4.81

5

May 08, 2018

I read this aloud to my 3rd and 6th grade kids, and found it to be well-adapted for young readers. The story still retains its power.

5

Apr 22, 2015

one day I hope I can have half the faith that this family had. Truly inspiring.

5

Feb 04, 2017

One of my new favorite books. So moved by Corrie's testimony. It truly was amazing how God was at work in her life!

""...it would be a pretty poor father who would ask his little girl to carry such a load. It's the same way, Corrie, with knowledge. Some knowledge is too heavy for children. When you are older and stronger you can bear it. For now you must trust me to carry it for you."" -31

"Stealing, lying, murder. Was this what God wanted in times like these? How should a Christian act when evil One of my new favorite books. So moved by Corrie's testimony. It truly was amazing how God was at work in her life!

""...it would be a pretty poor father who would ask his little girl to carry such a load. It's the same way, Corrie, with knowledge. Some knowledge is too heavy for children. When you are older and stronger you can bear it. For now you must trust me to carry it for you."" -31

"Stealing, lying, murder. Was this what God wanted in times like these? How should a Christian act when evil was in power?" -pg. 71

""You say we could lose our lives for this child. I would consider that the greatest honor that could come to my family."" -pg. 95

"Perhaps only when human effort had done its best and failed, would God's power alone be free to work." -pg. 116

"...now like a starving man I gulped entire Gospels at a reading, seeing while the magnificent drama of salvation." -pg. 139

""If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love!"" -pg. 161

""'Give thanks in ALL circumstances,'" she quoted. "It doesn't say, 'in pleasant circumstances.' Fleas are part of this place where God has put us." And so we stood between piers of bunks and gave thanks for fleas." -pg. 181

"And so I discovered that it is not on our forgiveness any more than on our goodness that the world's healing hinges, but on His. When He tells us to love our enemies, He gives, along with the command, the love itself." -pg. 215 ...more

2

Apr 18, 2017

This book is mistitled. Yes, there is a hiding place and yes, her family did hide Jews. However, it seems to be a small mention in the story. This is ten Boom's life story starting from a young age with the bulk centering around the WWII era. The main focus for ten Boom is her religion. There is a lot of worship and praying in this book and it is the reason for every action. For ten Boom, the fact she held on to this faith is downright amazing. It was what got her through the war. If you're a This book is mistitled. Yes, there is a hiding place and yes, her family did hide Jews. However, it seems to be a small mention in the story. This is ten Boom's life story starting from a young age with the bulk centering around the WWII era. The main focus for ten Boom is her religion. There is a lot of worship and praying in this book and it is the reason for every action. For ten Boom, the fact she held on to this faith is downright amazing. It was what got her through the war. If you're a religious person, you'll probably feel this book is very inspirational. If you're not, you might struggle to finish. Personally, I found it to be a bit too much especially when she was in the concentration camps. ...more

5

Apr 20, 2015

Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word…Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe…

What do you do when you are stripped of everything and everyone that you have ever known? The story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family who hid the Jews during the German occupation is compelling and one filled with faith. What kind of faith does it take first to help when fear is driving others to hate? It is the faith that looks to Jesus alone. It is by emptying yourself of your own will and taking Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word…Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe…

What do you do when you are stripped of everything and everyone that you have ever known? The story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family who hid the Jews during the German occupation is compelling and one filled with faith. What kind of faith does it take first to help when fear is driving others to hate? It is the faith that looks to Jesus alone. It is by emptying yourself of your own will and taking the will of the Father to love others in spite of the pain.

I loved Corrie’s father. He had wisdom of the love of God and passed it on to his children. When Corrie had fallen in love and was expecting her love to be returned, she was devastated when the young man introduced Corrie to his fiancé. Her father lovingly shared these words with her Corrie, he began instead, do you know what hurts so very much? It’s love. Love is the strongest force in the world, and when it is blocked that means pain. There are two things we can do when this happens. We can kill the love so that it stops hurting. Then of course part of us dies too, Or we can ask God to open another route for that love to travel.. Her father in wisdom taught his children never to run ahead of God that the Lord would give what was needed at the time. These words proved to be true in the worst of circumstances that many of us could never fathom.

Corrie and sister Betsie were taken to German work camp as sympathizers to the “Jew Problem”. There they were able to share their faith with other prisoners and to love their enemies with only the love of God can give. When Corrie was released, she continued the dream of her sister, to help bring the love of God to the hurting- to the wounded and the ones who wounded as all need the grace and love of God.

Corrie’s story is one of forgiveness; redemption and facing fear by empting ourselves that you only see Christ. Her story is one that will continue.

A Special Thank You to Chosen and Netgalley for ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
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5

Jun 08, 2015

I've read the unabridged version of this wonderful story of love, faith, and forgiveness many times, and this retains the essence of the original. Sentences are shorter, and some secondary elements (such as Corrie's new dress for the party) are removed, but it has the same feel, the same rhythm of the words. None of my favorite pieces were removed, whether Corrie's "ticket" or her praise of fleas. There are the same loving details about the watches, her father's simple but honest faith lived out I've read the unabridged version of this wonderful story of love, faith, and forgiveness many times, and this retains the essence of the original. Sentences are shorter, and some secondary elements (such as Corrie's new dress for the party) are removed, but it has the same feel, the same rhythm of the words. None of my favorite pieces were removed, whether Corrie's "ticket" or her praise of fleas. There are the same loving details about the watches, her father's simple but honest faith lived out in the world, the presence of kindness even in the most unexpected places, and of course the big question: How should a Christian act when evil is in power?

Every time I read Corrie's story, I discover something new. This most recent time it was that God convicts people differently about different things (Nollie and Corrie's disagreement reminded me of 1 Cor 8).

These are words written in love, not shrinking from the truth or from painful episodes, and now thoughtfully, carefully abridged with pencil drawings to illustrate key moments. It may be intended for children, but I enjoyed every moment.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more

5

May 22, 2015

orrie and her family own a watch shop in the Netherlands. But when World War II starts their loyalties are tested. They can't sit by and watch while thousands of Jews are killed. So they secretly alter their home to hid a few people. When someone betrays them they are all rounded up and sent to the concentration camps. Corrie and her sister Betsie must endure the most terrible conditions. Corrie is amazed at her sister's faith and learns to trust in God no matter the circumstances.

I loved the orrie and her family own a watch shop in the Netherlands. But when World War II starts their loyalties are tested. They can't sit by and watch while thousands of Jews are killed. So they secretly alter their home to hid a few people. When someone betrays them they are all rounded up and sent to the concentration camps. Corrie and her sister Betsie must endure the most terrible conditions. Corrie is amazed at her sister's faith and learns to trust in God no matter the circumstances.

I loved the adult version and was so excited to see an edited version for children. Both of my children enjoyed the book. Corrie Ten Boom is an amazing and inspiring woman. Her story reaches out to the young and old alike. It's one that I felt blessed to be able to share with my family. The black and white drawings were a plus with my young readers. The story, while dealing with harsh reality, didn't cross the line as far as too much information. This is a book I would recommend every household having in their library.

I received this book free of charge from Chosen in exchange for my honest review. ...more

5

Apr 20, 2015

The story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family offers a timeless example of the power of the Christian message during times of fear, pain and worry. Giving thanks for all things - good and bad - is a product of a Christ-filled life. This book , provided to me as part of the Goodreads First Reads program, is well written and easily readable for young adults and adults.

5

Apr 20, 2015

I think this is a must read. We hear/read about what the Jews went though but I never knew what the people that helped them stay safe. This was one book I could not put down. I never heard of Corrie Ten Boom before but I will never forget her and her family and what they did for the Jews and how they was able to forgive the enemy.

5

Apr 20, 2015

Even with the hard subject matter, this book brings joy to your heart.

4

May 18, 2017

Corrie is taking in jews because world war 2 is searching and killing jews. The problem is that they have to hide the jews because there are inspection and if you get caught hiding jews you be thrown in jail. I didn't really like the beginning of the book because it was boring and I didn't know anything that's going on. I liked the middle of the book because it was getting more and more intense.

5

Jun 06, 2015

Corrie ten Boom fell in love with Karel, who didn’t return her affections so she never married. She was perfectly content to live with her father in their unusual house/watchmaker store in Haarlem, Holland until the Nazis invaded and occupied Holland. Their world suddenly turned upside down, but Corrie and her family hid many Jews in the secret room, helping them to escape from the Nazis. However someone turned the Boom’s in to the Gestapo. They were arrested and all but Corrie died in the Corrie ten Boom fell in love with Karel, who didn’t return her affections so she never married. She was perfectly content to live with her father in their unusual house/watchmaker store in Haarlem, Holland until the Nazis invaded and occupied Holland. Their world suddenly turned upside down, but Corrie and her family hid many Jews in the secret room, helping them to escape from the Nazis. However someone turned the Boom’s in to the Gestapo. They were arrested and all but Corrie died in the Concentration Camp.

Corrie’s story is compelling and will tug at the deepest part of your heartstrings as it did mine. This is a book that will remain in my heart long after being read and especially when I hear or read anything connected to WWII. In spite of sure death for aiding the Jews should they be caught, the Boom family risked their lives to do just that, because they felt it was what God wanted them to do. They ultimately gave their lives so others could live. Their willingness to unconditionally obey God’s will brought tears to my eyes and deep soul searching my own faith.
In my opinion this is a must read book especially if you like true stories, life as it was during WWII and God’s abiding love and faith.

Disclosure: I was given a copy of this Book by the publisher, Chosen, a Division of Baker Publishing, for review. I was not required to write a favorable review nor was I compensated for my review. The opinions in this review are my own.
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0

May 21, 2015

I read The Hiding Place years ago and thought it was a great book depicting our past. I was curious to read the young reader's edition though. This edition is more compact and easier to read. There are multiple pictures/drawings as well that are kind of a nice addition. I don't think there are as many details as there are in the first edition but the book still tells the story or Corrie Ten Boom. I think it's perfect for younger readers because they won't be intimidated with a huge book and I read The Hiding Place years ago and thought it was a great book depicting our past. I was curious to read the young reader's edition though. This edition is more compact and easier to read. There are multiple pictures/drawings as well that are kind of a nice addition. I don't think there are as many details as there are in the first edition but the book still tells the story or Corrie Ten Boom. I think it's perfect for younger readers because they won't be intimidated with a huge book and still get the amazing true story. At the back of the book it talks about what has happened since this story and what Corrie Ten Boom went on to accomplish in her life. It's really an incredible story and I hope this book gets younger folks interested as well.
"I received this book from Chosen books for free in exchange for an honest review." ...more

4

Nov 03, 2015

I read this aloud to my daughter and couldn't help being choked up many times. The amazing story of a Dutch Christian who, with her sister and elderly father, hid Jews in her house and smuggled them to safety. Such a selfless family, motivated by love and faith. I read this as a child and still remember being fascinated with how they built an extra wall in a bedroom to make "the hiding place", then did all this treatment to the wall to make it look like it had been there for a hundred years.

I I read this aloud to my daughter and couldn't help being choked up many times. The amazing story of a Dutch Christian who, with her sister and elderly father, hid Jews in her house and smuggled them to safety. Such a selfless family, motivated by love and faith. I read this as a child and still remember being fascinated with how they built an extra wall in a bedroom to make "the hiding place", then did all this treatment to the wall to make it look like it had been there for a hundred years.

I can't help but compare this book to The Diary of Anne Frank, another wonderful book which I reread this year. Two very different but still similar stories of real experiences in WW2. ...more

5

Apr 22, 2015

This is a beautifully written book. It captured the awfulness of everything that happened during WWII but it gives such an amazing message of love instead of focusing on brutality and sadness. I loved it.

4

Sep 08, 2019

So glad my book club wanted to read this! A book of hope and encouragement!
"Lord, You are my secret hiding place,
protecting me from these troubles,
surrounding me with songs of gladness!
Your joyous shouts of rescue release my breakthrough."
Psalm 32:7 (TPT)

4

May 05, 2017

In this biography, Corrie is the main character and she is helping jews during the holocaust. Corrie builds a little hiding spot in her house to use as a safe room for jews in need of a place to stay. I enjoyed this book because not many people will risk their lives to help others who are in need. I like the fact that Corrie took the chance to help others even if it meant she would go to prison.

5

May 31, 2018

WOW. I can't believe I'm just now reading this after all I've heard about it over the years. I knew the basic story, but I loved reading the whole thing. I read the Young Readers version by accident -- I had downloaded both on my Kindle, both of which had the same title, and I incorrectly assumed that the one I was reading was the full version. Oh well. I'll read that one someday. I plan to read this version to my 5th grade class next year. This could possibly be my new favorite book! It's that WOW. I can't believe I'm just now reading this after all I've heard about it over the years. I knew the basic story, but I loved reading the whole thing. I read the Young Readers version by accident -- I had downloaded both on my Kindle, both of which had the same title, and I incorrectly assumed that the one I was reading was the full version. Oh well. I'll read that one someday. I plan to read this version to my 5th grade class next year. This could possibly be my new favorite book! It's that good! ...more

5

Dec 14, 2017

I read this book in no time at all. It made me sad knowingly people actually lived and died through and because of this evil leader. I pray this never happens again. If it should, I hope I can be as strong as Corrie and Betsie.

I highly recommend this book to everyone. This is true history. Very inspiring. It makes me want to be a better person.

5

Feb 15, 2019

Inspiring and Humbling

I was afraid of the horrors that I might read here. The inspiration of this book keeps you above them as Corrie and her sister Betsie were in their horrendous suffering. If I could have one molecule of their faith and trust in God I would be truly blessed. Well written easy read!

5

Nov 24, 2019

Fabulous book! I am glad they made a young readers edition! Corrie and her family’s faith is evident throughout their journey and the darkness shines with Jesus’ light! Eye opening and a true testament a lady and how her faith help her in her darkest times. (A must read, even if you aren’t a believer)

5

Nov 19, 2019

You won’t help but to be moved to tears from the Miracles of God.

This story will help you to understand how to get through life’s toughest trials. By the acknowledgment of Gods power and thankfulness of His Grace. Ask yourself, how can you be thankful in times of death and desolation? Read this book and you’ll find out.

5

Jan 05, 2018

The Real Thing

I’m both challenged and encouraged by this story. Corrie was used by The Lord in spite her imperfections. And she admitted those imperfections freely. I pray that I would recognize my “Betsie”!

5

Sep 12, 2019

One of the better young readers adaptations that are so common now. This could be read to children as young as 8 assuming they are mature enough to hear about the concentration camps. It's not graphic. Best age range fit is probably 10-12 year olds.

5

May 12, 2019

I read this out loud to my 13 year old! I think it was appropriately abridged. Of course I loved the unabridged. But this was perfect for young readers in introducing them to this time period and the amazing ladies that were Corrie and Betsie Ten Boom.