I’m excited to (finally!) get a new blog post up for you and I’m doubly excited because it involves one of my favorite subjects – the Catholic bookshelf!
Some of these books have been gifted to us in order that we can share them with you and some we have purchased. Either way, the reviews are 100% authentic.
I would love to make this post a quarterly occurrence, so if you are an author of a Catholic book that you would like us to review, please get in touch!
New Catholic books for Kids
First up, let’s talk about a few new kids books.
Blessed Carlo Acutis: The Amazing Discovery of a Teenager in Heaven by Sabrina Arena Ferrisi (Holy Heroes Books)
I was thrilled to review this book. Bl. Carlo Acutis has been chasing our family a bit, especially our 15 year old who is interested in computer programming.
The book did not disappoint!
Every single member of the family read the book without prompting- including me and Husband!
The book has so much information in it including color photographs, biographical information, Carlo’s kit for becoming a saint, and more!
Our copy is already dogeared and well loved.
I’m also excited to share a special coupon code just for you – use code “CARLO15” and get 15% off the book.
RATING: 5 out of 5!
McCracken and the Lost Vessel by Mark Adderley
This book and McCracken and the Lost City were given to us for review. The following is my 15 year old’s review:
“The McCracken books were a fun and fast read. They are an adventure series that is not overly Catholic but has Catholic elements woven throughout. I enjoyed reading the two books we received and would like to read the rest sometime. They are a bit young for me but I still enjoyed them. My 11 year old brother will enjoy this too.”
RATING: 5 out of 5
Discover the Brothers and It’s Fun to be a Nun by Jake Thibault (Maryvale Catholic Press)
When I was contacted to review these books I was excited because I am often emailed asking for books suggestions on vocations to the religious life.
The books feature a different religious order on each page with a little saying or prayer that fits that order.
For instance, the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecelia are featured with the quote, “All of our life is the love of God.”
Or the Missionaries of the Precious Blood have “Christ’s sacrifice is for us the sign of God’s great love for all people.”
To be honest, I was really hoping for more information about the religious life and what that might look like in the different orders.
That said, the books are good jumping off point to explore the different orders.
RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
Books for you
Our bookshelves are overflowing so I am extremely discerning on what books I am willing to spend money on. Here are two new additions to my own little library.
The Devil in the Castle by Dan Burke (Sophia Institute Press)
Unfortunately, it is hard to find solid Catholic teaching today. This makes progress in the spiritual life difficult and confusing.
Thankfully, there are trusted places we can go for help and guidance.
One of those places for me is Spiritual Direction run by Dan and Stephanie Burke. I regularly listen to their podcast Divine Intimacy Radio and am always encouraged and convicted!
Dan’s new book, The Devil in the Castle, is yet another fabulous read.
I will admit I haven’t read it all the way through. Husband and I plan on reading and discussing the book together which means it takes a bit more time than when I read on my own.
It is solid and practical.
If you need a spiritual kick-in-the-patootie, these are your people.
RATING: 5 out of 5
The Summa Domestica by Leila Lawler (Sophia Institute Press)
This book had been on my wishlist for sometime, but I couldn’t bring myself to spend that kind of money.
I finally caved last month and purchased the set for myself because Leila is a fully orthodox Catholic who is not afraid to say it like it is.
I am very careful who I take mothering advice from but I know I can trust Leila. She has successfully raised her children in the faith and has a heart for the domestic church (no matter what the cost), as I do.
I have made it about half way through the first book and have not been disappointed.
Each chapter stands alone so it is a wonderful book to pick up and read as you are able.
If you enjoy her blog, you will love this lovely set of books on your shelf!
RATING: 5 out of 5
What are you reading lately?
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Building your (Catholic) Bookshelf
I wanted to share about another book on vocations our family enjoys, since you mentioned it’s a topic that comes up frequently. “Of Bells and Cells: The World of Monks, Friars, Sisters and Nuns” by Cristina Borges is a beautifully illustrated book that focuses on the formation process of a religious, what daily life is like in a monastery or convent, and different aspects like the change of name and wearing a habit. It explains the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience and gives stories to illustrate the effects of these vows. The books does have a section covering some of the most famous orders for both men and women, with pictures of their habits and a brief history. I particularly like the first part of the book, which talks briefly about all the different states in life and explains that while only some are called to be religious, all are called to be saints.
This books has a lot of pictures and so can appeal to younger children, but I think the information would be of interest to teens considering the religious life as well. I bought it several years ago and read it with my kids once a year, during Lent. They always seem interested!