Louise Vernon Biographies

Read the 16th century story of William Tyndale, who wants to translate the Bible into English. He feels that the common people of England should be able to read the Scriptures for themselves. The church and government violently disagree.

Collin Hartley, a boy and Tydale's helper, works with him on this dangerous project. Tydale has to flee to Europe for his life, and Collin goes along. Their enemies follow and try to capture them, but Tyndale manages to complete his translation work. Then, he mush smuggle the English-language Bibles into England. Along with Collin Hartley, you will participate in all the important events of this daring story. Recommended for ages 9 and up.

The author tells of John Wycliffe, the famous Oxford teacher, preacher who translated the Bible and made his translation available to the poor of the land.

Martin Luther's son has a problem. What should young Hans Luther do when he grows up? How can he ever do anything important when he is constantly overshadowed by his famous father? Hans struggles with his Latin lessons. He fights with a peasant boy in the marketplace, listens to the wise advice of his Aunt Lena, observes his father lecturing to university students. Hans plays with his brothers, little Martin and Paul, and has thoughtful conversations with Lenchen, his sister. Gradually he discovers who he is and how God want him to live. Through Hans' eyes you will learn to know Martin Luther--not only as the great Reformer-preacher, but also as a father with a sense of humor and as a friend.

"Erasmus laid the egg that Luther hatched" is what the people say. And that makes young Gerhard Koestler smile. He knows that Erasmus has influenced Luther's thinking. He also believes both men are tying to serve God according to the Scriptures. Young Gerhard Koestler lives in Germany in the 1500s. He inherits money and a castle when his rich parents die. His Uncle Frederic tries to talk Gerhard into becoming a monk so Frederic can claim the inheritance for his own. But Gerhard has other ideas. After a series of adventures and narrow escapes, Gerhard arrives in Basel, Switzerland. To his delight he is able to live in the same house as Erasmus. Although Erasmus' enemies accuse him of agreeing with Martin Luther, Erasmus says that the Bible is his guide. In the end, Gerhard returns to his castle. Not sure whether he want to be known as a Catholic or a Lutheran, Gerhard says, "Call me a Christian." No other name is necessary. Recommended for ages 9 to 12.