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When writing One-Eyed Jack I pulled ideas from a little bit of everywhere. It started with childhood stories my husband shared, combining my love of history with family values and letting a young boy and his mischevous dog discover that God's timing is perfect.

It added up to a story that was as much fun to write as it was to research. I hope you enjoy meeting Nate and Jack and living in their world for a bit. I sure did.

Awarded the November 2006 Book of the Month by KidMagine. Illustrated by Chris Forrest. 

The first in the Faces of History Series, this story tells the tale of a boy, Nate, who lives on a cattle ranch in 1880's Montana. Nate has always wanted a dog, but his Pa does not. Only grudgingly does Pa allow Nate to keep the nearly dying puppy he finds in a field. Nate must struggle to control his new dog and allow the Lord time to sway Pa's heart.

Faces of History is a series dedicated to showing children and teens of faith during difficult periods of history. The hero of each tale overcomes their personal obstacles with perseverance and faith in the Lord. Written to entertain, these books also serve as an inspirational tool for any child of faith. Ages 7-14.

Order from Amazon.com or have your copy personally signed at






CHAPTER ONE     REVIEWS      INTERVIEWS

One-Eyed Jack also has a companion study guide available to take the reader a little deeper in depth. Be sure to check it out.




 

CHAPTER ONE: Voices in the Wilderness

Montana, 1882

The morning was dark and still when Nate woke up. The birds hadn’t started their morning songs yet or the pigs their grunting and squealing for breakfast. The house was quiet, making Nate’s heart pound loudly in his ears. Today was the day! He’d finally get to ride sign with Pa!

Nate pulled on his pants and a long-sleeved flannel shirt, found his socks and tiptoed across the room. His twelve-year-old sister, Mabel Sue and little brother Billy didn’t stir as he climbed down the loft steps and into the kitchen.

Ma was already up, scrambling eggs on the stove. The apron tied around her waist protected her faded blue summer dress from the tiny splatters of egg that jumped in the pan. She threw him a smile over her shoulder. "Are you ready?"

Unfortunately Nate didn’t smell any hoecake batter, but he didn’t complain as he pulled his boots on. "Yep. Is Pa up?"

"He’s in the barn, finishing the chores."

Grandpa Albert came out of his room yawning and pulling his suspenders over his shoulders. His bush of white hair stood on end. "Smells good enough in here to make my stomach set to howling like a wolf on the prowl.

Ma set plates of steaming eggs on the table in front of both of them. "Coffee, Pa?"

Grandpa held up his cup before she’d finished asking. "Is it strong enough to kick up in the middle and carry double?"

"It’s hot."

"Good ‘nough."

Nate grinned and finished lacing his boots. He pushed his plate aside and stood up.

Ma stopped him with one look. "Why aren’t you eating?"

"I don’t have time to eat. Pa needs my help with the horses so we can get going."

Ma’s hands went to her hips. "I haven’t met a ten-year-old boy yet who don’t have a whole in his leg big enough to stick a good breakfast in. If you don’t have time to eat, you don’t have time to ride. Now sit down and don’t gulp your milk down too fast."

Nate knew there was no use arguing, not with the look she gave him. He shoved the eggs in his mouth, burnt his tongue, and chugged his milk as fast as he could without gulping. It wasn’t very easy to do.

When he shoved his chair back and reached for the door, Ma’s hand stopped him. "Aren’t you forgetting something?"

Nate let go of the handle. "Thanks for breakfast."

Ma grabbed his collar and hauled him back. "I don’t mean that. I wanted to tell you goodbye." She placed her hands on his face and kissed his cheek. "Now you be sure and mind your pa while you’re gone."

"Yes’m."

"Don’t forget to check your bedroll for rattlers before you bed down for the night." Grandpa added.

"I won’t." Nate took a step toward the door, paused, and then walked back and gave Ma a hug. He could smell the flour on her shirtwaist. Grandpa winked at him from behind.

Ma hugged him tightly, then pushed him back and straightened his collar. "You just take care of yourself and come back in one piece, you hear?"

"I’ll watch out for Pa too."

"Good boy." She waved her apron at him. "Now be off with you."

"Bye, Grandpa."

The sun barely peeked above the land as Nate and Pa saddled the horses. They left the ranch at a trot, leaving the security of home for the open valley and mountains. Birds called morning greetings to one other and the creaking leather saddles and soft thump of the horses’ hooves interrupted their chatter.

They rode this way for quite some time.

"Did you kiss your Ma when you left?" Pa asked. The black Stetson he only took off at the dinner table or in church was pulled low to block the rising sun.

"Yes, sir."

Pa smiled a little and scratched his whiskers. "Your Ma likes that. She’s gonna be a bit lonely while we’re gone."

"We’re only going to be gone for a few days."

Pa nodded. "Yep. But those days are going to go fast for us; we’ll be working and having something new to do. Your ma’s going to be thinking ‘bout us."

Nate thought about that. "It’s a good thing she’s got Grandpa and Mabel Sue and Billy there."

He smiled when he thought about Grandpa Albert. He’d probably keep Ma company spinning yarns about when he was a boy, like the one he’d told last night. After dinner they’d all gathered around the fireplace and ate mincemeat pie. Grandpa pulled out his cherry tobacco pipe and settled back in his chair, patting his stomach with contentment.

"Can you tell us a story, Grandpa?" Mabel Sue had asked.

"Oh yes, Grandpa." Five-year-old Billy clapped his hands. "Tell us one."

"A story?"

"Yes, about when you were little."

"When I was little, I was just a sprig in Tennessee. Had my momma and my pa to take care of me. And I had my two brothers and five sisters to play with. Henry was older than me, and he was always coming up with some new idea. One particular summer day, he came up with a dandy of a plan. He decided to run away from home."

"Why?" Nate asked.

Grandpa Albert shrugged. "I don’t recall just why he wanted to go, but he convinced me to go with him. So between morning chores, while Ma hung the laundry and Pa worked in the fields, we started down the road."

"Where were you going?" Mabel Sue asked.

Grandpa scratched his beard. "You know, I asked Henry that same question after we’d walked a few miles. He didn’t rightly know where he was headin’ either, just that he was headin’ someplace full of adventure."

"Where is that?" Billy wanted to know.

"We never got the chance to find out. It wasn’t long before our neighbor, Mr. Dawson came by in his wagon. He saw us and asked us what we was doing so far from home. Henry couldn’t think of an answer quick enough. And I think Mr. Dawson had a pretty good idea what we had up our sleeves too. So, he brought us back home and there we stayed. Wasn’t too bad though, he had hisself a litter of pups in the back of the wagon and we got to keep one when we got home."

Nate looked at Pa from the corner of his eye and then back at Grandpa. "What kind of dog was it?

"A little black mutt we named–"

"Don’t go filling the boy’s head." Pa interrupted without looking up from the newspaper. "Nate’s got himself a good cow pony in Tumbleweed. That’s all a boy needs."

"Now Jim," Grandpa Albert puffed on his pipe. "Just ‘cause you don’t like dogs ain’t no reason to-"

Pa rustled the paper loudly. "I said a cow pony is enough."

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ONE-EYED JACK REVIEWS

Children love stories of kids and their pets and Paula Miller shares one that is sure to win their hearts. Janette Oke


                             ~~~


A book will live inside your child’s memories long after those over-hyped toys lie forgotten at the bottom of the toy box. A book can transport them to the jungles of Africa, the deepest reaches of space, or as is the case of today’s novel, they can share the life of a boy and his dog. What toy could compete with that?

One Eyed Jack by Paula Miller, is the finest children’s book I’ve reviewed all year. I was impressed with every aspect, from its lovely illustrations (by Chris Forrest) to the lovable characters and their delightful tale with just the right mix of adventure, giggles and nail-biting tension.

One-Eyed Jack is set in the untamed wilderness of 1880’s Montana, where Nate lives on a cattle ranch with his brother Billy, sister Mabel Sue, Ma, Pa and his wise, old Grandpa Albert.

Then one day Nate finds an injured puppy and wants to nurse it back to health. But for some mysterious reason, Pa’s dead set against it. “...It’s better to put him out of his misery right now. He’ll grow up to be nothing but trouble, anyhow.” (Pa said)

Can Nate change Pa’s mind? Or is Pa right and the puppy will cause all kinds of mischief? You’ll have to buy the book to find out; I wouldn’t dare spoil the fun.

Get a copy for every kid on your Christmas list. They are going to love you for it. David Meigs, Curmudgeon's Rant


                            ~~~

From Blooming Tree Press comes this delightful story, the first in a series of historical fiction by homeschooling mom Paula Miller. This story contains believable conflict through which the family learns to trust God. Faith equips the family to face the trials. They also learn understanding and compassion for others.

The story is filled with many snippets of pioneer farm life and includes the lyrics to several old songs. This story, recommended for age seven and up, is enjoyable, with more references to God and prayer than usually seen in children’s books, yet not preachy. I found it refreshing—full of adventure, including a bear attack, an encounter with a rattlesnake, and a blizzard. Elece Hollis, Homeschooling Today Magazine

                            ~~~


This is the first in the Faces of History Series, and although for my taste there was too much mention and use of God, this is a good idea for a series. Ms. Miller writes with warmth and compassion for both children and animals, and there is a very exciting scene before the story ends. The illustrations by Chris Forrest help to clarify the story and provide a picture of Jack, Nate and his family in black and white drawings throughout the book. 

~~~

This children's book has more than a fun story. Paula Miller has included songs and lifestyles from the time period. Nate has to watch the traps and collect the dead animals - something today's child will probably never see. He even takes a fox pelt and turns it into a scarf for Mabel Sue.

One-Eyed Jack is a young chapter book for the 7 or 8 year old, and a read-aloud book for those who can't quite read yet. Chris Forrest's black and white ink drawings are cozy and go along with the story. Miller's message of faith in God is strong and woven in Nate's everyday life. Children will enjoy One-Eyed Jack and Nate and his family's life in 1880's Montana. Jandy's Reading Room

~~~

Historical fiction is my favorite genre to read and is usually the basis for our read-alouds at home. The story is written very well. . . it keeps your interest and gives the reader a lot of facts about living on a cattle farm during the 1880's. It is along the lines of Little House on the Prairie, but with a boy as the main character. I thoroughly enjoyed it! This book would make a wonderful addition to any home library. Kris' Eclectic Homeschool, homeschooling mother of two

~~~

It's a rough, tough but family-centered world that Nate experiences in 1880s Montana. Living with his grandfather, parents, a 12 year-old sister and little brother, Nate at 10 years old would absolutely love to own a dog. But his Pa definitely has some secret reason for absolutely forbidding Nate to even consider owning one, that is until they find a young, hurt pup while on a cattle round-up overnight trip.

Nate believes that God will take care of it all but the day-by-day progress of controlling and training "One-Eyed Jack" is full of funny, adventurous, and scary moments as Jack proceeds to do what all young pups do as they grow in size and curiosity.

The story behind Pa's dislike of dogs will hit you in the gut and make you definitely understand his attitude, but the life or death scene that will change this is well worth the wait for Nate as well as the reader.

To say more would give away the story. It is enough to say that this is a great books for boys and girls. It's got plenty of dangerous scenes to fire up interest and keep it, and it's about a faith that is so real it's important without being gawky.

It also has some very cool scenes about what it was to truly live as cattle farmers and hunters in the 1800s.

Definitely worth reading! Nice job, Paula Miller! Crystal Reviews

~~~

This is a cute story about Nate and his dog, One-Eyed Jack. Think "Little House on the Prairie" told from a boy's perspective.

Her characters are well developed, and she includes lots of little known facts about the historical period. "One-Eyed Jack" includes facts from the 1880's, such as how to tan pelts and "riding sign".

What I loved most about the story was her Bible teaching. Ma and Pa demonstrate Christ to their family, and Grandpa has some interesting things to share with Nate about respecting your parents.

In all, I think this is a series for any family, but especially for homeschool Christian families. I can see this being added to a history curriculum, making it fun and interesting. A Peek at My Bookshelf

~~~

One-Eyed Jack is a delightful story about a boy who loves his dog, and the lessons he learns about life from the mishaps and trials he experiences because of One-Eyed Jack's recklessness. This story has a Little House on the Prairie feel to it, but with a faith thread. Even though it's a children's story, I really enjoyed the book and read it straight through. Plus, I thought the pictures were adorable and complemented the story. I especially loved the part of the story where Nate and his dog are lost and he thinks he'll never see his family again. Despite his overzealous and clumsy ways, One-Eyed Jack was a lovable pooch and very heroic. And the ending of the story was really nice. It almost makes you want to cry like in the story Homeward Bound, where the animals find their way back to family after being lost in the wilderness. I definitely recommend this book. Edgy Inspirational Author

I heard recently that a book written on a level agreeable to a ten-year-old should be entertaining for adults. My visit with Nate in One-Eyed Jack leaves me believing that statement to be true.

In One-Eyed Jack, readers visit 1880's Montana through the eyes of Nate, as this young boy helps out on his family's ranch and develops a lifesaving bond with his dog. For unknown reasons, Nate's Pa doesn't care for dogs so Nate must convince his father that One-Eyed Jack is worthy of a spot in the family.

Nate's journey is interwoven with family values and spiritual truths. The language in One-Eyed Jack is beautiful, well fit for a family read aloud. Though the cover says this book is for ages seven and up, my pre-readers were able to follow along with the story and once we finished the first chapter, they were asking for me to read more. Children and adults alike will carry away fondness for this timeless tale.

Armchair Interviews says: Readers will look forward to reading more from the Faces of History series. Armchair Interviews Reviews

~~~

It was refreshing to finally find a book that has a male protagonist as well as a truly entertaining storyline--one that didn't have to be previewed or edited for fear of unwanted material. Author Paula Miller did a wonderful job of applying biblical principles throughout the book. I especially appreciated the way the siblings interacted with each other in a loving but still playful way. I also think that Miller did a great job of capturing the dialogue and atmosphere of the time. My boys really liked the folk songs that were woven into the story. The charming illustrations peppered throughout the book (done by Chris Forrest) were also a hit. They inspired some charming illustrations by my own little artists.

The book also offered some good copywork and narration lessons. I can see it being the springboard into many areas of further study--ranching, folk music, the geography of Montana, and the list could go on. It is definitely a keeper for us.

Miller is currently working on the next book, and we eagerly await it. The Old Schoolhouse

~~~

I was finally able to read your book to the kids.  They absolutely loved it.  You are an awesome writer and I thank the Lord for your talent.  Let me know when you write another children's book.  You know as well as I do how hard it is to find books for them with practical Christian truth and responses of children in them. Mother of 2

~~~

Paula Miller has written a wonderful book for children that will also appeal to adults who wish to momentarily relive a time in their life when a pet was an important part of their life.

Nate, who lives in Montana in the 1800’s, wants a dog but his dad does not. There are two things every boy should have: a bicycle and a dog.

The conflict centers around Nate’s ability to keep Jack in line enough to satisfy Pa. The emphasis on moral and religious principles is a welcomed addition to this story and the others in this series. MyShelf.com

~~~

A delightful story of family and faith, danger and heroism in a historical setting that draws the reader into the heart of the affectionately drawn characters. Author Choice Reviews

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'One-Eyed Jack' has a beautifully illustrated cover that immediately made me want to read this book.  The print was large and easy to read. Ms. Miller has written a delightful book that children up to third grade will enjoy.  The plot flows smoothly and the antics of Jack made me eager to turn the page.  I highly recommend this book.  The message is one of a strong family values and Christian morals.  I will share “One-Eyed Jack” with my grandchildren this weekend.  I hope Ms. Miller continues to share with us. Reader Views

~~~

~~~

Set in an 1880’s Montana cattle ranch, this delightful story of faith in God is wonderful for all ages! I certainly enjoyed it. Make room on your favorite bookshelf for One-Eyed Jack. Great job, Ms. Miller! Jason McDonald, editor, KidMagine

~~~

A Great Read!! I loved this book, and will use it for a novel study for Grade 5’s. From the first page to the last, it was excellent reading. I couldn’t put it down, so it was a fantastic afternoon read!! Scribes World        

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What dog lover and what child could not fail to relate to this dog that creates nothing but mischief and the boy who loves him?

Set in the 1880s on a cattle ranch in Montana, this gentle and simply told story captures the people of the time, their specific way of life and situations they faced. The characters come across as real and believable and the dialogue is indicative of the time and personality of the characters. Grandpa in particular with his unusual expressions is a delight.

Children of seven and up will love this entertaining and true to life story. Readers will feel for Nate as he seeks to keep Jack and prays for God to resolve the problems between his father and Jack. Each chapter is a perfect length for the young reader to cope with on their own or for a parent to read to the child at bedtime. The black and white illustrations add to the text. Recommended reading. Dale Harcombe, Children's Author

~~~

Throughout the book, the writer weaves Godly principles, teaching children the importance of being kind to one another and being honest. Nate learns what it means to be forgiving and not revengeful to his sister. Nate learns how to trust in God and to believe in the power of prayer. The book teaches strong family values and respect for your parents.   

This book is an excellent book for young readers. They will find it fun and easy to read and will enjoy the adventures of Nate and Jack.  Naomi Glenn, Spirit Restoration

It's sure to be an adventure as Nate tries to handle a puppy, trust God, and deals with life in general. Can a boy find the faith to trust God's will?

One Eyed Jack is an inspirational story for children and adults of all ages. This is a story that will please readers especially during the holidays as you follow this young boy's journey. This story does have many inspirational touches as well as showing a bit of history without either being overpowering. It's a wonderful and quick read I would suggest to anyone. Wendy Keel, Romance Readers Connection

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The author’s main point is that she wants her reader to know that God knows best. The author was very successful in the book because all the events are put in place. The author writes very well; she paints a picture for her readers. The book is for a general reader and the age is 7 and up. My favorite part is when Nate first finds Jack with his Pa.

I really enjoyed "One-Eyed Jack." A reader can learn about how God can help you though your life if you ever need him. Megan, 13 yrs old, Reader Views Kids

~~~

Paula J. Miller writes Christian fiction and the first book in her Faces of History series is One-Eyed Jack. Set on a Montana cattle ranch in the 1880s, it is a story a puppy found near death by Nate and grudgingly allowed to keep by his father. A timeless tale, young readers 7 and up will enjoy it. BookViews.com 




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INTERVIEWS

~ interview with Favorite PASTimes
              Part 1      Part 2

~ interview with author Tricia Goyer 

~ interview with Amazing Story Club




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