Mr. Pipes Comes to America by Bond Douglas - Book Report/Review Example

The book is separated into 12 chapters with each chapter covering a particular hymn writer. The only exception is chapters one and twelve which cover other topics. Through each chapter, Mr. Pipes teaches Annie and Drew about hymn writers. The book also outlines what makes a good hymn, poetry, and music. The two children also learn how to praise God through the use of hymns.Mr. Pipes Comes to America covers not only well-known hymn writers such as John Newton, Isaac Watts, and Martin Luther, but also less known ones such as John Elliot, Phillip Nicolai, and many others.

Some of the hymns highlighted include; “Great God of Wonders” (Samuel Davies), “I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord” (Timothy Dwight), “Lord, with Glowing Heart I’d Praise Thee” (Francis Scott Key), “O Little Town of Bethlehem” (Phillips Brooks) and “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” (Ray Palmer) and many others. In addition, the book also includes all the words for many hymns, as well as music for some of them, this is invaluable since they can be played at home using some musical instruments The main ideas that are continuously being put across through the book and being promoted and constantly reinforced are Godly behavior, the importance of understanding and sharing the bible, contrasting good hymnody and shallow songs, appropriate music and poetry.

Other key concepts being expressed are stories of great men of faith and doctrine.The book is a blessing especially to young Christians and their spiritual growth. With regards to spiritual content, the book’s characters, Mr. Pipes and the children Annie and Drew are Christians and most of their conversations are on the topic of God and Christian hymns. Aspects of violence are rare except on the topic of slavery which is discussed, as well as the American war of independence and some minor tragedies that relate to the writing of particular hymns.

The book also uses mostly clean language, except for a passage wherein a moment of frustration calls the children “blighters” and occasionally makes use of phrases such as “dash it all”The book provides readers with a wealth of inspiring information regarding the lives of famous American hymn writers. As was with the case of the first two books, this third volume is narrated with a great sense of humor that definitely amuses the reader and keeps them interested in reading more. Mr. Pipes comes to America is a pleasant and enjoyable book.

The book aims at challenging the revivalist mentality which directed hymns as well as hymnology for a long time, and in its stead encourages hymns which are composed of solid scriptural and musical foundations.ConclusionIn conclusion, Mr. Bond’s wonderful book enlightens the reader to many fascinating biographies of the fathers and mothers of hymns. It tells the story in an interesting way which makes it appeal to even young children. The storyline is charming and children will definitely read it for the mere pleasure of it. Mr. Pipes teaches an excellent course on great church hymnody effortlessly and very enjoyable to all readers.