Step into the thrilling world of Trailblazer, where history and faith collide in action-packed adventures for young readers! The Trailblazer series, a collection of nearly forty Christian historical fiction novels by Dave and Neta Jackson, brings to life the inspiring stories of real Christian heroes. Aimed at kids aged 8-12, these books blend gripping narratives with historical facts, making them a beloved tool for education and spiritual growth.
From missionaries to reformers, each novel introduces young readers to figures like Harriet Tubman and William Tyndale through the eyes of fictional kids, sparking curiosity and courage. Whether you’re a parent seeking meaningful stories or a young reader craving adventure, Trailblazer offers a unique journey through history.
How Trailblazer Began
In the early 1990s, husband-and-wife team Dave and Neta Jackson set out to create stories that would captivate young readers while teaching them about faith and history. Inspired by their own Christian values and a passion for storytelling, they launched the Trailblazer series in 1991 with Kidnapped by River Rats, focusing on Salvation Army founders William and Catherine Booth. Their goal? To make history fun, build Christian character, and show God’s work through diverse heroes, all while breaking down racial and cultural barriers.
The Jacksons’ meticulous research and love for kids’ literature shaped the series, published by Bethany House. With over 1.7 million copies sold by 2000, Trailblazer quickly became a staple in Christian homes and schools, earning awards like the 1995 Christian Booksellers Association’s Best Children’s Book of the Year.
The Heart of Trailblazer
Each Trailblazer novel dives into a different era, spotlighting a Christian hero through a young protagonist’s perspective. Take The Queen’s Smuggler, where Sarah Poyntz risks everything to save William Tyndale, the Bible translator, in 16th-century England. Or Listen for the Whippoorwill, which follows Rosebud Jackson as Harriet Tubman leads her to freedom via the Underground Railroad. The Hidden Jewel introduces Amy Carmichael, an Irish missionary fighting for a child bride in India, while Danger on the Flying Trapeze captures D.L. Moody’s evangelistic zeal through a circus adventure.
The series weaves themes of courage, faith, and compassion into fast-paced plots, blending historical accuracy with fictional flair. Settings span centuries and continents—from colonial America to 19th-century China—offering a global tapestry of Christian influence. The Jacksons’ action-adventure style, written at a junior high level, hooks reluctant readers, especially boys, while epilogues clarify fact versus fiction, making the books ideal for homeschooling or family read-alouds.
Beyond entertainment, Trailblazer fosters spiritual growth and cultural awareness. By showcasing heroes like Frederick Douglass and Mary Slessor alongside lesser-known figures like Festo Kivengere, the series highlights diverse voices and challenges prejudice, encouraging kids to emulate these faithful trailblazers in their own lives.
Why Trailblazer Resonates
Trailblazer’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to make history and faith accessible. Parents and educators praise its blend of adventure and moral lessons, with reviews noting how kids aged 6-13 stay glued to the stories, sparking family discussions about faith and justice. The series’ focus on real heroes inspires young readers to see themselves as agents of change, while its cross-cultural narratives remain relevant in today’s diverse world.
Translated into languages like German and Korean, Trailblazer has touched readers globally, proving its timeless message: faith can move mountains. Its legacy lives on in Christian education, encouraging new generations to explore history through a lens of hope and purpose.
- Publication Years: 1991–2003
- Number of Books: 40
- Awards: 1995 C.S. Lewis Award, 1995 CBA Best Children’s Book
- Target Audience: Ages 8-12
Ready to embark on a historical adventure? Grab Kidnapped by River Rats and dive into Trailblazer’s world of faith, courage, and unforgettable heroes!