I cannot remember how old I was when I' last read this book. I know this is my 4th time reading it however and that I read it multiple times in my youth. I think there is something charming in the characters and plot that remains to keep this book in a solid and important place in my heart. While it didn't detract from the book, I did recognize way more biblical inspiration than I ever remember there being. There is a clear biblical message being conveyed throughout the story. I don't know how to feel about it really, but it was quite surprising to me on this read-through. It's funny what we pick up and what we don't. Young me cared greatly for the biblical... but current me is the one who clocked it.