Matthew in the Middle Series - Matthew Makes Strides

Book Description:

Matthew Vos doesn't like feeling afraid. He wants to be brave, but discovers that being a hero isn't at all what he'd imagined. Will his dream to attend the Cadet International Camporee ever come true? And what's up with that crabby new girl in town? Join Matthew as he makes strides in facing fears and forging friendships.

"Matthew Makes Strides is the second book in a three-volume series that realistically portrays a specific religious and ethnic community (Dutch Reformed) as it existed in 1996 and continues to flourish within small geographical pockets in the United States and Canada. Although worship services and family devotions have changed in many places, the practices as depicted in this story are still observed by many churches and families. The setting and characters are fictional, but truthful to real-life experience. These books transport the reader into the life of an ordinary, but imaginative boy - a Preacher's Kid - surrounded by complex people and person problems that help him grow in many ways.

The novels are aimed at middle grade boys, but anyone can enjoy them. Within the context of an engaging story, readers learn about handling problems, valuing others, overcoming fears, and trusting God." - From the Author

Author:

Glenda Mathes is an author and editor who lives with her husband near Pella, Iowa. They have four adult children, two of whom are married, and five grandsons.

Endorsements:

"Glenda Faye Mathes effectively portrays the trauma, excitement, and relief of events associated with great danger and courage. Her narrative is rich in imagery, momentum, and emotion with humor to lighten intensity. I applaud her for taking up topics of fear, loss, courage, and authentic masculinity." -Paul T. Berghaus, U.S. Army Chaplain, Fort Benning, GA

"Well written and captivating, this book provides surprises and important lessons as Matthew strives to overcome his fears and to be more like the heroes he admires. Children in different circumstances will easily identify with Matthew's feelings and struggles." -Simonetta Carr, author of Christian Biographies for Young Readers, including the San Diego Book Awards winner, Anselm of Canterbury

"Glenda Faye Mathes writes with energy and intentionality. When she describes a coming tornado, I glance nervously out the window. Young people will feel like the author is inside their heads, so intimate is her knowledge of her readers. This honest portrayal of a preacher's kid speaks to the extraordinary challenges and joys of ordinary growing up." -Douglas Bond, author of Duncan's War

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