The husband and wife team Dave and Neta Jackson are prolific authors, writing the most compelling Christian biographies on the face of this earth. Their collected body of work has set the standard for Christian biography for children and young adults. Authors of the extensive historical fiction series, Trailblazer Books, as well as the extensive Hero Tales volumes amongst others; their work is a staple on the shelves of Christian families and is essential to Christian homeschooling efforts. The Jackson’s writings have my enthusiastic recommendation for any parent seeking to light a lifelong flame of love for this genre.

In Heroes in Black History, the Jacksons have drawn from their existing work in the Hero Tales series and combined it with fresh, new material to present a titillating introduction to the lives and achievements of prominent black Christians stretching back over the past two hundred years and into the present. Fourteen heroes of the faith are introduced to young readers through a stunningly expressive portrait drawn rendered in charcoal by Toni Auble and a biographical segment that outlines the course of each life.

This is followed by three stories, each illustrating the strengths of his or her Christian character. The stories are written in a narrative form that is true to life, though it reads like the best historical fiction. Written for children in the 7 – 12 year-old age range, adults will also find the readings informative and thought-provoking.

Each story is followed by contemplative questions for use in group discussions such as Sunday school or family devotions. We read this title together at bedtimes and many of the discussion prompts were beyond my five-year-old at that time of night. Some of the questions are based upon the text of the story, others are deeply questioning and open ended, asking as to how these character traits can be applied in ones own life.

A concluding statement about the character quality woven throughout the story is made at the end of each, as well as a Bible verse that further drives home the story’s main thrust. Each section of text, whether introductory biography or character building story is short, from 2 – 4 pages in length; perfect for children’s brief attention spans and short periods, or where the readings will only make up part of a larger program such as an integrated unit study or Sunday school class. Reading Heroes in Black History inspires a wealth of ways in which to share these lives with your children or those you teach.

The heroes of the faith we come to know are male and female, old and young, married and single, from Africa and from the U.S., sons of slaves and tribal princes, evangelists, musicians and brain surgeons. A wide range of talents, gifts and denominations within the body of Christ are represented within.

Some names are familiar: Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ben Carson. Others are new to me: Samuel Morris, Eliza Davis George, John Perkins and Festo Kivengere.

Through their lives many themes are explored: racial injustice, social activism, the importance of generosity, evangelism, praise and so many others are brought to life through the true experiences of these believers. Learning of these individuals and others, reading their stories, has blessed my children, my husband and myself. God has used these stories to speak to our hearts and to drive us further in our walk with Him.

An appendix listing the character traits explored as well as the Christians used to illustrate those traits is included for easy reference. Some qualities have one story listed, others several. This feature will greatly facilitate finding relevant material for studies on character qualities within the home and church.

Here in North America we celebrate Black History Month in February. In the United Kingdom Black History Month is celebrated in October. While this review is coming a bit late for British readers to incorporate this excellent resource into their plans for the month, North Americans have plenty of time to pick up a copy before February. Regardless of the date you read this review, I highly recommend Heroes in Black History for any time of year; it is an indispensable introduction to these brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us.

Reviewed at http://quiverfullfamily.com ( )