5 out of 5 stars on Goodreads

It’s impossible to read anything about the incredible life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and not be inspired by his faith, saddened by his suffering, and full of questions about your own beliefs and faith. Does my life reflect the kind of fearless faith that Bonhoeffer showed? Is my heart filled with joy in the midst of dark circumstances the way Bonhoeffer’s was?
The answer is no. My faith looks rather puny next to his. My life looks pathetic next to his courage and generosity. One will always feel small when compared to giants, but at least we are looking up, striving for greatness, seeking to know God more intimately as they did.
I was surprised that this book was written for students in elementary school, and I suppose I was expecting something closer to a high school or middle school level. But then… if you’re in high school, you might as well read the original version of Metaxas’ book. As it is, it’s a wonderful tool to introduce young children to the history and biography of a great spiritual warrior.

I loved that at the end of each chapter there are group questions about what Bonhoeffer’s testimony means to us and how we can apply his example to our own lives. I thought it very helpful that many of the terms used to describe warfare, religion, and espionage are explained and defined in little aside boxes or in the glossary at the back. I can just imagine a family reading this together with their children and discussing the chapter questions at the dinner table.

Disclaimer: I received an ecopy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.