which I wouldn't necessarily call graphic but it certainly is more information then my younger children were used to hearing.
About the Reader
Jim Weiss is well known among homeschool families as a masterful and accomplished reader. This book is no exception. Our family is steadily purchasing all of his materials as we love his work. One note about his recordings of the Henty novels; he does record abridged versions such that they are accessible to younger listeners. I find his adaptations perfect to introduce my oldest boy to Henty novels; and hope that they impress him enough that he will read for himself all of the novels when he is older. Much to our sorrow, Mr. Weiss only has five recordings of Henty novels at this time. You can purchases Mr. Weiss' material directly from him at www.greathall.com and support his recording efforts.
The bottom line is; We try not to insist on parent-led learning or gravitate toward child-led learning. We try instead to focus on God-led learning and ask for His input and perspective on every aspect of our home school. That way, when others fuss about what Dan and I are doing and make me second guess our decisions -- I can go back to our decision process and find God's fingerprints, reminding me that this is His way.
