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This Bethlehem Budget Book contains two books in one softcover volume: Old Sam, Thoroughbred Trotter (copyright 1955) and Old Sam and the Horse Thieves (copyright 1967).

Old Sam is the story of two young boys (ages 10 and 12) living in the wild Dakota Territory of the 1880s and their crippled - but extremely capable - horse named Old Sam. They are based on the author's own homesteading experiences as a young boy. Although there are similarities in time and location, unlike the Little House books which focus so much on family life, the Old Sam books are more like adventure stories about the two boys and their horse exploring the strange untamed land around them, "hunting" for wild animals and "bad guys" and proving to others how great Old Sam really is. A delightful story even on a very simple level, with many funny and interesting plot twists (I had to re-read favorite chapters aloud to Daddy at dinner time under persistent urging from my children), the book also portrays an important historical look at pioneer life and the author shares wisdom in experiences relating to using one's head, dealing with neighbors and the importance of courage, fortitude and basic competence. Naturally, the book makes especially great reading for boys and horse-lovers. Our family enjoyed this book so much as a read aloud that my husband and I ordered a number of copies for Christmas presents for our godchildren.

The second story focuses on Johnny and Old Sam's role in unraveling the problem of a band of horse-thieves plaguing the neighborhood. Although still quite young, Johnny's competence and fairness earn him the respect of the Sheriff and other important men of the town. A really great story, this is bound to be a family favorite. It is the sort of story that will likely help reluctant readers (especially boys in mid-grade school) learn to appreciate a really good book. It also touches upon some tough questions about fairness and justice that young readers can grapple with alongside the hero of the book.

In the Bethlehem Books catalog, this book is recommended for ages 5 - 10, but I think many of the stories will be appealing even for preschoolers. The stories have been carefully chosen to be interesting to children at the "fairy tale age". Many of the saints chosen are knights and princesses with adventures and lessons to share with your children. Some parents may not like the informality of her story-telling style, but I think most will appreciate using this book to foster an interest in the Saints at a very young age.

The second volume, More Once Upon a Time Saints, brings us more stories of the saints.

I was very pleased to see Catholic Heritage Curricula offer a new gardening guide, Onions in my Boots by Nancy Nicholson. Onions in My Boots offers basic instructions for gardening at home. It is an easy read and is printed in child friendly font and format, making it well suited for children or their parents. It features sections on preparation and tools, flowers and houseplants, herbs and vegetables. Nicholson emphasizes adaptability, to both location and budget, and in this way makes gardening very accessible. The methods described are simple and practical. Children and novice gardeners are encouraged to think beyond terra cotta pots and approach container gardening with a sense of playfulness.

Nicholson provides instructions for growing many common flowers and vegetables. This is thoughtfully done, focusing on plants that will thrive in most climates and yield a respectable harvest while under the care of young hands. Early success in planting seeds and watching them transform into cool, crisp cucumbers can spark a lifelong love of gardening. While waiting for their first harvest, children will also be cultivating the virtues of patience and responsibility.

As an enthusiastic gardener myself, I am always looking for new ways to involve my children in this wholesome and rewarding activity. Gardening connects children to wonder of God’s creation in a very tactile and active manner. Onions in My Boots is unique in offering a Christ-centered gardening guide that is suited for the whole family.

Otto of the Silver Hand relates the story of a young boy caught between the malice of vengeful barons. After the untimely death of Otto’s mother, Otto was placed in the care of his uncle, the abbot of St. Michael’s monastery. Otto grew up in the monastery, happy and content until his tenth birthday. On his tenth birthday, Baron Conrad, his father, reclaimed his son and brought him back to his birthplace, the castle of Trutz-Drachen. The world was a dangerous place in the Middle Ages, and Otto soon learned of its terrors.

Although Otto of the Silver Hand is a short historical fiction novel, it does an excellent job of developing its characters. The book’s main character, Otto, is a shy and quiet boy, in sharp contrast to his overbearing and at times foul-tempered father. Howard Pyle illustrated the book himself, with vivid pencil sketches that help you imagine the medieval world.

This book is suitable for many ages, and would enhance a unit study on the Middle Ages. The plot of the book, though thin, is well-written and engaging. Otto of the Silver Hand is a pleasant book to read and a fun family read-aloud.