Voyage with the Vikings by Marianne Hering and Paul McCusker is the first in The Adventures in Odyssey Imagination Station Series. These chapter books were created by a partnership of Tyndale House Publishers and Focus on the Family and intended for elementary aged readers, 7 and up.

Cousins Beth and Patrick ask Mr. Whittaker if they can go inside his Imagination Station, which is a kind of time machine that looks a little like a helicopter. First, he sends them to the costume closet, to dress up like Vikings.

A mysterious note appears in the machine, giving them a quest to fulfill. It is signed, Albert. After some instructions from Mr. Whittaker on how to operate the machine and how to get home, the children are off on an adventure!

Arriving on a Viking boat, the two of them sail toward a village. They see a polar bear and many reindeer. They meet Erik the Red, his wife Hilda, and their son Leif Erikson.

The author weaves in interesting historical detail into each scene. Patrick sees the contrast between the gods of war and the God of Peace. He shows kindness to his enemy. Beth uses her skill at chess to pursue their quest. All the time, the Vikings are watching their behavior, learning about Christians.

When they return home, they talk over their trip and what they have learned with Mr. Whittaker. Then another note mysteriously appears, and they are promised a trip to Rome!

These books will teach young readers about geography, history, and faith, all wrapped up in fun adventures. There are black and white drawings throughout each book. This story is about 100 pages long, with a secret word puzzle at the end.

You can find The Imagination Station Series at Christian bookstores, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Christianbook.com. The books are  available in print and as e-books. They are reasonably priced. I think the kids who read these books will have fun and learn something as well. Happy reading!

Donna Fujimoto’s children love to read. She is a graduate of Alliance Theological Seminary. Her collection of short stories, 9 Slightly Strange Stories with an Uplifting Edge  is available as an e-book at Amazon.