Would you like to have experienced the Biblical Flood, or at least been a part of gathering the animals, two by two? In the 432-page book, The Ark, the Reed, and the Fire Cloud (Amazing Tales of Max & Liz) by Jenny L. Cote you can do just that. ($12.74) This hefty softcover book is the first in the Biblically based series The Amazing Tales of Max and Liz from AMG Publishers and is a mix of Biblical truths, fun imagination, and a plethora of adventure. Main characters, Max and Liz, who just happen to be a small but fierce dog from Scotland and a sleek, proper cat from France, are joined by new friends as they journey from their homes to meet and assist Noah and his family in loading the ark, enduring the almost year-long journey, and repopulating the Earth.  Led from continent to continent following the Voice, the animals are tested in their strength, determination, and faith.

As a Christian homeschool family, we thoroughly enjoyed this book, a solid mixture of Biblical truth and imaginative whimsy. Author Cote catches the reader’s attention and draws them into the story with her attention to detail and her use of authentic accents and speech for each character. Numerous foreign words are used throughout the dialog between animals, with an easy reference guide provided in the back of the book if needed. Accurate Biblical details and themes are referenced, along with many Bible passages, providing the backdrop of a Christian worldview. Though appropriate reading for the whole family, to help capture young audiences Cote relies on humor, intrigue, and the many quirks of each character. You may discover your own favorites, but ours were the feisty hen named Henriette and Don Pedro the bull she bosses around.

Whether used as a family read aloud or for individual reading time, The Ark, the Reed, and the Fire Cloud will be a new treasured favorite for families of all ages.

Product Review by Michele Pleasants, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, June 2019