The Call of Jeremiah McGill by Joseph Moore is a captivating middle-grade fiction novel set in the 1970s. The story follows the journey of Jeremiah McGill, an 11-year-old boy who is still searching for his calling from God. Jeremiah comes from a family of talented individuals: his father was a renowned preacher, his mother was a choir director with an angelic voice, and his older brother, Zeke, was a talented organist. However, Jeremiah seems to be the only one in the family without a special talent, which puts pressure on him to find his calling. He struggles with the expectations placed on him as a pastor’s kid and longs to be a regular kid with fewer restrictions.

The story explores the themes of identity, racial discrimination, faith, and family. It is interesting to see how Jeremiah navigates through his feelings as a young boy and the expectations of his community. He is a wonderful character that any reader will love immediately. It is fascinating to read about his experiences as he makes new friends, has adventures, and eventually finds his calling. Moore’s writing is engaging and captures the essence of the 1970s. The story is well-written and well-paced, making it a quick and enjoyable read. The book also delves into the differences between black and white cultures and the aftermath of wars, providing valuable lessons for readers. The characters are well-developed and relatable. Jeremiah is a good boy, intelligent, respectful, and well-mannered. His friends are also likable, except for Rodney, who is a bit condescending and mean. It is fun to read about their curious minds as they discover new things and explore the world around them.

Overall, The Call of Jeremiah McGill is a fantastic historical fiction book with Christian values. I would highly recommend it to middle graders for its engaging writing, relatable characters, and valuable lessons. The story is captivating, the characters are relatable, and the plot is sprinkled with humor.

Pages: 148 | ASIN : B0BSK2K1B1