More than a typical family film, this is one of the highest quality "small studio" films I have ever viewed. Providing an excellent blend of history, drama, mystery and a touch of humor. It is a G-rated movie that is highly entertaining for both children and adults.The producers used rich Imagery and Lighting to heighten the viewer's interest and intrigue, whenever they focused on Mandie during the flashback scenes when the "Indian Story" was being told.An absolutely outstanding performance was given by Lexi Johnson (who played Mandie, both in this movie and in the first sequel). Her prior experience as a child actor can be seen in both the attention to detail and nuanced expressions she brought to this role.The entire cast and production deserve much credit for a great effort.

Having grown up reading the Mandie mysteries,I was delighted when I heard they were going to be making a movie of the first book,only problem was it wasn't being shown in mainstream theatres and it went straight to DVD only to be carried by Christain bookstores,lucky for me I was able to buy a copy only yesterday,I was not disappointed,they stuck to the story and added more to Mandie background of how her grandfather saved and hid Cherokee Indians from the Trail of Tears. The scenic shots of North Carolina filmed at a national park are superb and the music is both haunting and beautiful. The story of Mandies background is told as if it were a fairy tale and unless you have read the books,there are times where you think it is just that,until it is revealed that it all true. Mandie is a spunky girl who does not let anything stop her from finding her Uncle John's will,I am looking forward to the second movie out this fall. This is a good family movie everyone will enjoy