Book Review: The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls: The Complete Series
The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls: The Complete Series – A Captivating Adventure Through Time and Faith
Introduction: A Journey Through Biblical History with a Dash of Magic
Imagine stumbling upon ancient scrolls that whisk you away to pivotal moments in biblical history—where you witness miracles, face danger, and uncover divine truths. That’s exactly what happens in The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls: The Complete Series by M. J. Thomas, a thrilling middle-grade adventure series that blends time travel, mystery, and faith-based storytelling.
This complete collection is perfect for young readers (and the young at heart) who love action-packed stories with deeper spiritual lessons. Whether you’re a parent looking for wholesome books for your child or a fan of biblical fiction, this series delivers excitement, heart, and a fresh perspective on well-known Bible stories.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the plot, characters, writing style, themes, and why this series stands out in the genre of Christian children’s literature.
Plot Summary: Time-Traveling Adventures with a Purpose
The series follows siblings Peter and Mary, who, while staying with their archaeologist uncle, discover a set of mysterious scrolls. These scrolls transport them back in time to key moments in biblical history—from the Garden of Eden to the fiery furnace of Babylon. Each book in the series focuses on a different adventure, where the siblings must solve a riddle or overcome a challenge before time runs out, or they’ll be stuck in the past forever.
Without giving away major spoilers, here’s a glimpse of what readers can expect:
- Book 1: The Beginning – Peter and Mary witness the creation of the world and meet Adam and Eve.
- Book 2: Race to the Ark – They find themselves aboard Noah’s Ark, racing against time before the floodwaters rise.
- Book 3: The Great Escape – They experience the Exodus and the parting of the Red Sea.
- And more! (The complete series includes all nine books, covering Daniel in the lions’ den, the birth of Jesus, and other pivotal events.)
The structure keeps readers engaged, as each book is a self-contained adventure while contributing to an overarching mystery about the scrolls’ origins.
Character Analysis: Relatable Heroes and Timeless Lessons
Peter & Mary – Courageous and Curious Siblings
Peter is the adventurous, sometimes impulsive older brother, while Mary is the thoughtful, observant younger sister. Their dynamic feels authentic—they bicker, protect each other, and grow in faith throughout their journeys.
What makes them compelling is their relatability. They’re not perfect; they make mistakes, get scared, and sometimes doubt. But they also learn to trust in God’s plan, making their character arcs both inspiring and realistic for young readers.
Supporting Characters – Biblical Figures Come to Life
From Noah to Moses, the biblical characters are portrayed with warmth and depth. Thomas does an excellent job making these figures approachable while staying true to their scriptural roots. The Great Lion (a recurring guide) adds a Chronicles of Narnia-esque touch, serving as a wise, protective presence.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Fast-Paced and Immersive
M. J. Thomas crafts a narrative that’s:
- Fast-paced – Short chapters and cliffhangers keep kids turning pages.
- Descriptive yet accessible – The settings (like the Garden of Eden or Pharaoh’s palace) are vividly painted without overwhelming younger readers.
- Dialogue-driven – Conversations feel natural, helping to convey lessons without preaching.
The blend of adventure and faith is seamless, making it enjoyable even for readers who might not typically pick up religious fiction.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: Faith, Courage, and Divine Purpose
Beyond the excitement, the series explores profound themes:
- Trusting in God’s plan – Peter and Mary often face impossible odds but learn that faith can move mountains.
- The power of truth – Each scroll reveals a biblical truth, reinforcing moral lessons without feeling forced.
- Courage in adversity – Whether standing before a king or facing a lion’s den, the characters model bravery rooted in belief.
These themes are woven naturally into the story, making them impactful rather than didactic.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Series Stands Out
As someone who enjoys both middle-grade fiction and biblical storytelling, I was impressed by how The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls balances entertainment with education. The adventures are thrilling—I found myself rooting for Peter and Mary as they raced against time—but the spiritual takeaways lingered long after I finished reading.
Parents will appreciate how the series makes Bible stories engaging for kids who might otherwise find them dry. The time-travel element adds a fresh twist, making ancient events feel immediate and exciting.
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of The Magic Tree House will enjoy the time-traveling sibling duo, while those who love Chronicles of Narnia will appreciate the allegorical depth. However, Hidden Scrolls stands out for its direct biblical focus, offering a unique bridge between adventure fiction and faith-based learning.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Engaging storytelling – Never a dull moment; perfect for reluctant readers.
✅ Strong moral foundation – Teaches values without sacrificing fun.
✅ Great for family reading – Parents and kids can enjoy it together.
Minor Weaknesses:
⚠️ Some predictability – Given the biblical basis, older readers may guess outcomes.
⚠️ Simplistic at times – Depth varies between books, with some feeling more developed than others.
Target Audience: Who Should Read This?
- Kids aged 7-12 (especially those who love adventure and mysteries).
- Christian families looking for faith-based entertainment.
- Homeschoolers & educators – Great for supplementing Bible lessons.
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“The scrolls are more than just paper and ink. They’re a doorway to truth.”
“Sometimes the hardest battles are the ones you can’t see.”
These lines capture the series’ heart—adventure with a deeper purpose.
Cultural & Historical Context
The series stays faithful to biblical accounts while making them accessible. Parents can use these stories as springboards for discussions about history, faith, and morality.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Young Adventurers
The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls: The Complete Series is a gem in children’s Christian literature. It’s fun, fast-paced, and full of heart—perfect for sparking a love of reading and faith in young minds.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- Which biblical adventure would you want to experience?
- How do Peter and Mary’s personalities complement each other?
- What lessons did you take away from the series?
Have you read The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.
For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.