Heidi was published in 1880 in German by the Swiss author Johanna Spyri. The book was very successful. It became a favourite internationally for many generations. It is so full of hope, goodness and beauty, that one can see why it has been so deeply loved.

‍

The book tells the story of an orphaned girl who is innocent and genuinely kind. She brings joy into the lives of the people she meets. It is a story that details a miracle: a person who is genuinely loving and bright can bring light into the darkness.

‍

Reading this book you will feel like the Swiss Alps are your home, and your heart will be filled with the scent of its spring flowers. The writing careful and intentional. The language is beautiful. We learn something about the lives of both the Swiss and the Germans of the late 1880’s. We see something of their relationship to Christianity at the time. We see the role of the community; we learn about the class systems they had; and we learn much about the sorts of work they performed.

‍

The writing is perhaps a little idealistic, but the images that we see are authentic. The child-psychology that pervades the story is truthful. The storyline illustrates several key precepts of Christianity. Overall the book is very worthwhile and profitable.

‍

It is suitable for reading aloud to children as young as 8, but it is just as worth reading as an adult if you have not read it yet. There are many abbreviated versions of the story available but it is worth getting the original book. Many editions exist and you can purchase the one that is easiest to get, but I am listing here one of my favourite editions. It comes with wonderful illustrations. It is a solid edition that gives the reader the feeling that they holding a special book. They are!