Review: An exploration of the women of Easter and a novel for young readers

The Women of Easter

By Liz Curtis Higgs (WaterBrook)

In her latest book, writer, speaker, conference leader and media personality Liz Curtis Higgs encounters The Women of Easter, just as she previously examined The Women of Christmas. While Jesus’ mother appears in both titles, Mary of Bethany and Mary Magdalene play prominent roles in the Easter story.

Higgs’ informal informational style and feminine perception combine with solid biblical and practical research to lead the reader from the death of Lazarus to the resurrection of Christ. The author manages to tell these important stories from the perspective of the women closest to the Savior and in so doing, affirms their roles and testimonies.

The eight chapters begin with an Easter poem or song. As each story unfolds, Higgs presents Scripture, personal anecdotes and insights that make the reader feel she is both observer and participant in the Lord’s final week on earth. A study guide and notes close the volume, which could be used in any season.

In The Women of Easter, Liz Curtis Higgs invites women “to be joyful, hopeful, faithful” in God’s clear call to “go, tell.” She closes with encouragement to “be Easter women every day of the year, living in the freedom of his resurrection and singing out with all our hearts, ‘He lives! He lives!’” However, that call and her book aren’t just for women but for all Christians.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, past president

Baptist General Convention of Texas

Waco

Lost Island Smugglers

By Max Elliot Anderson (Elk Lake)

Author Max Elliot Anderson does a wonderful job creating three lively characters in his novel, Lost Island Smugglers. Sam Cooper, an 11-year old Christian boy, often relocates because of his dad’s job. The latest move lands the family in Florida. Sam makes two new friends at church—Tony, an instigator, and Tyler, a follower. Young readers will identify easily with the peer pressure challenges the boy’s face.

After the three finish scuba diving lessons, they sneak out for an ocean adventure. Lost Island is their destination. But the dream of scuba diving quickly changes when a huge storm rips their boat apart and throws the trio on shore of a deserted island. The team must work together to secure shelter and food. However, they soon learn they aren’t alone on the island and fear for their lives.

Lost Island Smugglers proves to be a page-turning novel. Biblical principles are woven throughout the story, as the author takes the three young boys on a journey of suspense and mystery. It’s enjoyable and sure to capture the hearts of many younger readers.

Bobbie Brown

Nederland, Colo.