I’d like to thank Christian Focus Publications for giving me a copy of Augustine: The Truth Seeker by K.C. Murdarasi in return for my honest review.
Augustine of Hippo
It’s difficult to study Christian history, theology, or the history of western civilization in general without coming across the name of (St) Augustine of Hippo.
In fact, when I took an introductory course in the history of the Christian Church in college, Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions was the first book we read. I certainly would have benefited from a deeper understanding of the man’s story and importance before I undertook a reading of his work.
Augustine of Hippo Biography
Augustine: The Truth Seeker by K. C. Murdarasi (who holds a masters in Ancient History and is a retired missionary) is a wonderfully interesting version of Augustine’s life story.
Ms. Murdarasi has done a wonderful job of bringing Augustine to life for middle grade kids, and allowing them to become acquainted with an important figure in Church history. Her story added details and fleshed out my own understanding of Augustine’s life, his spiritual journey, and his relationship with his mother Monica.
This fabulous Augustine of Hippo biography came out the year before the boys and I were scheduled to study history (again) from Creation until the Fall of Rome in 476AD. It was perfect timing.
I love that Christian Focus has been adding some of the Church Fathers to their ever-growing line of books.
Augustine of Hippo Facts
One thing to be aware of in the story of Augustine of Hippo (because I don’t want you to be caught unaware), is that the man was a philanderer. He was saved later in life–after affairs, an illegitimate son, and a common law “wife” (who he abandoned in pursuit of his own societal advancement).
It shouldn’t be a surprise to any of us (including our children) that without the new heart Christ gives us, we’re lost in a morass of deadly sin. Such was Augustine of Hippo.
Ms. Murdarasi was not graphic in her description of Augustine of Hippo’s adultery, but she didn’t pull any punches, either, by hiding the truth.
Because The Truth Seeker is narrative, we see the storyline from the perspective of Augustine of Hippo himself. This means that it takes a while for us to come to the point where he recognizes his own sexual sin. For that reason, I plan to read this story aloud to my children. That gives me the opportunity to discuss it with them as we read. For me, that’s the perfect (natural) way to help develop a biblical worldview–by applying Scripture to real life and history.
All that said, Augustine of Hippo’s conversion is made all the more spectacular because of his affairs and active participation in the cult of Manichaeism.
We see a true change in his heart and life as he is called to walk with Christ in a life of self-sacrifice and devotion to God.
Augustine: The Truth Seeker coordinates well with studies involving
- Ancient History
-
The Early Church
- Manichean Beliefs
- The Donatists
- The Roman Empire
- The Fall of the Roman Empire
I love Christian Focus’ Trailblazer series. Currently, the series has 62 books! That’s enough to keep your middle grade child reading great, God-honoring, character-growing material for a long time.
Purchase Augustine: The Truth Seeker
Augustine: The Truth Seeker (Trail Blazers)
OR, at Christian Book:
More Christian Focus Trail Blazers Books for Your Kids
Our family loves the Christian Focus Trail Blazers books. They’re perfect for ages 7-14. We read them as we studied history! Check them out.
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Christian Biographies for Kids | Christian History for Kids | Theology for Kids
Christian History Matters for Our Kids.
History matters. Now, more than ever, we see how important it is for our children to know and understand history and the Bible.
Here’s why:
- God is the sovereign ruler of all things. It’s important for our kids to see his hand in the history of nations and in the lives of both peasants and kings.
- Christian history is the story of our family history. Our kids get to see how people who love Jesus follow him.
- Understanding history can help our kids learn historic and biblical theology. They learn what the Bible says and what that means for us. They also see when the study of Scripture has taken important turns that have changed the Church.
- Reading Christian biographies and history can be a wonderful way for kids to think outside their own time and culture. God’s Church spans centuries and includes people from every nation.
- Christian biographies help kids consider their own faith, walk with Jesus, and the impact their witness may one day have on others–and on history.
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