Because we can always enjoy more good books…. I am participating in the Catholic Writers’ Guild virtual book tour of G.M. Baker’s “The Wistful and the Good.” It is a CWG Seal of Approval recipient!
The mighty are undone by pride, the bold by folly, and the good by wistfulness.
Summary:
Elswyth’s mother was a slave, but her father is a thegn, and Drefan, the man she is to marry, is an ealdorman’s son. But though Elswyth is content with the match, and waits only for Drefan to notice that she has come to womanhood, still she finds herself gazing seaward, full of wistful longing.
From the sea come Norse traders, bringing wealth, friendship, and tales of distant lands. But in this year of grace 793, the sea has brought a great Viking raid that has devastated the rich monastery of Lindisfarne. Norse are suddenly not welcome in Northumbria, and when Elswyth spots a Norse ship approaching the beach in her village of Twyford, her father fears a Viking raid.
But the ship brings trouble of a different kind. Leif has visited Twyford many times as a boy, accompanying his father on his voyages. But now he returns in command of his father’s ship and desperate to raise his father’s ransom by selling a cargo of Christian holy books. Elswyth is fascinated by the books and the pictures they contain of warm and distant lands.
But when Drefan arrives, investigating reports of the sighting of a Norse ship, Elswyth must try to keep the peace between Drefan and Leif, and tame the wistfulness of her restless heart.
Excerpt:
“Who are Ælfflæd and Cuthbert and Agnes? I thought you only had one god, the one you call Christ.”
“Not gods, silly, saints.”
“What is a saint, then? Are they like an elf or a dwarf or a troll?”
“No, no. Oh, how can I explain it? A hero, I suppose. Only a holy hero. Ælfflæd and Cuthbert are our own saints—Northumbrian saints, I mean—so they are our special patrons and they look after us.”
“And Agnes?”
“Oh, well, all girls pray to Saint Agnes.”
“But why?”
Elswyth pursed her lips and flushed a little. “She is the patron of virgins,” she said.
“A god of virgins?” Leif said. “This is very strange to me. We have Freyr, who is goddess of fertility. Women sacrifice to her to get children. But a goddess of virginity is strange indeed, for every people has need of fertility and increase.”
“Well, if you say the right prayers on her feast day, Saint Agnes will help you find a husband.”
“That is good service, I suppose. But your husband was found for you long ago. Why do you still pray to her then?”
“I don’t know. I like her, I think. She was a girl like me. And she was a martyr— they tried to make her a whore, but she refused and they killed her.”
G. M. Baker is trying to revive the serious popular novel, the kind of story that finds the truth of the human condition in action, adventure, romance, and even magic. He writes the newsletter, Stories All the Way Down and is the author of the historical novel series Cuthbert’s People — The Wistful and the Good, St. Agnes and the Selkie, The Needle of Avocation — and the literary fairy-tale Lady Isabel and the Elf Knight.
This lovely picture book about Saint Clare–and her cat–has been a favorite of Catholic families. While enjoying the colorful pictures on every page, young readers will get familiar with this saint: how she lived in Assisi and was the daughter of a count, how the preaching of Saint Francis touched her soul and sparked her vocation, how many other young ladies felt called to join her as poor sisters, how she grew closer and closer to God through prayer and daily work, and even some of the miracles that resulted from her prayers! This story will make a wonderful addition to your family library.
Story Summary
On the road to San Damiano, Grandma Nonna shares with her grandson Antonio a once-upon-a-time story about Saint Clare. Full-color illustrations and a delightful tale capture the beauty and faith of Saint Clare as she pursues her vocation and embraces the joyful and simple Franciscan spirituality. Ever-appreciative of the little things, Clare’s happiness blossoms even more with her wonderful discovery of a tiny kitten.
Reviews
“I read it through and found it beautifully illustrated and written. You have my approval! By all means the St. Joseph’s table would love to have one.” ~ Fr. Gillilan
”This charming story of Saint Clare of Assisi and her blossoming friendship with a mischievous little cat is absolutely delightful.” ~ Amazon review, Nose in a Book
”The story is written in an engaging and entertaining manner. . . . And can be read again and again, at the writing of this review I have read it almost a dozen times, by myself or with one or more of my children. . . . It is a great Catholic picture book, fun for the whole family..” ~Steven R. McEvoy, Book Reviews & More
”Wonderful and delightful story with incredible illustrations!! Children will love the full colored pages as they listen to the story. A must add to any children’s collection.” ~ Amazon review, Didi
”Saint Clare and Her Cat is a great introduction to the Franciscan saint. Told as a story within a story, it’s appealing to children with friendly illustrations and pretty kitty too. The book would make a great gift for a child any time of the year.” ~ An Open Book Family
I thoroughly enjoyed this young adult story, so I’m happy that my blog is the first stop on the Virtual Book Tour of Miracle at the Mission! Find my review further down in the blog and a Fun Fact about Saint Junipero Serra and the California Missions and a link to a GIVEAWAY! You’ll find more Fun Facts in the other blog tour stops, but first, here’s what it’s about…
BOOK SUMMARY
After recovering from their daring exploits in the exciting first book, The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy, high school best friends Joe Pryce and Pete Figueroa return for another thrilling, action-adventure in Miracle at the Mission.
When one of them wins a St. Junipero Serra essay writing contest and is rewarded with a summer trip to California, they both embark on an adventure they will never forget. While visiting one of the historic Spanish missions founded by Father Serra, the boys meet a holy but mysterious old Franciscan monk who warns them of the dangers they would soon encounter.
It isn’t long before the boys are drawn into a series of events filled with suspense, intrigue, a high-speed car chase along the precipitous Pacific Coast Highway, and the schemes of foreign operatives seeking to bring harm to the President of the United States.
Caught up in the pursuit of the bad guys, the boys discover they have become suspects in the investigation by the FBI. Desperate to prove their innocence, they must rely on the guidance and wisdom of the old padre, who just happens to bear a strange resemblance to St. Junipero Serra himself.
With the world teetering on the brink of an international crisis, the story reaches its climax at another mission––Mission San Carlos Borromeo in Carmel––where the boys and a large gathering of people witness an incredible miracle that changes their lives forever.
BOOK REVIEWS & ENDORSEMENTS
“Looking for the perfect blend of relatable characters, fascinating history, intriguing mystery, and strong faith. Look no further than Miracle at the Mission. Lewis’ vivid descriptions of the California coast will sweep you away on this epic adventure.”
— Leslea Wahl, author of The Perfect Blindside and other faith-based novels for teens.
“Lewis is a talented author who has succeeded hugely with Miracle at the Mission. … When you turn the final page, you think: if this doesn’t bring our youth back to the faith, what will?”
–Brian J. Gail, best-selling author of the American Tragedy in Trilogy series (Fatherless, Motherless, and Childless)
“With mystery, adventure, intrigue, and elements of faith, this is a fantastic story. … The amazing setting details of various places in California work so well, helping me to visualize each scene. But I especially loved the bits of history concerning various things, including this humble and selfless saint—who is unfortunately often misunderstood today. Having fallen in love with the Native American people, St. Serra did so much to support and protect them.”
–Theresa Linden, author of Tortured Soul and other award-winning Catholic fiction
“Very Timely … Lewis has a true knack for taking a timeless, traditional world and pulling it forward into the present culture. … Truly a MUST read for anyone who attended an all-boys prep school. … and I enjoyed the suspense!”
–Pete DiMaio, husband & father of seven, President of Pennsylvanians for Human Life, Speaker, and Business Owner
“This book surprised me. … I admit I really enjoyed it. … The friendship between Joe and Pete, and Pete’s brother Luke [and] their dynamic interactions are masterfully written. … I absolutely loved the history of California, the Missions, and St. Junipero Serra. It made a good story a great one. … This is an excellent read.”
–Steven R. McEvoy, Book Reviews and More
AUTHOR BIO
Joseph Lewis, author
Joseph lives in Exton, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Marian. They are blessed with six grown children and two granddaughters. Aside from writing, Joseph teaches high school history at Regina Luminis Academy in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. He is a graduate of Villanova University, holds a masters in theology from the Graduate School of Theology at Christendom College, and has done doctoral work in theology at Catholic University. His first book, The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy,was published in 2018. Miracle at the Mission is the second book in the series entitled, The Westthorpe Academy Mysteries. Joseph is also an active member of the Catholic Writer’s Guild.
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. Miracle at the Mission is your second book in a series called the Westthorpe Academy Mysteries. How did the idea for the series originate?
Miracle at the Mission is a sequel to my first book, The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy. The idea for the series began while I was teaching at an all-boys Catholic prep high school in the western suburbs of Philadelphia. On the campus is a charming old mansion that was the original building of the school. Over the years, rumors abounded of how a ghost haunted the mansion and that a stash of old money was hidden somewhere within it.
After hearing of such stories over the years, I finally convinced myself that a story needed to be written. One summer, I put pen to paper and completed my first book, The Ghosts of Westthorpe Academy, published in 2018. I borrowed the name Westthorpe from the original name of the property that surrounds the school––Westthorpe Farm.
2. Miracle at the Mission provides a completely different setting from the first book and brings the series to the Spanish missions of California. What was the inspiration behind doing this?
Not long after the first book came out, several people began asking when the next one would be coming out. I was throwing some ideas together when my wife and I traveled to California to visit my son who is in the Marine Corps. During the trip, we toured some of the missions founded by St. Junipero Serra where I was immediately struck by the beauty, the holiness, and the history of these extraordinary places. It wasn’t long before I began piecing together a story of how the same two friends from the first story, Joe and Pete, take a summer trip of their own to California where they visit Pete’s older brother Luke who is a Marine, and explore some of the missions themselves.
So, in borrowing from my own travel experience, I was able to formulate the basis of a story that would ultimately become Miracle at the Mission. The trip also gave me the opportunity to visualize many of the places I write about in the book which helps provide vivid descriptions and setting details that I hope will enhance the reader’s enjoyment of the story.
3. Your interest in St. Junipero Serra goes beyond just a curious fascination. Explain how and why Father Serra plays such an important part in the story.
Many may remember that Junipero Serra was canonized a saint of the Church here in the United States in September of 2015. The canonization took place at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C. and was overseen by Pope Francis himself who was visiting the United States at the time. Serra is the only saint to be canonized on American soil.
Unfortunately, not all the news surrounding this momentous event was positive. Many took the occasion to criticize Serra and to blame him for the abuses perpetrated upon Native Americans many years ago, particularly in California. Some people resorted to defacing or toppling his statues and doing damage to some of the missions.
As a history teacher, and having studied something about Father Serra’s life, I knew that much of the criticism directed towards him was inaccurate, misguided, and unfair. My book provides an opportunity to correct some of that and convey truths of who he really was––a man who worked tirelessly for social justice and truly loved the people he served.
4. What do you anticipate the reader taking away from Miracle at the Mission?
Though the book is an exciting read, filled with mystery, adventure, intrigue and suspense, it is, above anything else, a story about faith, friendship, selflessness, and doing the right thing. It is a story that inspires hope that various peoples, cultures, and countries can join together in good will.
It is a reminder to us that although we live in a world filled with danger, uncertainty, and confusion, we can make a difference if we hold fast to those things that matter most: faith, hope, and love. And we needn’t look any further for help in this effort than the communion of saints who are there, interceding for us. And there is no finer example than the saintly Franciscan, Junipero Serra, who gave of himself totally in the service of his fellow man.
May his example inspire a more fervent faith and devotion, as well as a greater appreciation for the extraordinary work of the California missions and the Franciscan friars who founded them!
The padre turned and looked at Joe. The hood of his habit had opened wider, revealing more of his face. In the dim light, his eyes looked dark, his complexion a somewhat lighter olive brown. His thinning gray hair was cut in the traditional tonsure style, something more common among religious orders in the past but not as much today. He wore a large crucifix that hung underneath his hood and rested over the top front of his habit.
As Joe prepared to leave, he suddenly stopped, though he wasn’t sure why. Something of what he had experienced earlier that day in the chapel seemed to compel him to want to listen to what the old padre had to say. Joe slid closer across the pew, stopping just a few feet from him in the pew.
“I am confident you will find your friend safe,” the priest said in a reassuring voice. “From what I gather, the three of you are here for an extraordinary week. So much of what is going on in the world today has found its way near to this very place. Important leaders will be meeting, and the eyes of the world will be watching. It is no coincidence that, at this time in history, they have come here, where so many peoples and cultures met not very long ago and welcomed the missionaries who brought the message of the Gospel. It was, and continues to be, a message of the love of neighbor, of joy and forgiveness, of thanksgiving for one another, and peace among all nations.”
Joe sat mesmerized. Though the padre referred to present-day events, his eloquent words and profound meaning made him seem like someone from another time, another world.
“But there are forces in the world that oppose these cherished things. Principalities who are enemies of God and of mankind, who choose the darkness; some who are visible and made of flesh and blood, others who are spirit and lurk in the shadows.” He paused as he looped the rosary beads he had been holding in his hand through the cincture around the waste of his habit. “My son, the world’s current dangers are real and require the courage and effort of a select few whose work can make the difference between conflict and resolution, division and harmony, hostility and goodwill for all peoples. The events of this week are crucial to determining the direction the world may be inclined to go. We must pray for God’s divine providence, that those who lead us may choose the path of peace. Look for the signs of God’s guiding hand in answer to those prayers. I also want to implore you and your friends to be vigilant this week, as you will be close to many of these things. The world can be a dangerous place, and sometimes people find themselves in circumstances they could hardly have anticipated.”
“I very much appreciate your concern, Father.” Joe politely accepted the padre’s advice, although he didn’t quite understand why he felt the need to offer it. But this wasn’t what Joe had come here searching for. He still didn’t know for certain if Pete was all right. Joe stood up. “I better get back and make sure my friend is okay.”
“Sí te entiendo.” The padre grabbed hold of the back of the pew and pulled himself up. As he did, he shifted as if to favor one leg. He had a thin frame and couldn’t have been more than an inch or two over five feet. His worn sandals looked as though they had traveled many miles.
“Please don’t get up on my account,” Joe said.
“I wish to extend to you my priestly blessing, my son.” With some effort, he shifted his legs again and moved a little closer to Joe. “I am extremely glad you and your friends can spend some time with us in this beautiful place. You know, the mission is in great need of support to help maintain it, not only to preserve the legacy of the missions but for the work they continue to do. This mission is an active parish and serves many people and families, some of whom are descendants of the native people who first lived here many years ago. Please keep the missions, and the people they serve, always in your prayers, won’t you?”
“I will, Father.” Joe turned to leave but turned back again. “I sure hope we have a chance to talk again. I’ve really enjoyed our conversation.”
“So have I, my friend, so have I. God willing, we will have a chance to meet again. In the meantime, go in peace.”
The padre raised his right hand and extended it toward Joe, who bowed his head. “Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless this fine young man and his companions in all their endeavors. May their work bear much fruit in the service of your kingdom. I ask that you protect them and keep them safe from harm in the name of Christ, Our Lord and Savior, Amen. May the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost descend upon you and remain with you forever. Amen. Amar a Dios, mi hijo. Love God, my son … and may He make a saint of you!”
“Thank you, Father.” Joe slid back across the pew, then genuflected before the tabernacle. He pivoted and glanced back at the old padre, but he wasn’t there!
Joe looked around the church. “Father?” There was no sign of him. Where could he have gone—and so quickly? … He seemed to mysteriously vanish into thin air.
Fun Fact About St. Junipero Serra and the California Missions
Though his given name was Miguel Jose Serra, when he became a member of the Franciscan order, he took the name Junipero to encourage himself to emulate one of the original companions of St. Francis of Assisi, Brother Juniper, who was known for his humility and simplicity. He has been given the title Servant of God.
This month, the Catholic Writers’ Guild is touring the Catholic Teen Books authors’ anthology, “Treasures: Visible and Invisible.” It is a CWG Seal of Approval recipient! With a shamrock as a touchstone, Treasures takes you on a journey through time and across continents.
Summary of Stories:
A teen boy sets out to save a friend from pagan druids, but maybe he’s the one who needs saving.
Between an unearthed treasure and a visit from Heaven, a young monk is in for the surprise of his life!
A young girl seeks a mysterious treasure that holds the key to granting a nun’s dying wish.
Honora is desperate—then a peculiar clover and a mysterious young man change everything.
William’s weekend job is a little gift from heaven, but now his family needs a real miracle.
When threatened by mobsters, Grace receives help from a surprising source.
Alone and afraid, a young girl finds friendship in a stranger. But could this boy be trouble?Kyle was determined to save the precious relic–but now his whole family is in danger.
Excerpt:
He gazed at the stone, appreciating the play of sunlight on the variegated shades of green and brown. A three-leaf clover. Three separate leaves . . . Three separate and distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. One clover. One divine nature! Why hadn’t he thought of it sooner? Along with the prayer drawn in the dirt, he should’ve left the stone with his friends. Magonus climbed to his feet just as a seagull called out and soared overhead. A few more steps took him to where he could see the Irish Sea below the rocky plateau on which he stood. Oh so aware of the treasure he’d received in his enslavement, he gazed in awe at the deep blue waves and the ship still some distance out. The ship that would take him home.
Catholic Teen Books is a lay organization of authors committed to the writing and promotion of exciting novels for Catholic teens. CatholicTeenBooks.com
Contributors:
Treasures includes historical stories by West Brothers series author Theresa Linden, Harwood Mysteries author Antony Kolenc, Heaven Intended series author Amanda Lauer, Rightfully Ours author Carolyn Astfalk, and Susan Peek, recognized for her stories of lesser-known saints. Author Leslea Wahl (The Perfect Blindside) contributes a split-time story. Finally, author T.M. Gaouette (Faith and Kung Fu series) shares a contemporary story and author Corinna Turner contributes a dystopian story set in her popular I Am Margaret series.
We are all called to live holy lives. We are called be saints.
“as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
1 Peter 1:15-16
How do we teach this to our children? We want them to learn this at a very young age so that they can grow in faith and grace, joy and peace. But our children won’t get this message from the world. The world and its business often provides the opposite example, one that leads to unhappiness.
We teach our children the faith, pray together as a family, and do our best to be good examples. We also look for role models whose lives demonstrate the faith-messages we are trying to teach.
Saints can provide the role models we are looking for!
Saint Clare’s story touches people of every age…
her faithfulness to God’s call
her joy that attracted others to a life of faith
her trust in God no matter the challenge
her simple way of making the littlest daily activities a gift to God
her kindness that extends even to a little kitten
The author of Saint Clare and Her Cat, Dessi Jackson, really did her research for this sweet little book. It is even true that Saint Clare liked cats.
A little online research will pull up a few images of the saint with cats. I love this icon by Terrance Nelson. Saint Clare holds the Blessed Sacrament in her hands and cats sit at her feet. Learn more about the icon and the artist, or even get your own copy, HERE.
Book description:
On the road to San Damiano, Grandma Nonna shares with her grandson Antonio a once-upon-a-time story about Saint Clare. Full-color illustrations and a delightful tale capture the beauty and faith of Saint Clare as she pursues her vocation and embraces the joyful and simple Franciscan spirituality. Ever-appreciative of the little things, Clare’s happiness blossoms even more with her wonderful discovery of a tiny kitten.
“Beautifully illustrated and written. You have my approval! By all means the St. Joseph’s table would love to have one.” ~ Fr. Gillilan
“This charming story of Saint Clare of Assisi and her blossoming friendship with a mischievous little cat is absolutely delightful.” ~ Amazon review, Nose in a Book
“The story is written in an engaging and entertaining manner. . . . And can be read again and again, at the writing of this review I have read it almost a dozen times, by myself or with one or more of my children. . . . It is a great Catholic picture book, fun for the whole family..” ~Steven R. McEvoy, Book Reviews & More
“Wonderful and delightful story with incredible illustrations!! Children will love the full colored pages as they listen to the story. A must add to any children’s collection.” ~ Amazon review, Didi
“Saint Clare and Her Cat is a great introduction to the Franciscan saint. Told as a story within a story, it’s appealing to children with friendly illustrations and pretty kitty too. The book would make a great gift for a child any time of the year.” ~ An Open Book Family
More from the author and illustrator:
Dessi Jackson is also the author of other Catholic picture book saint stories, including Saint Felix and the Spider, The Saint and His Bees, Nicola and the Monk, and Roses in the Snow. Look for them at your local Catholic bookstore, or ask them to carry these books. They are also found on Amazon.
The illustrator Martina Parnelli has also illustrated numerous saint stories by author Susan Peek, including the Animals of God series and God’s Forgotten Friends for Children Series. They can be found on Susan’s website HERE. Martina Parnelli has written and illustrated the Little Runty trilogy and other faith-filled stories too. You can learn more about her HERE. Ask your local Catholic bookstore to carry all her books or look for them on Amazon.
Saint stories are a great way to inspire faith in little ones. Add Saint Clare and Her Cat to your children’s book collection now!
St. Zélie Martin (1831-1877) is best known as the mother of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, one of the most-loved saints of modern times, but she is also a saint in her own right. In this work of historical fiction based largely on St. Zélie’s letters, a compelling portrait of a working mother who always put God first comes to life.
St. Zélie is a saint many women can relate to. She suffered from anxiety, struggled with work-life balance, grieved the loss of children, cared for aging parents, had a child with special needs, and dealt with personal illness. Above all, she loved God and her family and had a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother.
In this intimate portrayal, you will come to know a complex woman who achieved holiness while living in the world and dealing with the stress of modern life.
Interview with Author Anne Faye
Why tell St. Zélie’s story?
Like many others, I first heard of St. Zélie in the story of her most famous child, St. Thérèse of Lisieux. I first read St. Thérèse’s autobiography, Story of a Soul, when I was young. My mother had a great devotion to St. Thérèse and passed that on to me. I would revisit that famous book many more times in my life. Yet, for a long time, the most I could have told you about St. Thérèse’s mother was that she died when the great saint was only a small child.
My first true introduction to St. Zélie was when she and her husband, Louis, were being beatified in 2008. By this point, I had been married for several years and had children of my own. It was exciting to see a married couple being beatified. They were canonized in 2015.
In October of 2019, I read The Extraordinary Parents of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Hélène Mongin and became intrigued by this story of a modern woman who lived a life of holiness out in the world while dealing with the challenges of marriage, motherhood, and work. Here was a saint I could relate to.
I then attended a retreat in November 2019 in which the facilitator, Megan Baillargeon, spoke about St. Zélie. She had a book of St. Zélie’s letters. I had not known such a resource existed. I left the retreat determined to get a copy of that book and to write this saint’s story.
St. Zélie has much to offer as a role model for women today. Although she lived nearly 150 years ago, she struggled with many of the same issues that women do today. She had to balance family and work. She often was sleep-deprived. She suffered from anxiety, constantly worrying about her children. She experienced great grief, losing four of her children in early childhood. She had health problems, experiencing painful headaches and then ultimately dying of breast cancer. Through it all, she put her trust in God.
Those who believe she deserved sainthood only because of her children (all five of her children who lived to adulthood became religious sisters) sell her short. Yes, she raised her children to be holy, but she and her husband are saints in their own right because of their own faith lived out in the daily challenge of life in the world. St. Zélie was not perfect, but she always put God first. She is a heavenly friend whom women can turn to in their times of need. St. Zélie, pray for us.
What is truth and fiction in this retelling?
Whenever I read a work of historical fiction, I always wonder what is based in fact and what is a product of the author’s imagination.
Part One of this book is largely fictional. With the exception of a few major life events, little is known of St. Zélie’s early life. She did have a difficult relationship with her mother. She was rejected when she attempted to enter the convent. She did have inner locutions that told her to make lace and that Louis Martin was the man for her. The two did have a celibate marriage for nine months before a spiritual director encouraged them to consummate their relationship. They did care for a small child during those early days. The vast majority of details are my best guess of what might have happened.
Parts Two and Three are based largely on St. Zélie’s letters. While, to my knowledge, she never kept a journal, she was a prolific letter writer, corresponding often with her brother and sister. Later on, she would write to her daughters while they were away at school. Not all of her letters survived. Some were destroyed. Others were edited by her family in order to remove sensitive material. However, those letters that do remain paint a vibrant portrait of the saint’s daily life. I have paraphrased parts of those letters, adding some additional color.
I prayed fervently to both the Holy Spirit and to St. Zélie for inspiration and guidance as I wrote this book. I can only hope that if I am ever blessed enough to encounter St. Zélie in heaven, she will be pleased with how I portrayed her. Any errors are mine.
You haven’t written about a real-life historical person before. How was that different?
It was definitely a different experience to write about a real-life person. With my previous books, I was able to let creativity take over. I could let the story go wherever I wanted. With this book, I wanted to make it as historically accurate as possible. That took a lot of research. It also meant that there were limitations on where the story could go. While I had some leeway in how I presented her story and what details I chose to include, the basic framework that I had to work within was already there.
I enjoyed the process, but it was also a bit nerve-wracking. I wanted this book to be an accurate portrayal of St. Zélie. In the early part of her story, I didn’t have as much research material to rely on so that was more based on my imagination. I hope I have portrayed her well.
Anne Faye’s fictionalized biography of St. Zelie Martin, largely based on the saint’s personal correspondence, is a compelling read. The book is well researched and gives the reader a clear portrait of life in that time and place. It is written in the form of diary entries, and truly is an intimate look at the dreams, disappointments, joys, and difficulties this saint experienced. 5 out of 5 stars!
While the Roman Empire crumbles into chaos, the flickering light of civilization is in the hands of a teenage pig-keeper and shepherd at the edge of the known world. His name is Succat. We know him as Patrick.
As an indolent teen, Patrick is abducted by pirates from his British villa and sold to a druid chieftain in remote Hibernia. In misery, he embraces the faith he once loathed. He learns Irish language and lore, befriends the chieftain’s son and falls for the feisty daughter, making a jealous enemy of the druid’s apprentice. Fearing for his life and obeying a strange vision, Patrick escapes, leaving the girl he loves and returning home after a hazardous journey. But he is shaken by an insistent dream: the plea of the Irish to come back.
He resolves to do so. But first he must overcome a suspicious church, a backstabbing mentor, and his old rival who is now the Archdruid of Ireland, sworn to kill him and eager to enslave the beautiful woman Patrick left behind. Can he save Ireland from darkness—and free the girl he once loved?
“Full of action and intrigue yet true to historical detail.”
—Lisa M. Hendey, author of The Secret of the Shamrock
“An utterly delightful journey to ancient Ireland. Remarkable.”
—Sarah Reinhard, SnoringScholar.com
A Question for the Author
What inspired you to write historical fiction (especially about a time we know little about)?
Writers can be inspired by a time, a setting or a character. For me, it was all three.
I had written The Throne of Tara: A Novel of Saint Columba in 1990, after scripting and producing a documentary about Church history. I became fascinated by Irish monasticism and Celtic spirituality, by the monks’ love of scholarship, prayer, and poetry, and by their ardent evangelization. Soon after that book was published, I wondered if a “prequel” of sorts, a book about Patrick, might be a natural follow-up. After all, I’d already done a lot of research into the general period and the culture. I turned to contemporary mysteries instead. But I saved my notes.
So, nearly 25 years later, I picked it up again. I wanted people to know “St. Patrick’s Day” was more than beer, corned beef’n’cabbage, a green river in Chicago and a parade in New York to celebrate Irish identity. The historical Patrick was a revolutionary figure. Against tremendous odds, he persevered in faith to bring God’s message of forgiveness to his former captors (he’d been kidnapped by Irish pirates as a teenager in Britain but escaped after 6 years). This was a time in Church history when such evangelization across cultural lines—certainly outside the Roman Empire—was not really known. The Church was preoccupied with combating heresies and with managing a chaotic, crumbling Empire, as many bishops became the defacto governors of their districts while “barbarians” ravaged the land. There was little interest in ‘evangelizing’ the so-called barbarians when bishops were more busy ransoming Christian captives from them.
Patrick’s daring and determination were inspiring, and more so, his long obedience to an insistent call—against his better judgment—to return to the people who brutally enslaved him in order to bring them the gospel of true freedom. Another person might have hated them for that bitter bondage. But he loved them. He knew their language and their lore, which he realized pointed to Christ. One of their great heroes, Cuchulainn, was bound to a post with a hawthorn crown and was lanced in his side while being mocked by pagan priests. Who does that sound like?
Historical fiction can be escapist by transporting readers to a distant time and place in an entertaining way (and even provide some knowledge). But it can also engage readers to think about the present time, and to see how people in the past met similar challenges. Patrick’s bold willpower—and submission to God’s will—advanced the light of the Faith and preserved the lamp of learning at a time when barbarians burned the libraries of Europe and plunged the Continent into a Dark Age.
My Review
The Light of Tara is a historical fiction about one of my favorite saints, Saint Patrick. The talented author has fleshed the story together creatively over the solid frame of historical facts and characters.
The story opens with the teenage “Patricius”, a selfish prankster seeking to amuse himself. He’s soon faced with a choice that would require great bravery, but he’s not spiritually or emotionally mature enough to choose wisely, and the severe consequences of his choice will haunt him later in life. Before he has time to realize what he’s done, a raid by Irish pirates and a kidnapping change the direction of his life forever.
The Light of Tara is so beautifully written with creative prose that carries the imagination and develops the scenes. Told in omniscient form, the story makes clear the political climate of the day, the pagan mindset, the many trials and heresies the Church faced, along with the challenges Christians and others suffered through. As God moves Patric further down the path of holiness, spiritual themes are developed creatively, especially concerning the Trinity. It even shows how the pagan gods and Irish heroes pointed to Christ, “in Whom all the stories find their fulfillment.” And I loved how the prayers attributed to Saint Patrick came into the story.
Packed with adventure—based on the real saint’s life—this story is entertaining and thought provoking.
John Desjarlais, a former producer for Wisconsin Public Radio, taught literature and creative writing at Kishwaukee College in Illinois for nearly 25 years. His novels include The Throne of Tara: A Novel of Saint Columba (Crossway 1990, a Christianity Today Readers Choice Award nominee), Relics (Thomas Nelson 1993, a Doubleday Book Club Selection), Bleeder, Viper (A Catholic Arts and Letters Award nominee), and Specter (Chesterton Press, 2008, 2011, 2015). Blood of the Martyrs, released through Amazon Kindle Select in 2012, contains short fiction that previously appeared in literary periodicals such as Critic, The Karitos Review, The Rockford Review, Conclave, and Dappled Things. A member of The Catholic Writers Guild, Mystery Writers of America, and the North Carolina Writers Network, he has been listed in Who’s Who in Entertainment, Contemporary Authors, and Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. His website is www.johndesjarlais.com
“Only those who live by faith really know what is happening in the world.”
Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen
Do we know what is happening in the world today?
Evil runs rampant. Over 20,898,000 babies worldwide died from abortion so far this year; over 526,946 suicides; over $196,583,000,000 spent on illegal drugs this year (see https://www.worldometers.info/ for continuously updated numbers). And what about the numbers for violent crime, sex trafficking, sexual depravity, and—most troubling—the priest sex abuse scandal?
Plus, there has been a great loss of faith. Less and less identify as Christian. More and more embrace everything from hedonism and New Age beliefs to pure evil. And even among Catholics, over 69% no longer believe in the True Presence of Christ in the Eucharist (see Pew Research).
We’ve known about all those things, but what have we done about them? And now, within the past few months, we’ve been struck with more–things we cannot ignore even if we wanted to! The entire world lives in fear of a virus, and we’ve completely changed the way we live our lives. Terrorists are destroying countries from within. Many churches are still closed. And who knows what lies on the horizon?
But do we really know what is happening in the world today?
The news media reports these tragedies, one after the other–too often with a slant. The situation in our world today can terrify us if we don’t have the right vision. We are called to live by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7). We need to look beyond the wars and rumors of war, the plagues and violence, and even beyond our own needs and physical well-being. We need to see with the eyes of faith. What underlies all the conflict and tragedy we see and hear about in the world? It is the spiritual battle between good and evil.
Are you a child of light?
Archbishop Vigano, in his letter to President Trump, recognized the two opposing sides that exist as eternal enemies and which are growing in our world today: the children of light and the children of darkness. He sees the forces of darkness, which once concealed their true intentions, revealing their plans openly in this generation, certain that they have won. He suspects that the riots in America, and those happening at the same time in Europe, have been orchestrated to dissolve the social order and build a new world without freedom.
Vigano recognizes the opposing sides within the Church as well: “the faithful Shepherds who care for the flock of Christ” vs. the “mercenary infidels who seek to scatter the flock and hand the sheep over to be devoured by the ravenous wolves.”
It is enough to make your head spin. It is enough to make one despair.
Has God forsaken us?
While it sometimes feels like God has forsaken us, God has already proven His love for us by sacrificing His only Son in atonement for our sins. He loves us and desires our salvation. He made each one of us to be happy with Him forever in heaven, so we can know with certainty that whatever cross comes our way, He only allows it so that some greater good will come of it. So the question is, have we forsaken God? Heaven is ours if we choose it, and we choose it by choosing God in our everyday actions.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
Jesus, John 14:15
For those who are not living in the state of grace, misfortune serves as a wake-up call. For those in a relationship with Jesus, trials and crosses are meant to purify a soul like silver in fire. By uniting our sufferings to the cross, they become valuable, and when added to our prayers, they can help many souls. We have no need to fear pain, suffering, inconvenience, bad news, setbacks, and other disappointments.
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Matthew 10:28
If we remain close to Our Lord and strive for holiness, we have nothing to fear in these dark times. But we do have a role to play. Pray, do penance, and have courage.
You were made for these times!
God wants you to be His instrument. And if you are tempted to think that you are too little, too much of a nobody to accomplish great things, think of Saint Joan of Arc, who was called by God as a teen, led the French in several battles, and then died a martyr’s death all by age 19.
Think of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. He developed a deep spiritual life at a young age, and joined the St. Vincent de Paul Society so he could care for the sick and needy–even at the risk of his own health. He contracted polio from the sick he tended. So great was his love, so fearless his faith, that he even asked that his medicine be given to another.
Think of Blessed Isidore Bakanja, a merciful catechist who forgave the attackers who caused his death–they hated him for his Catholicism and his African race. He converted to Christianity at age 18, wore the Brown Scapular, and carried the Rosary with him everywhere he went. He also zealously shared his faith with anyone who would listen and on his death bed promised to pray for his attackers in heaven.
Or take this contemporary teen and expert in computers for your role model, with his brief but intense witness to an authentic Christian life. Venerable Carlo Acutis attended daily Mass, prayed the Rosary daily, and developed a website that catalogs Eucharistic miracles. He died of leukemia at the age of 15, after offering all his sufferings for the pope and the Church.
So, what are we to do in these difficult times?
Look to the saints for the examples of courage and faith that we need today. It is really such an honor that we are called to be the saints of our generation! The light in our dark culture!
Using Sacred Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we must learn our faith inside and out so we can embody it, teach it to our children, and share it with anyone who will listen to us. Our formation is a never-ending process, and we must make sure our children realize that too.
We should also learn our history. Some seek to erase it as part of their plan to destroy our country. And we should make sure our children know it.
Heed the messages of Our Lady made known at Fatima and elsewhere: God calls us to holiness, to lives of prayer and penance. He calls us to be faithful soldiers of Christ, in the army of God.
Visit Jesus often in the Blessed Sacrament, the unique gift of His presence with us, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.
Pray the Rosary daily, avail yourself of the sacraments, and invest in the Brown Scapular.
Live the Faith. Learning and speaking about it is nothing if you are not living it for all to see and learn from your example.
Let us also remind ourselves and instill in our children the fact that we were not made for this world but to be with God in the eternal happiness of heaven. We are pilgrims in this world, on our way to the castle of the Great King.
“Have we lost sight of this world being a pilgrimage? It’s a journey. You’re not home yet. A Christian must never lose sight of this passing reality of life.”
Mother M. Angelica
Heaven help us.
Jesus has not left us orphans. He has promised to remain with us always, to the close of the age (Matt 28:20). He fulfills this promise in the Most Blessed Sacrament, His true presence among us. And He will remain in our tabernacles and on the altar in every Catholic Mass until the end of the age. Even if we aren’t allowed to go to Mass for a period of time.
Who would’ve ever imagined that we would be forbidden from attending Mass for so long? These are indeed unsettling times. I seem to remember a verse in Daniel that talks about the Holy Sacrifice being abolished and abomination being set up in the holy place (see Daniel 12:11). Jesus referred to this verse when asked what will be the sign of His second coming and the end of the age (see Matthew 24:15).
Are we at the end of the age?
Some believe we are. Some also believe that we will soon experience the illumination of conscience that many saints, blesseds, and modern-day seers have told us about. If you have not heard of it before, let me explain. This will be like a mini judgment where every person sees their soul as God sees it. We will each see the sins of our life and the consequences of those sins. We will know and feel our eternal destination, should we die without repentance. This is a gift of mercy, whereby sinners will have the opportunity to reconcile with God.
To Saint Faustina Kowalska Jesus said: “In the Old Covenant I sent prophets wielding thunderbolts to My people. Today I am sending you with My mercy to the people of the whole world. I do not want to punish suffering mankind, but I desire to heal it, pressing it to My Merciful Heart. I use punishment when they themselves force Me to do so; My hand is reluctant to take hold of the sword of justice. Before the Day of Justice I am sending the Day of Mercy.
Diary of St Faustina, #1588
I recently read a novella that reminded me of this supernatural event, though the author had not been following Marian apparitions and was not aware of the illumination of conscience. She wrote the story and set it aside for years but recently felt called to work on the story and publish it. I read an advanced copy and knew at once it was a story for our times. This story had me thinking hard about the times we live in and the drastic decline in morals. And it had me thinking of this prophecy, the illumination of conscience, which I do wish would come soon. I want to see my soul as God sees it, so that I can change whatever is displeasing to Him. I want the faithful throughout the world to grow in holiness and for the unfaithful to repent.
New release by Catholic teen fiction author T.M. Gaouette
Story summary: It all happened one morning. It was as if the world had gone mad. Well, maybe not the whole world, but enough of it to get noticed. People were waking up as if possessed; suffering souls resorting to tearing at their skin, crying out loud to no one in particular, haunted by a sudden internal torment that no one around them could decipher. For investigative reporter Elijah, this news story was way bigger than a scoop. Unless he could unmask the truth behind the madness, how could he stop it, once and for all? And more urgent – how could he keep it from happening to him?
Get the book HERE. Learn more about the author, T.M. Gaouette, HERE.
“Write this: before I come as the Just Judge, I am coming first as the King of Mercy. Before the day of justice arrives, there will be given to people a sign in the heavens of this sort: All light in the heavens will be extinguished, and there will be great darkness over the whole earth. Then the sign of the cross will be seen in the sky, and from the openings where the hands and the feet of the Savior were nailed will come forth great lights which will light up the earth for a period of time. This will take place shortly before the last day.”
What are you doing this Thursday, December 5th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM EST?
Several authors from CatholicTeenBooks.com are hosting a pre-Christmas party on Facebook. Won’t you please join us?
We will have games and prizes and a chance for authors and readers to get to know each other! No purchase necessary to play and win. You’ll find pictures of the prizes at the end of this post!
You stand a good chance of winning prizes but even if you don’t, maybe you’ll get some gift ideas! Books make great gifts, but faith-filled fiction is even better! Faith-filled Catholic fiction can inspire and support a teen in their faith and help them deal with the challenges today’s culture throws at them.
Who we are:
At CatholicTeenBooks.com you will find books in several genres: saint stories, mystery, contemporary, romance, fantasy, dystopian, speculative, and historical. Many of these books are award-winners. Many have been featured on Virtue Works Media and Catholic Reads. Many Catholic Teen Books authors have given presentations in schools and churches and might even be available to come to your parish, either in person or virtually.
Every book on the website reflects our faith through Catholic themes, characters, and perspectives. The characters in these stories struggle with challenges that we all face. Some stories follow the lives of saints, of those who dared to live counter-culturally and give themselves entirely to God. Other stories bring to light the beauty and power of the unique aspects of the Catholic faith. The Catholic element is more subtle in some works, but the worldview and themes bring the message of truth.
We hope that our fiction will challenge and inspire, that it will awaken within our readers some of the mystery, joy, and beauty of the Faith. We hope to stir within our readers a desire for something beyond themselves. Because God calls everyone to the fullness of faith and happiness, we invite readers of any faith or no faith at all to read our fiction.
Check out some of the prizes!
NOTE: If you plan to come, I encourage you to gather the following items for my game, which will be a SCAVENGER HUNT!
pencil
paper
family portrait
wedding ring (or any ring will do)
Christian Christmas ornament
Bible
I think that’s it but if there is something else, you’ll have time during the party to get it!
The North American Martyrs served among the Native Americans of eastern Canada and the United States in the 1600s. Their lives are an amazing testimony to their love for God and for their fellow men. They are giants of the faith, yet they were also ordinary men who struggled with everyday problems like poor health, depression, unfaithful friends, spiritual dryness, and more. Though they lived centuries ago, their lives can still inspire us in our faith.
The North American
Martyrs Kids Activity Book will bring the lives of these holy men alive for
Catholic children. This 135-page paperback book includes bios, discussion and
reflection questions, word puzzles, mazes, colouring pages and more activities
about the lives of the North American or Canadian Martyrs. There are also
quotes from the saints and suggestions for applying what kids have learned from
each saint to their own lives.
Kids ages 7-13
will learn about St. Isaac Jogues, St. Jean de Brebeuf, St. Antoine Daniel, St.
Charles Garnier, St. Noel Chabanel, St. Rene Goupil, St. Gabriel Lalemant, St.
Jean de Lalande and their friends and be inspired in their faith!
Intended
for a multi-age audience, North American Martyrs Kids Activity Book can
be used in catechism classes, homeschools, parish kids clubs, Catholic schools,
and more.
Author
Bonnie Way is a Catholic convert and homeschooling mom of 5 children. She and
her family live in Vancouver, BC. She has a B.A. in English (with a minor in
history) from Concordia University of Edmonton and a B.A. in Writing from the
University of Victoria. She blogs about motherhood, homeschooling, books and
more at thekoalamom.com.
Illustrator
Katherine Babcock is a mom of 4 children who lives in Victoria, BC. Her art
explores the West Coast in a variety of mediums, from watercolour to pen and
ink.
North American Martyrs Kids Activity Book is available on Amazon: bit.ly/namartyrs
Things Visible & Invisible 