Tom Watkins’ Mistake (Emma Leslie)

Tom Watkins’ Mistake

Certainly one of the best Lamplighter Rare Collector’s Stories ever published. In a day of situational ethics, Tom Watkins’ Mistake is a story which provides an excellent opportunity to cement into the fabric of children’s minds that one’s character is formed by one’s obedience to the truth, even in small things.

Whether or not one’s character is godly will be evidenced by humility, as Webster’s 1828 dictionary defines character. Mark Hamby said: “I believe this story will have a significant eternal impact upon many lives. It will be exciting to hear the testimonies!”

Tom Watkins’ Mistake realistically illustrates common temptations encountered by young people today. In a day of situational ethics, this relevant story speaks volumes. A brother and sister, enticed by material gain, forfeit their good reputation. We need to guard against dishonesty and deception!

About the Author
Emma Leslie was an author of many popular Christian books for children in the 19th century. Her works were so successful that many of them were still being printed in the 1930s. More than 40 of her books were published by the Religious Tract Society which was founded in 1799 for the purpose of publishing and distributing Christian literature. Its beginning was largely a result of the Evangelical Revival.

Character themes in this story: choices, consequences and salvation.

About the Lamplighter Rare Collector’s Series

Lamplighter stories are much more than good and wholesome reading for the family.  The inspiring role models found in Lamplighter books show a child that outward compliance alone will not carry a child through the stresses and disappointments soon to be faced in adolescence and adulthood, nor are they a substitute for faith in Christ.  As we learn of perseverance, courage, loyalty, humility, these are qualities to emulate and pursue. But as children read in stories of others, like themselves, trying their best and falling short, they will powerfully learn their need for the gospel.  Though life is often not easy, we can be confident that each disappointment and trial is designed by a loving God for our good.

Lamplighter books are carefully designed to draw children back to the Bible, to ensure that each story reflects the character of God.  Often, key Scriptures are referenced so that they may be stored in a child’s heart. Lamplighter volumes are recognizable right away by their beautiful, high-quality bindings.  But there are other unique feature of a Lamplighter book, in contrast to other publications of the same title. Lamplighter editions have been enhanced with helpful footnotes and woven with threads of Biblical truths that will be etched into an awakened moral conscience. These characteristics are what make our Lamplighter Collection so unique and highly valued.