These books are the first two in a forty-book series intended for ages 9-12. Mandie and the Secret Tunnel is a story set in the backwoods of North Carolina at approximately the late 1800s to early 1900s. Orphans were all too common at this point in our history. In this particular situation, Mandie is sent to live with her uncle, a man she barely knows. He is overseas when she arrives and his servants take care of her. After word is received that her Uncle died overseas, "relatives" begin arriving to claim part of the estate. Mandie and her friends help to learn the truth about the so-called relatives. The story concludes with a surprising ending.

Mandie and the Cherokee Legend is also based in North Carolina. Mandie discovers her father's family in this story after traveling west from North Carolina. The family has many adventures on the way. Once there, Mandie's cousin is less than happy to have her appear. While there, the mystery of the hidden gold that has been a Cherokee legend is solved. Learn how finding the treasure helps Mandie's whole tribe.

Some of the stories are based on the author's mother, who was an orphan in North Carolina. The author's familiarity with her mother's history lends realism to these stories . The stories possess a depth not often found in books intended for this age group. They also teach historical facts about life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Since life is so different than our youth experience today, I am sure they will find the stories fascinating. In addition, they will learn the role faith played in the earlier history of our nation. They may also develop an appreciation for the lifestyle available to them today.

Recommendation

Leppard is an expert at weaving story lines and developing the characters to a point that they will seem like real people to her readers. Parents can rest assured their child won't be exposed to the sex and violence so often found in so-called pre-teen books today.

Copyrighted by Diana Pederson, 2005-2009