A good story ending with a spirit of joy and hope.
Plot
The mother of Peter and Elise Anderson's best friend Henrik Melchior and her pilot friend are held on an island as spies by the Russians. Peter, Elise, and Henrik set sail for the island with Uncle Morten for a search-and-rescue. What they get, however, is more than what any of them - especially Henrik - bargained for.
Morality
The Andersons are concerned about their friends and are quick to offer all the help they can give. The folk on the island are just as quick to jump in. Despite the danger, all are willing to do what they can to release the prisoners.
Henrik has an extreme dislike if not hatred for Matthias. His mother confronts him about it and Peter and Elise try to reason with him.
Spiritual Content
The Andersons are praying Christians. The Melchiors and Matthias are Jews. A couple verses are read. Henrik ends up reading some of Peter's Bible. A letter from one Jew to another mentions Jesus as the Messiah with the request not to wait to accept Him. Prayers are said and Christmas carols are sung. A church is passed and entered. Peter is determined to help Henrik understand why strangers are so eager to help them.
Violence
Mrs. Melchior apparently hurt her head. Russian soldiers hold and point guns. A man grabs Peter. There's a wild car ride. A dog grabs hold of Peter's sleeve. There is a case of sabotage; no one is hurt.
Drug and Alcohol Content
Some of the Russian soldiers smoke. Someone says that it's tradition for the Russians to bring out vodka at a certain time, though the mentioned time was not then.
Sexual Content
None.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
None.
Conclusion
This is a fine story with equally fine characters. Experience their fears, frustrations, hopes, and joys through the pages, especially as Peter hopes that, as the magi did two thousand years ago, Henrik will follow the star that will lead him to the Answer to his questions.
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