Rating: My bookshelf

Reading Level: Early Elementary

What a gem! Set in medieval England, The Door in the Wall follows a young boy who has been abandoned by his caregivers and is paralyzed from the waist down. A monk takes him in and teaches him to persevere…. To keep searching until he finds a door in the wall.

Things I love:

  • The monk is a beautiful picture of patience, kindness, wisdom, and love. How refreshing to have a character who so clearly shires the love of God.
  • Robin grows from a spoiled, frustrated brat to a capable patient, brave youth. It is a delight to observe his growth.
  • Robin’s weakness—being paralyzed—ends up being able to serve to his advantage later when he needs to be brave and risk his life for his new adopted family.

Things I don’t like

  • NOTHING!!!

The book is clean, with strong themes, and lovely messages. The accents were a bit tough at times to understand, and sometimes the plot was slow moving, but well worth it if your reader can stick with it!

Essay/Discussion Questions:

  1. Brother Luke is Patient, kind, devout and wise. He cares for Robin and encourages him to pursue meaningful interests. Who is the “Brother Luke” in your life? How does this person reflect God’s love to you?
  2. Robin’s weaknesses end up helping him cross the fields to get help. What are your weaknesses? How might they help God use you for His purposes?
  3. Robin’s obedience to Brother Luke swimming even in cold water helped him later on when he needed to cross the cold river. What your your skills you’re developing so you can help your family or others when they need it? Can you think of other ways you can grow to prepare for when they’re needed? Remember: God doesn’t expect you to be amazing at everything; ask his help discerning where to invest!