The Candle Maker

Author: Laura Thomas
Genre: Children/Historical Fiction

Every village has a mysterious character—someone to tell tales about, someone to fear. Meet The Candle Maker. One Christmas Eve in Victorian England, ten-year-old Benjamin Walker is forced to face the fabled old candle maker and see for himself if the ghastly rumors are true. Challenged by neighborhood bullies, lessons and lies, and an English bulldog along the way, Benjamin confronts his fears on a quest to discover the truth. But will this ragamuffin lad find the courage he needs in time to save a life?

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Reviewer: Margaret Welwood

My ten-year-old granddaughter and I found this story very engaging; her interest peaked when Butch needed help.
 
The action and suspense drew me in from the beginning. Ten-year-old Benjamin is both likeable and believable, and we can readily empathize with his wants, fears and compassion. The setting, too, is vivid; cold and poverty play a major role in building our empathy with both boy and dog.
 
The adults in the story are quick to point out the lesson—“what the Good Book says about taming the tongue”—but there is so much more here. Perseverance in the face of discomfort and danger, compassion when it’s easier to look the other way, generosity, secret wishes that are best unfulfilled, courage and unexpected friendship, as well as a delightful Christmas surprise all play a part in this beautiful story. Best of all, the Light of the World shines in the streets and alleys of Old England through the prayer, faith and kindness of one little boy and his family.

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