A.L.'s comments

A.L.'s comments from the Christian Readers group.

Note: A.L. is no longer a member of this group.

Lorie wrote: "I'll admit, A.L. that there were many heavy issues that Meyer faced head-on and should be applauded for. There were more, however, that creeped me out and soured me for the whole series. They get d..."
You're right about Bella's drive to give up her normal life and become a vampire, and several of the other characters point out how sad it is that she is so quick to end her life.
I enjoyed the Twilight Saga, but I read them as a grown-up, so I'm not looking at it from a teen angst angle.
I have to disagree about her relationship with her parents though - she is defiant, yes, but her parents have split and the one she's living with doesn't really require that much of her. When she does have to go against their wishes, most of the time she doesn't like it!
Books are great, aren't they? So many people see such different things when they read! So I'll go back to my original recommendation - if your teen wants to read these, read them together and talk about stuff!

You've probably heard this already, but I read all four and loved them. Meyer's vampires are just another part of creation and they have the same choice as to what kind of life they're going to live as we do - between good and evil.
Meyer is mormon, and while she doesn't try to convert, she does portray things that I value (as a Christian) in a VERY positive light.
I'd say, if your kid has a good grasp on reality and her faith, then read them together. The books push abstinance, the value of marraige, saving yourself for one person and sticking with them through everything, and the sanctity of life of the unborn.
Not bad for a fantasy.

Whoops! I meant you Kathie! I had small, active boys around my ankles when I was typing - sorry!

Oh, and Kristie, if you have any questions let me know (either about the book, or writing in general)!

I'm a Christian and my book is The Pillar of Light: The Legends of Milana Series. It's a Narnia-ish kind of book, which has made for an interesting ride. Christians read it one way and secular readers read it another.
You can read the first chapter at www.altravis.webs.com. My publisher is pretty small, so it is easiest to get a copy at Amazon, or to call your local bookshop and ask them to order one for you!