Divine Mercy in My Pocket - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé

Divine Mercy in My Pocket
Marianne Lorraine Trouvé
Mary Joseph Peterson (Illustrator),
Laura Rosemarie McGowan (Assistant Illustrator)
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819819130


This is a wonderful little booklet. It does an excellent job of explaining Divine Mercy to children. But it can really be used by anyone. My son was fascinated by this booklet from the moment we opened the package. He has an audio version of the divine mercy chaplet that he prays way most days. He loved the explanations in this book both of why and how to pray it but also of the works of mercy.

The sections in this booklet are:
What Is Divine Mercy?
Who Is Saint Faustina?
How Do I Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet?
What Do the Three Prayers Mean?
What Is Divine Mercy Sunday?
How Can I Share Mercy with Others?
Corporal Works of Mercy

1. Feed the Hungry
2. Give Drink to the Thirsty
3. Clothe the Naked
4. Shelter the Homeless
5. Visit the Sick
6. Visit the Imprisoned
7. Bury the Dead

Spiritual Works of Mercy

1. Instruct the Ignorant
2. Counsel the Doubtful
3. Correct Sinners
4. Bear Wrongs Patiently
5. Forgive Offenses Willingly
6. Comfort the Afflicted
7. Pray for the Living And the Dead

Each of the works of mercy has a nearly full-page piece of artwork. And below it an example a child can follow to live that work of mercy. the illustrations and the samples are wonderful. This is an awesome little booklet. My children love it and I enjoyed reading it with them.

A wonderful little booklet that we recommend!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!

Other books about Divine Mercy and Saint Faustina:

Divine Mercy for Children: A Guided Tour of the Museum of Mercy - Vinny Flynn and Brian Kennelly

Divine Mercy in My Pocket - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé

Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy Missionary Handbook - Michael E. Gaitley

Marrying the Rosary to the Divine Mercy Chaplet - Shane Kapler

Divine Mercy Explained - Michael E. Gaitley

The Divine Mercy Image Explained - Michael R. Gaitley

52 Weeks with Saint Faustina - Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

Faustina Kowalska Messenger of Mercy - Susan Helen Wallace and Joan Waites - Encounter the Saints Series Book 23 

Divine Mercy Prayer Book - The Marian Fathers - CTS Prayers and Devotions 

33 Days to Divine Mercy - Matthew Kelly 

The Divine Mercy & Sister Faustina - Fr Andrew Witko - CTS Prayers and Devotions 

…

Books by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary: Help in Hard Times
A Scriptural Rosary
Sacred Heart of Jesus Prayer Book
Angels: Help from on High
Novena St Thomas Aquinas: Patron of Students and Catholic Schools
Divine Mercy in My Pocket
Purgatory Purifying Power
My Favorite Prayers & Novena
Praying Mysteries of Light
Praying the Rosary for Priests
Our Lady Undoer of Knots: Novena and Prayers
The Rosary with Pope Francis
Consecrated Life: John Paul II
Saint Thomas Aquinas: Saints By Our Side

Encounter the Saints Series:
Saint Catherine Labouré: And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Saint Clare of Assisi: A Light for the World
Saint Thomas Aquinas: Missionary of Truth

Books contributed to:
The Catholic Answer Book of Mary
Honoring Mary with the Holy Father
Pope Francis in the U.S.: Words of Mercy and Hope

16 Black Saints and Advocates For Racial Justice

…

Books Edited by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary Leads Us to Jesus
Mother of Christ, Mother of the Church: Documents on the Blessed Virgin Mary

Ordinary Grace Daily Reflections:
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 1-17
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 18-34
Easter Grace

Translated by:
Adventures of Saint Paul

Saint Clare of Assisi A Light for the World - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Mary Joseph Peterson - Encounter the Saints Series Book 26

Saint Clare of Assisi

A Light for the World

Encounter the Saints Series Book 26

Susan Helen Wallace

Mary Joseph Peterson (Illustrator)

Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819871220

eISBN 9781306806671

ASIN B005F1Q7SS

I want to be clear and state that this series is amazing! Between my three children and I we have now read 30 of the books in this series. Either by myself, or with one or more child. My youngest 2 children ages 13, 10, still both love these books. My son wants to have the complete set in his room, so he keeps asking to buy his own set, because he loves these books so much. We have read many of them together and reread some of our favourites. We have also picked up copies of our favories for the kids school library. We had a lull in reading these books but are back and plan on finishing the rest of those currently available. With each book we read we appreciate this series more. We also hope there will be even more books in the future. As one has been released since we started reading them. But now back to this specific book on Saint Clare of Assisi. 

The description of this volume is:

“This noblewoman was so moved by St. Francis of Assisi's preaching that she gave up all of her worldly goods and devoted her life to Jesus, defending what she called the "privilege of poverty." Gathering women who wanted to be "poor ladies" of Jesus, she eventually founded an order of nuns called the Poor Clares. They lived in a poor house of silent prayer, trusting completely in God.”

There are 5 different editions of this book, paperbacks and eBooks of various formats but the eBook editions appear to be out of print or have been pulled from sale. The various editions have been published between 2009 and 2016. But not matter which you lay your hands on I am certain you will be blessed by reading of the book.

The chapters in this volume are:

1. A Light for the World

2. The Market of Assisi

3. A Marriage Proposal

4. Trouble at Home

5. A Grieving Family

6. Clare’s Plan of Action

7. Palm Sunday

8. Into the Night

9. A New Life

10. Sanctuary!

11. A Wonderful Gift

12. To San Damiano

13. The Community Grows

14. The Fourth Lateran Council

15. Ortolana

16. The Miracle of the Bread

17. A New Convent in Florence

18. Brother Sun, Sister Death

19. A Visit from the Pope

20. Princess Agnes

21. The Saracen Attack

22. The Last Christmas

23. The Holy Father

24. Final Glory

Prayer

Glossary

This was the second book about Saint Clare that I have read in a week, and I have just picked up a third. One of my youngest daughters favourites is another Pauline book, Saint Clare of Assisi: Runaway Rich Girl by Kim Hee-Ju. And she loved this volume as well. This is an excellent book about the saint for the young readers and enjoyable for older readers as well. My children always love the prayer at the end of the book as well as the glossary. We read it from beginning to end. The prayer in this volume is:

“Saint Clare, you loved Jesus so much that you gave your whole life to him. While you were still a young woman, you chose a life of poverty, so only Jesus would be your treasure. You wanted to spread the love of Jesus through the whole world. Even though you never left your convent, your heart was so big that you included everyone in your prayers. Your life was like a great light that still shines on us today. But you never wanted to draw attention to yourself. Instead, you thought of yourself as a little plant in God’s garden. Through the beauty of your life, you gave glory to God.

Teach me to value the things that are really important in life, things like love of God and love for my family and friends. Help me to remember the needs of other people, especially those who don’t have as much as I do. Help me to be generous in sharing with them. Saint Clare, you and Saint Francis were great friends. You helped each other to become holy. I also want to have good friends in my life. Teach me how to be a good friend to others, so that together we will live as Jesus wants us to. Amen.”

This is one of the three books in the series that is written by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé. It is the only one illustrated by Mary Joseph Peterson, FSP. This book follows the format of the series in that there are 5 illustrations sprinkled throughout the book. They appear to be pencil drawings or sketches. My children were fascinated by the sketches and went over them a few times. 

I loved this book, and all three children and I love this series! We have now read over 30 of the books in the Encounter the Saints Series from Pauline Books and Media. And everyone has been worth the read. An excellent read in a wonderful series!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2021 Catholic Reading Plan!

Encounter the Saints Series from Pauline Books and Media:

Blessed James Alberione Media Apostle
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Journey to the Summit
Journeys with Mary Apparitions of Our Lady
Saint André Bessette Miracles in Montreal
Saint Anthony of Padua Fire and Light
Saint Bakhita of Sudan Forever Free
Saint Bernadette Soubirous And Our Lady of Lourdes
Saint Catherine Labouré And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Saint Clare of Assisi A Light for the World
Saint Damien of Molokai Hero of Hawaii
Saint Edith Stein Blessed by the Cross
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Daughter of America
Saint Faustina Kowalska Messenger of Mercy
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini Cecchina's Dream
Saint Francis of Assisi Gentle Revolutionary
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla The Gift of Life
Saint Ignatius of Loyola For the Greater Glory of God
Saint Isaac Jogues With Burning Heart
Saint Joan of Arc God's Soldier
Saint John Bosco Champion for the Young
Saint John Neumann Missionary to Immigrants
Saint John Paul II Be Not Afraid
Saint John Vianney A Priest for All People
Saint Juan Diego And Our Lady of Guadalupe
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha: Courageous Faith
Saint Katharine Drexel The Total Gift
Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque And the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Saint Martin de Porres Humble Healer
Saint Maximilian Kolbe Mary's Knight
Saint Paul The Thirteenth Apostle
Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Rich in Love
Saint Teresa of Avila Joyful in the Lord
Saint Teresa of Calcutta Missionary of Charity
Saint Teresa of Kalkota Missionary of Charity

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux The Way of Love
Saint Thomas Aquinas Missionary of Truth
Saint Thomas More Courage, Conscience, and the King
Saints Jacinta and Francisco Marto: Shepherds of Fatima
The Saints Pray for Us

Saint Julie Billiart The Smiling Saint

...

Books by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary: Help in Hard Times
A Scriptural Rosary
Sacred Heart of Jesus Prayer Book
Angels: Help from on High
Novena St Thomas Aquinas: Patron of Students and Catholic Schools
Divine Mercy in My Pocket
Purgatory Purifying Power
My Favorite Prayers & Novena
Praying Mysteries of Light
Praying the Rosary for Priests
Our Lady Undoer of Knots: Novena and Prayers
The Rosary with Pope Francis
Consecrated Life: John Paul II
Saint Thomas Aquinas: Saints By Our Side

Books contributed to:
The Catholic Answer Book of Mary
Honoring Mary with the Holy Father
Pope Francis in the U.S.: Words of Mercy and Hope

16 Black Saints and Advocates For Racial Justice

…

Books Edited by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary Leads Us to Jesus
Mother of Christ, Mother of the Church: Documents on the Blessed Virgin Mary

Ordinary Grace Daily Reflections:
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 1-17
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 18-34
Easter Grace

Translated by:
Adventures of Saint Paul

...

Posts related to Clare and Francis of Assisi:

The Way of the Cross: According to the Method of St. Francis of Assisi - TAN Books 

Saint Francis of Assisi: The Patron Saint of Animals - Jeannie Meekins - A 15-Minute Biography   

Message of Assisi The Shrine of St Francis of Assisi - Chris Simpson - CTS Christian Shrines 

Clare of Assisi Her Life and Message - John Paul Kirkham - CTS 

Saint Francis of Assisi - Jennifer Moorcroft - CTS Great Saints 

Clare of Assisi - John Paul Kirkham - CTS Great Saints 

Saint Clare of Assisi: A Light for the World - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Mary Joseph Peterson - Encounter the Saints Book 26 

St. Francis of Assisi - Alice Curtayne 

Saint Francis of Assisi Gentle Revolutionary - Mary Emmanuel Alves - Encounter the Saints Book 4 

Saint Clare of Assisi: Runaway Rich Girl - Kim Hee-Ju

Peace of Heart Francis of Assisi - John Kirvan - Great Spiritual Teachers 

Prayer of the Day Saint Francis Prayer

…

Mary: Help in Hard Times - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé

Mary: Help in Hard Times
Marianne Lorraine Trouvé
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819849397
eISBN 9781306807135
ASIN B00IYZ02RO

I was intrigued by this book from the first time I read the cover. For even in the times when I wandered from the Catholic faith, I always felt a closeness and a grounding in my devotion to Mary. And this book was so much more that I had hoped for. The description of the book is:

"Discussing four of the Blessed Virgin's roles, Mary: Help in Hard Times is a combination of history, stories, and prayers in an approachable, practical size. Divided into three distinct sections, the book's first segment discusses four key moments of Mary's life. The second section contains personal stories of Mary's intercession, and the book closes with various Marian devotions and prayers. An added feature is the reflection questions after each section. Bringing strength to those who feel overwhelmed, Mary: Help in Hard Times is a hope-filled companion for everyone."

And the chapters in the book are:

MARY, HELPER OF THE SICK
Our Lady of Lourdes and the Immaculate Conception
Mary picks the lowly ones
Mary asked not only for prayer but for penance
Mary brings healing and peace
The Immaculate Conception
For Reflection and Prayer

CAUSE OF OUR JOY
Mary, the Virgin-Mother Who Brings Us Joy
Mary shows us how to have a happy life
Mary was full of joy
Mary's gift of self
For Reflection and Prayer

"AM I NOT YOUR MOTHER?"
Mary Is Our Mother Too
Mary called Juan Diego by name
Mary spoke Juan's language
Mary asked for a church to be built in her honor
Mary Is the Mother of God
Mary Leads Us to Jesus
For Reflection and Prayer

OUR HEAVENLY MOTHER AND INTERCESSOR
Mary and the Assumption
Why Intercession?
The Assumption
For Reflection and Prayer

WALKING WITH MARY
DEVOTIONS AND PRAYERS
Basic Marian Prayers
The Oldest Prayer to Mary
The Hail Mary
The Angelus
The Regina Caeli (Queen of Heaven)
Hail, Holy Queen
Memorare
Various Marian Prayers and Devotions
Loving Mother of the Redeemer
Prayer for the Ministers of the Word
The Rosary
How to Pray the Rosary
The Mysteries of the Rosary
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Litany of Loreto)
Stabat Mater (Our Lady of Sorrows)
The Scapular Devotion
The Flower of Mount Carmel
The Miraculous Medal
Pray of Dedication to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Symbolism of the Medal
Cardinal Newman's Prayer in Honor of Our Lady
Devotion of the Five First Saturdays
The Three Hail Marys
Devotion to Mary, Untier of Knots
Mary in the Liturgy

AfterwordMARY, OUR MOTHER, TEACHER, AND QUEEN
AppendixMARIAN CONSECRATION
RESOURCES

From the introduction it states:

"Since then, Catholics and other Christians have held Mary in a unique place of honor. Her journey of faith is a model for our own. Through the Communion of Saints, as members of the one Body of Christ, she still helps us now. It's as if every time we ask her help, the curtain between earth and heaven is drawn back and blessings flow more abundantly, like a vast waterfall of grace."

I found this to be a powerful and moving book. I have always had a devotion to Mary, and in many ways turn to her in ways I never could or would have with my mother. In my darkest hours it was Mary whom I relied on. And this book has helped to deepen my devotion to her. I love that my children go up to the statue of Mary after mass, and after confession, I love that they want to spend time with Mary. I love that they kiss the statue or their hands and touch the statue. After reading The Saints Pray for Us, I loved it so much I bought a copy for each of my children and their school teachers. This is a book I will be buying for each of my children as they get to be a bit older. Next to Scott Hahn's Hail Holy Queen this is my favorite book on Mary to date. 

This book does an amazing job of balancing history, tradition, and faithful devotion. This is a book that anyone with a high school education can easily read and understand. But it is also a book that will open the heart. It draws heavily from the bible, the writings of the popes and from saints. The 'for reflection and prayer' at the end of each section of the book are wonderful. And to be honest I believe the most important paragraphs in the whole book are:

"Mary Leads Us to Jesus 

So what is the point of all this? It shows that everything about Mary leads back to Jesus. In calling her Mother of God, in fact we are affirming the truth that Jesus is both God and man. Whatever the Catholic Church teaches about Mary is rooted in its faith in Jesus Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states this very succinctly: "What the Catholic faith believes about Mary is based on what it believes about Christ, and what it teaches about Mary illumines in turn its faith in Christ" (no. 487). 

Every teaching about Mary, whether it concerns her virginity, her Immaculate Conception, her Assumption, or her maternal mediation, is rooted in Jesus Christ and leads us to a deeper knowledge of him. Mother and Son are always found together. So we don't have to worry that if we honor Mary, we will forget about Jesus. Not at all! In fact, the great Marian shrines around the world are places of pilgrimage not just to honor Mary, but also to honor Jesus. Lourdes, for example, is famous for its Eucharistic procession, where Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is honored and invoked."

And that is what this book will help do, It will help root us deeper in Christ Jesus through Mary. This is a wonderful book and I highly recommend it.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary: Help in Hard Times
A Scriptural Rosary
Sacred Heart of Jesus Prayer Book
Angels: Help from on High
Novena St Thomas Aquinas: Patron of Students and Catholic Schools
Divine Mercy in My Pocket
Purgatory Purifying Power
My Favorite Prayers & Novena
Praying Mysteries of Light
Praying the Rosary for Priests
Our Lady Undoer of Knots: Novena and Prayers
The Rosary with Pope Francis
Consecrated Life: John Paul II
Saint Thomas Aquinas: Saints By Our Side

Encounter the Saints Series:
Saint Catherine Labouré: And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Saint Clare of Assisi: A Light for the World
Saint Thomas Aquinas: Missionary of Truth

Books contributed to:
The Catholic Answer Book of Mary
Honoring Mary with the Holy Father
Pope Francis in the U.S.: Words of Mercy and Hope

16 Black Saints and Advocates For Racial Justice

…

Books Edited by Marianne Lorraine Trouvé:
Mary Leads Us to Jesus
Mother of Christ, Mother of the Church: Documents on the Blessed Virgin Mary

Ordinary Grace Daily Reflections:
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 1-17
Ordinary Grace, Weeks 18-34
Easter Grace

Translated by:
Adventures of Saint Paul

Catholic Reading List 2017

Catholic Reading List 2017

At the beginning of the year in 2016 I created a reading list of Catholic books I wanted to finish. I called it a A Year Of Reading Intention – Catholic Reading. I started with 32 books on this list. But the list kept growing both from recommendations from others and from the books being read. Including a few Catholic fiction books I managed to read 73 Catholic books over the year, and review most of them. So continuing the new tradition here is my 2017 reading list:

1001 Reasons Why It's Great to be Catholic! - Robert M. Haddad
20 Answers Mary - Tim Staples
20 Answers Miracles - Karlo Broussard
20 Answers The Papacy - Jim Blackburn
20 Answers the Eucharist - Trent Horn
20 Answers God - Trent Horn
20 Answers The Sacraments - Fr. Mike Driscoll
20 Answers Salvation - Jimmy Akin
20 Answers End of Life Issues - Jason Negri
20 Answers Divorce and Remarriage - Jim Blackburn
20 Answers Death and Judgement - Trent Horn
20 Answers Islam - Andrew Bieszad
20 Answers Faith and Science - Trent Horn
20 Answers The Real Jesus - Trent Horn
20 Answers Scripture and Tradition - Jim BlackBurn
20 Answers Abortion - Trent Horn
20 Answers Angels and Demons - Fr. Mike Driscoll
20 Answers Witchcraft & the Occult - Michelle Arnold
20 Answers The Bible - Trent Horn
20 Answers Atheism - Matt Fradd
20 Answers The Church - Trent Horn
40 Days to Mercy - Michael E. Gaitley - A Jubilee Year Lenten Devotion Through Divine Sunday

...
Abandonment to Divine Providence - Jean-Pierre de Caussade
A Daily Defense: 365 Days (Plus One) to becoming a Better Apologist - Jimmy Akin
A Donkey at the Waterwheel - Malcolm M. Kennedy
A Friar's Tale - John Collins
Advent Meditations with Fulton J. Sheen
A Landscape With Dragons: The Battle for Your Child's Mind - Michael O'Brien
A Man Cleansed by God - John E. Beahm
A Man Who Knew How to Forgive - Francesc Faus
A Practical Guide to Discern God's Will - Philip Kosloski
Abandonment to Divine Providence - Jean Pierre de Caussade
Back to the Basics - Oliver Tuazon and Roque Carballo
Be Holy A Catholics Guide to the Spiritual Life - Thomas G. MorrowBeautiful Hope -  Matthew Kelly, Pope Frances, et al.
Behold Your Mother - Tim Staples
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati: An Ordinary Christian -Maria Amata Di Lorenzo and Robert Ventresca
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Journey to the Summit - Ana Maria Vasquez and Jennings Dean
Catholic & Christian - Alan Schreck
Catholic Book of Character, The - Fr. Edward Garesche
Champions of the Rosary - Donald H. Calloway - The History and Heroes of a Spiritual Weapon
Children of the Last Days - Michael O'Brien
Choosing Happiness: Working Within - Francisco Ugarte
Church Militant Field Manual - Richard Heilman
Cultivating Virtue: Self-Mastery with the Saints - Anonymous
Divine Renovation - James Mallon
DOCAT: Catholic Social Teaching for Youth - YOUCAT
Docilitas: On Teaching and Being Taught - James Schall
Every Man's Journey - James P. Campbell
Faith Hope Love - Josef Pieper
Father The Family Protector - James B. Stenson
Fatima: The Apparition That Changed the World - Jean M. Heimann 
From Slave To Priest - Sr. Caroline Hemesath
The Incorruptibles - Joan Carroll Cruz
Full Armor of God, The. Defending Your Life From Satan’s Schemes - Larry Richards
God or Nothing - Cardinal Robert Sarah
God Who Loves, The - Shane Kapler
God's Healing Mercy - Kathleen Beckman
God's World and Our Place In It - Fulton J. Sheen
Happy Are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom -  Father Thomas Dubay
Happy Catholic - Julie Davis
Holy Desperation: Praying as If Your Life Depends on It - Heather King
How to Become A Heroic Catholic - Catherine Stewart
How to Read Your Way to Heaven - Vicki Burbach
How To Book of Catholic Devotions, The Second Edition - Mike Aqulina and Regis J. Flaherty
In Conversation With God Volume 1 Part 2 Christmas and Epiphany - Francis Fernandez
In Conversation With God Volume 3 Part 1 Ordinary Time Weeks 1-6 - Francis Fernandez
In Conversation With God Volume 6 Part 1 Special Feasts January to March - Francis Fernandez
Journeys with Mary Apparitions of Our Lady - Zerlina De Santis
Life's Greatest Lesson - Allen Hunt
Live Well Today - Fr. Thomas Dailey
Love Is Patient, But I'm Not - Christopher West
Man Up - Jared Zimmerer
Manual for Marian Devotion - The Dominican Sisters of Mary
Marrying the Rosary to the Divine Mercy Chaplet - Shane Kapler
Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy Missionary Handbook - Michael E. Gaitley
Memorize the Mass - Kevin Vost
Mitt Brennender Sorge On the Church and the German Reich - Pope Pius XI
Navigating the Interior Life. Spiritual Direction and the Journey to God- Daniel Burke and Fr. John BartuneK
Norms of Piety A Plan for Everyday Living - J.M. Muntadas
Oscar Romero: Prophet of Hope - Roberto Morozzo della Rocca
Praying the Rosary Like Never Before: Encounter the Wonder of Heaven and Earth - Edward Sri
Pierced by a Sword - Bud Macfarlane Jr. T
Praying the Angelus Find Joy, Peace, and Purpose in Everyday Life - Jared Dees
Rediscover Catholicism: A Spiritual Guide to Living with Passion - Matthew Kelly
Rediscover the Rosary: The Modern Power of an Ancient Prayer - Matthew Kelly
Reform Yourself! : How to Pray, Find Peace, and Grow in Faith with the Saints of the Counter-Reformation - Shaun McAfee
Rosarium Virginis Mariae On The Most Holy Rosary - Pope John Paul II
Roses Among Thorns - St. Francis de Sales
Perfectly Yourself Discovering God's Dream For You - Matthew Kelly
Saint Catherine Labouré And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Cathy Morrison
Saint Teresa of Kolkata Missionary of Charity - Mary Kathleen Glavich and Barbara Kiwak
Saint Thomas Aquinas Missionary of Truth - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Cathy Morrison
Saint John Neumann Missionary to Immigrants - Laura Rhoderica Brown
Saint Anthony of Padua Fire and Light - Margaret Charles Kerry and Mary Elizabeth Tebo 
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Courageous Faith - Lillian M. Fisher
Saint Martin de Porres Humble Healer - Elizabeth Marie DeDomenico
Saint John Bosco Champion for the Young - Emily Beata Marsh  
Saint Damien of Molokai: Hero of Hawaii - Virginia Helen Richards, D. Thomas Halpin and Anne Bergstrom 
Saint Edith Stein Blessed by the Cross - Mary Lee Hill and Mari Goering
Seeking Christ in Reading - Rev. Eugene Boylan 
Seven Words of Jesus and Mary Lessons on Cana and Calvary - Fulton J. Sheen
Seven Words of Jesus and Mary - Fulton J. Sheen
Stop Worrying and Start Living 365 Daily Readings - Gary Zimak
Sermons of St. Francis de Sales For Lent - Francis de Sales
Station to Station - Gary Jansen
Saint Clare of Assisi: Runaway Rich Girl - Kim Hee-Ju
Saints Jacinta and Francisco Marto - Anne Eileen Heffernan and Patricia Edward
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla The Gift of Life - Susan Helen Wallace and Patricia Edward Jablonski
Saint Paul The Thirteenth Apostle - Mary Lea Hill & Matthew Archambault
Saint Joan of Arc God's Soldier - Susan Helen Wallace and Ray Morelli
St. Paul - Mitch Pacwa 
Ten: How the Ten Commandments Can Change Your life - Mary Elizabeth Sperry
The Archbishop and I: My Childhood Friend Fulton J. Sheen - Margo Weber Nassar
The Body Under the Bridge  - Paul McCusker
The Catholic Guide to Loneliness - Dr. Kevin Vost
The Catholic Perspective on Paul: Paul and the Origins of Catholic Christianity - Taylor R. Marshall
The Deacon Reader - James Keating
The Golden Thread - Louis de Wohl
The Great Adventure - Jeff Cavins
The Grunt Padre: Father Vincent Robert Capodanno Vietnam 1966-1967 - Daniel L. Mode
The Holy Spirit - Mitch Pacwa
The Last Monks of Skellig Michael - Philip Kosloski
The Life of St. Christopher Quest for a King - Lee Hyoun-ju and Kyung Hee Yoon
The Miracle of Father Kapaun: Priest, Soldier and Korean War Hero - Roy Wenzl and Travis Heying
The Old Evangelization: How to Spread the Faith Like Jesus Did - Eric Sammons
The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis - Felix Timmerman
The Priest Barracks: Dachau 1938 – 1945 - Guillaume Zeller
The Rhythm of Life - Matthew Kelly
The Saints Pray for Us - Encounter the Saints 
The Secret Life of John Paul II - Lino Zani
The Way of the Heart - Henri Nouwen
Theology for Beginners - Frank Sheed
Thirsting for Prayer - Jacques Philippe
This Tremendous Lover - Eugene Boylan
To Be A Man - James B. Stenson
Truth Be Told - Mark Hart
Way of the Cross - Saint Josemaria Escriva
Why the Eucharist Matters - Chris Padgett
Why I Am Catholic (and You Should Be Too) Brandon Vogt
Why We're Catholic - Trent Horn
Way of Wonder: Wisdom from G.K. Chesterton
You're Amazing: A Message of Hope That Will Change Your Life Forever - Justin Fatica
Your Life in the Holy Spirit - Dr. Alan Schreck

Fiction:
The Strangers at the Manger - Lisa M. Hendey and Jenn Bower
Bane's Eyes - Corinna Turner - I Am Margaret Book 4
Angelhood - A.J. Cattapan
7 Riddles to Nowhere - A.J. Cattapan
I Thirst - Gina Marinello-Sweeney - Veritas Chronicles Book 1 
Saving Faith - T.M. Gaouette - Faith and Kung Fu Book 2
a.k.a. Genius - Marilee Haynes
Patrick and the Fire - Cornelia Mary Bilinsky and Maggie Coburn
Brigid and the Butter - Pamela Love and Apryl Stott
Pictures of Me - Marilee Haynes
Saint Magnus The Last Viking - Susan Peek
Genius Under Constriction - Marilee Haynes
Quetzalcoatl's Zahir - Manuel Alfonseca
The Shop of Ghosts - G.K. Chesterton
The Secret of the Shamrock - Lisa M. Hendey and Jenn Bower
The King's Prey: Saint Dymphna of Ireland - Susan Peek
The Mystery of the Haunted House - Manual Alfonseca
Spokes - Deanna K. Klingel
8 Notes to a Nobody - Cynthia T. Toney
A Single Bead - Stephanie Engelman 
Chasing Liberty - Theresa Linden - Chasing Liberty Book 1
Three Days: The Search for the Boy Messiah - Chris Stepien
The Profession - Eric Sammons
Roland West, Loner - Theresa Linden
Crusader King: A Novel of Baldwin IV and the Crusades - Susan Peek
The Sign of the Carved Cross - Lisa M. Hendey and Jenn Bower
The Relic of Perilous Falls - Raymond Arroyo - Will Wilder Book 1
Prince Martin Wins His Sword - Brandon Hale and Jason Zimdars
Standing Strong - Theresa Linden
10 Steps to Girlfriend Status - Cynthia T. Toney
The Mystery of the Sapphire Bracelet - Manuel Alfonseca
Beyond the Black Hole - Manuel Alfonseca
Nicholas Gilroy: Our Lady and the Guardian - Father Stephen and Deacon George
The Mystery of the Honeymoon - Manuel Alfonseca
Drive! - Corinna Turner - unSPARKed Book 1
Storm of Fire and Blood - Taylor R. Marshall 
Julia's Gifts - Ellen Gable
The Arrow Bringer -Lisa Mayer
Brothers - Corinna Turner - I am Margaret 0.5
Dying for Compassion - Barbara Golder
The Mystery of the Egyptian Vulture Country House - ManuelAlfonseca
Dying for Revenge - Barbara Golder
Margo's Diary & Notebook - Corinna Turner - I Am Margaret Companion
...

I am starting with 51 books on the list and it will likely grow, as 19 of these are carry over from the list that grew last year Looking forward to the challenge. And also reading the Catechism in a year. I was also asked to come up with a Top 10 Catholic Books List, not an easy task.

Saint Catherine Labouré And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Cathy Morrison - Encounter the Saints Book 30

Saint Catherine Labouré
And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Encounter the Saints Series Book 30
Marianne Lorraine Trouvé
Cathy Morrison (Illustrator)
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819872241

This book is about a saint that I had not encountered before reading the book. The story of this saint and the miraculous medal are amazing. My children could hardly believe the story. We loved this book and the whole series. The Encounter the Saints Series, from Pauline Books and Media, are all wonderful reads. Written for younger readers, they are great reads for anyone who wants to encounter saints in a powerful way. These books are great to read to children, with children or if you just want a good read for yourself. I started reading the series before reading them with my kids and we have now tracked down all 37 book currently available in the series in one format or another, and are working through them all.

The chapters in this book about Saint Catherine Labouré are:
Prologue 
1. Life on the Farm 
2. A New Role
3. A Growing Desire 
4. Following a Dream
5. Rue du Bac
6. The Lady 
7. A Special Mission
8. Back to the Farm
9. The Medal
10. Miracles 
11. Catherine's Secret 
12. Ordinary Life
13. Fire!
14. Another Mission for Father Aladel
15. The War 
16. More Trouble 
17. Into Flight
18. Back to Normal  
19. Some Changes
20. The Final Road 
Prayer
Glossary

Saint Catherine Labouré lived to serve and to work for the lord. Her service in running the gardens, and then the farm as well as her hospice work is exemplary. I was unaware of the story of the medal, its history. After having read a book about Mother Teresa and her affinity for passing out these medals it is nice to know their origin now. 

The author of this work also penned three other book in the series but has written about 25 other books about the Catholic faith. The writing style is direct and to the point but tells the story in a very engaging manner. The illustrator, Cathy Morrison, has illustrated one other book in the series and it was also written by Trouvé. I believe that the illustrations are charcoal or conté sketches. They are full of rich details. And each of the 5 illustrations is a full page illustrated out to a full rectangular image. A number of the other books have sketches that are not complete drawings like these.  

My children really love the last two sections in these books; the prayer and the glossary. The glossary in this volume has 20 definitions ranging from Canonization to vow. The especially enjoyed the definition of: 

"Pilgrimage - a journey to a holy place to venerate a saint or to obtain some spiritual favor. A person making a pilgrimage is called a pilgrim."

For we often go to a statue of Mary outside of our town and spend some time praying as a short pilgrimage together. And as always they really enoued the prayer:

"Saint Catherine, all your life you workedhard. You tried to serve God and love others insimplicity. Even when the Blessed Motherappeared to you and gave you a special mission,you were so humble that many people neverguessed what you had experienced. Your speciallove for the poor moved you to reach out to them,so that they would know how much God lovesthem. Pray for me that I will have a truly humbleheart, grateful for all that God has given me.May I, too, serve God with courage, even whenit seems that no one notices. 

Mary, our Lady of the Miraculous Medal,you asked Saint Catherine to encourage people totrust in your prayers and help. Pray for me andfor all those whom I love. Keep us close to Jesus.O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us whohave recourse to you. Amen."

My oldest commented about the book; and the prayer that the book is an example of doing everything as well as we can, but also in not calling attention to ourselves in the process. And that we should work hard at all we do. And that is a lesson I still need to learn and am happy my children are being exposed to through this book. And all three children loved the story of her faith during the fire, it really has encouraged them to face things that scare them.

My children and I love this series. In fact I have two different books on the go currently with my youngest two. I carry a small pocket oratory that has a miraculous medal and I love knowing more about it through this book. We love this book and the series. 

Currently there are 37 books in this series, including The Saints Pray for Us, and I have read over a third of them. I have read almost half of the series on my own and read about a third of them now with my children.  My oldest who is 11 and I read them to the younger two. My son who is 9 can read them with some help on the more difficult words. This book and the series is geared for readers between the ages of 9 and 12 but in our house they are loved by the 6 year old and this man who is pushing 50. As mentioned this book as mentioned is part of the Encounter the Saints Series; from Pauline Books and Media, and this book is an excellent read as is the entire series!  This family gives them our highest recommendation.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!

Encounter the Saints Series from Pauline Books and Media:
Blessed James Alberione Media Apostle
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Journey to the Summit
Journeys with Mary Apparitions of Our Lady
Saint André Bessette Miracles in Montreal
Saint Anthony of Padua Fire and Light
Saint Bakhita of Sudan Forever Free
Saint Bernadette Soubirous And Our Lady of Lourdes
Saint Catherine Labouré And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Saint Clare of Assisi A Light for the World
Saint Damien of Molokai Hero of Hawaii
Saint Edith Stein Blessed by the Cross
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Daughter of America
Saint Faustina Kowalska Messenger of Mercy
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini Cecchina's Dream
Saint Francis of Assisi Gentle Revolutionary
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla The Gift of Life
Saint Ignatius of Loyola For the Greater Glory of God
Saint Isaac Jogues With Burning Heart
Saint Joan of Arc God's Soldier
Saint John Bosco Champion for the Young
Saint John Neumann Missionary to Immigrants
Saint John Paul II Be Not Afraid
Saint John Vianney A Priest for All People
Saint Juan Diego And Our Lady of Guadalupe
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha: Courageous Faith
Saint Katharine Drexel The Total Gift
Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque And the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Saint Martin de Porres Humble Healer
Saint Maximilian Kolbe Mary's Knight
Saint Paul The Thirteenth Apostle
Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Rich in Love
Saint Teresa of Avila Joyful in the Lord
Saint Teresa of Calcutta Missionary of Charity
Saint Teresa of Kalkota Missionary of Charity

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux The Way of Love
Saint Thomas Aquinas Missionary of Truth
Saint Thomas More Courage, Conscience, and the King
Saints Jacinta and Francisco Marto: Shepherds of Fatima
The Saints Pray for Us

Saint Julie Billiart The Smiling Saint

...

Saint Thomas Aquinas Missionary of Truth - Marianne Lorraine Trouvé and Cathy Morrison - Encounter the Saints Book 35

Saint Thomas Aquinas
Missionary of Truth
Encounter the Saints Series Book 35
Marianne Lorraine Trouvé
Cathy Morrison (Illustrator)
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819890269
eISBN 9780819890276
ASIN B017S0ZN38

I have been reading this series for about six months now. Because each book is the biography of a specific saint I have been jumping around. At first I was reading saints I had an affinity for, and now I just want to read the whole series. This book is an excellent read in an amazing series. The Encounter the Saints Series, from Pauline Books and Media, are written for younger readers but are great reads at any age. I started reading these books with my kids, but I keep reading ahead of where I am at with them, I just cannot put the books down. 

The chapters in this book about Saint Thomas Aquinas are:
1. A Stormy Night
2. A Love for Learning
3. Studying at Monte Cassino
4. On to Naples
5. Missionary of Truth
6. Kidnapped!
7. Trapped in the Castle
8. A New Journey Begins
9. The Dumb Ox
10. A Priest Forever
11. Called to Paris
12. How to Be Brave
13. Thomas Returns to Italy
14. Meeting the Pope
15. Speaking with the Saints
16. A Book for Beginners
17. Rome Under Attack
18. The King's Banquet
19. Nothing but Straw
20. Home at Last
Prayer
Glossary

My children love the prayers at the end of the books, and also the glossary. They often go back to the books we have read so that the can prayer the prayer. We have started building a second set of these books to donate to our school library. They loved the prayer in this book because of praying for students and Catholic schools. 

"Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Church honors you as one of its most important teachers of God's truth. But you are a saint not because you knew so much, but because you led a holy life. Teach me how to become holy too. Pray for me that I might love Jesus above all else and give him my whole heart. Pray also that I might grow in faith, hope, and love. 

Saint Thomas, you are the patron saint of students and of Catholic schools. You always sought the truth about God, and you spent your life teaching it to others. Help me in my studies, too, that I might do my best and learn well in school. Just like you were a missionary of truth, pray for me that I too might speak about Jesus and in my own way bring the light of the Gospel to others. I want to use my mind for things that are good for me and for others. Saint Thomas, pray for me! Amen."

My children were very surprised by Thomas being kidnapped and being kept from his calling by his mother. My children also loved the story of Saint Thomas being so deep in thought that he forgot he was at the Kings table and caused a stir at dinner. And they asked a lot of questions about the Manicheans. We were a little surprised it was not in the glossary. They also loved the idea of the tonsure and kept asking questions about it. They asked a number of questions about what a 'Doctor of the Church' was and how one becomes one. 

This book like the others in the series contains 5 illustrations. The illustrator of this volume is Cathy Morrison, and she also illustrates one other book in the series. Her illustrations are much darker than many of the others in the series, but they do a great job of capturing events in Saint Thomas Aquinas's life, from the night of his sister's death in a storm to his statement later in life "Everything I've written, all the work I've done my whole life, seems worthless in comparison to what God revealed to me during that Mass on the feast of Saint Nicholas.".

This is a wonderful read. It really opened my children's eyes to the importance of study. To following God. To serving. 

With every book I read in this series I am more impressed. There are currently 37 books in this series, including The Saints Pray for Us, and I have read over a third of them. I have read book 1 and book 36 and a number in between. The books in this series are written with a target audience of 9-12 year olds, and my 11 year old can read them without any difficulty, and my 9 year old needs help with some words. I believe that anyone who reads these book will have their faith enriched. This book as mentioned is part of the Encounter the Saints Series; from Pauline Books and Media. This is another inspiring book in a wonderful series and I highly recommend both the book and the series.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!

Encounter the Saints Series from Pauline Books and Media:
Blessed James Alberione Media Apostle
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Journey to the Summit
Journeys with Mary Apparitions of Our Lady
Saint André Bessette Miracles in Montreal
Saint Anthony of Padua Fire and Light
Saint Bakhita of Sudan Forever Free
Saint Bernadette Soubirous And Our Lady of Lourdes
Saint Catherine Labouré And Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Saint Clare of Assisi A Light for the World
Saint Damien of Molokai Hero of Hawaii
Saint Edith Stein Blessed by the Cross
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Daughter of America
Saint Faustina Kowalska Messenger of Mercy
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini Cecchina's Dream
Saint Francis of Assisi Gentle Revolutionary
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla The Gift of Life
Saint Ignatius of Loyola For the Greater Glory of God
Saint Isaac Jogues With Burning Heart
Saint Joan of Arc God's Soldier
Saint John Bosco Champion for the Young
Saint John Neumann Missionary to Immigrants
Saint John Paul II Be Not Afraid
Saint John Vianney A Priest for All People
Saint Juan Diego And Our Lady of Guadalupe
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha: Courageous Faith
Saint Katharine Drexel The Total Gift
Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque And the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Saint Martin de Porres Humble Healer
Saint Maximilian Kolbe Mary's Knight
Saint Paul The Thirteenth Apostle
Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Rich in Love
Saint Teresa of Avila Joyful in the Lord
Saint Teresa of Calcutta Missionary of Charity
Saint Teresa of Kalkota Missionary of Charity

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux The Way of Love
Saint Thomas Aquinas Missionary of Truth
Saint Thomas More Courage, Conscience, and the King
Saints Jacinta and Francisco Marto: Shepherds of Fatima
The Saints Pray for Us

Saint Julie Billiart The Smiling Saint

...