When I signed up for the book tour of Tales of the Defended Ones, I had absolutely no idea how deeply this book would strike my heart.  There’s even a warning on the front of the book: These stories may change the way you see the world.  Heed the warning because it’s the truth!  Too many children are disappointed when they don’t receive love, attention, and support from the adults in their lives.   Too many parents are careless with the beautiful gifts that God has given them in their children.  Tales of the Defended Ones is a story of hope and happy endings for some of those children.  Several of my friends have been foster parents and have even adopted the babies and teenagers who are now their own.   What a special talent, to be able to give love so freely!  This book is a celebration of the parents who choose to become parents, those people who are the hands and feet of God.  It also shares how readers can get involved with the author’s mission, Back2Back Ministries.

While this book is listed as juvenile fiction, it’s definitely a deep story for young kids.  In fact, I probably won’t read it with my daughter until she’s at least 12 or 13.  There are some issues in the book that my children just won’t understand.  For an older group of teenagers, this book would be a great resource as a Sunday School book club or something similar.  It would also be excellent for a children’s missions outreach at a church or camp.  There are Leader’s Guides available that provide lessons, activities, and practical applications.