As a member of the Homeschool Review Crew, I recently received a digital copy of the book Mr Pipes and the British Hymn Makers from Christian Liberty Press. We have personally used Christian Liberty Press curriculum in the past, so I was familiar with the company and quality of their products. Christian Liberty Press is known for the quality and affordable curriculum, but Mr. Pipes and the British Hymn Makers was the first fictional book of theirs that I’ve read.
About Mr Pipes and the British Hymn Makers
Mr. Pipes and the British Hymn Makers is a 242 page book by Douglas Bond, first published in 1999. It is geared towards students in the 7th – 10th grades. You can purchase the print version for $9.89 or the ebook version for $8.79. I received the ebook version which only comes as a PDF. Mr. Pipes and the British Hymn Makers is the first book in the Mr. Pipes series, all of which may be purchased on the Christian Liberty Press website for $9.89 each for the print version or the complete set for $38.99.
Summary
The story centers around two teens who are “stuck” in the little English village of Olney for the summer. They spend their time wandering around the village where they stumble upon Mr. Pipes playing the organ in a local church. Mr. Pipes is not only and organist, but also a historian of hymn composers. As they get to know Mr. Pipes, they learn about famous British hymn writers, such as Charles Wesley, John Newton, William Cowper, and many more. They also learn the value of hymns used in worship and come to accept Christ.
My Thoughts
While promoted for grades 7th – 10th, I used this book as a read aloud for Riley (age 8). I know the two characters were suppose to be teens, but they seemed much younger than that to me in the book. Riley had no problem following the story, although I did have to explain some words to him. He seemed to enjoy it and wants to read the rest of the series. I will certainly consider purchasing the complete set.
My one hesitation about the book I received was the PDF format of the ebook. PDFs just do not translate well to most eReaders. So, I had to read directly from the computer screen which was tiring on the eyes and not very convenient. I would like to see Christian Liberty Press produce their ebooks in at least an ePub format that would work much better on eReaders. Other than that, the book was a wonderful read and Riley and I learned so much about the writers of some of our favorite hymns.
Want to find out what other people thought of Mr Pipes and the British Hymn Makers from Christian Liberty Press? Then check out the rest of the reviews from the Schoolhouse Review Crew by clicking the graphic below!
NOTICE: Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this item free from the creator. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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