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"In this clear, concise, and readable short biography, Simonetta Carr tells the dramatic story of John Knox. Setting him in the context of his troubled times, she vividly explains how he became a Protestant, a galley slave, a friend of John Calvin, an English pastor, and, finally, the leading preacher of the Scottish Reformation. This is an excellent introduction for children to the religious ideas that transformed the churches of sixteenth-century Western Europe." Rosalind K. Marshall, fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and author of John Knox
64 pages, Hardcover
First published February 20, 2014
About the author
Simonetta Carr
35 books133 followersSimonetta Carr was born in Italy and has lived and worked in different cultures. A former elementary school teacher, she has home-schooled her eight children for many years. She has written for newspapers and magazines around the world and has translated the works of several authors into Italian. Presently, she lives in San Diego with her husband Thomas and family. She is a member and Sunday School teacher at Christ United Reformed Church.
Awards - First prize (Best Biography) in the 2014 San Diego Book Awards Association (see book Anselm of Canterbury)
First Prize Athanatos Ministries - Best children's book (see book Anselm of Canterbury)
Awards - First prize (Best Biography) in the 2014 San Diego Book Awards Association (see book Anselm of Canterbury)
First Prize Athanatos Ministries - Best children's book (see book Anselm of Canterbury)
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 28, 2022
Our family got an 18-volume collection of “Christian Biographies for Young Readers” and at the request of the kids we are “reading all the Johns first.” Turns out, there are an awful lot of Johns in church history. We’ve tackled Bunyan, Newton, Owen, and now… Knox!
This volume on John Knox was a great look at a fascinating period in history. After learning about Knox’s role in the religion and politics of the time, we also followed up with a viewing of the 2011 Lionsgate film “KJB: The Book That Changed the World.” This really helped tie together some significant details of that era and the connections between Knox, Mary Queen of Scots and her son James. Now, off to read about our final Jon(athan)… Edwards!
~Jen
This volume on John Knox was a great look at a fascinating period in history. After learning about Knox’s role in the religion and politics of the time, we also followed up with a viewing of the 2011 Lionsgate film “KJB: The Book That Changed the World.” This really helped tie together some significant details of that era and the connections between Knox, Mary Queen of Scots and her son James. Now, off to read about our final Jon(athan)… Edwards!
~Jen
May 18, 2022
Muito bom!
Read
February 21, 2026A longer book, so I'm counting it. I obviously knew who Knox was named after and that he played a vital role in the Reformation, but after reading this, I pray that Knox would have the following characteristics of John Knox: boldness to stand up for what Scripture says and care of showing proper worship to God alone.
October 20, 2023
Great book on Knox and his life in a simple writing style! My only wish is that there was more!
October 30, 2019
Simonetta Carr creates a panoramic view of reformed leader John Knox. From his earliest days, Knox knew the conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism raging in Europe could cost him his life. Knox’ faith and character is challenged by wars, political intrigue, the relationship between the Church & state, exile and separation from loved ones, loss of his wife when his sons were still young, as well as the imperfections of his own soul.
All the wonderful features that we have come to expect from this series, Christian Biographies for young readers, are present in this volume. Dramatic illustrations, photographs of artifacts, organized chapters, insightful introduction and conclusion, timelines, maps and the fun “Did you know?” section of historical tidbits. This version also includes an appendix of the Scots Confession of Faith, Chapters 1-4 which Knox and five other preachers (all with the first name of John! Hahaha!), composed in 1560.
I was struck by the poignancy of questions asked in the first half of the book, how Knox defined the answers throughout his life, and how much these questions are still debated today.
- What should we do in times of trouble? Page 24 (The subject of a friend’s book that Knox edits.)
- Can God forgive us even if we never seem to do better? Page 27 (A letter from an older woman seeking spiritual counsel, to which Knox wrote “I am worse than my pen can express.” And then posed the questions below…)
- Do you think God’s goodness, mercy and grace can be overcome by your iniquities? Will God, who cannot undo His work of salvation, be a liar and lose His own glory, because you are a sinner? Page 27
- Why is my marriage any of your business? Page 48 (Mary Queen of Scots to her subject, John Knox in 1563).
- May a young boy rule a country? May women rule? And if a ruler such as Mary Tudor demands that the people disobey God’s Word, are [citizens] allowed to rebel? Page 30 (Knox’ questions to the Zurich reformers, Calvin & Bullinger.)
Knox emerges from this account as a complex man who is not immanently likeable. Knox himself seemed to struggle with his calling to be a prophet in tumultuous times. He wrote that he was by nature “churlish” which made him thankful for his friends, and concluded, “I need them more than they need me.” Page 56
Even today there is a struggle between the need for expression of BOTH God’s truth and love in the church and in individuals. Those close to Knox saw his tenderness and struggles, but those farther out perceived him as a hard man. I was also struck by how Knox seems to embody Scottish culture: tough but tender. It reminded me of what God said to Ezekiel 3, “8 Behold, I have made your face as hard as their faces, and your forehead as hard as their foreheads. 9 Like emery harder than flint have I made your forehead. Fear them not, nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house.”
After highly recommending this account, it seems fitting to give a Scotsman, an unnamed nobleman, the last words…
“Here lies a man who in his life never feared nor flattered any man: who has been often threatened with a pistol and dagger, but has ended his days in peace and honor.” Page 54
If you'd like to read the series in chronological order -- or make sure you have each excellent book! -- see the Christian Biographies for Young Readers Goodreads page, here...
https://www.goodreads.com/series/8395...
All the wonderful features that we have come to expect from this series, Christian Biographies for young readers, are present in this volume. Dramatic illustrations, photographs of artifacts, organized chapters, insightful introduction and conclusion, timelines, maps and the fun “Did you know?” section of historical tidbits. This version also includes an appendix of the Scots Confession of Faith, Chapters 1-4 which Knox and five other preachers (all with the first name of John! Hahaha!), composed in 1560.
I was struck by the poignancy of questions asked in the first half of the book, how Knox defined the answers throughout his life, and how much these questions are still debated today.
- What should we do in times of trouble? Page 24 (The subject of a friend’s book that Knox edits.)
- Can God forgive us even if we never seem to do better? Page 27 (A letter from an older woman seeking spiritual counsel, to which Knox wrote “I am worse than my pen can express.” And then posed the questions below…)
- Do you think God’s goodness, mercy and grace can be overcome by your iniquities? Will God, who cannot undo His work of salvation, be a liar and lose His own glory, because you are a sinner? Page 27
- Why is my marriage any of your business? Page 48 (Mary Queen of Scots to her subject, John Knox in 1563).
- May a young boy rule a country? May women rule? And if a ruler such as Mary Tudor demands that the people disobey God’s Word, are [citizens] allowed to rebel? Page 30 (Knox’ questions to the Zurich reformers, Calvin & Bullinger.)
Knox emerges from this account as a complex man who is not immanently likeable. Knox himself seemed to struggle with his calling to be a prophet in tumultuous times. He wrote that he was by nature “churlish” which made him thankful for his friends, and concluded, “I need them more than they need me.” Page 56
Even today there is a struggle between the need for expression of BOTH God’s truth and love in the church and in individuals. Those close to Knox saw his tenderness and struggles, but those farther out perceived him as a hard man. I was also struck by how Knox seems to embody Scottish culture: tough but tender. It reminded me of what God said to Ezekiel 3, “8 Behold, I have made your face as hard as their faces, and your forehead as hard as their foreheads. 9 Like emery harder than flint have I made your forehead. Fear them not, nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house.”
After highly recommending this account, it seems fitting to give a Scotsman, an unnamed nobleman, the last words…
“Here lies a man who in his life never feared nor flattered any man: who has been often threatened with a pistol and dagger, but has ended his days in peace and honor.” Page 54
If you'd like to read the series in chronological order -- or make sure you have each excellent book! -- see the Christian Biographies for Young Readers Goodreads page, here...
https://www.goodreads.com/series/8395...
March 15, 2014
Read my review here:
http://reformed-at-last.blogspot.com/...
http://reformed-at-last.blogspot.com/...
August 8, 2023
Do you want to know more about the reformation and the people who fought as well? Then this book is perfect for you, although I didn't really enjoy it. This book is good for young readers, and it is about John Knox, fighting and going against the Roman Catholic Church by sacrificing a lot of things. This book will teach you a lot about the reformation also the person itself: From birth to death. If you enjoy reading biographies and want to learn more about the christian religion, I recommend it. I rate this 3 stars out of 5.
December 31, 2025
🎧 In all honesty, I listened to this short book in order to reach my reading goal for 2025. 😅 It was an informative biographical sketch of John Owen's life. It could be read to young children, or preteen age children could read it themselves.
January 3, 2021
Terrific biography for children of giant of the Scottish Reformation.
July 18, 2023
Very educational and informative book. Was glad to read and learn more about John Knox's life.
February 14, 2025
Really appreciated his desire to allow Scripture prevail in every area of his life and thought.
March 13, 2014
The "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series introduces children to key figures from church history. Author Simonetta Carr and illustrator Matt Abraxas offer a compelling and beautiful historical account of the life of each Christian figure profiled in the series. To date, the series includes volumes on John Calvin, John Owen, Augustine of HIppo, Athanasius, Anselm of Canterbury, Lady Jane Grey, and now, John Knox.
John Knox’s life has action and adventure enough for any young reader. His story is told with an eye to historical accuracy and with an eye to a child’s mind. From humble beginnings, Knox finds himself as a bodyguard to Reformer George Wishart, who is captured and killed. Knox goes from hiding out in St. Andrews Castle, a Protestant stronghold, to cowering in the belly of a French galley as a slave. He finds unexpected freedom and returns to pulpit ministry in England, but soon has to flee in exile to Geneva where he comes under the tutelage of John Calvin. He returns to Scotland in time to help lead the Reformation movement there. Knox the fiery preacher, delivers a sermon that sparks an all-out revolt and ultimately wins Scotland’s religious freedom. Knox’s life is not only eventful, but it provides teachable moments for children to study the Reformation and to learn what was wrong with the Roman church. It also teaches children the sacrifice that people faced to follow Christ in years gone by.
This book is a joy to page through. Full color illustrations, photographs, portraits and maps, buildings and vistas appear at the appropriate time on each page. After the biographical sketch, a time line of Knox’s life is included, as is an excerpt from the “Scots Confession of Faith” that Knox helped author. Also included is a “Did you know?” section for interested young readers. There we learn that Queen Mary Stuart may have been the first female golfer; John Knox is buired under parking stall number 23 at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh; and preachers back then were limited to one hour (and timed by an hour glass) to protect the Sunday schedule.
As a lover of chruch history, I appreciate Simonetta Carr’s attention to detail and focus on historical accuracy. Rather than painting an impossibly perfect picture of a higher-than-thou saint, she gives us the true John Knox, doubts and weakness and all. He was like any of us, and because of that we can learn to mimic his faith and grapple through the same questions he did.
This book deserves a place of honor at the coffee table, but might end up in the kids’ bookcase, more often than not. It also should find a place in church or school libraries. If you haven’t picked up a title in the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series, now would be a good time. You won’t be disappointed with "John Knox." Read also this earlier review of some of the previous titles in the series.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Reformation Heritage Books via CrossFocusedReviews.com. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a positive review.
John Knox’s life has action and adventure enough for any young reader. His story is told with an eye to historical accuracy and with an eye to a child’s mind. From humble beginnings, Knox finds himself as a bodyguard to Reformer George Wishart, who is captured and killed. Knox goes from hiding out in St. Andrews Castle, a Protestant stronghold, to cowering in the belly of a French galley as a slave. He finds unexpected freedom and returns to pulpit ministry in England, but soon has to flee in exile to Geneva where he comes under the tutelage of John Calvin. He returns to Scotland in time to help lead the Reformation movement there. Knox the fiery preacher, delivers a sermon that sparks an all-out revolt and ultimately wins Scotland’s religious freedom. Knox’s life is not only eventful, but it provides teachable moments for children to study the Reformation and to learn what was wrong with the Roman church. It also teaches children the sacrifice that people faced to follow Christ in years gone by.
This book is a joy to page through. Full color illustrations, photographs, portraits and maps, buildings and vistas appear at the appropriate time on each page. After the biographical sketch, a time line of Knox’s life is included, as is an excerpt from the “Scots Confession of Faith” that Knox helped author. Also included is a “Did you know?” section for interested young readers. There we learn that Queen Mary Stuart may have been the first female golfer; John Knox is buired under parking stall number 23 at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh; and preachers back then were limited to one hour (and timed by an hour glass) to protect the Sunday schedule.
As a lover of chruch history, I appreciate Simonetta Carr’s attention to detail and focus on historical accuracy. Rather than painting an impossibly perfect picture of a higher-than-thou saint, she gives us the true John Knox, doubts and weakness and all. He was like any of us, and because of that we can learn to mimic his faith and grapple through the same questions he did.
This book deserves a place of honor at the coffee table, but might end up in the kids’ bookcase, more often than not. It also should find a place in church or school libraries. If you haven’t picked up a title in the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series, now would be a good time. You won’t be disappointed with "John Knox." Read also this earlier review of some of the previous titles in the series.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Reformation Heritage Books via CrossFocusedReviews.com. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a positive review.
March 1, 2014
There are times when books intended for young readers should also find themselves on the shelves of the adult’s library. The Christian Biographies for Young Readers series by Reformation Heritage Press is such a series of books. Since a lack of understanding of church history and those who have helped to shape it has increasingly become a source of concern for many to include myself, books that strive to bring into view important church leaders in an effort to provide modern day readers with insight into their lives and how they impacted Christianity as a whole is a very important contribution. Teacher and author Simonetta Carr continues her fine work in this regard with her recent book in the Christian Biographies series called John Know.
As with the previous offerings in this series, this book is well-researched, well-written and beautifully illustrated. While this series and this book are focused on the young reader, I found the information to transcend just the younger reader meaning adults will also find this book on the great Christian leader John Knox to be very insightful and a truly worthwhile read. Carr takes the reader on a journey through the life and experiences of John Knox beginning with his youth in the small Scottish town of Haddington, noting his call to be a pastor, his time spent on a galley ship, his time in London as one of the King’s preachers, his experiences during the Scottish Revolution, his conflict with the Queen, concluding with a discussion of the waning years of his life.
I found the “Did You Know” section at the back of this book to be very enlightening. Carr provides a number of facts about the life and times of John Knox that most believers are likely unaware of, including myself prior to reading this book. This fiery orator of the gospel had a great impact in Scotland during his time and this excellent book by Simonetta Carr brings to life this interesting individual for yet another generation of believers to explore. I highly recommend this book for young and adult readers alike as there is something in this book for everyone regardless of age. This book would also be useful as part of homeschool and Sunday School lessons as well as family study time. I look forward to additional books being released in this series.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
As with the previous offerings in this series, this book is well-researched, well-written and beautifully illustrated. While this series and this book are focused on the young reader, I found the information to transcend just the younger reader meaning adults will also find this book on the great Christian leader John Knox to be very insightful and a truly worthwhile read. Carr takes the reader on a journey through the life and experiences of John Knox beginning with his youth in the small Scottish town of Haddington, noting his call to be a pastor, his time spent on a galley ship, his time in London as one of the King’s preachers, his experiences during the Scottish Revolution, his conflict with the Queen, concluding with a discussion of the waning years of his life.
I found the “Did You Know” section at the back of this book to be very enlightening. Carr provides a number of facts about the life and times of John Knox that most believers are likely unaware of, including myself prior to reading this book. This fiery orator of the gospel had a great impact in Scotland during his time and this excellent book by Simonetta Carr brings to life this interesting individual for yet another generation of believers to explore. I highly recommend this book for young and adult readers alike as there is something in this book for everyone regardless of age. This book would also be useful as part of homeschool and Sunday School lessons as well as family study time. I look forward to additional books being released in this series.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 16, 2014
Since our family was introduced to the ministry of 20schemes more than a year ago, I've been intrigued by all things Scottish. Like much of Europe, the history of Scotland is so rich -- especially their religious history. This history is often neglected today, both here and in Scotland.
Simonetta Carr's John Knox (Christian Biographies for Young Readers) is a great introduction to one of our most important Scottish church fathers. This book is geared for children, and the lush illustrations will help to draw the reader into the story. Some are photographs of historical artwork, but many are the artwork of the talented Matt Abraxas. The book is beautifully bound and could easily be a coffee table book (but one you'll actually read).
I have a confession to make. I read children's books. And I like them. There, I've said it. I enjoy reading Beverly Clearly, Rick Riordan, and Lois Lowry. But I read this book completely guilt-free because I learned so much about not only John Knox, but also about the 1500s in Western Europe, especially church history.
(Another confession. I had to take this book so away from my pastor/husband so that I could read and review it.)
This is not a dry history book. Carr makes John Knox come alive as the reader walks with him through from young adulthood through his death. While the history presented is important, I felt that the biggest takeaway from the book was the priority Knox placed on bringing the gospel to the common people which, at that time, involved much more than just preaching and evangelism. It required attempting to change the law of the land, and even risking imprisonment and death when taking a stand. I couldn't help but wonder if today's Christian leaders would be willing to take such a stand.
This book is for:
-Parents and grandparents who would like to help their children develop a better understanding of church history and Christian faithfulness
-Homeschoolers who would like to supplement both their history and Christian studies
-Church leaders who would like to share an important part of church history with their
congregations, as well as a good example of faithfulness under persecution
-Moms who just like reading good children's literature (wink!)
Cross Focused Reviews provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for a review; however, the views stated here are my own. This review has also been posted on Amazon.com and Goodreads. This post contains affiliate links.
Simonetta Carr's John Knox (Christian Biographies for Young Readers) is a great introduction to one of our most important Scottish church fathers. This book is geared for children, and the lush illustrations will help to draw the reader into the story. Some are photographs of historical artwork, but many are the artwork of the talented Matt Abraxas. The book is beautifully bound and could easily be a coffee table book (but one you'll actually read).
I have a confession to make. I read children's books. And I like them. There, I've said it. I enjoy reading Beverly Clearly, Rick Riordan, and Lois Lowry. But I read this book completely guilt-free because I learned so much about not only John Knox, but also about the 1500s in Western Europe, especially church history.
(Another confession. I had to take this book so away from my pastor/husband so that I could read and review it.)
This is not a dry history book. Carr makes John Knox come alive as the reader walks with him through from young adulthood through his death. While the history presented is important, I felt that the biggest takeaway from the book was the priority Knox placed on bringing the gospel to the common people which, at that time, involved much more than just preaching and evangelism. It required attempting to change the law of the land, and even risking imprisonment and death when taking a stand. I couldn't help but wonder if today's Christian leaders would be willing to take such a stand.
This book is for:
-Parents and grandparents who would like to help their children develop a better understanding of church history and Christian faithfulness
-Homeschoolers who would like to supplement both their history and Christian studies
-Church leaders who would like to share an important part of church history with their
congregations, as well as a good example of faithfulness under persecution
-Moms who just like reading good children's literature (wink!)
Cross Focused Reviews provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for a review; however, the views stated here are my own. This review has also been posted on Amazon.com and Goodreads. This post contains affiliate links.
March 16, 2014
A life worth emulating is tough to live. This is especially true when God’s plan for your life is not one that is mostly full of ease and comfort, but rather, requires you to hold firm to the faith you claim to believe in the midst of life-threatening conflicts, the constant cycle of rulers who are hostile to your belief set, and a prolonged period of time spent rowing in the gallows. However, the Scottish Reformer, John Knox, was just such a person who experienced all of the things I described above (and more) and still managed to live a life worth emulating by fellow believers. In the small, but very informative, book Christian Biographies for Young Readers: John Knox , Simonetta Carr does a fantastic job of giving readers a highly pertinent overview of the powerful life of God’s humble servant John Knox. The book does not get bogged down in the minute details like some other Christian biographies do, but does a great job of maintaining a consistent flow of writing that keeps it’s readers attention from beginning to end.
The life story of John Knox is not one that is very well known in Christian circles today, because, truth be told, there is not a ton of books written about him. A friend of mine had to write a paper on the life of John Knox about 6 months ago for Seminary and had to search hard all over the internet, and in multiple bookstores, in order to find anything he could on the man John Knox. He contacted me and asked if I had any biographies on him, and I was slightly dismayed that in a library of over a 1,000 books I found I only owned one biography on Knox (and it wasn’t a very big book at all). Fast forward six months, and after finishing Simonetta Carr’s book, Christian Biographies for Young Readers: John Knox , I really wish I would have been able to get this book in his hands as it would have been an immense help to him in writing his paper. I plan to read this book with my son when he gets a little older, and to recommend it to others who are interested in learning more about the fiery orator John Knox.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The life story of John Knox is not one that is very well known in Christian circles today, because, truth be told, there is not a ton of books written about him. A friend of mine had to write a paper on the life of John Knox about 6 months ago for Seminary and had to search hard all over the internet, and in multiple bookstores, in order to find anything he could on the man John Knox. He contacted me and asked if I had any biographies on him, and I was slightly dismayed that in a library of over a 1,000 books I found I only owned one biography on Knox (and it wasn’t a very big book at all). Fast forward six months, and after finishing Simonetta Carr’s book, Christian Biographies for Young Readers: John Knox , I really wish I would have been able to get this book in his hands as it would have been an immense help to him in writing his paper. I plan to read this book with my son when he gets a little older, and to recommend it to others who are interested in learning more about the fiery orator John Knox.
I received this book for free from Reformation Heritage Books via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 26, 2015
John Knox by Simonetta Carr is part of the Christian Biographies for Young Readers series. This series introduces children to important people in the Christian tradition and targets readers who are 7-12 years old. The hardback book is very well made with nice, thick pages. Interspersed throughout the story are well-done illustrations that follow the narrative and photos of the landmarks referenced. At the end of the book, the author included the following items for reference: Time Line of John Knox's Life, Did You Know? (fascinating facts about the time period), and The Scots Confession of Faith (Chapters 1-4).
The story begins around the time of John Knox's birth (circa 1514) and ends with his death in 1572. A map of Western Europe is included in the front of the book so that the reader can follow his travels. The writing is fluid and easy to read, but I think it would have been useful to include the pronunciation for some of the names and towns mentioned to help the young reader.
I asked my 11-year old son to read the biography and tell me what he thought. It took him about 45 minutes in one sitting to read the whole book. Afterwards, he said that it was a good read and fairly descriptive. He described the book as a basic time line of Knox's life and about his arguments with Mary Stuart, Queen of the Scots. My son learned that Knox spoke with John Calvin, and that Knox was a powerful speaker. I asked him whether or not he would recommend this book to his friends, and he said that he would recommend it to younger readers because it's not that complicated to read.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any family who wants to learn more about one of the pillars of Protestantism. This book would be valuable in a family devotion or homeschool setting.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins around the time of John Knox's birth (circa 1514) and ends with his death in 1572. A map of Western Europe is included in the front of the book so that the reader can follow his travels. The writing is fluid and easy to read, but I think it would have been useful to include the pronunciation for some of the names and towns mentioned to help the young reader.
I asked my 11-year old son to read the biography and tell me what he thought. It took him about 45 minutes in one sitting to read the whole book. Afterwards, he said that it was a good read and fairly descriptive. He described the book as a basic time line of Knox's life and about his arguments with Mary Stuart, Queen of the Scots. My son learned that Knox spoke with John Calvin, and that Knox was a powerful speaker. I asked him whether or not he would recommend this book to his friends, and he said that he would recommend it to younger readers because it's not that complicated to read.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any family who wants to learn more about one of the pillars of Protestantism. This book would be valuable in a family devotion or homeschool setting.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2014
I enjoy biographies. I especially enjoy biographies of prominent Christian leaders and figures from history that played a large role in kingdom work. And when I have the opportunity to read and review such a biography, I do so.
That's why I was pretty excited to read Simonetta Carr's new biography on John Knox. As part of the Christian Biographies For Young Readers series, this has the potential to instill a love for biographies in the lives of my kids.
Knox led an interesting life, during an exciting time. As a Protestant believer in the 1500s, Knox played an important role in the Reformation, including pastoring a church where several members helped translate the Geneva Bible, one of the first versions of the Bible in the English language. This Bible pre-dated the King James version by more than half a century, and played a key role in the Reformation.
Much of Knox's ministry was centered in Scotland, but he spent a lot of time in England and Geneva as well. Knox was very outspoken, especially of matters of faith, and even more so when government tried to dictate in matters of faith and worship. Knox's stance against such tactics landed him in trouble more than a few times throughout his life.
In this biography of John Knox, Simonetta Carr address not only Knox's life, but the greater cultural issues that drove him to become the man and leader he was. And she does this in a manner that is engaging and interesting, especially for younger readers.
I plan to pass this book around among my kids and see if it inspires them as it did me.
That's why I was pretty excited to read Simonetta Carr's new biography on John Knox. As part of the Christian Biographies For Young Readers series, this has the potential to instill a love for biographies in the lives of my kids.
Knox led an interesting life, during an exciting time. As a Protestant believer in the 1500s, Knox played an important role in the Reformation, including pastoring a church where several members helped translate the Geneva Bible, one of the first versions of the Bible in the English language. This Bible pre-dated the King James version by more than half a century, and played a key role in the Reformation.
Much of Knox's ministry was centered in Scotland, but he spent a lot of time in England and Geneva as well. Knox was very outspoken, especially of matters of faith, and even more so when government tried to dictate in matters of faith and worship. Knox's stance against such tactics landed him in trouble more than a few times throughout his life.
In this biography of John Knox, Simonetta Carr address not only Knox's life, but the greater cultural issues that drove him to become the man and leader he was. And she does this in a manner that is engaging and interesting, especially for younger readers.
I plan to pass this book around among my kids and see if it inspires them as it did me.
May 26, 2014
I'm tempted to say, for a children's book, this is quite good. But honestly? For a brief biography for any reading level, it's quite good.
In these pages we get a good picture of Knox's life (public and private), his historical context, and his teachings/beliefs. Essentially, everything you could want. There's excitement, there's hardship, there's triumph and there's tragedy. This isn't a hagiography -- Carr isn't afraid to point out weaknesses, or problems with Knox (although she could've gone a little further in that direction). Nor is this all sweetness and light, as you might expect from a children's book. While not dwelling on the details of the violence in Knox's Scotland, she doesn't sweep it under the rug, either.
The illustrations are great -- the map, the photos and historic portraits are as well. Abraxas does a really good job in making his illustrations pop -- but not to the degree that they become the focal point. The text carries this book, but the illustrations aid the text, as it should be.
Assuming this is a representative sample (and, based on a couple of interviews I've heard with Carr, I think it is), this is 'Christian Biographies For Young Readers" series to get for anyone with kids. Or anyone just wanting small biographies to teach them Church History without having to wade through a tome like Bruce L. Shelley or Justo González.
In these pages we get a good picture of Knox's life (public and private), his historical context, and his teachings/beliefs. Essentially, everything you could want. There's excitement, there's hardship, there's triumph and there's tragedy. This isn't a hagiography -- Carr isn't afraid to point out weaknesses, or problems with Knox (although she could've gone a little further in that direction). Nor is this all sweetness and light, as you might expect from a children's book. While not dwelling on the details of the violence in Knox's Scotland, she doesn't sweep it under the rug, either.
The illustrations are great -- the map, the photos and historic portraits are as well. Abraxas does a really good job in making his illustrations pop -- but not to the degree that they become the focal point. The text carries this book, but the illustrations aid the text, as it should be.
Assuming this is a representative sample (and, based on a couple of interviews I've heard with Carr, I think it is), this is 'Christian Biographies For Young Readers" series to get for anyone with kids. Or anyone just wanting small biographies to teach them Church History without having to wade through a tome like Bruce L. Shelley or Justo González.
March 13, 2014
My first thought when I opened the package containing Simonetta Carr’s John Knox was “What a beautiful book!”
Beautiful covers are always wonderful, and I know some of us have a weakness for pretty books, (my Mom’s soft spot is for leather-bound books) but books, like people, are more about what is on the inside.
And Carr’s John Knox does not disappoint!
Easily understood by young readers, the book tells the life story of John Knox, from his early years to his death. Filled with illustrations, yet interesting enough for adult readers, John Knox will be a treasure for families to enjoy together!
For such an unassuming book, I was quite impressed by the amount of information contained in the pages, including a timeline of Knox’s life and the first four chapters of the Scots Confession of Faith.
I am grateful to see such a great source of church history in easy-to-understand language, so that the stories retain their power, and are not dumbed-down.
A wonderful tool for Christian parents who desire to share the powerful story of John Knox with their children, I could not recommend Carr’s book more. I would give the book an “A”.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Cross Focused Reviews Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 .
Beautiful covers are always wonderful, and I know some of us have a weakness for pretty books, (my Mom’s soft spot is for leather-bound books) but books, like people, are more about what is on the inside.
And Carr’s John Knox does not disappoint!
Easily understood by young readers, the book tells the life story of John Knox, from his early years to his death. Filled with illustrations, yet interesting enough for adult readers, John Knox will be a treasure for families to enjoy together!
For such an unassuming book, I was quite impressed by the amount of information contained in the pages, including a timeline of Knox’s life and the first four chapters of the Scots Confession of Faith.
I am grateful to see such a great source of church history in easy-to-understand language, so that the stories retain their power, and are not dumbed-down.
A wonderful tool for Christian parents who desire to share the powerful story of John Knox with their children, I could not recommend Carr’s book more. I would give the book an “A”.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Cross Focused Reviews Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 .
December 31, 2014
Excellent.
Tells the story of Knox's life well.
Spends a bit too much time in the politics instead of the theology, maybe, though it's helpful to see how Knox got caught between opposing political forces.
Again, Carr simplifies complex issues without distorting them, for children.
Frankly, at 50-60 pages each, these are great biographies for busy adults, too!
I learned that Knox's writing from Geneva in "The First Blast of the Trumpet" that a woman should not rule a country (against Mary Tudor), got him in trouble later with a possible ally, Queen Elizabeth I.
It is often hard to know how strongly to speak when there is error to oppose.
Tells the story of Knox's life well.
Spends a bit too much time in the politics instead of the theology, maybe, though it's helpful to see how Knox got caught between opposing political forces.
Again, Carr simplifies complex issues without distorting them, for children.
Frankly, at 50-60 pages each, these are great biographies for busy adults, too!
I learned that Knox's writing from Geneva in "The First Blast of the Trumpet" that a woman should not rule a country (against Mary Tudor), got him in trouble later with a possible ally, Queen Elizabeth I.
It is often hard to know how strongly to speak when there is error to oppose.
November 30, 2023
John Knox was born in Haddington, Scotland in 1514. John followed George Wishart in 1545. John moved to the castle and he preached his first sermon in 1547. In 1549, John became a Pastor in Berwick, England. 1550 was when John met Mrs. Elizabeth Bowes and her daughter, Marjory. He worked for a short time as Pastor of an English congregation in Frankfurt, Germany in 1554. He returned to Scotland for a short time and married Marjory Bowes in 1556. 1560 was when his wife died. John Knox died because of pneumonia in 1572. Overall, I kind of think it needs to improve, so I rate it 3/5.
October 25, 2016
Good info, easy to read, easy for the kids to understand, good illustrations, interesting.
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