Natasha VinsChildren of the Storm: The Autobiography of Natasha Vins

I first read this book aloud to my kids years ago, but as I've been hearing that the Christian church is being strictly regulated and driven underground in Russia again, I decided to reread it so I could review it on my blog. This story gives the reader an idea of what life was like for Christians living behind Russia's Iron Curtain in the 1960s and 70s. The author tells of her family meeting in secret with fellow believers for church services, of being mocked by her classmates for believing in God, and being pressured to join the Communist youth organization, and then of her father's arrest and imprisonment in Siberia. He was eventually miraculously released and his family was relocated to America in 1979, where they continued to serve in ministries and missionary work focused on the persecuted church and Russia in particular. Georgi Vins wrote another book entitled  The Gospel in Bonds This story is not a great work of literature, but simply a personal, unpretentious narrative by its humble writer who wishes to share her family's story to inspire hope and courage to believers everywhere. We may not appreciate everything about our nation's government, but stories like that of the Vins family should give us pause to be thankful for the freedom we have to worship publicly, and to read the Bible and talk about our faith without suffering major consequences. It should also serve as a reminder to pray for the persecuted church in Russia, N. Korea, the Middle East and many other places around the globe.

My kids are really enjoying this book. They have told friends about it and recommended it.

I loved this book, it moved me to tears many times and I loved the conversations it bright up with my children. The courage and faith Natasha Vin's and gety family had is quite remarkable.

This is a book for my 5th grade daughter homeschool curriculum. I wanted to read all her book list before she does. Was a great story to shed light on history that is not always taught. Also to keep us aware of what still happens in the world today!Excellent for 5th grade and up, story written from you girls perspective. Quick read for high school-adult.

Excellent read! Couldn’t put it down...gripping story of wonderful people

I first read this book when I was a teenager; the author herself gave me the book. As an adult, I bought it for myself and my kids to read. It is quite inspiring and convicting to read and re-read.

Well written and informative this was an enjoyable, interesting and personally challenging read. It is also historically interesting and thorough

The story of a young woman who grew up in Soviet Russia--daughter of a Baptist pastor who was sent to Siberia for hisuncompromising faith. A role model for any young person who may be struggling with the desire to "fit in" with this culture.Her relationship with Jesus Christ was more valuable to her than anything this world could offer, and she was ready to paythe price.