The Missing Link: Found

The Missing Link: Found is part of the Truth Seekers Mystery Series published by Media Angels. It tells the story of the Murphy family; specifically 16 year old Christian, his younger sister Anna, and their father. When Dr. Murphy's brother becomes ill, they are called to help at the anthropological dig where the missing link has supposedly been discovered. They enjoy adventures and learning as they discover that everything is not always as it seems.

The authors, Christina and Felice Gerwitz, are a mother/daughter team. Christina, a homeschooler herself, came up with the idea for writing the story at age twelve and finished at age seventeen. The Truth Seekers Mystery Series can be used along with Media Angels Creation Science, and may be a more enjoyable way to learn facts than merely reading them in a textbook.

One thing I liked is that they do a good job of being respectful to characters in the story who do not believe as they do. In fact, in the back of the book they state, "We tried to portray those who believe in Evolution and those who believe in Creation in a truthful manner. Stating both viewpoints help to make the positions understood...each should learn what the other believes and attempt to make inroads into finding a common ground so truth may be known on all accounts. While the writers of this book are believers in the Biblical account of Creation, our focus was not to put one group down by elevating another." I like that there was no belittling of those who disagree with the authors' worldview. There is too much of that sometimes, on both ends of the spectrum, and it does little to promote either viewpoint.

Felice Gerwitz seems to be a wonderful person, and I love that this was written by a homeschooler, so I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately, I found it to be a tough read. The story itself held some interest but the writing style was difficult. The intended audience is reluctant readers of the "tween age" and they may enjoy it more. I did give it to my thirteen year old to read (Jonathon Parks fan) and he had the same experience as I did, although he is not a reluctant reader. I'm thinking if this was offered as an alternative to a textbook with the same information, it may be very appealing to the student. Facts are always more fun when entwined in story!

For help in using this novel in a homeschool setting, there are literature guides available as well. The book itself is $8.99 and the literature guide is $6.50 on their site. There are other books and guides available in the series as well, as well as book and guide sets. Please see Media Angels for more information.