Escape to the Hiding Place (AIO Imagination Station Books)

For Tyndale’s Summer Reading Challenge, they had quite a few books in the Imagination Station series, and I reviewed one of them already, which I absolutely LOVED, despite it being set in Ancient Rome! Once I found out they had a WWII themed book and it was on Amazon for less than $5, of course I bought it!In this book aimed at first-third graders, cousins Patrick and Beth travel back to WWII Holland and join the Dutch Resistance, and ultimately smuggle a Jewish baby to Corrie ten Boom’s house. I did enjoy this book, but unfortunately not as much as I thought I would. I found certain parts unrealistic (and I thought of work-able, age-appropriate alternatives). Some parts I thought could have been better researched, but I was able to forgive this, mostly because I understand the authors are just authors, not historians. I also don’t think it’s quite for 7+, but perhaps a slightly more mature age group. Then, there is the implied historical inaccuracy in most Corrie ten Boom stories, but that’s just a pet peeve of mine.Although there are many other Holocaust chapter books, specifically right off my head Twenty and Ten for the first-third grade age and Number the Stars that I prefer better, this book wasn’t horrible by any means, and I’m really proud of them for even tackling this subject for a young audience range and overall, recommend the series. It truly is a fantastic Christian series that introduces young kids to history. (I’m quite passionate about WWII and somewhat picky about it! That’s just me and my issues lol)

Very comparable to the Magic Tree House series. My child actually prefers this. Great balance between Christian morals and adventure but not so much that it takes away from the story. Great undertone. Wish there was more information about Corrie Ten Boom as I was using it to give background to my children about her but it spends more time discussing their adventure landing and meeting another family. My children loved and still bring up some of the interesting facts they learned such as having to have hidden radios for info and that bike tires were a novelty. Great way for children to learn about the time period. Very tactfully written as not to be to overwhelming to young children about the sensitive material. Wish I had more of these. Will definitely use to give more background information. Looking for the Red Coats one next.

My 9 year old son, who HATES to read, absolutely LOVES this series of books! My son has struggled to learn to read since kindergarten. Now that he is in 3rd grade, he has steadily progressed in his reading ability. Anytime I ask him to read "required" material, he balks. Then, he recently discovered some Imagination Station books on his brother's bookshelf. He started reading and hasn't stopped. He's read 12 books in the past 3 weeks...which is HUGE for him! I wish these books were still being written because I don't know what he will read next. But, I'm thankful for the time he's had with this series.Additionally, the Imagination Station books have history thread throughout them. He's reading and learning at the same time. Thank you, Focus on the Family, for an amazing series!

This is as exciting as the rest of the series, and one of my favorites because it reflects history in a unique way. Two children have adventures in various times and places in this series. I do wonder whether 8-year-olds would have the ability to do some of these things or make these decisions, but it probably depends on their personalities. The hiding place and the people are well described, and the action is frightening and realistic. Adults may want to read this to see if it suits the kids. I was inspired to look more into history by this one and the others in the series. This series encourages Christian values in a fun way.

My kids at school loved this series. It is easy enough for struggling readers and interesting enough that many of my stronger readers went through the whole series so really good for getting kids into sharing their books without making them feel like their reading skills (or lack thereof) were obvious. Christian focus is very gentle so good for all the families.

Great story to teach kids about the holocaust and help them understand the time period. I grew up loving Adventures in Odyssey and love sharing them with the kids in my life. Not only is it a fun story but teaches them about history and God at the same time.

The Imagination Station is a great series for boys. Our 6 year old loves these books. He finishes one and can't wait to move on to the next. They are a great Christian series that is not violent and graphic. We love these books.

Thank You

My son who is 10 loved this series