Books published by publisher Curiosmith

Jessica, an inquisitive barefoot girl, took an interest in the coffee stall run by Daniel. Following Daniel into a strange building she began an adventure that will change her life. Jessica knows little about God's love, but has an inquisitive mind showing that a person who seeks eventually finds God. This is one of Hesba Stretton's most popular tales, a touching story first published in 1867. This edition includes 9 illustrations.

Young Eric was disappointed as he sat trying to get well. Captain Graham, a stranger he met on the beach, became a good friend. One day his dog retrieved an old book, the Gospel of Mark, from the ocean and it was used by God for opening his mind to Jesus. Eventually Eric’s whole disposition was changed and he was made happy in Christ. Eric became a positive influence in the lives of those around him. A quote from the book: “’Ah! well!’ he muttered, ‘I envy that child’s faith and happiness, and more than half feel inclined to follow his example. It is not a religion he has got hold of, but a real Person—it makes a vast difference, I fancy!’”

The Fern family lived peaceably in their hollow for two generations. Stephen was a hardworking coal miner and cared for his family. When a miserly landowner told them they must move out, he stood upon his vow to his father. Love for his enemies proved difficult to accomplish. This wonderful story is filled with many Bible verses and spiritual discussions. Five illustrations compliment this edition.

Little Henry was raised in India by his bearer, a servant who takes care of children. He was taught the Hindu religion until a missionary lady from England taught him about Jesus Christ, and he embraced salvation wholeheartedly. When she left she told him, by God’s grace, to try to bring his bearer to Christ. It wasn’t until Henry was on his deathbed, at 8 years old, did his bearer come to Christ. This narrative was very popular in the early 19th century and reportedly sold numerous editions and was translated into many languages.

The "Force of Truth" is an autobiographical account of how Rev. Thomas Scott came to his evangelical convictions. Initially, he became ordained in the Church of England, but was wholly self-centered and unspiritual. When he tried to argue with John Newton about doctrine, the two began to interchange letters, but then stopped. Thomas Scott set out on a course of self-study which led to a conviction of his own sin with the realization that he needed God’s grace. This edition contains eight letters from John Newton historically connected to the early period and reveal much of how Newton viewed the process of the revelation of God to sinners. A recommendatory letter was written by Rev. Samuel Miller for extended circulation in the United States, and also the inclusion of John Newton’s name where it had been left out in previous editions. The Force of Truth’s writing style and arrangement were overseen by William Cowper of Olney, before it was published in 1779.

Nelly, an eight year old girl, was locked out of her home and left to freeze in the snow and cold. These were dark days because money was scarce and her father was drunk. Fortunately, Nelly had a friend, Bessie, who took care of her, while she waited for her father to reform. Finally, Rodney came to the end of himself and began to cry out to God to help him. An important verse is 2 Corinthians 12:9—“My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

The diary began after Katherine received a new desk and writing utensils for her sixteenth birthday. Her journal contained many thoughts about herself, life and God. She came face to face with her own selfishness, weakness and lack of spiritual interest, but struggled onward. Soon married life brought many challenges and reflections. A quote from the book: “And I think some of the best, most contrite, most useful of men and women, whose prayers prevail with God, and bring down blessings into the homes in which they dwell, often possess unlovely traits that furnish them with their best discipline.” Earnest Christians are sure to be pleased with the wisdom for everyday life contained in this book. (This edition has been proofread, formatted, and Bible verse references have been footnoted.)

The children enjoyed exploring the large manner house, where their imaginations could soar. When they secretly plotted against their older half-brother the mischief began. A story about King Arthur and the knights, set Gypsy, the little girl, to be interested in searching for the “Holy Grail.” In Gypsy’s mind, the search for the “Holy Thing” soon became a search after Jesus, as described in Luke 1:35. An important verse is Proverbs 8:17: “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”

Michel Lorio was a lonely Protestant who lived in an isolated Catholic community. Few residents greeted, or bothered with him at all. He found a friendship with the daring and spirited Delphine that brought out the best in him. A similar event was recorded in Miss Stretton's travelogue to Mont St. Michel, which is included in this edition. The travelogue was published in Leisure Hour Magazine in 1873, three years before Michel Lorio's Cross.

Mrs. Fitzherbert was asked to take care of Dimple, an eight year old orphaned girl. She gave Dimple a plot of ground to grow her own garden. The book uses garden analogies to teach lessons throughout: “Yes, I see a lot of weeds this afternoon. A nasty ugly one has just cropped up, called disobedience; and impatience and self-will have been up some time, and are growing bigger every day.” The story teaches that roses must have a gardener to grow well and so we see the need of God tending our souls.

Twelve beatitudes are illustrated by twelve stories, one to a chapter. When Lucy Claremont was denied a trip to the fair by her mother, discontent and rebellion took over, but ended in repentance and mourning over her sin. When a blind girl thirsted for knowledge of the Lord, her desires were more than granted. Mercy is shown when a very sick person is carried out of a burning building. A.L.O.E. states: “I have endeavored in the following Tales to convey religious instruction in a form that may prove attractive to the young; to illustrate the character of true Christianity in a series of stories, practically exemplifying the beatitudes.”

Max Krömer, a fourteen year old boy, relates the horrors of the Siege of Strasbourg in this work of historical fiction. The actual siege, during the 1870 Franco-Prussian War, consisted of surrounding the city and then bombing and starving the inhabitants, until they surrendered. In this story, Max and his sister Sylvie, went to their grandmother’s house in Strasbourg while their father traveled. It was quite unknown to them they would have to endure six weeks of “the dreadful noise of the war.” They looked to God for answers. An important verse is John 14:18—I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you.”