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H.E.L.P. #1
Tornado Tragedy
A storm brews. Tension builds. Can peace prevail?
The Hardings’ home is anything but peaceful with the constant clashes of Jennie and her six siblings, each with a different personality.
In the midst of sibling squabbles comes a large ministry opportunity: raising money to keep a local missions organization from closing. But what seems like a chance for them to finally learn to work together, quickly escalates into stormy words and more arguments.
Jennie’s new puppy and a mysterious locked chest do not help matters any, as they distract the siblings from their goal, and the Hardings’ elderly neighbors are trying to discourage them from working to save the ministry. Will the siblings ever learn to work together and show each other love and kindness?
But one day, everything changes when their home and lives are shattered. In the aftermath, will the siblings learn to work together and show each other love and kindness?
The Hardings’ home is anything but peaceful with the constant clashes of Jennie and her six siblings, each with a different personality.
In the midst of sibling squabbles comes a large ministry opportunity: raising money to keep a local missions organization from closing. But what seems like a chance for them to finally learn to work together, quickly escalates into stormy words and more arguments.
Jennie’s new puppy and a mysterious locked chest do not help matters any, as they distract the siblings from their goal, and the Hardings’ elderly neighbors are trying to discourage them from working to save the ministry. Will the siblings ever learn to work together and show each other love and kindness?
But one day, everything changes when their home and lives are shattered. In the aftermath, will the siblings learn to work together and show each other love and kindness?
- GenresMiddle GradeContemporary
210 pages, Paperback
First published July 5, 2023
1 person is currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
Hannah E. Griggs
8 books46 followersHannah E. Griggs is a teacher and author of primarily middle-grade Christian fiction from Texas. She loves card-making, history, and coffee. When she's not writing, you'll find her building her education business, reading Christian fiction and biographies, or improving her guitar skills. You can connect with her at hannahegriggs.com.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 22, 2025
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). This book reminded me a lot of the Moody Series by Sarah Maxwell. A homeschooling Christian family decides to try and raise funds for a mission by doing chores; when a tornado hits their home, tragedy pushes them into a new calling from God. There were things I loved, and things I didn't love, but overall I enjoyed the story.
One thing I enjoyed was the large family. While it was hard for me to keep Jenny and Joanna straight, all the personalities were different and as the eldest of 9 kids, I was just thrilled to see a large family in fiction. Funnily enough, two of the kids reminded me a lot of a couple of my younger sisters: Amanda and Jenny, specifically, were eerily similar in character to my sisters (one of whom has a name very similar to Jenny!). I was a little off-put by how easy the homeschooling looked—as a homeschooled kid, I have a love/hate relationship with it and a lot of thoughts on the whole system, and I felt the struggles were really not presented in this story—but that also could just be a personal reaction. I did appreciate how it was shown that whatever happens in families' lives necessarily impacts school! Also, as a 2000s kids, I found it was cool that they were planning to record a CD and that Joanna had a e-magazine. ;)
The plot was well-paced, and the tornado certainly added an interesting twist. I did have a problem with And in comparison to the extent of that tragedy, I felt the characters' grief was rather minimal, if not minimized by well-meaning platitudes. I was also annoyed by how the parents' handled the kids' trauma following the tragedy. The mother's response was true, but I felt it missed a great opportunity to explain more about anxiety and fear and how God is with us in all our emotions and can make us strong through them. However, this particular situation is something that is very very personal to me and my struggles, and my reaction to the situation might be entirely a reaction to how I've felt very minimized by similar sayings. I also felt that the salvations and the quick change of attitude were a little too "perfect Christian." That aside, I appreciated the amazing messages, especially about fighting among siblings, and how God can turn things to good and what miracles he can work.
Once more: these are all personal reactions and preferences based on situations in my own life. I'm really not trying to be nitpicky or anything like that; I just have a hard time with these specific issues in general, and specially in Christian Fiction. It's also possible I just wasn't in the right mood for this type of book. But overall I enjoyed the story; I would love to read more about the adventures of these characters; and I am really looking forwards to handing this to my little siblings, because I think they could draw a lot of benefit from it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
One thing I enjoyed was the large family. While it was hard for me to keep Jenny and Joanna straight, all the personalities were different and as the eldest of 9 kids, I was just thrilled to see a large family in fiction. Funnily enough, two of the kids reminded me a lot of a couple of my younger sisters: Amanda and Jenny, specifically, were eerily similar in character to my sisters (one of whom has a name very similar to Jenny!). I was a little off-put by how easy the homeschooling looked—as a homeschooled kid, I have a love/hate relationship with it and a lot of thoughts on the whole system, and I felt the struggles were really not presented in this story—but that also could just be a personal reaction. I did appreciate how it was shown that whatever happens in families' lives necessarily impacts school! Also, as a 2000s kids, I found it was cool that they were planning to record a CD and that Joanna had a e-magazine. ;)
The plot was well-paced, and the tornado certainly added an interesting twist. I did have a problem with And in comparison to the extent of that tragedy, I felt the characters' grief was rather minimal, if not minimized by well-meaning platitudes. I was also annoyed by how the parents' handled the kids' trauma following the tragedy. The mother's response was true, but I felt it missed a great opportunity to explain more about anxiety and fear and how God is with us in all our emotions and can make us strong through them. However, this particular situation is something that is very very personal to me and my struggles, and my reaction to the situation might be entirely a reaction to how I've felt very minimized by similar sayings. I also felt that the salvations and the quick change of attitude were a little too "perfect Christian." That aside, I appreciated the amazing messages, especially about fighting among siblings, and how God can turn things to good and what miracles he can work.
Once more: these are all personal reactions and preferences based on situations in my own life. I'm really not trying to be nitpicky or anything like that; I just have a hard time with these specific issues in general, and specially in Christian Fiction. It's also possible I just wasn't in the right mood for this type of book. But overall I enjoyed the story; I would love to read more about the adventures of these characters; and I am really looking forwards to handing this to my little siblings, because I think they could draw a lot of benefit from it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
June 1, 2024
3.5 stars
I didn't quite know what to expect from this book, but it ended up being so much deeper than I could have anticipated! The title should have warned me, but somehow I didn't think it could be THAT tragic... could it?
It could, and I might have cried. ;P
While I wish I'd read this book when I was younger and more in the target audience (it's a middle-grade), I did find it very sweet and touching. There were really good lessons in it, though I didn't agree with everything. I loved how each character had a different personality, and some of them were much more likeable than others. ;) Chris was my favourite, I think! Although I also really liked Benjie. The big homeschooling family - and the fact that some of them are technically adopted - was so much fun to read!
I also really liked the setting, and the way the plot was crafted was really good and kept me wanting to keep reading!
While I'm not personally a big fan of books with lots of conflict and arguing, I knew it would be that way before I went in, and as I said, it was filled with good lessons. And it was very realistic, as well. Besides, the Tornado Tragedy part took it all to a whole new level and made it unique from other similar books I've read, and I loved that even though it was so heartbreaking. I also liked it that they didn't all become perfect overnight, and I'm looking forward to seeing the character growth continue in the rest of the series!
Recommended for ages 10-14.
I didn't quite know what to expect from this book, but it ended up being so much deeper than I could have anticipated! The title should have warned me, but somehow I didn't think it could be THAT tragic... could it?
It could, and I might have cried. ;P
While I wish I'd read this book when I was younger and more in the target audience (it's a middle-grade), I did find it very sweet and touching. There were really good lessons in it, though I didn't agree with everything. I loved how each character had a different personality, and some of them were much more likeable than others. ;) Chris was my favourite, I think! Although I also really liked Benjie. The big homeschooling family - and the fact that some of them are technically adopted - was so much fun to read!
I also really liked the setting, and the way the plot was crafted was really good and kept me wanting to keep reading!
While I'm not personally a big fan of books with lots of conflict and arguing, I knew it would be that way before I went in, and as I said, it was filled with good lessons. And it was very realistic, as well. Besides, the Tornado Tragedy part took it all to a whole new level and made it unique from other similar books I've read, and I loved that even though it was so heartbreaking. I also liked it that they didn't all become perfect overnight, and I'm looking forward to seeing the character growth continue in the rest of the series!
Recommended for ages 10-14.
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November 29, 2024The e-book is on sale on Amazon for 99 cents through Cyber Monday!
March 25, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
My Review: 5 out of 5 Stars
I don't normally read middle-grade books, but when I heard about this book, I couldn't pass it up. I am now officially in love with the Harding family and their children!
Characters: I loved each and every one of the children: Elena, Amanda, Benjamin, David, Christopher, Jennie, and Joanna. Sometimes I mixed up who they were, but I think that's normal with a big family. Even though I don't have as big of a family as they do, the siblings reminded me so much of my own. And the fact that they are homeschooled is even more exciting! They all have such different personalities, with their own quirks, talents, hobbies, and struggles. It's realistic and heartwarming- and we really need these aspects in books today.
Writing Style/Plot: It was a different style than I'm used to, but it was clear and understandable for the age group it is written for (as well as for myself!). The plot was well-done, complete with a twist I did not see coming. I should have seen it coming given the title "Tornado Tragedy", and yet I was still caught off-guard. I still haven't recovered.
Violence: This should be pretty self-explanatory, but there is a tornado. Damage is done, and casualties ensue. I won't say too much lest I spoil, but it is all handled well. Nothing is gratuitous or unfriendly for the age group. I would have no problem letting my 10-year-old sister read it.
Language: None.
Romance: None.
Biblical Themes: I appreciated all the Biblical themes and verses the author included. Mr. and Mrs. Harding constantly remind their children of the Truth, God's Word, and what He has commanded His followers to do. It was almost a breath of fresh air for me. I am constantly annoyed with the lack of good, Christian books for this age group (and any age group, really).
Overall, I really enjoyed the first book of H.E.L.P. and highly recommend it! If you are looking for a sweet, Christian story with adventure, big homeschool families, and fun sibling rivalry, then Tornado Tragedy is the book for you!
My Review: 5 out of 5 Stars
I don't normally read middle-grade books, but when I heard about this book, I couldn't pass it up. I am now officially in love with the Harding family and their children!
Characters: I loved each and every one of the children: Elena, Amanda, Benjamin, David, Christopher, Jennie, and Joanna. Sometimes I mixed up who they were, but I think that's normal with a big family. Even though I don't have as big of a family as they do, the siblings reminded me so much of my own. And the fact that they are homeschooled is even more exciting! They all have such different personalities, with their own quirks, talents, hobbies, and struggles. It's realistic and heartwarming- and we really need these aspects in books today.
Writing Style/Plot: It was a different style than I'm used to, but it was clear and understandable for the age group it is written for (as well as for myself!). The plot was well-done, complete with a twist I did not see coming. I should have seen it coming given the title "Tornado Tragedy", and yet I was still caught off-guard. I still haven't recovered.
Violence: This should be pretty self-explanatory, but there is a tornado. Damage is done, and casualties ensue. I won't say too much lest I spoil, but it is all handled well. Nothing is gratuitous or unfriendly for the age group. I would have no problem letting my 10-year-old sister read it.
Language: None.
Romance: None.
Biblical Themes: I appreciated all the Biblical themes and verses the author included. Mr. and Mrs. Harding constantly remind their children of the Truth, God's Word, and what He has commanded His followers to do. It was almost a breath of fresh air for me. I am constantly annoyed with the lack of good, Christian books for this age group (and any age group, really).
Overall, I really enjoyed the first book of H.E.L.P. and highly recommend it! If you are looking for a sweet, Christian story with adventure, big homeschool families, and fun sibling rivalry, then Tornado Tragedy is the book for you!
September 16, 2023
I absolutely adore books featuring large, homeschooling families. Such stories are unfortunately rare, but this one was perfect. I loved the emphasis on sibling conflict and harmony. I don’t believe I’ve ever read another book with such a major focus on sibling relationships. I look forward to reading the next H. E. L. P. novel!
Characters: Though the characters were pleasant and well-described, the dialogue felt a bit stilted at times. All the siblings did have distinct personalities, which I appreciated. My favorites were probably the protagonist Jennie and her dependable confidant Christopher–exactly the type of brother I would want to have.
Plot: This story was less adventure-focused than I expected, which I actually appreciated. The plot feels like something that could happen in ordinary life–not too contrived or unrealistic.
Theme: The Christian content was another major part of the story. Even though hard things happened to the characters, they trusted in God and their faith was strengthened. There was a heavy emphasis on serving and giving, something which is not common in fiction, even Christian fiction, and I enjoyed and was convicted by it.
I would like to thank the author for giving me a free review copy to honestly review. I was not required to write a positive review.
Characters: Though the characters were pleasant and well-described, the dialogue felt a bit stilted at times. All the siblings did have distinct personalities, which I appreciated. My favorites were probably the protagonist Jennie and her dependable confidant Christopher–exactly the type of brother I would want to have.
Plot: This story was less adventure-focused than I expected, which I actually appreciated. The plot feels like something that could happen in ordinary life–not too contrived or unrealistic.
Theme: The Christian content was another major part of the story. Even though hard things happened to the characters, they trusted in God and their faith was strengthened. There was a heavy emphasis on serving and giving, something which is not common in fiction, even Christian fiction, and I enjoyed and was convicted by it.
I would like to thank the author for giving me a free review copy to honestly review. I was not required to write a positive review.
July 21, 2023
I love this book!!! Such great family-centered content that is a good read for all ages!! Each of the siblings in the Harding family has their own distinct personality. And please don't make me pick a favorite child!! I love Benjie with his bookworm tendencies and random bits of information. And I love Jenny with her love of the outdoors. And of course Kuma!! Insert heart eyes. How could you help but fall in love with that adorable Akita puppy? Chris is Jenny's confidant, and I love how caring he is. He always wants to keep the peace in the family. And Ellie is so sweet in her own quiet and caring way. Joanna, David, and Amanda each add a lot to the story too.
The plot is very well done. It has a heartbreaking part to it, as is pretty clear from the title. But though their family suffers a horrible tragedy, we get to watch them come through that and begin a new journey God brings out of the pain. From trying to save a ministry, to the mystery of the locked trunk and its hidden contents, to the very likeable neighbors who are trying to hinder the children's plans, to grieving and recovering after a tragedy, there are so many threads to keep you guessing and reading!
The plot is very well done. It has a heartbreaking part to it, as is pretty clear from the title. But though their family suffers a horrible tragedy, we get to watch them come through that and begin a new journey God brings out of the pain. From trying to save a ministry, to the mystery of the locked trunk and its hidden contents, to the very likeable neighbors who are trying to hinder the children's plans, to grieving and recovering after a tragedy, there are so many threads to keep you guessing and reading!
August 7, 2025
Wow!! What a story! I enjoyed every minute of this wonderful book!
A new to me author that I will add to my list of favorites.
I flew through this novel because it was so very good!
I enjoyed in getting to know the Hardings and by the end of the story I felt like they were the family I never had.
I really liked the way the community got together and helped one another after the tragedy. I think that's the way things should be all the time. Not just then.
Faith definitely shows through these wonderful characters.
Griggs does a wonderful job in bringing these characters to life and she describes the scenery that I could imagine myself there.
A place I can visit through reading this beautiful story of love, faith, hope and family.
5 stars from me for a wonderful story that I'm still thinking about long after it's over.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
A new to me author that I will add to my list of favorites.
I flew through this novel because it was so very good!
I enjoyed in getting to know the Hardings and by the end of the story I felt like they were the family I never had.
I really liked the way the community got together and helped one another after the tragedy. I think that's the way things should be all the time. Not just then.
Faith definitely shows through these wonderful characters.
Griggs does a wonderful job in bringing these characters to life and she describes the scenery that I could imagine myself there.
A place I can visit through reading this beautiful story of love, faith, hope and family.
5 stars from me for a wonderful story that I'm still thinking about long after it's over.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
February 14, 2025
I loved this book!
Like, loved, loved, loved it. The big homeschool family. The adopted kids.
There was so much sweetness, so many relatable moments... And then wow! I, uh, was not expecting what happened next. That's always a good thing, I guess, but all the same I was really surprised that the book went as deep as it did!
The characters! I loved Chris. He was my favorite character by far. David felt so real and Benji was... I just wanted to give him an encouraging hug. Amanda was realistic. It really felt just like being plopped into the middle of a very real family!
I one hundred percent recommend! It's such a sweet book.
Like, loved, loved, loved it. The big homeschool family. The adopted kids.
There was so much sweetness, so many relatable moments... And then wow! I, uh, was not expecting what happened next. That's always a good thing, I guess, but all the same I was really surprised that the book went as deep as it did!
The characters! I loved Chris. He was my favorite character by far. David felt so real and Benji was... I just wanted to give him an encouraging hug. Amanda was realistic. It really felt just like being plopped into the middle of a very real family!
I one hundred percent recommend! It's such a sweet book.
January 18, 2024
Absolutely loved it. Perfect blend of slice-of-life, normal homeschooling family, and adventure/drama/suspense, along with valuable life lessons told in a gripping and memorable way. The characters were so relatable and real. Can’t wait for book two!
July 13, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but Hannah has a delightful way of portraying realistic, large family life with plenty of lessons along the way. I love the heart for ministry that shines through the entire story. Definitely a great read!
December 23, 2025
A lovely middle grade story about family, loss, and relationships. Great for young readers and families! Would be edifying for older readers, too. I'm due for a reread so I can write a proper review. ;)
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews