Author: Dove Christian Publishers

Favorite Character from the Biblical Historical Novel “Where is Matthias?

Author Heather Grannum shares her favorite character from the Biblical historical novel “Where is Matthias?“

Nathan arrives in Jerusalem in time for the annual Passover celebration and looks forward to spending it with his childhood friend Yaron, whose sister, Abigail he is hoping to marry, except that difficult family finances have diminished the dowry he is able to offer.

As the city of Jerusalem welcomes its worldwide visitors, Nathan finds out that his sister, Eliza, and her husband, who are also guests, are excited about the strange rabbi who rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. Could he be the Messiah?

Their outspoken belief causes some discomfort in the home, especially when there is another distinguished guest who denounces Jesus and whose son happens to have all the necessary attributes as the perfect choice for Abigail.

As Jerusalem turns against Jesus, and amidst complicated family relationships which bring tragedy, it is Nathan who, in the face of his own suffering, provides a steadying hand.

Nathan is a balanced young man, well respected by the family who have invited his family for Passover. Matthias likes him because he chats with him like a fellow adult, unlike Yaron, who teases him.

Yaron is very outspoken about the state of affairs in Jerusalem, and his condemnation of the corruption he sees in the authorities tends to upset those around him, especially in the family. Nathan is the one who keeps him in check.

He is down to earth and accepts that his diminished financial resources might place him out of the running as a suitable husband for Abigail. Yet he is able to retain his
composure in an uncomfortable situation. He can also play the flute.

Where is Matthias? is available from Dove Christian Publishers

My Most Memorable Character

Beaudin, author of the Timmy Dennison Series, shares what he feels is his most memorable character. This series of Christian coming-of-age books follows a boy named Timmy Dennison as he grows up dealing with family, grief, life’s trials, and what it means to be a believer in God.

Unlike most of the characters in the Timmy Dennison series, Mr. Clint Wadkins is only a player in one book, Ya Gotta Outmaneuver ‘Em. Mr. Wadkins is the owner of Wadkins Sporting Goods Store in the town center of Wynhope. He’s an older gentleman gifted with a friendly and gentle nature.

We know little of his personal life, and anyone reading “between the lines” will recognize that his store and his many young clients are more than a business to him. He attends school and town sporting events, is well known by school personnel, and, most importantly, is a friend to and respected by the town’s younger generation. Kids not only seek his help with sporting purchases, but they also visit him occasionally to chat, seek advice on important decisions, get help with problems, and even get help with homework projects.

The town of Wynhope is fortunate; every small town should have a Mr. Wadkins, a caring person who embodies truth, honesty, and integrity, and to whom local kids can go for support and friendship consistent with family values.