What do you think?
Rate this book
Alone Yet Not Alone: The Story of Barbara and Regina Leininger
Autumn of 1755 bestowed to the Leiningers’ world, not only its rich beauties, but also a rewarding harvest. On this particular day the whole valley seemed to rejoice in the fullness of the season—but suddenly Barbara and Regina’s peaceful frontier life is changed forever. General Braddock and his army had been defeated and soon the Pennsylvania settlers would suffer the bloody effects of the French and Indian War. On October 16, 1755, a band of Indians, led by Allegheny warriors, stormed through Buffalo Valley, burned the Leiningers’ log cabin, and captured the sisters. Few survived the Penn’s Creek Massacre and even fewer lived to tell the story. Regina makes a promise to her older sister just before they are unwillingly separated—each to endure different fates. Barbara is taken deep into the wilderness, but holds on to the hope that she will find her little sister. Though she is adopted into the Indian tribe, there is a longing deep inside that cannot be denied. She must escape—but the penalty if caught is certain death. No one expresses Barbara’s apprehensions better than her own words, written in 1759: “If one could not believe that there is a God, who helps and saves from death, one had better let running away alone...The extreme probability that the Indians would pursue and recapture us, was two to one compared with the dim hope that, perhaps, we would get through...even if we did escape the Indians, how would we ever succeed in passing through the wilderness, unacquainted with a single path or trail…"
200 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
60 people are currently reading
958 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Michele Leininger
4 books9 followersAlso published under the name Tracy Michele Leininger, Tracy M. Leininger & Tracy Leininger Craven
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
June 21, 2017
Age Appropriate For: 8 and up
Best for Ages: 8-15
This is based on a true story. It is the kind of story one would expect to have been made up. Yet, isn’t it just like God? His stories are always amazing, and his provision for his children often leaves me speechless. The almost impossibility of this story is what is amazing.
Clearly, this book is targeted for youth. While young-adults and even adults might find it interesting, youth will get the most out of it. The style of the story is simple, yet never talks down to the youth it reaches.
The faith message is strong and the point of the whole story. It is about how, even when things are at their worst, God will never leave us. We are never alone. That concept is one all of us need to be reminded of from time to time.
Barbara was a character of great faith but also wasn’t perfect. She is a character that I think many girls can relate to. She is also a good example of a strong girl, a loving sister, and a devoted daughter of Jesus.
This would be a fantastic book for homeschool kids to understand the human cost of the French and Indian war. Many homes were burned by the Indians and many women and children carried off. Void of the graphicness of some books, this captures many of the emotions that the captives experienced.
I highly recommend this to young readers who enjoy history, faith filled fiction, and courageous girls.
Best for Ages: 8-15
This is based on a true story. It is the kind of story one would expect to have been made up. Yet, isn’t it just like God? His stories are always amazing, and his provision for his children often leaves me speechless. The almost impossibility of this story is what is amazing.
Clearly, this book is targeted for youth. While young-adults and even adults might find it interesting, youth will get the most out of it. The style of the story is simple, yet never talks down to the youth it reaches.
The faith message is strong and the point of the whole story. It is about how, even when things are at their worst, God will never leave us. We are never alone. That concept is one all of us need to be reminded of from time to time.
Barbara was a character of great faith but also wasn’t perfect. She is a character that I think many girls can relate to. She is also a good example of a strong girl, a loving sister, and a devoted daughter of Jesus.
This would be a fantastic book for homeschool kids to understand the human cost of the French and Indian war. Many homes were burned by the Indians and many women and children carried off. Void of the graphicness of some books, this captures many of the emotions that the captives experienced.
I highly recommend this to young readers who enjoy history, faith filled fiction, and courageous girls.
March 3, 2017
Warning: the following review may contain spoilers
I don't usually like to pay as much for books as I did for this one, but having seen and loved the film adaption I badly wanted to read the actual story. And as it turned out, the book was worth every cent!
Alone Yet Not Alone is the story (based on true events that happened to ancestors of the author) of two young German sisters who settle with their family in Pennsylvania, during the French and Indian war. Their house is invaded by hostile Indian braves, their father and brother killed, and they themselves are captured, along with their best friend, Marie; separated, and adopted into various Indian tribes. The story is about their lives as Indian maiden, and how all they had to hold on to were the Scripture verses their father had used to teach them, and the song, Alone Yet Not Alone, that their mother used to sing.
I really loved this book, it's one of the best stories I've ever read, and I would highly recommend it.
I don't usually like to pay as much for books as I did for this one, but having seen and loved the film adaption I badly wanted to read the actual story. And as it turned out, the book was worth every cent!
Alone Yet Not Alone is the story (based on true events that happened to ancestors of the author) of two young German sisters who settle with their family in Pennsylvania, during the French and Indian war. Their house is invaded by hostile Indian braves, their father and brother killed, and they themselves are captured, along with their best friend, Marie; separated, and adopted into various Indian tribes. The story is about their lives as Indian maiden, and how all they had to hold on to were the Scripture verses their father had used to teach them, and the song, Alone Yet Not Alone, that their mother used to sing.
I really loved this book, it's one of the best stories I've ever read, and I would highly recommend it.
February 6, 2022
I've been wanting to read this book for a long time, but I don't think I'll read it again. The writing was a bit too juvenile for my taste and the pacing was a tad slow. However, I absolutely loved all the faith content! Trusting God was a central theme throughout this Historical fiction, which the author beautifully showcased. I'd say that this book is definitely great for younger girls around the age of 9 and is perfect as a read aloud.
June 8, 2017
This was a sweet story, and I loved how vivid everything was. I did not know it was based on a true story when I started, so the large time jumps bugged me. I espechilly did not like nearer the end when the characters got in trouble, and then we suddenly jump six weeks, and only hear about how they got out. That was rather disappointing.
Overall, it was a cool story, and would be great for teaching kids history.
Overall, it was a cool story, and would be great for teaching kids history.
September 11, 2016
An amazing story!
September 21, 2016
I ADORE this book!
November 11, 2021
I read this book before I watched the movie. The movie was good, too, but I think I like the book better. The story was powerful and touching.
February 11, 2025
What an inspiring story! TruthQuest History recommendation
April 4, 2013
Is anyone else as fascinated with Indian lore as I am? This based-on-a-true-story book takes place during the Penn’s Creek Massacre of 1755 during the French and Indian war. Alone Yet Not Alone is the survival story of three girls who are captured by Indians and their quest to return to their families. It is also the story of the author’s, Tracy Leininger Craven’s, family.
Theology: God is always with you
The theme of Alone Yet Not Alone is based on Deuteronomy 8:2 “Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands.” (NLT)
Even during impossible, horrible situations when it feels like God has forsaken us, He is still faithful. He can take what others meant for evil and change it to our good (Genesis 50:20). Our job is to remember His promise and focus on Him.
Rating: PG
I debated giving this book a G rating. There is nothing gratuitous in Alone Yet Not Alone, but it deals with real life. There is violence and murder (well handled) and children are forcibly kidnapped. So I will leave it to your discretion. I plan to let my 8 yo daughter read the book. I like that it is historical and faith based.
Social Issues:
Set in the late 1700′s, the social issues are pertinent to that time. The Leininger family immigrated to the US from Germany to flee religious prosecution. Their children were biblically well-grounded, so when the girls were kidnapped, they had verses of Scripture hidden in their hearts. I think that’s what I loved best about the book. We take for granted the ease at which we can refer to God’s Word (at least I do). I have several Bibles and I can easily access almost any version on my phone or computer. But what would happen if I couldn’t just pick up the Bible and read it? I would wish I had hidden more Scripture in my heart.
A word to my writer friends and discerning readers:
This book is mostly telling with little showing. It would have been so much better if the scenes were played out to the best of the author’s imagination instead of reading like a history text. I don’t think it will bother a young reader, but I noticed the lapse and wished for more creativity in the writing.
The book is being made into a movie, which should solve the showing/telling issues. Movies have to be more showing than telling by nature. You can view the trailer at the movie website: http://www.aloneyetnotalone.com/
Theology: God is always with you
The theme of Alone Yet Not Alone is based on Deuteronomy 8:2 “Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands.” (NLT)
Even during impossible, horrible situations when it feels like God has forsaken us, He is still faithful. He can take what others meant for evil and change it to our good (Genesis 50:20). Our job is to remember His promise and focus on Him.
Rating: PG
I debated giving this book a G rating. There is nothing gratuitous in Alone Yet Not Alone, but it deals with real life. There is violence and murder (well handled) and children are forcibly kidnapped. So I will leave it to your discretion. I plan to let my 8 yo daughter read the book. I like that it is historical and faith based.
Social Issues:
Set in the late 1700′s, the social issues are pertinent to that time. The Leininger family immigrated to the US from Germany to flee religious prosecution. Their children were biblically well-grounded, so when the girls were kidnapped, they had verses of Scripture hidden in their hearts. I think that’s what I loved best about the book. We take for granted the ease at which we can refer to God’s Word (at least I do). I have several Bibles and I can easily access almost any version on my phone or computer. But what would happen if I couldn’t just pick up the Bible and read it? I would wish I had hidden more Scripture in my heart.
A word to my writer friends and discerning readers:
This book is mostly telling with little showing. It would have been so much better if the scenes were played out to the best of the author’s imagination instead of reading like a history text. I don’t think it will bother a young reader, but I noticed the lapse and wished for more creativity in the writing.
The book is being made into a movie, which should solve the showing/telling issues. Movies have to be more showing than telling by nature. You can view the trailer at the movie website: http://www.aloneyetnotalone.com/
September 12, 2012
This is a short and very easy read. Unfortunately, those may be the kindest things I can say for it. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't very good. The family introduced in the opening chapters is as flat and plastic-perfect as a department store window display. The characters are similarly rendered, like mannequins posed and positioned for each scene with sadly artificial dialogue. Once the action begins, the story and telling both improve but not greatly. As another reviewer noted, the passage of time is also very uneven, often changing abruptly with little if any explanation or exploration. And though I enjoy a good Christian-themed read, this is so heavy-handed that the characters are hardly more than idealized caricatures. It reads almost like propaganda, which is a real shame considering that the basis of the tale is factual and quite interesting. In addition, though the Native American Indians are not demonized, their beliefs are summarily dismissed as child-like and foolish in a rather insulting exchange. Finally, the story itself leaves me with several nagging issues, questionable turns, and timeline inconsistencies.
All in all, this short book dwindled on the low side of mediocre. Based on real people and events, it fell short on every front and wasted a great deal of potential. I very rarely give two-star ratings, but I think this deserves it. If I were a teacher, I'd say it was the student averaging Cs and Ds on each report card who could be among the top in his class if only he applied himself.
All in all, this short book dwindled on the low side of mediocre. Based on real people and events, it fell short on every front and wasted a great deal of potential. I very rarely give two-star ratings, but I think this deserves it. If I were a teacher, I'd say it was the student averaging Cs and Ds on each report card who could be among the top in his class if only he applied himself.
September 4, 2013
Wonderful book! I really enjoy tales of the frontier and pioneers making their way in the wild. After an Indian attack, two young girls are stolen away from their home by their family's murderers. Taken captive and forced to endure even more brutality, they cling to their faith and to the hope of escape. Blessed with protection in the Indian camp, they nonetheless watch and prepare for a harrowing journey back to civilization. God's miracles and protection are evident throughout their adventures. Though there is peril in the story, the book is not graphic.
This book is based the movie that is soon being released about the Leninger girls' story, which I am eagerly looking forward to watch! http://aloneyetnotalone.com/
This book is based the movie that is soon being released about the Leninger girls' story, which I am eagerly looking forward to watch! http://aloneyetnotalone.com/
August 19, 2013
This is the true story of Barbara and Regina Leininger.
Captured by Indians and separated by everyone they know, including each other. They refuse to loose hope of seeing their family reunited again. They cling to their faith in God, knowing that they are truly never alone.
This story is fascinating especially because it is based off of a true story that actually occurred in the author's family history however I thought that the simple writing style did the story no justice.
I do think it would be a wonderful book for middle school age children as it is extremely simple in vocabulary and plot.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Captured by Indians and separated by everyone they know, including each other. They refuse to loose hope of seeing their family reunited again. They cling to their faith in God, knowing that they are truly never alone.
This story is fascinating especially because it is based off of a true story that actually occurred in the author's family history however I thought that the simple writing style did the story no justice.
I do think it would be a wonderful book for middle school age children as it is extremely simple in vocabulary and plot.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2017
4.5 stars! (Maybe) review at some point...
June 8, 2013
First of all this book is a short, easy read. I believe it was written for the Young Adult group, which I didn't realize when I started it.
What I did like about this book was it had nothing in it that would be objectionable for your "tween" to read. It had a positive, optimistic outlook on the hardships of life.
What I didn't like about it was that the positive, optimism wasn't balanced with any internal struggles that we humans have when we go through difficulties.
Since this happens in the first few pages I am not spoiling anything to say this is a true story of two sisters who were kidnapped by Native Americans and forced to live in and adapt to that culture. This is told through the eyes of the oldest sister and really you never know until the end of the book what happens to the younger of the two sisters since they went to live in separate tribes many miles apart.
This book could have been so much better. There should have been so many internal struggles and conflicts and fears with the main character and much of that was glossed over with a kind of false feeling kind of optimism. I'm glad this book comes from a faith values kind of outlook, but come on, there would be many human emotional struggles with the loss of home and family and the horror of having to adapt to a culture that is in many ways the opposite of your previous experiences.
There also was a great opportunity in this story for tension and suspense when the main character and her friends attempted to leave the tribe. There was some but, after a short time of struggling through escape and survival the story jumps ahead to the point of arrival and rescue.
And here we are at another reason I don't really like this book. It jumps ahead multiple times from several months to several years, making it seem like it is just several short stories of certain events in the narrators life.
Certainly to do justice to this woman's experiences it would have taken a very long book or a series of books, but I think it would have been worth the effort. I have read a much better book of a similar story line years and years ago, that was so good, I still remember parts of it. I totally got lost in it feeling it was happening to me and kept reading it till my eyes couldn't take it anymore. That wasn't this book.
What I did like about this book was it had nothing in it that would be objectionable for your "tween" to read. It had a positive, optimistic outlook on the hardships of life.
What I didn't like about it was that the positive, optimism wasn't balanced with any internal struggles that we humans have when we go through difficulties.
Since this happens in the first few pages I am not spoiling anything to say this is a true story of two sisters who were kidnapped by Native Americans and forced to live in and adapt to that culture. This is told through the eyes of the oldest sister and really you never know until the end of the book what happens to the younger of the two sisters since they went to live in separate tribes many miles apart.
This book could have been so much better. There should have been so many internal struggles and conflicts and fears with the main character and much of that was glossed over with a kind of false feeling kind of optimism. I'm glad this book comes from a faith values kind of outlook, but come on, there would be many human emotional struggles with the loss of home and family and the horror of having to adapt to a culture that is in many ways the opposite of your previous experiences.
There also was a great opportunity in this story for tension and suspense when the main character and her friends attempted to leave the tribe. There was some but, after a short time of struggling through escape and survival the story jumps ahead to the point of arrival and rescue.
And here we are at another reason I don't really like this book. It jumps ahead multiple times from several months to several years, making it seem like it is just several short stories of certain events in the narrators life.
Certainly to do justice to this woman's experiences it would have taken a very long book or a series of books, but I think it would have been worth the effort. I have read a much better book of a similar story line years and years ago, that was so good, I still remember parts of it. I totally got lost in it feeling it was happening to me and kept reading it till my eyes couldn't take it anymore. That wasn't this book.
August 31, 2013
We are currently studying the French & Indian War and I came across this book. The author, a young lady who was homeschooled, had heard about her ancestor who had been kidnapped by Indians during the war. Both her and her sister survived years of captivity and the author decided to retell their story. (One of the two had written her own account of this time.)
Early in the book some Indians attack the Leninger homestead and take Barbara, age 12, and Regina, age 9, captive. Despite the girls' effort to stay together, they are separated and follow their captors in different directions. The story follows the older sister, Barbara, as she becomes adopted into the Indian tribe. Barbara continues to pray for her sister and rely on God as she struggles with all that has happened to her.
I enjoyed listening to an interview by the author at this site http://www.hslda.org/docs/hshb/117/hs.... And, I understand a movie will be released soon!
Early in the book some Indians attack the Leninger homestead and take Barbara, age 12, and Regina, age 9, captive. Despite the girls' effort to stay together, they are separated and follow their captors in different directions. The story follows the older sister, Barbara, as she becomes adopted into the Indian tribe. Barbara continues to pray for her sister and rely on God as she struggles with all that has happened to her.
I enjoyed listening to an interview by the author at this site http://www.hslda.org/docs/hshb/117/hs.... And, I understand a movie will be released soon!
March 5, 2018
This books is on my favourites list! I love reading books based on true stories. They are humbling and inspiring!! It is such an encouragement to see Barbara's faith.
October 24, 2024
This book has been a favorite of mine since I was a young child, wandering around my parent’s farm, toting a cassette tape player, and listening to this story over and over (and driving Mom batty in the process). I realized recently, though, that I’d never physically read this book, despite my familiarity with the story as a youngster, so I ordered a copy for myself, and put it on my TBR list as soon as I could.
It was even better than I remembered.
Full of strong faith, grit, determination, and a good dash of adventure, this is the kind of story that grips your imagination and doesn’t let go. It’s also surprisingly short, even though it packs a punch—I easily finished it in a few days.
The thing I particularly like about this story is that it’s based on a true story. It’s one thing to read an entertaining story that was fabricated from the author’s imagination; it’s something else to know that the things described in the book likely actually happened.
As a youngster and now as an adult, I’ve found this book to be inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting. I plan to recommend it to my younger siblings, as well as any other young people in my acquaintance. Not only is it a gripping story and a beautiful picture of God leading us through difficult circumstances, but it’s also an interesting portrait of a piece of the French and Indian War, and as such, it has historical value. Recommended!
It was even better than I remembered.
Full of strong faith, grit, determination, and a good dash of adventure, this is the kind of story that grips your imagination and doesn’t let go. It’s also surprisingly short, even though it packs a punch—I easily finished it in a few days.
The thing I particularly like about this story is that it’s based on a true story. It’s one thing to read an entertaining story that was fabricated from the author’s imagination; it’s something else to know that the things described in the book likely actually happened.
As a youngster and now as an adult, I’ve found this book to be inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting. I plan to recommend it to my younger siblings, as well as any other young people in my acquaintance. Not only is it a gripping story and a beautiful picture of God leading us through difficult circumstances, but it’s also an interesting portrait of a piece of the French and Indian War, and as such, it has historical value. Recommended!
June 18, 2021
Alone Yet Not Alone is a historical novel written for ages 8+ and based on the true story of two preteen girls, Barbara and Regina Leininger, taken captive during the October 16, 1755 Penn’s Creek Massacre in Central Pennsylvania by the Native Americans, the Lenape of the Delaware Tribe, who had sided with the French. This was the first massacre among many that were to follow due to settlers encroaching upon their land. Barbara and Regina’s father and one brother were killed along with the 14 others in this particular village along the Susquehanna River, 11 were taken captive. This story was retold to the author by the her grandmother. The girls were reunited with their families about nine years later, when a peace treaty was reached and captives released.
I felt the story was missing a lot. Even though a good solid Christian story, and all their faith was on God, it sure didn’t capture at all how scared the girls really were. It was a bit too mushy and perfect. Is that because I’m a rotten adult? I wonder how an 8-year-old little girl would read this? Well, I do have a 10-year-old granddaughter. Maybe I can get her to read this book this summer to get a better perspective on the rating of this book. If so, I’ll come back and change my ratings. Otherwise, this is the way I feel about the story….3-stars...take it or leave it.
I felt the story was missing a lot. Even though a good solid Christian story, and all their faith was on God, it sure didn’t capture at all how scared the girls really were. It was a bit too mushy and perfect. Is that because I’m a rotten adult? I wonder how an 8-year-old little girl would read this? Well, I do have a 10-year-old granddaughter. Maybe I can get her to read this book this summer to get a better perspective on the rating of this book. If so, I’ll come back and change my ratings. Otherwise, this is the way I feel about the story….3-stars...take it or leave it.
December 26, 2017
I have read this book again and again and again, but it never stops being dear to my heart. It is a very well written style, and it certainly tests your faith and reminds us that even though we are alone, we are never truly alone for God is with us. It has it's very intense moments, but even children can read this book.
November 15, 2023
I liked so many things about this book, but overall it was a bit too juvenile. I appreciated it as an adult reader, but didn't overly enjoy it. Probably would have been a better read if it was part of read-aloud or a book club with an age-appropriate audience.
December 5, 2019
It’s been a few years since reading it, but it was incredible when I did read it. I think I ended up reading it like, 8 times... so, it was good. :-)
June 15, 2020
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
November 25, 2016
Nestled high among the Blue Mountains of Pennsylvania, lies a lush green valley which the Native Americans have named Buffalo Valley. Very few immigrants have managed to tame the wilderness of the American frontier to settle in such a lush valley - named Penn's Creek by the settlers - yet the handful of settlers who were successful had lived peacefully among themselves and with their Native American neighbors for many years. One such family of settlers was the Leininger family; recently arrived from Germany.
Even as the French and Indian War raged around them, the Leininger family - twenty-year-old Christian, nineteen-year-old John, fifteen-year-old Barbara, nine-year-old Regina and their parents - remained relatively safe. The autumn of 1755 had bestowed many gifts upon them - not only in terms of Nature's rich beauty, but also in terms of a bountiful harvest. Indeed, it seemed as if the entire valley rejoiced along with the Leiningers in the fullness of the season. However, their peaceful frontier life could not last forever.
General Braddock and his army had been defeated and soon the Pennsylvania settlers would suffer the bloody effects of the French and Indian War. On October 16, 1755 - a band of Indians, led by Allegheny warriors - stormed through Buffalo Valley, burned the Leiningers' log cabin, and captured the sisters. Few people survived the Penn's Creek Massacre and even fewer lived to tell the story of what happened. However, Regina makes a solemn promise to her older sister just before they are unwillingly separated from each other - each to endure vastly different fates.
Barbara is taken deep into the wilderness, but continues to hold on to the hope that she will someday be reunited with her little sister. Although she is adopted into the Indian tribe, there is a longing deep inside Barbara's soul that cannot be denied. She knows that she must escape - yet the penalty she will incur if she is caught is certain death. However, Barbara's dream of eventual freedom only grows stronger.
What could possibly make a young fifteen-year-old woman defy all the odds and plan such an undertaking? From whom did she draw the strength? Will she ever find her sister? And if she does, will Regina remember her promise?
First of all, let me say right away that I have always enjoyed reading books with inspirational, faith-based plots and this book was no different. However having said that, for my taste, this story seemed slightly over-religious. I still enjoyed this story very much, and must say that reading about the hardships experienced by the Pennsylvania settlers was heartbreaking. I would give this book a B+!
Even as the French and Indian War raged around them, the Leininger family - twenty-year-old Christian, nineteen-year-old John, fifteen-year-old Barbara, nine-year-old Regina and their parents - remained relatively safe. The autumn of 1755 had bestowed many gifts upon them - not only in terms of Nature's rich beauty, but also in terms of a bountiful harvest. Indeed, it seemed as if the entire valley rejoiced along with the Leiningers in the fullness of the season. However, their peaceful frontier life could not last forever.
General Braddock and his army had been defeated and soon the Pennsylvania settlers would suffer the bloody effects of the French and Indian War. On October 16, 1755 - a band of Indians, led by Allegheny warriors - stormed through Buffalo Valley, burned the Leiningers' log cabin, and captured the sisters. Few people survived the Penn's Creek Massacre and even fewer lived to tell the story of what happened. However, Regina makes a solemn promise to her older sister just before they are unwillingly separated from each other - each to endure vastly different fates.
Barbara is taken deep into the wilderness, but continues to hold on to the hope that she will someday be reunited with her little sister. Although she is adopted into the Indian tribe, there is a longing deep inside Barbara's soul that cannot be denied. She knows that she must escape - yet the penalty she will incur if she is caught is certain death. However, Barbara's dream of eventual freedom only grows stronger.
What could possibly make a young fifteen-year-old woman defy all the odds and plan such an undertaking? From whom did she draw the strength? Will she ever find her sister? And if she does, will Regina remember her promise?
First of all, let me say right away that I have always enjoyed reading books with inspirational, faith-based plots and this book was no different. However having said that, for my taste, this story seemed slightly over-religious. I still enjoyed this story very much, and must say that reading about the hardships experienced by the Pennsylvania settlers was heartbreaking. I would give this book a B+!
July 29, 2013
About the Book:
The Leininger family settled deep within America's new frontier in the Blue Mountains of Pennsylvania. A sudden Indian raid changed their lives forever. This story retells the heroic and daring escape of Barbara Leininger, and the touching reunion with her sister, Regina, after nine years. It also gives us an endearing portrayal of the love between family members and the strength of childhood memories. Father and Mother Leininger's commitment to 'hide' God's Word in the hearts of their children.
About the Author:
Tracy Leininger Craven loves history and retelling real-life stories in her historical fiction books. She also loves spending her free time in the great outdoors with her husband David and their four children.
My Review:
This book based on a true story is a very compelling story that will make you smile, cry, and even shout in victory. After a short time in America this German family found themselves in a very helpless circumstance that could possibly prove deadly. When they were victims of a bloody massacre by the Iroquois Indians. Some of their family members were killed along with countless other families in the area. The two young girls in this particular family were captured to later be turned into Indian maidens. After much trial, circumstance, and separation the eldest of the two daughters manages to escape with three others.
The ending result for the Leininger family was an even stronger faith in God that kept them hoping against all hope that all of the family members would be reunited safely one day. The journey that it took for this family to be reunited is a miraculous one that God had His hands on.
It took me one day to read the book cover to cover and I loved it. Recently, I found out that this dramatic story will be made into a movie and will be released in theaters on September 27, 2013. Which I know my family and I are looking forward to. But I have great news, you don't have to wait to get your hands on a copy of this book. My sponsor has graciously offered to give a copy of the book to one of my readers. So please enter below, you won't regret it!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Flyby Promotions.
The Leininger family settled deep within America's new frontier in the Blue Mountains of Pennsylvania. A sudden Indian raid changed their lives forever. This story retells the heroic and daring escape of Barbara Leininger, and the touching reunion with her sister, Regina, after nine years. It also gives us an endearing portrayal of the love between family members and the strength of childhood memories. Father and Mother Leininger's commitment to 'hide' God's Word in the hearts of their children.
About the Author:
Tracy Leininger Craven loves history and retelling real-life stories in her historical fiction books. She also loves spending her free time in the great outdoors with her husband David and their four children.
My Review:
This book based on a true story is a very compelling story that will make you smile, cry, and even shout in victory. After a short time in America this German family found themselves in a very helpless circumstance that could possibly prove deadly. When they were victims of a bloody massacre by the Iroquois Indians. Some of their family members were killed along with countless other families in the area. The two young girls in this particular family were captured to later be turned into Indian maidens. After much trial, circumstance, and separation the eldest of the two daughters manages to escape with three others.
The ending result for the Leininger family was an even stronger faith in God that kept them hoping against all hope that all of the family members would be reunited safely one day. The journey that it took for this family to be reunited is a miraculous one that God had His hands on.
It took me one day to read the book cover to cover and I loved it. Recently, I found out that this dramatic story will be made into a movie and will be released in theaters on September 27, 2013. Which I know my family and I are looking forward to. But I have great news, you don't have to wait to get your hands on a copy of this book. My sponsor has graciously offered to give a copy of the book to one of my readers. So please enter below, you won't regret it!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Flyby Promotions.
April 7, 2020
Alone Yet Not Alone, by Tracy Leininger Craven
1755, Penns Creek, PA
Main Characters:
Barbara and Regina Leininger: Young girls taken by Iroquois
Galasko: Young Iroquois brave who claimed Barbara in a raid
A children’s story of two young girls who were taken by two Iroquois after a tragedy. Separated as they traveled to distant Indian villages, Barbara pled for her younger sister Regina to never lose her faith and to hold on to what she had always been taught.
After three years of living with the Indians, always longing to be reunited with her sister, and on the verge of an inevitable life change for Barbara, she along with three other captive youths escaped, attempting to reach their home hundreds of miles away.
This book is based on a true story handed down through the generations of a German family torn apart by tragedy, and their steadfast faith despite their trials.
I’m not convinced this would be an appropriate book for little ones… perhaps early teens as there are some pretty scary parts.
Part of me wishes the story painted a better picture of the girls’ captors, and of the village Indians to whom they were brought. I can’t say whether it was accurate, just that it does not show them in the best light.
Short book, easy read, well written and interesting.
The title gets its name from the hymn that I was recently introduced to in Laura Frantz’s book An Uncommon Woman. The video of Joni Earekson Tada singing it lead me to find the book and the film on which it's based.
Alone Yet Not Alone
1755, Penns Creek, PA
Main Characters:
Barbara and Regina Leininger: Young girls taken by Iroquois
Galasko: Young Iroquois brave who claimed Barbara in a raid
A children’s story of two young girls who were taken by two Iroquois after a tragedy. Separated as they traveled to distant Indian villages, Barbara pled for her younger sister Regina to never lose her faith and to hold on to what she had always been taught.
After three years of living with the Indians, always longing to be reunited with her sister, and on the verge of an inevitable life change for Barbara, she along with three other captive youths escaped, attempting to reach their home hundreds of miles away.
This book is based on a true story handed down through the generations of a German family torn apart by tragedy, and their steadfast faith despite their trials.
I’m not convinced this would be an appropriate book for little ones… perhaps early teens as there are some pretty scary parts.
Part of me wishes the story painted a better picture of the girls’ captors, and of the village Indians to whom they were brought. I can’t say whether it was accurate, just that it does not show them in the best light.
Short book, easy read, well written and interesting.
The title gets its name from the hymn that I was recently introduced to in Laura Frantz’s book An Uncommon Woman. The video of Joni Earekson Tada singing it lead me to find the book and the film on which it's based.
Alone Yet Not Alone
May 23, 2014
Alone Yet Not Alone is a compelling story of faith and endurance. The story of Barbara and Regina Leininger and the other young captives is terrifying and at the same time inspiring. It is hard to imagine ones so young experiencing what they did and not only surviving it but thriving in the aftermath.
The fact that this story is based on a true-life account makes this book all the more appealing to me. I think it would be a great read for tweens and older. It does have depictions of murder and even someone being burned at the stake. The descriptions contained in the book are not gory in the least but they do describe what is happening. If you are going to present it to younger children I would suggest pre-reading first to determine suitability.
This would make an excellent addition to a book club or a homeschool group. The book contains some very thought provoking discussion questions at the end. A movie based on this book is due to release in theaters on June 13, 2014. Because movies have a tendency to change things up a bit I think it would be a wonderful idea to read the book with your kids before you see the movie.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
The fact that this story is based on a true-life account makes this book all the more appealing to me. I think it would be a great read for tweens and older. It does have depictions of murder and even someone being burned at the stake. The descriptions contained in the book are not gory in the least but they do describe what is happening. If you are going to present it to younger children I would suggest pre-reading first to determine suitability.
This would make an excellent addition to a book club or a homeschool group. The book contains some very thought provoking discussion questions at the end. A movie based on this book is due to release in theaters on June 13, 2014. Because movies have a tendency to change things up a bit I think it would be a wonderful idea to read the book with your kids before you see the movie.
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
August 23, 2013
Alone Yet Not Alone
By: Tracy Leininger Craven
Their faith became their freedom
Alone Yet Not Alone is an inspirational, true story of a family caught in the cross fire of the French and Indian War.
The Leininger family leaves Germany to settle in America the land of the free. They left because in America they would be slave to no man and free to live as God sees best. So they thought. There were Indian’s but they was not to fear them cause they were not at war with them. Then while sitting at meal at the table 2 Indians came busting through the door. The father was been kind to them, but they wanted whiskey. Wasn’t happy about there not being any. Father knows something is up so he speaks to the girls in German so the Indian’s wouldn’t know what he was saying. Told the girls to go get water and not to come back till the Indian’s are gone. Then there is gun shots and noises then fire. Will the father be alive and their brother? Will the girls get captured? This is a good book getting ready to come out in the theater’s September 27, 2013!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aloneyetnota...
By: Tracy Leininger Craven
Their faith became their freedom
Alone Yet Not Alone is an inspirational, true story of a family caught in the cross fire of the French and Indian War.
The Leininger family leaves Germany to settle in America the land of the free. They left because in America they would be slave to no man and free to live as God sees best. So they thought. There were Indian’s but they was not to fear them cause they were not at war with them. Then while sitting at meal at the table 2 Indians came busting through the door. The father was been kind to them, but they wanted whiskey. Wasn’t happy about there not being any. Father knows something is up so he speaks to the girls in German so the Indian’s wouldn’t know what he was saying. Told the girls to go get water and not to come back till the Indian’s are gone. Then there is gun shots and noises then fire. Will the father be alive and their brother? Will the girls get captured? This is a good book getting ready to come out in the theater’s September 27, 2013!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aloneyetnota...
May 3, 2017
(1.8)
So it had a great premise, but it fell very flat in execution. Lots of telling and not showing, LOTS OF TIME GAPS WHY, and overall 1.5 dimensional characters.
Let's talk about that for a second. You have a great platform to really talk about God restores people after they are broken, yet it's not really mentioned. There's no PTSD, there's no adjusting back to her family and culture, and all the talk about God is 'We're not alone' and just prayers. Don't get me wrong, that's great, but many times it passes over when people ask her about her experiences. I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THAT. THAT'S WHAT MAKES A GOOD STORY.
It got to the point where it just felt like an excuse to preach at the reader.
Recommended 10+ for Kidnapping and murder (discussed afterwards)
So it had a great premise, but it fell very flat in execution. Lots of telling and not showing, LOTS OF TIME GAPS WHY, and overall 1.5 dimensional characters.
Let's talk about that for a second. You have a great platform to really talk about God restores people after they are broken, yet it's not really mentioned. There's no PTSD, there's no adjusting back to her family and culture, and all the talk about God is 'We're not alone' and just prayers. Don't get me wrong, that's great, but many times it passes over when people ask her about her experiences. I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THAT. THAT'S WHAT MAKES A GOOD STORY.
It got to the point where it just felt like an excuse to preach at the reader.
Recommended 10+ for Kidnapping and murder (discussed afterwards)
January 9, 2018
Truly an amazing story of God's grace and preservation! Two girls are captured and separated by Indians and live with them for years. Eventually comes a time when the main character, Barbara, decides to attempt an escape with her friends. Their trail is wrought with danger, yet God gives them courage, strength, and food. It was written simply, yet still enjoyably, for children and adults. I "had" to finish it last night, or actually early this morning, a little after twelve o'clock.
July 15, 2021
I haven't read this book in a long time, but it was one of my first books to ever own (a gift my older sister), so it has a special place on my shelf and in my heart. Not to mention that I really loved the story, especially the beautiful relationship between the two sisters and that their father had taught them to "hide" God's Word so well in their hearts that they NEVER forgot that though they are alone, with God, they are not alone!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews