Toward Heaven: Elizabeth Payton Prentiss

Warne's Star Series. This volume also appears under the titles of The Percys; A Mother's Influence and Ever Heavenward. (Not to be confused with Stepping Heavenward.) First published in 1870, we learn that Mr. Percy has decided to send his older children to school hours away in New York City, resulting in many changes to his whole family. Mrs. Percy is broken-hearted but agrees to let them go, as her husband is convinced that the trials and temptations of school will help the children grow in their Christian faith. Through personal letters, we learn about life at boarding school and its challenges, as well as events back at home. With realism and humor, the author draws the reader into to this loving family and makes one feel at home among them. They are not without their struggles andtroubles but comic relief is provided by twin brothers Rio and Lio and the clumsy Daisy. Mrs. Percy is the real hero of the story, as she guides her flock, teaching them love for God above all.