Adventures in God's Country

Leslea Wahl reviews a new Catholic story that gives kids and families a glimpse into the lives of a homeschooling family. 

Adventures in God's Country

By Amanda Evinger; illustrated by Grace Gra-Fix Design

Published by En Route Books & Media

Adventures in God’s Country is a beautiful, wholesome read for the entire family. This story, which focuses on one family, is set in rural North Dakota in the 1980s and highlights the stories and struggles of real North Dakota families. The author did an exceptional job of bringing to life a simpler time and the beauty of a large, close-knit family. The passages about their life on the farm, within a faith-filled community, added a lovely touch of nostalgia to the story.

Instead of one specific storyline and plot, the book is a series of adventures that occur during one year in the life of the Schantz family. The reader really gets to know the many family members and their unique personalities through the lovely illustrations and heartwarming stories. The format of this book reminded me of some of the Little House on the Prairie books I had read with my children years ago — part historical fiction and part memoir.

The most fascinating aspect to me was when the family made the decision to homeschool their children. It was an eye-opening reminder that not that long ago, homeschooling wasn’t very common, and families sometimes faced severe backlash. This is the first in a series about this family and does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. I’m looking forward to discovering what happens next. If you’re looking for a wholesome story to read as a family to encourage discussions about various topics, this story might be a great choice.

Summary:

Amanda Evinger’s Adventures in God’s Country is a warmly illustrated children’s story collection celebrating faith, family life, and the joys of rural Catholic homeschooling. Drawing on real-life inspirations, the narratives portray everyday challenges, acts of courage, and moments of grace that shape young hearts. Through wholesome adventures and devotional themes, the book encourages readers to cherish Christian values, perseverance, and the beauty of community rooted in trust in God.

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Copyright 2026 Leslea Wahl
Images: (top) detail from cover