The Dandelion Field by Kathryn Springer tackles heavy topics such as teen pregnancy and loss of a parent and spouse.  The characters in this novel are very definitely religious and their religious beliefs seem to flow naturally with the story.  Nothing in the book is fast paced or extremely action-packed, but it is a nice read with plenty of space for readers to contemplate how they would handle similar situations.

The title of this novel was a great choice and well-explained in the story.  The analogy about the dandelions fit well with the characters and meaning of the book. 

Gin and Dan, the main characters are people who can be respected and admired.  It is fun to see the romance between Gin and Dan develop.  No first date to marriage pledge in five days here.  The only part which leaves a little to be desired was the swiftness of the ending.  It would have been nice to have an epilogue or promise of a sequel.

Review of an Advance Reader Copy.

This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Zondervan

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/Gore:  Character threatens to impale another with a fork; character grabs another and forces a kiss; report of an adult hitting a child.

Sex/Nudity:  People discuss abstinence, sleeping around and crossing the line and pregnancy, no details; character refers to someone as sexy; it is implied that teens had sex in the past; non-married characters kiss, hold hands, hug and flirt.

Mature Subject Matter:

Teen pregnancy, death of a friend and family member, child abuse.

Alcohol / Drug Use:

Mention that a teen does not drink or do drugs; report of a character drinking in eighth grade; adult character’s breath smells of whiskey.