Phil Tyler's Stand

by Frederick E. Burnham

Pressure is on in South Madison when Phil Tyler moves into town! The new merchant is a bold, unashamed Christian and a far cry from being a people pleaser. Phil’s aim is to bring righteousness to a community riddled with lawlessness and disorder. While his straightforward approach is a threat and nuisance to some, others appreciate how Phil’s courage and faith bring about much needed change, not only in the town of South Madison, but in the lives of several individuals as well.

Phil Tyler’s Stand will be sure to raise questions about the role of Christians in their community and among their peers. How can we as believers be most effective in bringing about positive change in our own neighborhoods and communities?

143 pages, Hardcover

Reviews

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was interesting - which is usually a word reserved for your quirky coworker who you never quite understand. What I mean to say is that in this book they attempt to advertise a character similar to the boys in Horatio Alger Jr's books: an independent, hard-working self-starter. However, this boy is on fire for God, likable, honest, yet in some respects almost 'too perfect.'

From the getgo, Phil Tyler is presented with the concept that business and religion don't mix. A concept that he strongly disagrees with. This book is written to explore that theory. What are the consequences and rewards of such an idea? Phil rigorously sticks up for religion and the law and presents an ideal for boys and girls alike to strive for. His lack of a mortal flaw, however, gave him a slight level of unreliability. With that said! I loved the salvation stories in this book - they were genuine and real and I love the testimony and impact that Phil had on his entire town.

This book teaches kids to love God more than man - and to have unwavering faith; for He is the only thing worth trusting in and living for. By all means, read this book.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

We really enjoyed this tale about a man who journeys to a small town to open a convenient store and make an impact for good. The story, while a little bit idealistic (and thus unrealistic in today's society), was inspiring and had a clear vision for the message it was telling. There were some parts where the language, true to its time of being written, was a little hard to read/understand. I found it best. If you read it out loud to understand what they were trying to say. And I did modify some of the language, so it was easier for my child to understand.

Phil is a Christian, and he holds himself to God's standard of truth, morality, and goodness. He opens it convenient store and runs it with the utmost integrity. Naturally, he is targeted and bullied for his faith, but he stands firm and continues to seek to do the right thing and pray for those who are lost. The story had an interesting plot line and the resolution was heartwarming. We enjoyed this as a read aloud, and would recommend it for any family read aloud.

Recommended read-aloud age: 9+
Recommended independent reading age: 12+ (because of the grammar using older English and heavily accented English)

[Victoria Witt · Rating 3 out of 5]

The message of this book was great. But I thought the plot was a little weak. Everything went a bit too well for it to be realistic. It almost gave "If you fear God everything will go perfect for you and everyone around you". Also the style just felt like it was written for a younger audience. Overall I enjoyed it though. easy read

[Tara Lovestrand · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites from Lamplighter, may we all have confidence to stand for Christ so openly and have complete faith in our Savior!

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm sorry to say I found this book a bit boring.

[Taylor Gilman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a gripping story with a climactic ending about an honest Christian man who moves to a new town and courageously stands up for his values unto the glory of God. Phenomenal book!