Book Reviews and More: From Pirates to Parades The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh

Sunday, 27 July 2025

From Pirates to Parades The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day

Paddy Bréagnamh

Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Pettyfeather Publishing

ISBN 9798312455243

ASIN B0DYTMKV86

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day - Paddy Bréagnamh

This is the fifth of six volumes currently available in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library that I have read. To date I have enjoyed them all and recommended a few of them to several people. I especially loved the volume on Pope Leo XIV. The description of the book is:

“Dive into the fascinating story of Saint Patrick and discover why March 17th is a day of green, gold, and global celebration! From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day takes you on an exciting journey through history, folklore, and tradition, revealing the true story behind one of the world’s most beloved holidays.

Perfect For:

Kids who love history, adventure, and a bit of magic.

Families looking to learn, reflect on faith, and celebrate together.

Teachers and educators seeking engaging resources for Saint Patrick’s Day.

Anyone who wants to know why we wear green, hunt for gold, and celebrate with a little Irish luck!

Why You’ll Love It:

Engaging, easy-to-read storytelling that brings history to life.

Fun facts and bonus activities.

A celebration of faith, Irish culture, and the spirit of Saint Patrick.

Sláinte! (That’s “cheers” in Irish!)”

I now suspect that the author, Paddy Bréagnamh, is a pen name, I can only find the 6 volumes in this series and the one on Saint Patrick in several bookstores online. This fifth volume I have read in the I thought it was the last but while working on this review discovered a new release, Venerable Augustus Tolton: Priest of Freedom, which I immediately picked up. The chapters and sections in the volume are:

Introduction: Why Saint Patrick’s Day is Important

1: Kidnapped by Pirates

2: The Great Escape

3: Shamrocks, Snakes, and Miracles

4: The Legacy of Saint Patrick

5: Celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day Today

6: Why We Still Celebrate

7: Leprechauns, Rainbows, and Gold—Oh My!

Bonus: Craft & Recipe Endnotes

This was the first volume written in this series. I understand from the publisher that there are plans for a second edition that will be expanded and also rebranded to match the others in the series. As much as I enjoyed this little volume, I look forward to the revised edition at some future point.

I have read over 20 volumes by and about this Saint, including a few translations of his Confessions, and Letter to Coroticus. He has long been a personal favourite for many reasons. My Mother and father were named Patrick and Patricia, one of my son’s middle names if Patrick. And one of the grade schools I attended was Saint Patrick’s. I have 2 different icons of Patrick in my den, and my son has a different one in his room.

This volume is written for young readers, it would be considered an early chapter book. Each chapter has illustrations. The material is well put together. It is a good introduction to this saint, and the worldwide celebration on March 17th. I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume they are:

“Saint Patrick’s Day is not just about fun traditions—it honors a man who made a lasting impact on Ireland. Saint Patrick was a real person who lived many centuries ago. His life was filled with challenges, faith, and incredible journeys. His story is one of perseverance and belief, and it continues to inspire people today.”

“Patrick was taken far from everything he knew. He was sold into slavery and forced to work as a shepherd in the vast countryside of Ireland.”

“One night, after years of hardship, Patrick had a dream that would change his life. In his dream, he heard a voice telling him, “Your ship is ready.” Patrick believed this was a sign from God, telling him it was time to escape.”

“In this dream, Patrick heard the voices of the Irish people calling out to him, asking him to return and teach them about his faith.”

“Patrick’s journey was far from over. His mission in Ireland would lead to incredible challenges, but it would also shape history. Through his faith and dedication, he would leave a lasting legacy that is still honored today.”

“But Patrick’s legacy isn’t just about one day of the year. His teachings and the stories of his life continue to inspire people around the world.”

“Patrick faced incredible challenges—being kidnapped, living as a slave, and returning to a land where he was once a prisoner to spread a message of love and hope. His story reminds us that even in the darkest times, we can find light and strength.”

“Here’s the funny thing: leprechauns weren’t originally part of Saint Patrick’s Day. The holiday started as a way to honor Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and his work spreading Christianity. But over time, especially in places like the United States, Saint Patrick’s Day became a celebration of all things Irish—and that includes leprechauns!”

“For parents and educators: Saint Patrick’s life and the evolution of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations are rich with history and cultural significance. This book aims to introduce children to these concepts in an engaging and accessible way.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. This book was good but the series has gotten much better since this first volume was published. The revised or second edition of this should be amazing. It was a good little read in a great series.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2025 Catholic Reading Plan!

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