Abraham’s Journey {book review}

I was happy to receive a book that we could use in our American History studies this year! We received the book, Abraham’s Journey, from a company called Inspiring the American Dream. As you may remember, we are in our 2nd year of American History in our regular school schedule, so this came at the perfect time for us!!

You can purchase this book here for $14.99, which I happen to think is a bit steep for a soft cover, children’s book.  But, many people might find the cost worth it for a story of this nature. I don’t think there are many books for elementary aged children that are like this book, it’s very unique and some might be very interested in having their children read it! My kids are in elementary grades and this book seemed appropriate for each of them.

Book Summary: 
This story begins with a young boy, named Abraham, whose parents have lost their jobs. They are telling him that he won’t be receiving many gifts for Christmas…so little Abraham decides to do something on his own to help his family have Christmas! 

The boy begins texting friends looking for odd jobs when an “old man” appears on his screen…it’s Abraham Lincoln, inspiring him to find his special talents – that we all have – and work his way to the American Dream. Along his journey, he meets other famous Americans such as Martin Luther King Jr, Amelia Earhart, Bill Gates and more. 

The book encourages Abraham by helping him to find his gifts – which happen to be painting for this boy. They help him to learn how to market his artwork and sell it, thus providing the American Dream for he and his family. 

My Thoughts: 
I think this story could be very inspirational for children in that I believe God has created EACH of us with special GIFTS and TALENTS in this life! I want (and pray) often that as a parent I can help my children and inspire them to find their gifts.

However, where I disagree with this story a bit is the goal of finding our gifts and talents for earning money and living the American Dream. I do want my children to be responsible and hard workers and earn a living someday. However, I want them to use their gifts and talents to bring glory to the Lord and not learn/use them for the sole purpose of the “American Dream.”

I also have such a heart for missions, having traveled to several 3rd world countries and I can’t help but be a little uneasy about teaching my children to live the American Dream. I am a little uneasy with that title to begin with.  As believers we are called to be in this world but not of it. I know that our country is a wonderful place to live, but I don’t believe we can live our lives for the betterment of only our families…seeking to have MORE, make MORE, earn MORE, accumulate MORE…which seems to be how most of our country lives.

This book does end with the family doing a service act together, which I was very thankful for.

I want my kids to grow up with a heart for others, with a heart for the needy around us and around the world, I want my kids to grow up with a genuine love for being generous. We all, as parents, have to search out ways to teach these things to our kids. Ultimately, I believe we have to live a life of generosity in front of our kids and that will be what teaches them the most.

Please click over to the TOS crew blog to read more reviews on this book!