Family Fun with the Saints

Leslea Wahl reviews 115 Saintly Fun Facts by Bernadette McCarver Snyder, a book the whole family can enjoy together.

115 Saintly Fun Facts by Bernadette McCarver Snyder

Review:

I’m not sure exactly how this book found its way onto my bookshelf. It must have been a gift to one of my children. But recently, as I was scanning the shelf, there it was—calling out to me. I’m so glad I picked up this delightful book. I only wish I had discovered it when my kids were still at home.

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This little book is a fabulous tool for learning about some incredible saints—some I knew, many I hadn’t heard of before. The sections are short, just a few paragraphs, and, as the title states, full of fun facts. After each saint’s story, there is a little challenge for kids to incorporate into their day to encourage them think more about what they just read. This book is recommended for grades 1-6, but I think this would be a fantastic book to read as a family in the morning, and then at dinner time, each family member, no matter their age, could tell how they were inspired to act a bit more saintly that day.

The author has written several other Fun Facts books that sound equally fascinating: 131 Fundamental Facts for Catholic Kids: Liturgy, Litanies, Rituals, Rosaries, Symbols, Sacraments, and Sacred Surprises, 365 Fun Facts for Catholic Kids, and 150 Fun Facts Found in the Bible. The interesting facts and engaging illustrations create an excellent way for families to delve deeper into their faith.

Summary:

You might be surprised to learn about the saint who rode a donkey backwards, the saint who helped a "criminal" escape from prison, the saint who was afraid of water, the saint who was kidnapped by pirates, and lots more! Learn how ordinary men and women did extraordinary things and became known as saints. If you think you already know all there is to know about saints, you might decide to think again.

Ask for 115 Saintly Fun Facts at your local Catholic bookseller, or order online from Amazon.com or the publisher, Liguori Publications.