Christian Author & Story
Sugar Creek Gang - The Swamp Robber
VERDICT: HIGHLY Recommended
(with caution)
Concern Level: Medium-Low

Concern LevelMedium-Low
Concerning & Potentially Concerning Content
The boys grab weapons (e.g., a slingshot) and head out to go investigate something mysterious without telling their parents. This is one of a handful of occurrences like this. In fact, in one instance a boy heads off to tell his parent what is going on, but is eventually talked out of it. It is really important to talk to your kids about these things that make stories interesting, but would be extremely dangerous in real life. The bad guy also makes a couple of threats, but the book never feels too intense. One of the friends’ fathers is an alcoholic, but this is held in a very negative light. Finally, kids should be made aware that the book uses the term “gang” in a much different context than the negative way it is thought of today.
VerdictHIGHLY Recommended
Our Thoughts
There is so much good here we won’t be able to cover nearly all of it. The most important thing is that this book weaves sin, repentance and salvation from a kid’s point of view into an enjoyable story kids (especially boys) can relate to. Many of the faith-based observations on faith from a child’s perspective are truly insightful. Godly friendships are a primary focus, with certain kids being held up as godly examples to follow. Kids and parents alike pray, go to church, challenge each other and more. Family is held in high regard also, primarily through the excellent examples of the main character’s mom and dad. This looks to be a series with dozens of shorter books that are not only safe, but truly good.
Plot SummaryNote: This information is typically from the publisher.
The Sugar Creek Gang series chronicles the faith-building adventures of a group of fun-loving, courageous Christian boys. These classic stories have been inspiring children to grow in their faith for more than five decades. Children continue to grow up relating to members of the gang as they struggle with the application of their Christian faith to the adventure of life. The Sugar Creek Gang discovers a 'disguise' hidden in a sycamore hollow. Does it belong to the bank robber hiding in the swamp? A mysterious map hidden near the tree proves to be even more exciting than the disguise. Before the adventure ends, the gang encounters the robber, helps Bill Collins welcome a new baby sister, and saves the victim of a black widow spider bite. Join Bill and the rest of the Sugar Creek Gang as they learn the lesson of 'sowing' and 'reaping.' Recommended for ages 8 to 11.
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Read ReviewTherefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'
— 1 Peter 1:13-16
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