The Young Samaritan: A Journey of Faith

Scott Coleman

Thanks Sally. And welcome back to The Reading Lane, everyone. I’m Scott Coleman here in Vancouver, and I’ve got my warm cup of tea—basically mandatory for me these days. And, of course, I’m joined by Kristen Reimer, our resident literary professor and, honestly, the only person I know who can break down a 400-page novel over lunch.

Kristen Reimer

You’re embarrassingly flattering, Scott, but I’ll take it. Hey, to everyone tuning in, thanks for jumping into another book journey with us. This week, we’re looking at ‘The Young Samaritan’ by J. Schuyler Sprowles. And honestly, I was hooked from the very start—not just because I totally geek out over historical fiction, but because this one really does something special.

Scott Coleman

Yeah, absolutely. So, for anyone who hasn’t seen the cover, the story centres on Joshua, a Samaritan teenager, right? He’s living in ancient Samaria, and through his eyes, we follow this journey alongside Jesus’ earliest followers. There’s adversity—and you really feel the pressures of that world—but you also get, I dunno, that sense of raw discovery. That’s such a rare combo these days.

Kristen Reimer

And you know how sometimes you pick up Christian fiction and it feels, uh, a bit too tidy? Sprowles doesn’t do that. From the first chapter, you’re right there amid the dust and sights of first-century Samaria. It’s clear he leans a lot on the Gospel of Mark for his backdrop, which—I mean, as someone who’s spent more hours than is probably healthy poring over Mark’s Gospel —it just... it hit differently for me.

Scott Coleman

OK. Go on.

Kristen Reimer

Yeah, uh, the historical detail here is stunning, but never heavy-handed. You can almost taste the food, hear the marketplace, and the way Sprowles puts us into Joshua’s shoes—just really immersive storytelling.

Scott Coleman

That’s what stood out for me, too—the sense of place. And, you know, in a weird way, it reminded me of, what was it, ‘The Ghost You Can’t See’? That was a few episodes ago—how the setting wasn’t just backdrop, but almost like another character.

Kristen Reimer

Totally! There’s something magical about feeling transported, and I think that’s why this book works so well both as a coming-of-age and as a genuine faith journey. The historical and biblical contexts, the way Joshua’s story intersects with Jesus—it makes ancient Samaria feel alive and relatable.

Scott Coleman

You know, it occurs to me that the world Sprowles builds is the foundation for everything else Joshua experiences. Speaking of which—shall we talk a bit about the journey Joshua goes through, and all that courage spilling off the page?

Kristen Reimer

Good call Scott. One of the real strengths of ‘The Young Samaritan’ is how it doesn’t just give us Joshua as some passive observer; he’s a kid, sure, but he’s taking actual risks. When I read about his choices—standing up for what’s right even when adults or peers are, you know, wavering—it rang so authentic.

Scott Coleman

Yeah, and this is where the coming-of-age story really shines. Joshua’s faith isn’t—how do I put this—glossy or perfect. It grows through difficulty and, at times, real fear. Reminded me of what Mathew P. John said, praising Sprowles for spotlighting Joshua’s unwavering courage, especially in moments where everyone else falters. I think we all need reminders like that, honestly. book connects so well today—not just with Christian kids or even Christians at all, but with anyone who’s felt on the edge, somewhere in-between, asking the big questions about love and belonging.

Kristen Reimer

Right, right. You know, there are a lot of Christian novels that sort of, um, only speak to people already “in the club.” But ‘The Young Samaritan’ isn’t like that at all. I genuinely feel someone who’s never set foot in a church could pick this up and see themselves in Joshua. Lisa Haller Liou nailed it when she said the story “will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your own journey to love and be loved.” I think that is just universal

Scott Coleman

Yeah, I completely agree.

Kristen Reimer

Sprowles writes with such warmth that even heavy moments feel hopeful. It’s a story about being seen—like, really seen—which I think is exactly what teens and, honestly, most adults are craving these days.

Scott Coleman

Absolutely—and it’s that laughter and real talk, not just the historical drama, that makes it so accessible. It’s a rare thing, to write something with biblical roots while still keeping the story, I dunno, just a little bit mischievous and fun. And hey, as someone who’s had his fair share of Christmas gifts that are quickly forgotten, this book is frankly a great gift option.

Kristen Reimer

You know, I was thinking the same thing: if you’re looking for a great Christmas gift idea, you really can’t do much better. And if you’re leading a small group, or just love a good story, this one’s a gem that sticks with you. I mean, I might have bought a few extra copies this year...

Scott Coleman

Great call - and I can't believe Christmas is just around the corner. Alright folks, that’s all from us today on The Reading Lane. Thanks for joining our featured podcast—and if you grab ‘The Young Samaritan’ for your holiday gifts, let us know how it lands in your community or family. Kristen, always a pleasure. I’ll see you next time?

Kristen Reimer

Indeed you will. Thanks everyone for listening—keep reading, keep questioning, and we’ll catch you down The Reading Lane here on Worship Road Radio real soon. Bye for now!