"Tales of the Resistance" by David & Karen Mains

In this sequel to the beloved allegory "Tales of the Kingdom," our main character, Hero, is leaving the safety of Great Park to follow the King to the dark world of Enchanted City. It is almost time for the restoration of the kingdom, and there is work to do in preparing the hearts of those still enslaved to the Enchanter. Hero has grown since he was a scared boy fleeing for his freedom, but he will be challenged again in being a missionary in the world that left once him scarred and lonely.

There are many working for the King in a hidden capacity. Hero discovers and joins the Taxi Resistance, led by mastermind Big Operator, who runs daring rescue missions for those most in need of protection from the Enchanter. They challenge his heralds by honking to confirm whether the news proclaimed throughout the city is true or false. They run back-up for those who scout the streets and are in greater danger of being discovered.

The King Himself is present in Enchated City, calling unto Himself those who are unloved and trapped and forsaken. The Enchanter grows angry and more desperate to capture this upstart challenger. Then comes the black night when the King is arrested and put on trial. When it appears evil will triumph, the restoration is nearer than any of his followers can guess.

This winter I read these stories to my young Wednesday night Bible class, drawing out Biblical insights from each chapter. There were some chapters that I skipped over, feeling them a little bleaker than my 1st-3rd graders needed to dwell upon, but each one is good and full of truth. Maybe someday we will get back to the third book, "Tales of the Restoration," but for now we're taking a break from allegories and getting back to straight Bible stories. I believe these books gave the children some good things to think about, and they remain a much-loved part of my own childhood reading memories.