Francis and Clare, Saints of Assisi

I read this book as a child and loved it. I am pleasantly surprised to see it still in print. "Francis and Clare, Saints of Assisi" is immensely readable and entertaining enough for an elementary school reader. Helen Walker Homan provides a nice introduction to two quite human saints: a nice Catholic primer in the development of faith.

It is a delightful story of the saints of Assisi intented for the young people, written by Helen Walker Homan and illustratd by John Lawn. The oft-written story of these saints becomes alive in 12 short chapters in simple language, readable for young adults. I am sure that a lot of research and exploration have gone into this work. The early 12th century Assisi becomes alive with the castles, market places, taverns and churches. The saints become normal and real, like the everyday people we meet. At the same time their sanctity and uniqueness in history are well brought out. Indeed it is a well-written book for beginners.

The reading level of this book is challenging enough for my 10 year old son, and enjoyable for us to read aloud together. This book brings to life the story about St. Francis, and made us feel like we knew him personally. It showed my son that saints had real lives, they were children who played just like kids do now, and they chose to serve God. My son and I both enjoyed reading this book.