You're Not Alone by Elaine Sequeira

This is an entertaining novel for teen readers, reminding me of the style of Pilgrim's Progress. The plot involves two American teens, Dave and Tim, bicycling off to get the doctor. Dave's father is dying of cancer and is in great pain. The doctor is not home and the boys are given directions to seek another person who could possibly help them. Winding down a country road, the boys soon find themselves in a different place and a different time.

The boys have many adventures from fighting off wild animals to helping the injured. Their experiences are often obstacles to faith and finding the healer they seek. They meet biblical characters and experience the reality of the events around Jesus' death and resurrection. At least one of the foes they battle is a supernatural being. Sequeira has done a great deal of research and her descriptions of people and places are very good. She has also included examples of the boys learning lessons, like helping others.

This novel is a good way to get teen readers to experience an example of pursuing faith while overcoming obstacles, such as fear. I would suggest the reading level for this book be that of upper teens as the story of the woman caught in adultery is told with a bit more detail. While there is nothing offensive in the woman's story, I don't think it would be appropriate for young readers. Other than that, the writing style is engaging and the novel is informative, inspiring, and entertaining.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Elaine Sequeira lives in the little beach town of Coronado in the Republic of Panama. She majored in English Literature and worked in the advertising industry, moving to the fast-paced arena of trading currencies and futures until she found a more thrilling venture of writing mystical tales. A Catholic and a questioner, she views life through the filter of faith. For more information, go to www.ElaineSequeira.com.

Elaine Sequeira Books, 405 pp.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)