Jonathan Edwards lived at a time when many ideas about the world, life, and God were being questioned seriously for the first time in centuries, and his answers to them have left a mark on the way we think today. While he is often remembered as the preacher of a scary sermon about a spider dangling over a fire, he remains significant as one of the greatest thinkers America has produced. Simonetta Carr traces the events of Edwards's life from a young student interested in science to husband and father, pastor, leader of the Great Awakening, missionary, writer, and college president. Colorful illustrations, interesting facts, and a compelling story combine to introduce young readers to this important theologian and life in colonial America.
Simonetta 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)
Spiders. Native Americans. Wars. Illnesses. Adventure and danger abounded in early colonial America. In the midst of it all, God was still faithfully building His Church, calling people of every tribe, tongue, and nation to Himself. Jonathan Edwards is one man whom God used to encourage others to read and study His Word "at a time when many people were seriously questioning long-accepted ideas about the world, life, and God" (pg. 5). What types of questions were people asking in the 1700s? How did God use Edwards during this time? Why is Edwards's life relevant to us today? These are some of the questions that Simonetta Carr raises and answers in her latest addition to the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series, Jonathan Edwards.
The "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" is one of our family's best-loved church history series for children. As I've written before, Ms. Carr is a very gifted author and one of my personal favorite authors due, in large part, to her commitment to "...go beyond the simple story of someone's life by teaching young readers the historical and theological relevance of each character" (from the Copyright Page). Simonetta's writing has a purpose and depth which exceeds that found in much of written material for children today. This is why I am, once again, excited that she has added another title to this fantastic series!
In her latest title, Jonathan Edwards, Ms. Carr introduces us to an intelligent man whom God used to proclaim His glory. During Edwards' early years, he sought to apply his father's preaching and make sure that his religion was more than mere words. As a result, he prayed five times a day and prayed and read the Bible with his friends. However, he became discouraged and quit trying for a season. (pg. 8). In time, God opened up His living and active Word to Edwards, enabling him to see God more accurately and to realize that "...God's decisions are all perfect and that it is a great privilege to know Him" (pg. 15). "He felt the Holy Spirit was filling his soul with a new sense of God's glory, wisdom, and justice" (pg. 15). This became a sort of turning point for Edwards; as he began to see God's glory, beauty, and greatness in everything around him, leading him to sing and rejoice.
Edwards had always been captivated by God's creation, and now, in light of God's greatness, he found it all the more entertaining and glorious (pg. 16). He had the unique ability to employ simile and metaphor, connecting God's work in creation with aspects of God's character and Biblical truth (pg. 12). God used this ability especially as Edwards sought to make God's character known to those he taught in his churches and, even more so, as he began to share the Gospel with the Native Americans using "images from nature that were familiar to them" (pg. 41). His message was consistently: "According to the Bible, God is in control of everything, and everything happens for His glory--and that's good news because He is also perfectly loving, and His glory means our happiness" (pg. 48). This message was in direct contrast to many (deists) in that day who thought that God was a distant God who set the world in motion and allowed it to carry on according to fixed laws rather than God holding all things together as the Bible teaches (Colossians 1:16-17). Today, people still debate these ideas, making Edwards's thoughts relevant to contemporary audiences. Resting in God's sovereign control over all things enabled Edwards to face rejection by his church, the loss of friends and family to illness, uncertainties during times of war, and much more. You can read all about these things and more in Simonetta Carr's lovely new book, Jonathan Edwards.
Jonathan Edwards is well-researched, informative, and interesting, much like the other books in the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series. Ms. Carr continues to include a map and timeline to aid the reader's understanding. Likewise, Matt Abraxas serves to draw the reader into the story through his detailed artwork, while Ms. Carr includes captivating photos to accompany her writing. Reformation Heritage Books has provided some sample pages which allow one to see the variety of images used to engage the reader.
The "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series has a reputation for being high quality, hardcover books with thick pages and sewn bindings, making them sturdy, collectible titles that will hold up well to many years of enjoyment, and Jonathan Edwards continues this pattern.
I highly recommend Jonathan Edwards and trust that many will be encouraged as they seek to behold and proclaim God's glory. I pray that readers will also grow in their understanding of the importance and value of studying the saints who have gone before us as a result of this delightful title!!
You can find out more about Simonetta Carr's "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" on her website, including activity pages for several existing titles (Augustine of Hippo and John Calvin) and a study guide for John Owen.
If you've found this helpful, look for my related reviews of Simonetta Carr's titles: John Knox, Lady Jane Grey, Athanasius, Anselm, and Weight of a Flame.
*Many thanks to Cross Focused Reviews, Reformation Heritage Books, and Simonetta Carr for providing me with a complimentary copy of Jonathan Edwards in exchange for my honest opinion!
My review won't add anything to the much better crafted summaries and accolades of others here on Goodreads. So I'll just make it brief. Though this book is meant for younger readers, I don't think I'd be far off from saying a parent would find it just as fulfilling reading it to their little ones (or to themselves).
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, John Knox, and now, Jonathan Edwards.
Jonathan Edwards was a giant of man. He is remembered in many fields as a bright mind and a extraordinary thinker. So writing any children’s book which does justice to the real Jonathan Edwards is a tall order. Simonetta Carr proves once again that she is up to the task of balancing historical accuracy and theological acumen with an eye to the attention span of young children.
An account of Edwards’ life is provided with an emphasis on his children, and interesting historical details of the age. His work on how spiders sail through the forest, gliding on air, is sure to capture children’s imagination. The account of Edwards’ ten year old son spending a year away on a mission trip to Indians will demand attention as well. Edwards’ theological contributions are explained but not detailed, and attention is focused on his care of souls and concern for the church.
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 Edward’s life is included, as is an excerpt from a letter to one of his daughters. Also included is a “Did you know?” section for interested young readers. There we learn about how ink was made and quills trimmed for writing. We also find that Edwards had a fondness for chocolate, as a beverage for breakfast.
As a lover of chruch history, I appreciate Simonetta Carr’s attention to detail and focus on historical accuracy. I learned many facts and saw Edwards in a new light, as a result of this children’s book! I am thankful my children will have an opportunity to learn about Edwards by means of this helpful resource.
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 "Jonathan Edwards."
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Reformation Heritage Books. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a positive review.
If you enjoy Christian biographies with vivid pictures and the simplicity of Jonathan Edward's life, you will indeed be blessed with this read. The best part is that this book is meant to be shared with your children to inspire and enrich their own faith. It is a great tool to have discussions on the faith of Jonathan Edwards. These conversations can go like this.
"How can the fixed laws of the universe show the greatness of God?"
"What does it mean for us that God controls and rules over every event great and small?"
"How does understanding the greatness of God increase our faith"?
"How does God's grace help us walk in faith?"
"What is real freedom?" How can we have true freedom?
Edwards was so passionate about the supremacy of God. The simple things. God used him greatly. Edwards still influences many great teachers today. John Piper and my pastor as well. Edwards also lived is faith in many ways. Sending his 10 year old in the mission field was one that I was not familiar with.
With timelines and a list of tid bits of his life, there is a great discovery of faith.
A complimentary review copy was provided to me by Cross Focused Reviews (A Service of Cross Focused Media, LLC). I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own
This was a great book to read with our Children regarding the life and faith of Jonathan Edwards. It felt very professional and gave good credence to Edwards' reformed convictions.
This book is part of a wonderful biography series for young readers. There’s a good amount of history and explanation that suits well for younger readers. Also, beautifully illustrated! I enjoyed getting an overview of Edwards’ life.
I humbly admit I am excited when I heard word that Simonetta Carr is going to publish another entry into her Christian Biographies for Young Readers series. Having read several installments in this series, the excitement truly exploded when it was announced she had published a book on Jonathan Edwards. As with the other books in this series, Carr’s most recent offering continues the well-researched, well-written, and wonderfully illustrated pattern of excellence. Her latest book on Jonathan Edwards and quite frankly the entire series can be enjoyed by children and adults alike as they bring to life the individuals they discuss, in this case the great preacher and author Jonathan Edwards.
Many are likely familiar with Jonathan Edwards, in particular his famous sermons “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” With that said, there is more to the person of Jonathan Edwards than simply one famous, albeit powerful sermon. Long before his involvement in the First Great Awakening, Carr notes that Edwards was born into a family of pastors way back in 1703 in the small village of East Windsor, CT. I found it quite fascinating that even as a small boy, Edwards “prayed five times a day, often by himself in the woods. He and his friends also built a shed by an isolated swamp where they could pray and read the Bible together.” Carr next explores Edwards’ time in college, noting “His favorite place in the college was the library, where he read many new, exciting books.” Becoming fascinated with spiders, Edwards performed experiments while constantly being reminded of God as Creator displayed throughout creation.
As noted earlier, Edwards is perhaps best known for his involvement in the First Great Awakening. Carr rightly spends a good deal of time outlining this period to include Edwards preaching alongside another great declarer of God’s word, George Whitefield. Carr aptly shares the concern of Edwards that “the people’s excitement could get out of hand and draw attention to human feelings instead of what Christ had done for sinners.” For Edwards, “a display of emotions is not necessarily a sign of true faith” and once the emotional fervor wound down, he captured his thoughts in a now famous book, Religious Affections. This understanding that mere emotion is not necessarily evidence of true faith is important for children and adults to grasp, especially in an age where salvation is often thought of as a singular event or an emotion experience that does not have to be followed by a life lived in obedience out of thanksgiving for what God has done for us. Carr captures that truth throughout this section and rightfully so.
Carr also notes the fact that Edwards, in 1751, accepted the opportunity to pastor in a small village called Stockbridge, a colonial town that had been built as a mission to Native Americans. So not only was Edwards a great preacher of the gospel and instrumental in the First Great Awakening, he also responded to the call of God to be a missionary. Perhaps drawing upon his studies of nature while in college, Edwards preached the gospel to these Native Americans “using images from nature that were familiar to them.” This marvelous book concludes with a timeline of Jonathan Edwards’ life as well as some interesting facts about Edwards, his family, and even how ink was made during that time period.
I highly recommend this book for parents to sit down and read with their children as it is simple enough for a child to enjoy and rigorous enough for an adult to appreciate. In fact, I recommend this entire series as something for parents to explore with their children. This particular volume will most certainly find its way into our own homeschool curriculum for our daughter once we come to this particular period of history. Carr does a marvelous job of capturing the historical highlights of Jonathan Edwards’ life while focusing on the impact he made for the kingdom of God. As a result of reading this book, I have a newfound appreciate for Edwards. I look forward to future installments 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.”
Jonathan Edwards is the great American theologian. He was pastor in Puritan New England and a key player in the first Great Awakening (c.a. 1730’s-40s). Yet outside of the ‘Reformed crowd,’ Edwards is no longer a household name. Reformed Heritage Books’ Christian Biographies For Young Readers series has released a new book to introduce the Edwards legacy to children.
Jonathan Edwards by Simonetta Carr covers the whole of Edwards life. It tells the story of: his childhood, his education and marriage to Sarah Pierpont, his early days as a pastor, his pastorate at North Hampton, his friendship with Whitefield and his part in the revival, his dismissal from North Hampton and his Stockbridge years, his last days and death at Princeton. This is a children’s book, and short, so not a comprehensive treatment of Edwards. Carr points to episodes that would be of interest to young readers. She is an award winning biographer and has written quite a few biographies for young readers.
Carr’s Jonathan Edwards is beautifully illustrated by Matt Abraxas as well as maps, photos and Library of Congress stock images. There is even a portrait of Edwards from my favorite über-Calvinist theologian/portrait artist with a philosophical bent, Oliver Crisp. Crisp, who is a noted authority on Edwards, also read through Carr’s manuscript and helped answer some of Carr’s questions regarding Edwards.
The cover of the book, one of Abraxas’s illustrations, depicts the teenage Edwards dangling a spider from a stick. A sketch from Edwards’ journal (12) reveals that Edwards once dangled a spider from a stick and made several illustrations of it dangling from it’s web. Carr comments on the time that Edwards devoted to observing the natural world, which is one of the aspects I most appreciate about his writings. Readers of his most famous sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, will also recognize the image of the dangling spider.
This is a good biography and presents Edwards in a way that is accessible for chidren. Because this book is written for young readers, Carr does not wrestle with the ambiquities of Edwards legacy (i.e. he like many in Puritian New England, was a slave holder). It also doesn’t explore the nature of Edwards struggle with the difficult youth of his church (such as his strong words against ‘bundling‘). This is a favorable presentation of Edwards and I think a good introduction for youth.
My seven-year-old stalled on reading this somewhere in Edwards college years. I think this book is probably best for readers slightly beyond her level. Perhaps children in the 8-11 range. I especially think kids will like the ‘Did you Know?’ section at the end of the book that shares trivia about the Edwardes and their time period. I give this book four stars.
Thank you to Reformation Heritage Books and Cross Focused Reviews for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
It’s a book! With a kid, looking at a spider…creepy.
Simonetta Carr’s books take up six spaces on the shelves here at our house. We’re slowly acquiring all of the Christian Biographies for Young Readers series, so when I was offered a review copy of Jonathan Edwards, I snagged it. Yes, I come with a bias toward this series. I have liked all the volumes, and would be surprised to not like this one.
I was not surprised. Jonathan Edwards presents a rounded picture of Edwards, giving him a human face instead of just an angry preacher face. If anything, this work comes out just shy of making Edwards out as too nice. Brevity is part of the series, though, so one cannot expect all of the details of Edwards’ life to be presented. Further, the goal is to present people that can be looked up to, and Edwards certainly fits that category.
The writing style is smooth. Carr does not use excessively long sentences, nor does she use words that are outside of the vocabulary of most middle school students. This is a remarkable achievement in writing about one of America’s foremost theologians, but she brings it to bear smoothly.
While above I note that Edwards is presented nicely, difficulty is not avoided in this biography. The matters of war, disease, and tragedy are dealt with plainly. David Brainerd’s life and death, and Edwards’ daughter Jerusha’s death that followed, are discussed. So, too, is the dismissal of Edwards from Northampton Church.
All told, the text alone is a valuable introduction to Edwards’ life. Adding the full color pictures—already on a light tan page background—and the book comes alive. Matt Abraxas has illustrated the work well, and the photos of locations and artifacts supplement his artwork well. Tom Carroll’s maps bring the locations into focus, and the combined product is worth putting on the shelf.
This is a sturdy hardcover, with stronger-than-average pages. Think magazine-type glossy, but the strength of a magazine cover without being quite as heavy. You will get your money’s worth, as you will have a book that lasts.
And you’ll learn things about Edwards you never knew…like his interest in science, or that he was reading Isaac Newton’s works almost as soon as they came out. That’s right, Newton was older and working in England at the same time Edwards was a student in college. I never put that together until reading this book.
I heartily recommend this as an introduction to Jonathan Edwards.
I did, indeed, receive a review copy in exchange for this review. Had I bought it, I would hold the same opinion but never would have gotten around to sharing it.
I have heard about the Christian Biographies for Young Readers series by Simonetta Carr for quite some time. Numerous people have recommended this as, if not the “go-to”, one of the best series of biographies for kids to learn from and enjoy. Her newest volume on Jonathan Edwards was my introduction to the series but if it is any example of the series as a whole I will be getting some more volumes for my kids.
You really have to look through one of her books to get an idea for what it is. Trying to describe it just does not do justice. It is part storybook, part encyclopedia, part textbook. It is beautifully presented and is quite unique in style and content.
The work on Edwards covers his life from birth to death. It hits the highlights of his life but also his influence. The Great Awakening, time with David Brainerd, expulsion from Northhampton, mission to the Natives and acceptance of the call to lead Princeton University are all covered with original and period-specific art-work, artifacts, photographs, a nice, succinct timeline and a neat Did You Know? section. If I had to try and explain this book I would say it is like a museum exhibit somehow translated to a book. It is quite unique and interesting.
Jonathan Edwards life has been of interest to me since becoming a Christian, especially after spending some time with the work of George Marsden. I am quite pleased that Mrs. Carr has made a way for my children to share in this interest and to expose them to believers of the past. Volumes in the series include biographies of Calvin, Augustine, Lady Jane Grey, Owen, Athanasius, Anselm, and Knox.
These beautiful and unique books are perfect additions to personal, church, and school libraries.
*I received a review copy from the publisher through Cross Focused Reviews.
Biographies are so important in our lives as we learn from the experiences of others in ways which enrich our thinking and days. Simonetta Carr has written Jonathan Edwards in a way that is sure to draw in the attention of her readers.
Jonathan Edwards lived during a time when people were questioning long held ideas about life, God, faith and the world. His questions impacted his world then and still hold much for us to learn.
This book is more than a biography though. It is a book rich with history, both of the Church and of America.
The text is written in a well-formatted fashion making it easy to read. Carr’s writing style causes this to read like a storybook, yet the facts make this a wonderful textbook or addition to a library for its historical background. The book is beautifully illustrated, further enhancing the ability of the reader to grasp both the story and the importance of the legacy Edwards left behind.
She has managed to keep this biography easy for middle school aged children to grasp and enjoy. Included at the end of the book is a timeline of Edwards’ life, a Did You Know section which was most interesting, and a letter from Edwards to his daughter, Mary, presented in an artifact fashion which added to the delightful style of this book.
This is a hard covered book with pages beautifully printed making this a wonderful book to gift to any child or school library.
*** I received this book via Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for my honest 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”.
I have read every book in the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series and I have to say, it is not appropriately titled. While Carr's audience may be children and those who teach them, reading them is a growing experience for people of all ages.
Carr is writing the best of Christian biography, and this title on Jonathan Edwards is no exception. Strong historical setting, insights into his character and how his actions fit within his times, and a diligence to present the flow of his entire life without mere focus on events for which he is famous make this edition in the series another valuable tour of a Christian life. This account is not concerned with the fine points of Edwards' theology, though his positions are mentioned and simply explained, but rather the course of his life is the focus.
My student was particularly interested in Edwards' scientific pursuits, while I was challenged by his resolutions.
I love this series and am excited to see new titles emerging every year. I hope that Carr will continue to expand her series beyond leaders of the church to include others that have been uniquely designed and used by God to advance His kingdom such as doctors, athletes, businessmen, etc.
Well done. Highly recommended as a home library treasure for Christians of all ages.
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...
When many ideas about God, life, and the world were being questioned seriously for the first time in centuries, Jonathan Edwards grappled with them, both in his life and his teaching. His answers to these questions greatly influenced the age he lived in and have also left a mark on the way we think today. In this insightful biography, Simonetta Carr shows us the life, times, and work of this great man of God.
As a youth, Jonathan spent many happy hours in the college library and in Creation, pondering the nature of light, rainbows, and forest spiders. He was both studious and serious, agonizing over questions of faith and greatly comforted at seventeen when the Holy Spirit filled the words of 1 Timothy 1:17 with meaning for him:
“Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever.”
...
Simonetta’s clear writing and the many illustrations, including Matt Abraxis’s luminous paintings, make this a fascinating introduction to the life and times of Jonathan Edwards. A map, a timeline, and some miscellaneous facts round out the book. I highly recommend Jonathan Edwards to all those studying church history, American history, and the great ideas. It will appeal to teens and adults as well as those in the target age range of 7-12.
Carr can summarize Reformers' lives simply and succintly, maintaining interest while communicating complex issues involved. She covers emotions in revivals, the communion controversy in the Northampton church, his efforts to bring the Gospel to Natives, the freedom and bondage of the depraved will, and the difference between inoculations then and vaccines now.
I wasn't aware of Edwards' ministry to Mohicans. Or that he was president of Princeton at the end of his life. Or of how he died.
His letter to his daughter at the very end is wonderful.
I gave it four stars mainly because she (and Edwards) takes the wrong view (I think) of the communion controversy, and takes the time (in a two-sentence summary of the whole thing) to quote 1 Cor. 11 against communion for all the baptized not under church discipline. Blech. Major pet peeve. But the benefits far outweigh that few sentences.
Get this book for your young readers (age 7-14ish)!
Maybe you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but when it comes to the "Christian Biographies for Young Readers" series by Simonetta Carr, there is a real appeal in just the way they look and feel. How pleasant to hold a book that has been so nicely bound and printed so prettily on quality paper. Add color pictures, and you have just the right kind of book to instill a love for reading. Once "inside," Simonetta Carr richly impresses the reader with a story that has been well-research and well-told. I was very moved by the life story of Jonathan Edwards. He is known for his part in the Great Awakening during Colonial days in America. He left a big imprint on America through his writings, his example, and his family. Enrich your life and read this and all the books in the series.
Like every Christian Biographies For Young Readers, Simonetta Carr did a wonderful excellent job in writing this book about Jonathan Edwards for young readers who can enjoy her book. Great easy book to read. I did learned a lot more that I didn't know about Jonathan Edwards. I would encourage you all to get this books for your kids or for your church's library. Also would encourage you to get the collection of Christian Biographies for Young Readers too.
Good thumbnail sketch of Edwards life. I wish that it would have interacted a little more with his theology, sermons, and writings. If you're familiar with Edwards works, understanding the big picture view of his tragedy-fraught life definitely contextualized some things for me. Thinking about his ministry on the unstable frontier of Colonial America, and the anxiety his congregations surely felt, helped me understand his seriousness in a deeper way.
This series of biographies are my favorite. They are picture book biographies but for older children to adult, or as a read-a-loud. This biography is the perfect combination of history and inspiration.
I've been slogging through a more comprehensive biography of Jonathan Edwards. I just got tired of being in the weeds so I bought and read this short juvenile book. I think I'm inspired so I can go back to the comprehensive version. This is a good biography that hits the high points.