Based on the 1st and 2nd book of Maccabees of the Douay-Rhiems version of the Bible, The Maccabees, Forgotten Heroes of Israel is an epic tale of faithfulness to God and heroism in the face of unbelievable odds.
With the exception of a few passages of dialogue, this tale is a narrative retelling. A typical passage reads as follows. "As soon as Judas had made an end of speaking, he rushed suddenly upon them. Seron and his host were overthrown before him. He pursued Seron by the descent of the Bethoron to the plain, and there fell eight hundred men of Seron's army; the rest fled into the land of the Philistines" (34).
Once Judas forms his army, a pattern seems to set in. A king, governor, or a commander of a huge force threatens to attack Judas and his men. Judas' men become fearful. He offers them encouragement, calling upon the Lord to protect them. This revives their spirits. Then they go out and slay several thousand. Throughout the story, there are enough twists and turns to keep the reader's interest.
Why so much bloodshed? They wanted to practice their faith freely without the threat of persecution, or even death. They also wanted to restore and rededicate the Temple.
The book also includes an Introduction by Warren H. Carroll, which offers historical background to the story, summarizing the plot and a Publishers Preface, which expresses his motive for bringing this story of manly heroism to print. The Maccabees, Forgotten Heroes of Israel makes this important story from the Old Testament come alive and accessible.
Recommended for ages 14 and up.
