Evaleen Stein

Gabriel and the Hour Book Evaleen Stein

Every parent or teacher who loves introducing her children to quality, moral stories, will love this telling of a sweet young peasant boy who grinds colors for illuminated texts. Young Gabriel works with Brother Stephen, who is creating an hour book for the king's fiance. During this time period, all books had to be hand-written, and most were done by monks who embellished the pages with beautiful artistry. Interwoven through the story of the making of the hour book is a tale of trial that comes upon Gabriel's family. In a very unconventional way for this time, Gabriel writes out a prayer asking for help for his family's financial struggles. His gentle, faithful character is revealed as he waits out an answer to his troubles. The story unfolds in such an interesting way that the book is hard to put down. It should really be read to young ones right up there with The Railway Children, The Secret Garden, and Little House on the Prairie. A sweet and delightful book, it illuminates the virtue of faith, trust, and courage.