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The Dreamer
Ten-year-old Jason is unsure if God is still at work around the world. That is, until he and his younger brother, Fred, discover a board game that transports them to countries across the globe. But one mistake could mean being stuck in a country with no way home.
In The Dreamer, Jason and Fred must fulfill a strange mission to deliver a holy book to a dreamer in Afghanistan. If only the brothers knew who. Can they lose the mysterious person following them and figure out who needs the book before time runs out? Find out in this Christian adventure for kids.
To the Ends is a missions chapter book series for children ages 6-10. Cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations in your family through this faith-based story.
In The Dreamer, Jason and Fred must fulfill a strange mission to deliver a holy book to a dreamer in Afghanistan. If only the brothers knew who. Can they lose the mysterious person following them and figure out who needs the book before time runs out? Find out in this Christian adventure for kids.
To the Ends is a missions chapter book series for children ages 6-10. Cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations in your family through this faith-based story.
90 pages, Paperback
Published September 30, 2025
3 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Marcelene
2 books7 followersJenny Marcelene lived cross-culturally for six years. She loves exploring new cultures and encouraging families to treasure Jesus above all else. To the Ends is her debut children's chapter book series. Once upon a time she worked as a Kids' Ministry Coordinator for her local church—which catapulted her into writing for young readers. When she’s not chipping away at a fiction book, she writes and edits non-fiction articles. In the wild, Jenny can be found walking her two labradoodles, kayaking, or cheering along the sidelines of her kids’ sports games. Connect with Jenny by visiting her website (jennymarcelene.com) or on Instagram (@jennymarcelene).
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 5, 2025
This is a delightful first-in-series book that skillfully blends adventure, faith, friendship, and learning about other countries and their people. It offers young readers the opportunity to gain respectful awareness of unique cultural differences alongside grounding in God's ongoing work among the nations. Can't wait to read book 2 in the To the Ends series!
I received an ARC to provide an honest review.
I received an ARC to provide an honest review.
October 4, 2025
The Dreamer is an adventure to a country with different beliefs and customs, a story about children beautifully sharing their cultures and religions with one another. The Dreamer has a Magic Tree House feel but from a biblical perspective. The story and artwork are both beautiful—I even learned a lot as an adult! I received an ARC to provide an honest review.
September 30, 2025
This was a good read for preteens. It is similar to the Magic Treehouse series in complexity and difficulty. The illustrations were very well done. The topic is two brothers magically traveling to Afghanistan with the goal of helping someone know more about Jesus. It helps children see that missions can be done by children as well as adults. There was a lot of culturally relevant details presented in an approachable way. I was an elementary teacher for 35 years and think this really fills a niche that has been over looked for years. I received an ARC to provide an honest review, but I would buy it for my grandkids.
January 21, 2026
Love this book. Great for young or old. Wholesome and so much fun and knowledgeable.
February 1, 2026
The Dreamer invites young readers into a wide world with wonder, imagination, and curiosity. Written for children ages 6–10, this story introduces missions as something real, active, and happening right now, not just something from long ago or far away.
Through Jason and his younger brother Fred, children are swept into an adventure that feels playful and engaging. A mysterious board game becomes a doorway to other countries and cultures, drawing readers into God’s global story in a way that feels accessible and exciting. The pacing, plot, and sense of urgency work well for this age group, and the illustrations are absolutely delightful, expressive, warm, and beautifully suited to the story.
One of the strengths of The Dreamer is its gentle cultural introduction. Young readers are exposed to everyday rhythms, practices, and life in Muslim cultures with respect and care. The tone remains kind and curious, helping children see people in other parts of the world as neighbors God deeply loves. For families hoping to spark early interest in prayer for the nations, this book offers a thoughtful starting point.
That said, reading as a Christian parent and reviewer, I found myself longing for greater clarity around the Gospel itself. While the story affirms God’s work around the world and the importance of missions, Jesus remains more implied than clearly defined. For a children’s book centered on faith and global mission, I would have welcomed a clearer anchoring in who Jesus is and why the New Testament is not simply another religious text, but the Good News of salvation through Him alone. Even a simple children’s prayer or song note could have helped young readers understand that distinction more clearly.
This tension may be felt most strongly by parents and caregivers reading alongside their children, and it opens the door for meaningful conversations. In that sense, The Dreamer can serve as a companion piece rather than a standalone faith formation tool.
Overall, The Dreamer is a very sweet, imaginative, and well-crafted introduction to God’s heart for the nations. It will especially appeal to families who value cultural awareness, global prayer, and adventurous storytelling for young readers. With parental guidance and conversation, it can become a gentle doorway into deeper discussions about faith, missions, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I received a digital copy from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Through Jason and his younger brother Fred, children are swept into an adventure that feels playful and engaging. A mysterious board game becomes a doorway to other countries and cultures, drawing readers into God’s global story in a way that feels accessible and exciting. The pacing, plot, and sense of urgency work well for this age group, and the illustrations are absolutely delightful, expressive, warm, and beautifully suited to the story.
One of the strengths of The Dreamer is its gentle cultural introduction. Young readers are exposed to everyday rhythms, practices, and life in Muslim cultures with respect and care. The tone remains kind and curious, helping children see people in other parts of the world as neighbors God deeply loves. For families hoping to spark early interest in prayer for the nations, this book offers a thoughtful starting point.
That said, reading as a Christian parent and reviewer, I found myself longing for greater clarity around the Gospel itself. While the story affirms God’s work around the world and the importance of missions, Jesus remains more implied than clearly defined. For a children’s book centered on faith and global mission, I would have welcomed a clearer anchoring in who Jesus is and why the New Testament is not simply another religious text, but the Good News of salvation through Him alone. Even a simple children’s prayer or song note could have helped young readers understand that distinction more clearly.
This tension may be felt most strongly by parents and caregivers reading alongside their children, and it opens the door for meaningful conversations. In that sense, The Dreamer can serve as a companion piece rather than a standalone faith formation tool.
Overall, The Dreamer is a very sweet, imaginative, and well-crafted introduction to God’s heart for the nations. It will especially appeal to families who value cultural awareness, global prayer, and adventurous storytelling for young readers. With parental guidance and conversation, it can become a gentle doorway into deeper discussions about faith, missions, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I received a digital copy from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
October 7, 2025
In The Dreamer, Jenny Marcelene introduces kids to the country of Afghanistan in a way that is sensitive, poignant, fascinating and beautiful. The people, landscape, foods and worldview come alive in this story. It is a story told with so much love for the people and culture of Afghanistan, and will certainly help both kids and adults see and appreciate this tumultuous land through a new lens.
The main characters, Jason and Fred, are so believable and relatable. They express the wonder of children, while also having doubts, fears, questions and the struggle for faith that is common to all humans regardless of age. My favorite thing about this story is that it manages to have really good pacing for young readers, and yet still delivers a lot of lovely details and depth. It is a page turner with heart and soul.
Most of all, this book bridges the gap between fiction/adventure and cross cultural missions. It presents God's heart for the world He made in a fresh, new way. The main characters begin the story largely unsure of how God could be at work in such a different part of the world. They learn not only the bigness of God, but that a people and nation once unknown to them, is not so unlike people everywhere. I'm certain this will be a big winner with my kids and I can't wait to see which country is featured in the next book!
The main characters, Jason and Fred, are so believable and relatable. They express the wonder of children, while also having doubts, fears, questions and the struggle for faith that is common to all humans regardless of age. My favorite thing about this story is that it manages to have really good pacing for young readers, and yet still delivers a lot of lovely details and depth. It is a page turner with heart and soul.
Most of all, this book bridges the gap between fiction/adventure and cross cultural missions. It presents God's heart for the world He made in a fresh, new way. The main characters begin the story largely unsure of how God could be at work in such a different part of the world. They learn not only the bigness of God, but that a people and nation once unknown to them, is not so unlike people everywhere. I'm certain this will be a big winner with my kids and I can't wait to see which country is featured in the next book!
January 27, 2026
Written by Jenny Marcelene, The Dreamer, To the Ends: Book One, is the start of a new chapter book series for young readers—and it is one that Bible-believing and mission-loving families will not want to miss!
Readers are invited to join brothers Jason and Fred as they embark on an unexpected journey to Afghanistan (in a way that Chris Van Allsburg fans will find familiar) and learn that God is still at work in our world today drawing people to Himself.
As a Christian mom and former teacher, I not only appreciated the excellent storytelling, but I also loved how seamlessly Christian faith and values were woven into each chapter. I especially loved the emphasis on prayer and trusting God even when we cannot “see the full picture.”
Readers of all ages will be delighted by the interesting characters, colorful descriptions, and charming illustrations that help bring Afghan culture to life. And the “Pray for Afghanistan” section included at the end of the book is an excellent way for children and families to be a part of God’s work bringing the gospel going to ends of the earth.
I heartily recommend this book—and cannot wait to see where Jason and Fred’s next adventure will take them!
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
Readers are invited to join brothers Jason and Fred as they embark on an unexpected journey to Afghanistan (in a way that Chris Van Allsburg fans will find familiar) and learn that God is still at work in our world today drawing people to Himself.
As a Christian mom and former teacher, I not only appreciated the excellent storytelling, but I also loved how seamlessly Christian faith and values were woven into each chapter. I especially loved the emphasis on prayer and trusting God even when we cannot “see the full picture.”
Readers of all ages will be delighted by the interesting characters, colorful descriptions, and charming illustrations that help bring Afghan culture to life. And the “Pray for Afghanistan” section included at the end of the book is an excellent way for children and families to be a part of God’s work bringing the gospel going to ends of the earth.
I heartily recommend this book—and cannot wait to see where Jason and Fred’s next adventure will take them!
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
November 7, 2025
While Jason and his younger brother await their ride home from Bible camp, the director offers the boys a tour of the castle on the grounds. He suggests the boys try to find the secret passage. They discover a game, To the Ends, that the director lets them take home, reminding them of the camp motto about the gospel reading to the ends of the earth.
Jason wonders if the gospel is really still spreading throughout the world and changing people’s lives. When the brothers play the game, they find themselves transported to Afghanistan. The boys they meet there introduce them to life in that culture. When Jason learns that one boy has had a dream about them and a book, Jason begins to see that God is still working, making Himself known to others.
This book does a wonderful job introducing children to the Muslim culture and showing that God can use many people, even boys and girls, to continue to spread the Good News about Jesus. Children ages 6-10 will enjoy the adventure of the brothers and learn more about God’s work in the world.
Jason wonders if the gospel is really still spreading throughout the world and changing people’s lives. When the brothers play the game, they find themselves transported to Afghanistan. The boys they meet there introduce them to life in that culture. When Jason learns that one boy has had a dream about them and a book, Jason begins to see that God is still working, making Himself known to others.
This book does a wonderful job introducing children to the Muslim culture and showing that God can use many people, even boys and girls, to continue to spread the Good News about Jesus. Children ages 6-10 will enjoy the adventure of the brothers and learn more about God’s work in the world.
February 18, 2026
The concept of this book is fun. Older elementary and some middle school children will enjoy the idea of playing a game and being transported to a different place in the world.
Marcelene did a good job of world-building and incorporating a mission mindset into The Dreamer. She closes the book with a prayer guide, discussion questions, and an author’s note, making this a useful addition to family or classroom devotions. While readers may not be physically transported to a foreign country the way the book characters are, they will learn more about the Muslim culture and how God is speaking to Muslims in closed countries.
Camolesi’s black-and-white illustrations help readers visualize scenes and people they have most likely never seen before.
I look forward to reading future books in the To the Ends series.
The Dreamer would be a great addition to a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for older elementary and younger middle school children.
I received a complimentary copy of The Dreamer. This is my honest review.
Marcelene did a good job of world-building and incorporating a mission mindset into The Dreamer. She closes the book with a prayer guide, discussion questions, and an author’s note, making this a useful addition to family or classroom devotions. While readers may not be physically transported to a foreign country the way the book characters are, they will learn more about the Muslim culture and how God is speaking to Muslims in closed countries.
Camolesi’s black-and-white illustrations help readers visualize scenes and people they have most likely never seen before.
I look forward to reading future books in the To the Ends series.
The Dreamer would be a great addition to a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for older elementary and younger middle school children.
I received a complimentary copy of The Dreamer. This is my honest review.
November 13, 2025
In The Dreamer, Jenny Marcelene writes an adventure story for children to introduce them to Afghanistan and God’s missionary work. The first in her To the Ends series, this book seeks to show God’s global plan for sharing the good news.
What I love most about this book is the way it bridges a different culture to Christ. Although the story is fiction, it helped me see what living among the unreached in Afghanistan might be like.
God’s Global Plan
What moved me the most was that the book also touches on how many Afghans don’t have the Bible available in their language. Even when it is, obtaining a copy can be difficult. This book will be a good prompt to pray for the proclamation and publishing of God’s word.
The Dreamer invites children to join God’s global plan through an exciting adventure that opens their eyes to His work around the world.
I received a media copy of The Dreamer and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
What I love most about this book is the way it bridges a different culture to Christ. Although the story is fiction, it helped me see what living among the unreached in Afghanistan might be like.
God’s Global Plan
What moved me the most was that the book also touches on how many Afghans don’t have the Bible available in their language. Even when it is, obtaining a copy can be difficult. This book will be a good prompt to pray for the proclamation and publishing of God’s word.
The Dreamer invites children to join God’s global plan through an exciting adventure that opens their eyes to His work around the world.
I received a media copy of The Dreamer and this is my honest review. @diveindigdeep
October 31, 2025
About the Book:
When a board game called “To the Ends” transports brothers Jason and Fred to Afghanistan, they become part of an important mission. Their task is to deliver a holy book to a dreamer, a figure they must identify before time runs out, if not, they will become stranded in Afghanistan with no way to return home.
My Thoughts:
This wonderful book takes young readers on a journey that reveals how God is still at work around the world! I loved how the story beautifully immerses readers into Afghan culture, offering an authentic insider’s view that enriches understanding. The Dreamer is both educational and an exciting, adventure-filled story that highlights the global body of Christ and provides an excellent introduction to unreached people groups.
There are also discussion questions, a suggested list of ways your family can pray for Afghanistan, and a helpful glossary of terms at the back of the book. 🗺️ ✨
I cannot recommend this book enough! ❤️
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When a board game called “To the Ends” transports brothers Jason and Fred to Afghanistan, they become part of an important mission. Their task is to deliver a holy book to a dreamer, a figure they must identify before time runs out, if not, they will become stranded in Afghanistan with no way to return home.
My Thoughts:
This wonderful book takes young readers on a journey that reveals how God is still at work around the world! I loved how the story beautifully immerses readers into Afghan culture, offering an authentic insider’s view that enriches understanding. The Dreamer is both educational and an exciting, adventure-filled story that highlights the global body of Christ and provides an excellent introduction to unreached people groups.
There are also discussion questions, a suggested list of ways your family can pray for Afghanistan, and a helpful glossary of terms at the back of the book. 🗺️ ✨
I cannot recommend this book enough! ❤️
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 2, 2025
Jenny Marcelene’s first book, The Dreamer, in the To the Ends series, takes young readers to Afghanistan, along with Jason and his brother, Fred. And what a fun and meaningful adventure it is! The overarching message of taking the gospel “to the ends” of the world depicts Jason’s willingness to trust God and follow His leading, even when it feels scary. The author does a great job explaining what it’s like to live in Afghanistan through the eyes of the children. The illustrations are engaging, allowing children to imagine themselves as part of the story. A perfect book for children to experience adventure and grow their faith for evangelism at an early age. I was privileged to receive and Advanced Reader Copy.
February 13, 2026
This story captured my attention from the beginning. with young Jason looking up at a mansion with his little brother, while they wait for their parents to pick them up after a day at summer camp. The camp director offers to give them a tour of the mansion while they wait. The director offers them the board game they found while on the tour, which turns out will lead them on an adventure, actually, a mission.
Their mission leads them to Afghanistan, where they must find the person who is wanting a Bible. Even though this is a fictional story, many aspects of mission work, as well as the Afghan culture, are covered.
I think this would be a great story for any child, aged 6-10. I'd like to have a copy for my grandsons! Be sure to check it out!
Their mission leads them to Afghanistan, where they must find the person who is wanting a Bible. Even though this is a fictional story, many aspects of mission work, as well as the Afghan culture, are covered.
I think this would be a great story for any child, aged 6-10. I'd like to have a copy for my grandsons! Be sure to check it out!
November 22, 2025
If your kids love the Magic Treehouse series, be sure to check out this new series by Jenny Marcelene!
In the middle of a board game, a couple of siblings suddenly find themselves in a hot air balloon on the other side of the world. They must complete the mission in order to get back home. The mission? Sharing a Bible with “the dreamer.”
Although fiction, this story helps young readers see a different culture - especially one that is opposed to Christianity. And yet how God still works and is not limited by earthly obstacles.
Looking forward to the next book in her series and the next hot air balloon adventure.
In the middle of a board game, a couple of siblings suddenly find themselves in a hot air balloon on the other side of the world. They must complete the mission in order to get back home. The mission? Sharing a Bible with “the dreamer.”
Although fiction, this story helps young readers see a different culture - especially one that is opposed to Christianity. And yet how God still works and is not limited by earthly obstacles.
Looking forward to the next book in her series and the next hot air balloon adventure.
November 2, 2025
Part Jumanji, part Magic Tree House, and full of a heart for missions, this adventurous and wholesome book is exciting yet impactful. This is a fun and easy way to introduce to children the concept of missions and show them the world’s desperate need for Jesus.
Readers learn about life and culture in Afghanistan, especially the hardships that Christians face.
This is the first book in a series, and I look forward to discovering what country the kids travel to next!
Thanks to the author for my complimentary review copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Readers learn about life and culture in Afghanistan, especially the hardships that Christians face.
This is the first book in a series, and I look forward to discovering what country the kids travel to next!
Thanks to the author for my complimentary review copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 13, 2026
Author Jenny Marcelene writes a wonderful adventure for young readers. They will learn, at their level, about the country and people of Afghanistan. And may well develop a heart to take the truth of Jesus to other countries.
Brothers Jason and Fred enter into an adventure, involving a castle, a game, and a red hot air balloon. They will see that God loves all people and will go to incredible lengths to reach them.
I highly recommend this for your 6-10 year old reader!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Brothers Jason and Fred enter into an adventure, involving a castle, a game, and a red hot air balloon. They will see that God loves all people and will go to incredible lengths to reach them.
I highly recommend this for your 6-10 year old reader!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
October 8, 2025
While this is a fictional book, the cultural insights about Afghanistan are spot on. God's heart for the nations is a major theme in this adventure-filled book. Reading it as an adult, I found myself being reminded to look for the Dreamers and to pray for the nations days after I finished.
I illustrations are beautifully done and culturally sensitive as well.
This is a fun and fantastical story that helps draw out Biblical truth.
I illustrations are beautifully done and culturally sensitive as well.
This is a fun and fantastical story that helps draw out Biblical truth.
October 31, 2025
Two boys exploring a castle discover an intriguing board game. Playing the game transports them to another country with a mysterious mission to deliver a book to a "dreamer." Adding to the drama, they must complete their assignment by a certain time or they may have to remain in the land where they traveled. This is a well-written story that will entertain and educate the 8-12 reader about the Afghanistan culture.
September 30, 2025
Exciting, fun, and beautiful, The Dreamer is a must-have for families who want to help young readers understand God’s heart for the nations. This book will inspire, equip, and guide children to pray for the unreached and to have a solid biblical worldview. And it’s great for adults too! I'm looking forward to more books in this series!
October 6, 2025
The Dreamer makes you feel like you are stepping into another culture with the characters. It is such a fun and creative way to learn about how God is working in a different part of the world. I am excited to read it again with my kids.
I received an ARC to provide an honest review.
I received an ARC to provide an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews