Prince Emmanuel’s heart is set on the city of Mansoul. For a time, they flourish in the love of His father, King Shaddai. Yet, an imposter comes and steals the allegiance of the creatures. At each turn, Diabolus seizes the hearts and minds of Mansoul…and the city falls.

King Shaddai sends messengers to Ear-Gate, but the creatures won’t hear. They declare war, led by the dragon they chose to rule in Heart Castle. Then, blackest night descends when Prince Emmanuel is consumed by the fire which fell toward Mansoul.

Can the city ever rise from such a fall?

This is The Fall and Rise of Mansoul, book one in the Mansoul Chronicles, by Tyler Van Halteren!

A powerful allegory, based on John Bunyan’s The Holy War and rewritten for children ages 6-12. It’s designed to be a family read-aloud, including clarity on the allegory in each chapter and discussion questions. Older children may pick out the allegory without help and enjoy simply reading through the story, like my youngest sister did!

I have yet to read The Holy War in its originality, but the threads of allegory are very similar to Bunyan’s voice. Anyone familiar with The Pilgrim’s Progress will find this adaptation equally intriguing, meaningful, and delightfully captivating.

It’s beautifully illustrated! Each page is decorative, vibrant, and interesting. While there is clear distinction between dark and light in the pictures, the evils are not gruesome or graphic. The implications may be heavy, but the illustrations are healthy for imaginative minds – young and old alike.

The use of creatures instead of people in the retelling adds a layer of friendliness for children. They are able to connect to the story quickly.

While it has a focus on spiritual warfare, The Fall and Rise of Mansoul is focused on God’s sovereignty and love for His fallen creation. It portrays the tactics of Satan against the souls of men without the intention of frightening. A much-needed addition to a Kingdom-seeking library with young souls!

The storyline is also engaging and quite Biblically based. I loved how many Scripture verses I could spot that were used to frame the dialogue!

I’m raising a Hallelu Yah! Praise be to the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me! He has died once for all, the godly for the ungodly, to bring me to God, so I enjoy loving fellowship with Him forevermore as I walk freely in His commands! Hallelu Yah!
(Galatians 2:20, 1 Peter 3:18, 1 John 1:7, Psalm 119:32)

If you need a novella-length book for your young reader that clearly points them to Christ and engages them with fantastical creatures – that you could even read together – look no further!

Plus, there’s already a sequel and who doesn’t need another Kingdom-seeking series?

Pick up The Fall and Rise of Mansoul and experience what happens when Emmanuel sets His heart on the souls of man!