The Sparrow Found a House

Title: The Sparrow Found a House
Author: Jason McIntire
Series: Sparrow series, book 1
Major Themes: Christian Family Living
Synopsis: Join the Rivera family as they learn what it means to have a new Dad and learn to follow the Lord for the first time in their lives.

I was probably 12 or 13 when I first read The Sparrow Found a House, and while I don’t remember much of my initial reactions to the book, I remember enjoying the satisfying ending and thinking that this is an overall pretty good book. Lately, I remembered it again and since it was written by a Christian homeschooler for Christian children, I thought I’d re-read it to review.

The Rivera family is facing major changes—with Mom remarrying, each of the four children must learn to appreciate their new sergeant-like step dad. It’s not easy, especially since he’s a Christian and not afraid to admit it. Jessie, the eldest of the family, finds it especially hard. As far as she is concerned, religion is for old people or those who want a boring life. She has her group of peers firmly in place, and she’s not planning to change anytime soon. Chris, the second-oldest, has problems of his own. In debt and seemingly unable to fix problems by himself, he tries to do his best—but most of the time his fixes don’t cut it. Will any of them be able to be happy with the new changes? Can they have peace in the home—and in their hearts? Will they be able to accept a new dad?

My initial opinion of The Sparrow Found a House hasn’t changed much, although I did find parts of the story a little slow. Despite that, though, this is a great story. I enjoyed the relationships the different characters had with each other, and the faith-based message that came through in the end (found your family on Christ first, and all else will follow). I’d recommend this book for readers ages 9–14; I think that age group would probably find it the most interesting.

No warnings!