Putney's tone of the book leaned toward a calm and fantasy-like tone, and the writing on the pages conveyed a sense of reassurance, which was uplifting for the characters. In cases where they faced a challenge, including being lost, the tone did not deviate from being hopeful or purposeful; instead, it continued on being encouraging and trusting in a greater plan. Another tonal element revolved around being sincere. I noticed the characters expressed their words and emotions in an open and plain manner, and it made it easier for me to differentiate between the right and wrong of each character's opinion. Even the character's speech provided a structure that clarified their speech without involving too much complex grammar. The novel's tone also influenced the prose as it was kept direct and simple. The use of adorning speech and words was not necessary in this case. The descriptions were clearly concise without the need to extend the metaphors or imagery of the setting. 

As I delve into the structure, I notice it begins with the magical imprisonment of the farmer's village, and from there it unfolds into an adventure that takes them from place to place until they reach the mountain. Each part of the adventure provided a lesson to ponder while still exploring the characters internal and spiritual growth. Some of the lessons I grasped from the book include humility, which was considered a source of strength to Dimplin. Despite not being a fighter or warrior, he was willing to serve and allow himself to be guided, thus leading to the lesson where “pride does not produce true strength, but humility does.” Another lesson was on courage, which meant to keep moving even when the results might not be good; the farmer and his allies were uncertain about the outcome of their journey as they were scared and worried about their safety, but this did not deter them from continuing on. An aspect I would also like to comment on was the pacing. The chapters were short and fast-paced, making the book a smooth read without lingering around for the next action or change.

Seeing that the novel was featured as a Christian allegory, that explains the spiritual elements it possesses that are tailored toward this genre. The quest that led to the journey to the Crystal Mountain was a kind of spiritual one that tested and also guided the characters toward the truth as they faced challenges that served as temptations; this was one part that complements the Christian narratives. Also, the book repeatedly emphasizes the point that the characters' abilities cannot lead them alone. They needed to seek guidance by praying and to trust in Evershone for help. This is consistent with Christian texts that emphasize depending on God rather than on one's own might or strength. Lastly, Dimplin was chosen not because he was better, but because he was humble and willing. This same quality echoes biblical characters like Moses, who God selected because of his “humility.”

My overall feeling about the book is that it is a wholesome adventure with classical fantasy that does not seem too literary but has lessons to learn from. Within the Crystal Mountain will appeal to middle graders up to young adults and adult readers who are also fans of fantasy adventure books as well as uplifting novels with specks of Christianity in them. If you enjoy books like The Lord of the Rings or, better still, Narnia, then I am sure you will appreciate this one too. Christian readers or book clubs that love books related to their beliefs and families looking for entertainment that is geared toward spirituality can read this. Finally, since it has some moral lessons and a clear narrative, I will recommend it to be used in faith-based schools and homeschool curricula. Its themes may be beneficial for students' emotional and spiritual development.