From Dark to Dawn - A Tale of Martin Luther and the Reformation
Author: Elizabeth Charles, edited and revised by James and Stacy MacDonald
Publisher: Books On the Path
For more information or to order: www.booksonthepath.com

My pastor recently said that "A book isn't worth reading unless it keeps you up at night - challenging how you live your life."  If what he says is true, and I believe it is, then From Dark to Dawn is definitely worth reading.  From the beautifully illustrated cover, to the enthralling story filling over 360 pages, From Dark to Dawn immediately took me in and held me captive as I experienced a wonderful (and at times horrible) period in church history.

From Dark to Dawn - A Tale of Martin Luther and the Reformation was originally published in 1862 by English authoress, Elizabeth Charles.  Were it not for the efforts of James and Stacy McDonald, homeschool parents and publishers of Homeschooling Today magazine, this treasure might have remained hidden.  The McDonald's took the original work, dusted it off, provided some careful editing and revision and have presented us with a book that is destined to be a favorite of homeschool families everywhere.

As the story opens we are introduced to the Schonberg-Cotta family, living in 16th century Germany.  Through the "journals" of a brother and sister, we are able to look in on everyday family life in the 1500s.  Their lives seem so real, and offer a glimpse of both the struggle of a family to love and live amidst the trials of great poverty and the more important spiritual battle that rages when one is living without the knowledge of God's grace and free gift of salvation.  I will admit that, before reading this book, I really knew very little about Martin Luther or the dark days in which he lived.  Reading From Dark to Dawn opened my eyes anew to God's love and power, which breaks through man's religion and reaches out to those who would desire to truly know Him. 

Completely enthralling, From Dark to Dawn takes one through a myriad of emotions as you peer into the lives of Else, Fritz, their family, and Martin Luther himself.  The vocabulary is rich and the editors have been careful to remain true to the original work.  Although I enjoyed this book immensely, it is not a "quick read".  In fact, the rich text and depth of the subject matter caused me to pause, re-read and reflect often.  Throughout the book terms specific to the religious or daily life of the period that may be unfamiliar to the reader are embolden, with the reader encouraged to refer to the glossary for clarification.  I found this to be a tremendous help in my understanding and enjoyment of the story.  Further adding to this work are beautiful illustrations by homeschool graduate Johanna Bluedorn, and the inclusion of several historic engravings.   

From Dark to Dawn is truly a fascinating tale that will be appreciated most by older children and adults as a family read aloud.  If you like to utilize "living books" in your school subjects, this can definitely be used as assigned reading to enhance your older student's study of church history as well.  The life of Martin Luther, as told through the pages of From Dark to Dawn, provides many opportunities to encourage our children to live their lives boldly for the King of Kings and to walk in the light of His glorious grace.  I highly recommend it!

Making the grade: A+
Cost: $19.99
Value for your homeschool dollar: 10
Reviewed by Cindy Prechtel, Editor