A Rosary-Themed Chapter Book

Leslea Wahl reviews Jumping into Joy, a book that will keep kids engaged while encouraging the whole family to think about the Rosary in new ways. 

Jumping into Joy  

by Theresa Linden 
Published by Silver Fire Publishing

Review: 

I can’t rave enough about this new chapter-book series by Theresa Linden. Caitlyn and Peter’s Rosary Adventures is a fun, entertaining way to bring the Mysteries of the Rosary to life.  

In the first book, Jumping into Joy, young Peter struggles to remain focused during his family’s weekly Rosary. His mind keeps wandering until his friend Caitlyn suggests an idea which leads the duo to embark on an imaginary journey, traveling back to Jesus’ time to discover the mysteries firsthand.  

This story will keep kids engaged while encouraging the whole family to think about the Mysteries of the Rosary in new ways. Instead of absently reciting the prayers, they will have a new appreciation and understanding of the Joyful Mysteries. 

And there’s a little bonus! The children featured in this story, Caitlyn and Peter, are some of the teen characters in Linden’s West Brothers series. So, as your younger children grow, they can continue to follow their favorite characters as they grow in their faith. Similarly, teens who are already fans of Linden’s YA books will enjoy this glimpse into the childhood antics of some familiar characters. 

Summary: 

Jumping into Joy is the first in this Rosary-themed chapter book series. 
 
Nine-year-old Peter dozes off while his family prays the Rosary. His friend Caitlyn encourages him to use his imagination. He’s not sure what she means until she takes him through the Portal to the Rosary Mysteries. At first Peter doesn’t see the ancient town of Nazareth. But as Caitlyn describes their surroundings and the teenage girl carrying a water pot, Peter begins to see it too! Hey, is that Mary? 
 
Peter uses his problem-solving skills, and Caitlyn refers to her Rosary Journal as they try to discover the virtues attached to each mystery of the Rosary. Once they discover the virtue, they zip to the next mystery! 
 
Prayer is more important than ever — and not just for adults. Children have the potential to become great prayers warriors and to grow in virtue by using Our Lady’s gift of the Rosary. We know that the Rosary is more than a recitation of words; it is also a meditation on the lives of Jesus and Mary. Children have a unique ability to use their imagination. Following lively characters, this Rosary-themed chapter book, geared toward children ages six to nine, will show readers how to use their imaginations to meditate on the mysteries and will encourage them to pray for particular virtues. 
 
After the story, find Bible verses and virtues specific to each mystery, along with a “Prayer before the Rosary” for children.  

Jumping into Joy is available online from Amazon.com.

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Leslea Wahl
Images: (top) detail from cover