Artist Phyllis F. Sweeney has produced a beautiful visual representation of the story The Pilgrim's Progress. With the well-suited title of Triumphant Journey, the 22½ x 30½-inch poster depicts the path that Christian travels on his journey. The artist has numbered 58 events, people, etc., along the path, and an accompanying 12-page booklet provides explanations of those items, along with corresponding Scriptures. For ease of understanding and flexibility with different ages, the booklet includes both a full explanation of each item as well as a straightforward simplified one. Triumphant Journey is also offered as a 1,000-piece puzzle. Puzzle pieces are sturdy and come in a cardboard box that fits tightly closed when not in use. When assembled, the puzzle is 30 x 22 inches in size, and the box cover provides a helpful representation of the artwork as a guide. Neither the poster nor the puzzle includes a copy of the book The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan. The book is not actually necessary to enjoy the artwork, but it will be much more fully understood if the book has been read previously or is being read. Two handy bookmarks are included with the purchase of either product and could be used by families as they read the book.  

As a fan of John Bunyan's classic work, I wondered how any artist could possibly represent every event or meeting in one piece of art, but Phyllis F. Sweeney has indeed accomplished the task. Triumphant Journey is a beautiful piece of artwork, but it's the inclusion of the 58 events on Christian's journey that makes it a masterpiece. The price of $20 for either the poster or the puzzle may seem a bit pricey, but take into account the educational value when you are considering the purchase. The opportunity to visualize the story offers a more complete understanding of Christian's journey. The included booklet is an excellent tool for use with the book, and it could be used by co-ops or other groups. I believe any homeschool style and learning environment could benefit from these products.  

Our family found the Triumphant Journey poster to be a perfect piece to adorn our library room wall, and the puzzle will become an annual project during school breaks. Utilizing both available formats will offer our family ample opportunity for discussing a renowned classic and will also increase our children's understanding of the gospel message.

Product review by Donna Campos, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, April 2008