Review: "Away Goes Sally"

We just completed "Away Goes Sally", by Elizabeth Coatsworth. First published in 1934, this delightful start to a five-book series speaks of a pioneering spirit and extended family life in the 1800's.

This book was listed in our Truthquest guide (AHYSII) and I know I've seen the author on other lists. Probably, Jan Bloom's, since that's the list I use the most. It was not an easy book to find; definately retired from the libraries around here. However, Bethlehem Books has re-published it and others by the author, so I bought it new (a rare occurance for me!).

I wrote about the author's delightful use of poetry at the close of each chapter, here. It is a treat! But, I also wanted to share about another area that may concern readers. The consultation of a wit*ch for "fortune telling".

Usually when I'm reading aloud, I'm able to edit as the occassion may provide. I started to edit with this book, then having recently read about King Saul and his consultation with the Wit*ch of Endor, I thought son would be old enough for a lesson.

We talked about how very real and how very dangerous such things are. I shared about Saul, and the consequences of his sin. We talked about whether or not such a thing is ever acceptable, even as pretend. We talked about it's literary value; whether there was any, or whether it detracted from the best part of the story telling. For us, it definately detracted! It is especially confusing, in light of it, to then have the characters observe the Sabbath and a time of Bible reading.

We did enjoy the rest of the book, which (without giving too much away) has a family moving to Maine in a very unorthodox manner. The story is adorable and the characters are endearing. The story is a lighthearted approach to its subject matter, but appealing none the less. We haven't decided if we'll invest in the rest of the series as they are not cheap, but we wouldn't be opposed to them, if we came across them at a bargain.

I know that it's always helpful to know about these things before you open a book, or hand a book to a child. Here in our home, we are more particular than most, I'd say. There are just too many fabulous books to waste time on tripe.