4.5 out of 5
I read this book in November preparing for the Christmas holiday season since it is a story about a young man who has a change of heart through Jesus. Again this is youth literature but it is a very easy, enjoyable and quick read. There is not a whole lot of "busy action" but rather a book that pulls on the emotions of the heart. My testimony of Jesus was strengthened as I realized how beautiful and perfect his mortal ministry was on this earth. Many were waiting for a mighty, aggressive, loud, fighter to save them from Roman control but Christ was calm, mild, meek, and humble. He asked the people do the very thing did they not want to do. To love everyone. Even their enemies.
Here is a review from goodreads.com
"In this Newbery Medal-winning novel, Daniel bar Jamin is fired by only one passion: to avenge his father's death by crucifixion by driving the Roman legions from his land of Israel. He joins an outlaw band and leads a dangerous life of spying, plotting, and impatiently waiting to seek revenge. Headstrong Daniel is devoid of tenderness and forgiveness, heading down a destructive path toward disaster until he hears the lessons taught by Jesus of Nazareth. With a brand new cover, young readers won't be able to pass up this timeless tale."
