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“In the tranquil silence of the cathedral, Charlotte turned to prayer. “Lord, I’m thankful for the chance to share knowledge and inspire others. Please give me the strength and ability to do my tasks well, to honour my role without looking like I’m tired. Please help me carry myself gracefully,” she earnestly prayed.” P. 89
What a treasure Angel Orphan is! One of the first books in a new series from Moody Publishers called Tales of Boldness and Faith, this book is an absolute gem—an exquisitely told story that brings the life of Charlotte Mason alive. Aimed at middle grade readers, Leah Boden has masterfully woven Charlotte’s biography into a novel-like story that’s as exciting and readable as any beloved classic while also being deeply encouraging to the reader.
“I had a very interesting (and funny) conversation with the chimney sweep today; I do enjoy it when he sings. It’s good to sing while we work – my mother always did! I’m going to go for a walk later today and collect horse chestnuts and pinecones. They’ll look lovely in a bowl in my room. I read by candlelight until very late last night. I picked up Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne and couldn’t put it down! I think I’ll need stronger tea to get through today.” Pg. 79
Many homeschool mamas hear about Charlotte’s six-volume set and get overwhelmed. Understandably. There is a richness to Charlotte’s writing that takes a little stamina to keep up with. And there is so much to read and study. When reading her writing, it can be easy to feel like everything is important and that the reader would be remiss to not study all of it. In this text, each chapter opens with a quote from Charlotte's journals. Often the quotes are delightful, sometimes they are helpful, always they are windows into her vibrant mind. Each is accessible and good for a reader to rest upon and ponder. This is a perfect first introduction to Charlotte and her writings.
“The college’s building was magnificent. Charlotte remembered visiting for the first time when she was interviewed for the job. She had stopped on the path to the front door to admire the curling and ornate mediaeval stonework, the green ivy climbing up the walls, the octagonal bellcote (a shelter for the bells), and the copper weathervane at the very top—she didn’t want to forget a thing. The sight took her breath away—quite the welcome! Charlotte had captured the image in her memory just in case she didn’t get to see it again.” p. 83
Charlotte comes across just like a favorite heroine from an old English novel—lively, tender, courageous, and wise beyond her years. Reading about her time at Bishop Otter Memorial College instantly reminded me of Anne Shirley’s adventures at teacher’s college. You feel, by the end, like Charlotte could have been a lifelong friend—one of those rare, beautiful souls who makes you want to be better just by entering into her story and letting it become part of your own.
“The clusters of rosebay willowherb were a delight to see moving in the morning breeze. Their pops of pink amongst the grasses didn’t go unnoticed. Charlotte picked a posy of harebell, autumn hawkbit, and the rosebay willowherb to refresh the vase by her bed. She dunked the blooms in boiling water for a few seconds to help the flowers absorb water and linger longer before arranging them delicately in cold water in the fluted glass bud vase. Charlotte loved to be outside; she knew the value of fresh air and loved to bring a little nature indoors.” Pg. 80
One of the things Charlotte did so very well was to capture the power and beauty of the natural world and then help those around her to appreciate it as well. Throughout, Boden shows how Charlotte did that. I had no idea that fresh cut flowers could be dunked in boiling water for a few seconds. But clearly, Charlotte did, and most certainly she helped her pupils to know that too.
Boden’s writing style is reminiscent of the beloved Signature Biographies, making this a perfect pick for families who appreciate living books. It would be an ideal addition to any home library, especially for mamas seeking to understand Charlotte Mason more deeply or for those being introduced to her for the very first time.
I think I need several copies in my library. Angel Orphan would be a lovely selection for a Mother Culture book club, or even as a book club pick with young readers. It’s fascinating, beautiful, and inspiring.
Leah Boden has given us a gift with this book—a story that is both educational and enchanting, a true celebration of Charlotte Mason’s boldness, faith, and enduring legacy.