Corrie Ten Boom's story is the thing of legend. Who hasn't been inspired by her life? I had read the adult version of "The Hiding Place" before so I was familiar with the story before reading this version - the Young Reader's Edition. I remember telling her story to a group of children at our church's Vacation Bible School one summer. Over the course of 5 days, I presented them with the hardships and lessons Miss Ten Boom shares. One the last day, when I was telling them of her encounter with a cruel soldier years later in life - when he asked for her forgiveness, they sat in rapt attention. Of course, it probably concerned them that I couldn't even get the words out I was fighting tears so hard myself. If by the grace of God, Corrie can forgive her torturer, what can I not forgive? Powerful.
At the beginning of this young reader's edition, I had a hard time following the characters, setting and plot. It just seemed like too many descriptors and names were given all at once and it was difficult to create a picture in my mind of her house. However, at it went along, I found myself swept away by the dramatic unfolding of her life. I marveled at God's goodness in the darkest place and was inspired by her sister Betsie's agape love. Every couple of pages there is an illustration that perfectly complimented the storyline - not too graphic but enough to give a spark to the imagination.
In my opinion, this is a life story that should be mandatory reading for every young person. It's just so rich with life lessons and makes you stop and think, "What am I willing to do to stand up to evil?" Especially as we see the world quickly imploding and humanity reaching new levels of degradation, Corrie Ten Boom's story serves as a reminder of all that is important and how the One True God will see us through.
BTW, I was given a copy of this book by Chosen: a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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