Salem Ridge Press Review

Anyone that knows me, knows that I devour books. I remember as a small child, before I could even read, being entertained for hours through books. As I grew older, I was fortunate enough to have access to good quality literature. Seeking the same for my own children has proven to be a bit difficult. Many times the books I seek are out of print and difficult to find and if they are found they are normally asking a pretty penny for them. So imagine my delight when I received 3 books from Salem Ridge Press to review for The Old School House Magazine.

Salem Ridge Press Company (just under 5 yrs old) was founded by Daniel Mills, an homeschool graduate himself. It was after a couple of particular reads that were out of print that Mr. Mills was inspired to start his own company to reprint similar quality books that were no longer being printed. He wanted to provide others with the same exposure to quality literature as he had been blessed with. I was drawn to this company not only for the access to great literature but also because it is built on a biblical foundation.

Philippians 4:8 captures the thinking and motives behind their company.Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Our family strives to read living books and this company can easily provide just that. However, even if you are a family that schools with just textbooks or doesn't school at home, you will find these books to be a rich asset to your read alouds. The books can be purchased through Salem Ridge Press. The prices vary depending on whether its a soft or hard cover (ranging from 12.95-24.95) They also provide a link for purchasing e books.

One of the books I reviewed was Soldier Fritz and the Enemies He Fought.

It is an historical fiction, taking place during The Reformation. It's the story of a young boy and his birthday gift (a bible which was illegal to own at the time) that learns to fight battles of pride and accepting consequences. Fritz's family is forced to go into hiding to avoid being thrown into prison for owning a bible. At that time, the church felt that only the Clergy should own their own scriptures to read and therefore disapproved of Martin Luther and his ideas. My children loved this book as did I. It is recommended for ages 8 to adult.

The other two books were e-books. One titled Mary Jane Her Visit and The American Twins of the Revolution.

Both were excellent reads.

Mary Jane Her Visit, captured my daughter's attention. I even found them role playing 5 yr old Mary Jane on her great grandma's farm. It's a sweet story recommended for ages 6-10. This version differs from the Project Gutenberg Version. However, Salem Ridge Press made their revisions to bring the book up to their standard. Some people, like me, like careful ommissions for subject matter that may be a bit questionable. Others however, do not like edited books. However, I did not think that it took away from the book in any way.

Lastly, there is The American Twins of the Revolution. This, like Soldier Fritz is an historical fiction, telling the story of twins (a brother and sister) who help hide a shipment of gold from the British in order to help General Washington pay his discouraged troops. This book is also recommended for ages 8 to adult.

All three books were excellent reads. Salem Ridge Press has 27 titles in print with a variety for different ages. I highly recommend this company.


Disclosure: I received a print copy of the book Soldier Fritz and e-books of Mary Jane- Her Visit and The American Twins of the Revolution for review purposes only.