Melanie on the Move

Reviewed by:

Debbie Dehart, Church Librarian

Berean Baptist Church, Portage MI

REVIEW INTRODUCTION

Title:

Melanie in the Move

Author:

J.D. Rempel

Publisher:

Ambassador International

Publication Date:

2020

Format:

Print book

Length:

138 pages

OVERVIEW:

When 12-year-old Melanie’s family has to move because of her father’s job situation, she is not a happy girl. Everything is different, and she isn’t able to swim competitively anymore. However, gradually she makes some friends, who invite her to church and a week-long summer camp, and Melanie begins to learn about God.

The positive aspects of the book: Melanie has strong friendships and strong relationships with her parents. Problems between her and her mother are dealt with well. Her father gives up a job which takes him away from the family too much. When Melanie likes a certain boy, she learns he wears a promise ring, and what that means.

The not so great: the writing is average. And although Melanie learns important things about prayer through the course of the story, by the end all of her prayers have been answered the way she wanted them to be. I didn’t care for this, because sometimes God does say “no”, and all believers need to learn to be at peace with that.

I also didn’t care for the (admittedly minor) “crush” and “cute boy” conversations. Really, at age 12? Not necessary.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5):

3

Suggested Audience:

8-12 year-old girls

Christian Impact:

The story is rooted in the importance of knowing God and living according to His Word.

Available on Amazon