The King’s Cadets and Little Joe is a chapter book for fans of Little Pilgrim’s Progress.
The King’s Cadets and Little Joe by Joe Sutphin and Kevan Chandler. Tundra, 2024. 48 pages.
- Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 8-10
- Recommended For: Ages 8-10
When Christiana crosses the river at the end of Little Pilgrim’s Progress, her younger brothers and sister remain with Mercy in the Land of Delight until it is their turn for a summons from the King. What might have happened after the last chapter of that book? In what might be called “fan fiction” or “new adventures,” Sutphin and Chandler explore possible adventures for the children who wait together.
Matthew, James, and Little Joe try unsuccessfully (or so it seems) to find a perfect birthday gift for little Innocence, explore a water cave that holds secrets, and work together to reach Mercy who is stuck on a tree branch. They lose a special guest book that tells the stories of pilgrims and find a new friend who is eager to know more about the King. The brothers hear a story that encourages them to “remember truth, trust the King and take care of each other” when their play gets too rough.
Each chapter is preceded by a passage from Scripture that applies to the story, and the colorful illustrations and format will appeal to emerging readers who are moving beyond easy readers, but not quite ready for books with longer chapters and more pages.
Bottom Line: A nice addition to a home or church library to encourage young readers who are gaining confidence, or a family read-aloud for those who love the story of Little Pilgrim’s Progress.
*indicates a starred review, the best of the best in its field
Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader
- Book Review: Little Pilgrim’s Progress, illustrated by Joe Sutphin
- Book Review: Readers in this age range will also enjoy Mooses with Bazookas by Sam Smith.
- Book Review: Tales from the Forest by Jane Riordan carries on the adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh in a style that faithfully echoes the original, perfect for newly independent readers.
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