Matthew Makes Strides

Matthew Vos doesn't like feeling afraid. He wants to be brave, but discovers that being a hero isn't at all what he'd imagined. Will his dream to attend the Cadet International Camporee ever come true? And what's up with that crabby new girl in town? Join Matthew as he makes strides in facing fears and forging friendships.
"Glenda Faye Mathes effectively portrays the trauma, excitement, and relief of events associated with great danger and courage. Her narrative is rich in imagery, momentum, and emotion with humor to lighten intensity. I applaud her for taking up topics of fear, loss, courage, and authentic masculinity." -Paul T. Berghaus, U.S. Army Chaplain, Fort Benning, GA
"Well written and captivating, this book provides surprises and important lessons as Matthew strives to overcome his fears and to be more like the heroes he admires. Children in different circumstances will easily identify with Matthew's feelings and struggles." -Simonetta Carr, author of Christian Biographies for Young Readers, including the San Diego Book Awards winner, Anselm of Canterbury
"Glenda Faye Mathes writes with energy and intentionality. When she describes a coming tornado, I glance nervously out the window. Young people will feel like the author is inside their heads, so intimate is her knowledge of her readers. This honest portrayal of a preacher's kid speaks to the extraordinary challenges and joys of ordinary growing up." -Douglas Bond, author of Duncan's War