Book Review: Lady Jane Grey
Our Christian heritage is a precious heritage. It is a heritage of suffering and sacrifice of God’s elect children to bring about his glory and his purpose. This heritage is not well known either by us or by our children. Good Christian literature is very hard to find, especially literature that brings to life those who have gone before us as examples of God’s grace in their lives during tempestuous and trying times. Thankfully, there are books coming out with this exact purpose, such as Christian Biographies for Young Readers by Simonetta Carr. Simonetta has written books in this series so far on John Calvin, Augustine of Hippo, John Owen, Athanasius and her most recent, Lady Jane Grey.
The story of Lady Jane Grey is of a young girl forced to take a crown she does not think she has a right to take. She reigns for nine days until Mary and her armies claim the crown. Held in the tower for treason, she is given a chance for freedom if she will recant her Protestant faith and become Roman Catholic. By God’s grace she is given the strength and courage to die a martyr.
The storyline takes place during the beginnings of the Reformation in England. Roman Catholicism is beginning to be rejected, as the true preaching of the gospel brought by the protestant Reformation is starting to be embraced. These are fragile times of confusion, intrigue, plotting, and persecution. We are introduced to King Henry VIII and his son King Edward VI. We meet Catherine Parr and Thomas Seymour, who had much influence in Jane’s life. Also we are introduced to Henry Bullinger and Thomas Cramner, who try to bring about reform, as well as many other interesting characters.
The books in this series are written for elementary children The author is careful to be historically factual and yet interesting. The story line is enhanced with many beautiful drawings and illustrations, keeping even the youngest child interested. Our 4 year old daughter loved the story of Lady Jane Grey, actually sitting still and listening and looking at the pictures.
The book is published by Reformation Heritage Publications, and can be purchased for $14.