Mr. Pipes and the British Hymn Makers - A Review

Mr. Pipes & the British Hymn Makers

Mr. Pipes and the British Hymn Makers - Ebook - $8.79

Book Format - $9.89


 by Douglas Bond



 from Christian Liberty Press

List of British Hymn Makers Covered in this Book

Book Description (from the website) -

"This first book in the series by Douglas Bond tells the story of two teens who, while on vacation in England, are befriended by an elderly English gentlemen called Mr. Pipes. Through this relationship they learn about famous British hymn writers. They also learn about the value of traditional worship and praise." 

Our Thoughts -

Last spring, my daughters participated in a musical about some of the more well-known hymn writers of the past, writers like Fanny Crosby and Isaac Watts.  It was neat to learn the stories behind the songs, to learn about the writers who had penned the words. So when I saw what this book was about, I thought it would be really neat to continue the study of more hymn writers.  I hoped to be picked for this review and was glad when I was.

"Mr. Pipes" is a charming story written in 1999.  Two teens are spending the summer in England.  The brother expects it to be a bore.  The sister is always the optimist, looking for an adventure.  Then they meet Mr. Pipes, the local church organist, and he turns their summer upside down, opening their eyes to the beauty of nature, music, and the simple life.   While sharing his world with them, he also shares fascinating stories of some of Britain's most popular hymn makers, including Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley.

Things I like about this story:

1.  It makes a great read-aloud, which is how we used it.

2. It is wholesome and G-Rated.  I didn't have to worry about what might be said or what the characters might do.

3. This story focuses on the simple life.  In our high tech world, it is nice to be reminded that we can have a great day without any of those gadgets.  Playing the piano, going fishing, even having a cup of tea with friends.

4.  Although the book includes hymns that many of us have known all of our lives, it makes us stop and really listen to the words.  Think about Isaac Watts' words, "such a worm as I".  Have you ever stopped to think about just how lowly that is?  We are as lowly as a worm; yet, Jesus still died for us.

5.  Along the same lines, the book also teaches about the hymn writers.  It is nice to know the authors on a more personal level.  To know who they were and what they were like and what challenges they faced.  How they came to be hymn writers.

I find this to be a charming story on so many levels.  While at the same time, being very educational.  This book makes a great history lesson and also a great music appreciation course.

 Disclaimer: I received this product free of charge, as part of the TOS Homeschool Crew. The above is just my opinion. Please remember that opinions may, and do, vary.