The Power of St. Michael in Our Lives: A Book to Treasure

Liz Lantigua reviews a new book of stories about Saint Michael the Archangel, intended for read-alouds and elementary-age readers.

Saint Michael the Archangel Through the Ages

By Father Frederick Schmit, O.Praem., and illustrated by Father Peregrine Fletcher, O.Praem.

Published by TAN Books

Saint Michael the Archangel Through the Ages is a timely book for today’s families. It helps parents and educators introduce children to the historical role of Saint Michael while fostering devotion from an early age. This new release from TAN is beautifully written by Father Frederick Schmit and richly illustrated by Father Peregrine Fletcher.

“I hope that both parents and children gain knowledge about Saint Michael the Archangel, as well as foster greater devotion and recourse to him for protections and help,” said the author, Father Frederick Schmit. “All the angels are marvelous creatures that deserve our attention and awe; but Saint Michael in particular is important in salvation history and in the life of the Church — as God has ordained it. So I hope that parents and kids alike come to love and appreciate Saint Michael the Archangel.”

Both author and illustrator are from the St. Michael Abbey located in Silverado, California, so while happy to take this project, it was daunting because they wanted to make sure to do their angelic patron justice — and they sure did.

What's In This Book?

The book is very well designed, divided into three parts. Part I is titled “Defender of Heaven Protector of Earth.” It starts with Creation including the angels and the great battle of salvation between Saint Michael the Archangel and Lucifer. It is written and illustrated in a very informative way without being scary. The illustrations are in intricate patterns and designs but not in a storytelling fashion until God created man.

The second part is titled “Patron of the Church Helper of Saints.” It narrates how Saint Michael the Archangel protects the Church and saints throughout the ages. Here the illustrations begin to tell their story. Some of this information will leave the parents, teachers, and caregivers reading the book to children in awe. These short stories tell how Saint Michael appeared and helped saints accomplish God’s will. For example: Saint Patrick was driving wicked spirits and deadly snakes out of Ireland and when he looked up, he saw Saint Michael on top of a rocky island casting out the evil creatures. It is now known as “Skellig Michael” which means Michael’s Rock.

The third part, "Our Guardian Now Until the End," describes traditions and prayers which explain how Saint Michael the Archangel is still protecting us now, and always, until the end of time.

This close connection to Saint Michael is very meaningful to the author.

“Saint Michael is the patron of our abbey, which means he has a special protection over us. I am grateful to have such a mighty angelic patron watching over us,” Father Frederick Schmit said.

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 2026 Liz Lantigua
Images: courtesy of TAN Books, all rights reserved.