George MacDonald has a gift for seeing beneath the surface, and through the medium of his fiction, reveals truths we all need to acknowlege within ourselves inorder to proceed on our earthly journey to nearness with God. In this particular story, the most touching feature is the character Cosmo, and his love for his father on earth which developes into love for his Father in Heaven. The excitement of the story makes it difficult to put it down, as we follow Cosmo on his journey to discover the meaning behind a seemingly nonsense rhyme told him by an old woman, which becomes the key to learning his family's history and opens the door to adventure in the old castle, which he dearly loves and is always a hairsbreadth away from losing due to the poverty into which he has fallen. I have read several of MacDonald's books, but this is the first one that is not a revised edited version and is directly from the original. The Scottish dialect is a little tricky to grasp at first, but once I got the feel for it, it was easy to understand and added something to the story. And as for all the preaching and comments removed in modern editions, I wouldn't trade any of it for the world. For me, it helped make the story valuable, inspirational, and thought provoking. Truly a book I would recommend for anyone looking for nourishment on their spiritual path, or for anyone who enjoys a story with mystery, drama, and excitement.

Of all MacDonald novels, this is among my favorites and, perhaps, for that very reason, one of the most difficult for me to suitably and satisfactorily describe. It is unlikely that I call it a favorite because it contains the most profound of spiritual truths, nor is the plot in any manner unusual or extraordinary. No, such is not the case, for all MacDonald books are generously interspersed with the much needed, though too often neglected, Biblical insights and verities. The plot, while ever engrossing, entertaining, heartwarming, and, at times, spellbinding, was merely the vehicle by which MacDonald could communicate his unwavering love of God. It just so happens that this book was my introduction to George MacDonald, and, as a result, I have become inextricably attached to the various characters, particularly Cosmo's father, "The Laird," a man who lived only to serve and obey his Master by serving and loving His people.

Cosmo was indeed a fortunate and richly blessed young man. For, while his earthly existence was little more than the barest subsistence, his father, through every thought, word, and deed ever directed him to His heavenly Father, where life was found not in that which feeds the body, but in those precious things that sustain and invigorate the soul and set the spirit free. There is evinced a deep and abiding love between father and son; a love so great, so pure, so real that no external circumstance is able to weaken or diminish the bonds that not only join, but serve as conduits between, these two, dear hearts.

Travel back to the Scotland where the 'Castle' was but a symbol of what once had been a mighty and proud people. Visit the site of Cosmo Warlock's birth, the harsh, barren Scottish Highlands; a place of haunting beauty and unforgiving reality. Walk the heather-covered hills with young Cosmo as he discovers the true meaning of life-its greatest value and only duty.

You are invited to explore a world that no longer exists. As a result of social, economic, and political upheaval, the Scotland of young Cosmo exists only in the literature of individuals such as George MacDonald and the imaginations of those who share his illustrious works. Yet the very truths conveyed through the pages of this book are as germane, as vital, as real, and as essentially necessary in this, the present, as they were when MacDonald roamed the Highlands of Scotland.

With such an amazing perception of human nature (complete with lumps and hard angles we all have but many authors ignore) George makes the characters live outside of the paper it is written on. There are times when you wish to reach through the pages of the novel and shake Hugh and yell "Don't you see? Watch out for the..." Of course you feel silly talking to the book but great ones will do that to a person, and assuredly, this is a great book. Full of truth (from one who was close to it) and unique and subtle twists, George touches on so many subjects and thoughts that the Victorian era seems alive to the modern reader. Keep a notepad handy to record all the wonderfully concise quotes in this gem.

David Elginbrod is a remarkable work in that it embodies the finest elements of style, characterization, plot and subplot development, and, of course, content or worth. Without appropriate content a book is a virtual wasteland after which the disillusioned reader feels as though he has sojourned in the desert, and, having encountered numerous mirages that promised but failed to provide relief, finds himself parched in spirit and soul with no oasis in sight.

This book will elicit the full gamut of emotions as well as provide a welcome array of spiritual and intellectual stimuli. The main character, Hugh Sutherland, is introduced as a congenial young man who wishes no more than to make his way in the world. After the death of his father he is forced by financial constraints to seek employment in order to complete his education. This employment is, of course, as a tutor on a small Scottish estate where he encounters the estate foreman or steward, David Elginbrod and his daughter, Margaret or Maggie.

Sutherland finds the Elginbrod family, although Christian in word and deed, to his liking when compared with the severe and mean manner of his employer. As a result, he finds himself at the Elginbrod cottage whenever time will permit, and begins tutoring both father and daughter. Although Hugh believes himself to be the educator, he will learn as he matures and discovers the various trials and tribulations that lie in his path that it was David, not he, who was, in fact, the real tutor.

MacDonald has excelled in the characters of David and Margaret Elginbrod, while providing a practical application of their teachings in the lives of Hugh Sutherland and those with whom he comes in contact.

Not only an exceptional spiritual work, David Elginbrod weaves a tale of ghosts, mysticism, the supernatural, and love in such a manner as to be both educational, spiritually-uplifting, and spellbinding. My sole regret was when I encountered the final page. I was prepared to begin anew.

I invite you to join Hugh Sutherland as he learns that it is not position, education, prominence, or power that makes a man, but the willingness to serve, with joy and humility, his fellowman thereby doing his Father's will.

I don't know if there is an american equivalent, maybe you could consider it a bunch of short stories of British Military life post WWII. A military that is similar to MASH you could say, but only in a way that is distinctly British

The sequel to "The General danced at Dawn"; further hilarious and touching adventures of a "one pipper" and his highland regiment. For me, this is Prozac in paperback; never fails to bring a smile.

MacDonald's skill in imagery and storytelling are exemplified by this memorable fairy tale. One of those wonderful rare books that's extremely accessible and "light", but also is deeply stirring and has lasting weight. I'm sure it's one I'll enjoy reading to my kids.

I absolutely love this story! George MacDonald has a lovely sort of grandfatherly style, and this is perfect to be divided up as a series of bedtime stories. A boy who has never seen night and a girl who has never seen day help each other cope with their fears. It is available online if you don't mind digging a little. Otherwise, you'll have to wait for them to find it for you. E-mail me if you want the address for the online e-text version. It doesn't quite have the charm of an actual book, but if it's all you've got, it's better than nothing.

It took me quite awhile to get through this book only because it was very thought provoking. I would read a small section and then sit and reflect on it. Even though I disagreed on a few issues, it was worth the read to reflect on another opinion and solidify my own. I feel I drew closer to God. Having read the poems introducing the chapters, I now want to read other MacDonald poems. I also liked the connections at the end of each chapter to MacDonald's fiction.

HAVE YOU EVER LISTENED TO SOMEONE PRAY AND ACTUALLY "FELT" AS IF GOD WAS STANDING RIGHT THERE LISTENING?

THAT'S THE WAY I FEEL WHEN I READ THIS BOOK - IT'S ALMOST AS IF GOD IS TURNING THE PAGES.

THIS IS NOT LIGHT READING, NOR IS IT FILLED WITH CLICHES. FOR THE READER WHO WANTS IN-DEPTH REALITY ON THE PERSON OF GOD INTERSPERSED WITH SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL POETRY IMAGINABLE, THIS IS ON MY ALL-TIME FAVORITE LIST. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR!

The Lost Princess, along with At the Back of the North Wind is truly MacDonald at his best. Through the help of a wise woman, two spoiled girls, "princesses" in their own homes learn to see themselves as they really are and find out how to change. A learning experience for all who read.

This wonderful story is my favorite of all George Macdonald's fairy stories. The great mistake here is to assume that fairy stories are for children. This is an inspiring and soul-searching story for readers of all ages. A wise old woman brings purity and character to the heart of an arrogant selfish princess, helping her to become a TRUE princess.

The Hero-System is one of the most experienced Role-Playing Systems around. This system is what you call a Universal System, it can be used for every setting, every power level and every time. From Dark Fantasy to Space opera, From Colourful Comics to Cyberpunk. This system has it all. The book is also full of examples and the rules are easy to understand. This is one book any Role-Player, from starter to experienced can't afford to miss. You won't need any source books (though there's a great wealth of them) this book is all you need. In short, buy it!

The Hero system rulebook is the only book you need to start roleplaying now, wether you want to play a Highfantasy or superhero game, it doesnt matter, this system tackles all genre. With detailed battle mechanics and a efficient magic system, this game is the best of both worlds, Order this game today!

One of the more challenging books I've read but well worth the effort. MacDonald weaves a wonderful story about a vicar and his family. Hamilton did a great thing when he edited this trilogy for generations to come. Take up the challenge and end up with a jewel of a book!

A lovely collection of stories. A delight in today's sea of romances. Very thought provoking. Recommended for adult and young adult alike.

The very best George MacDonald book.

Alister, who had inherited but the little that remained of the land which had begrudging provided his once-mighty and still-proud clan a meager subsistence-the land known as Strathruadh-, was finding it increasingly difficult to care for his beloved people. The very land on which the village stood was now the property of a lowlander-a man who cared for neither the land nor the people, but whose sole interest lay in his investment, prestige, and prominence. The small portion of land remaining to Alister was his to farm, to nurture, to love. Oh, how he loved this hard, barren, hilly, heather-covered, wasteland. But God loved Alister far more than Alister could love the land, and, as a result, a sacrifice must be made. Alister must be made to choose between the seen and unseen; must be made to understand that ownership is not to own. God created and retains ownership of all things. We are given but a brief stint upon this earth that we may learn that which He would have us learn.

While Alister found the sacrifice far greater than he ever thought he could bear, with the aid of his brother Ian ( a man who, quite possibly, walked midst the Angels), Alister did that which must be done-obey his God, and with obedience came understanding, and with understanding, peace.

Welcome to the world of ancient Scotland, where the people appear as hard as the land upon which they live. Explore their lives, their loves, their dreams, and their hopes. Discover that which we must all eventually learn if we are to ever know true life.

This is a wonderful story of a young man who, in order to raise enough money to return to University, takes a job as a tutor at a wealthy estate. He soon finds love and nurturing, however, from a simple pious Scotch family nearby. Though his travels take him off to England and eventually to London he never completely forgets the valuable lessons that his spiritual father instilled in him. This story has ghosts, haunted mansions, secret passages, hypnotism, magic rings, songs, poems, beautiful ladies and sinister villans. The individual characters are expertly developed and extremely complex in their behaviors. I also recomend that you get the full length version from Sunrise Publishers or Johannesen Printing & Publishing entitled "David Elginbrod". The first 80 pages are a little difficult because of the Scotch dialect, but can be easily figured out.

This is an updated, easier-to-read version of George MacDonald's novel _David_Elginbrod_. With his bits of poetic theology, he leads the characters and the reader to ultimate freedom from paralyzing fear. It tooks months for me to realize how much _The_Tutor's_First_Love_ affected my life because the truths in this book are not gaudy or sensational but they slowly replace fear with faith. The revival of the works of George MacDonald is truly a Godsend.