He Said Yes: The Story of Father Mychal Judge

A year prior to 911, my elderly mother took a bad fall as we strolled on Central Park West. Father Mychal happened to be nearby, raced to our rescue, and took control of the situation. He gently calmed her, summoned two police officers from Central Park, directed that they "just put in a few butterflies, we're not going to take this woman to a hospital" (they immediately complied with "Yes, Father Mike") and then put Mom and myself in his car and drove us back to our hotel, using his siren and flashing lights to circumvent traffic. We had no idea of who this man "was".. until the horror of 911... and heard Mayor Giulianai speak of "losing Father Mike". How wonderful that the author had the presence of mind to write a book focused for children to detail the life of this kind and brave man.

I ordered 6 copies of this book for myself and friends of mine who have a personal connection to NYC. They love the book and have subsequently ordered more copies. What a moving tribute to Father Mychal Judge ... thank you!

Having read most of the books written about Fr. Mychal Judge, I was anxious to add this children's book to my collection. Especially since I would like my own young child to grow up learning from his lessons of love, faith, forgiveness & acceptance. I was not at all dissapointed by this book. It contains beautiful illustrations and a lovely story that tells of the life of Fr. Judge in a way children can understand. I bought a copy for my child's (Catholic) school as well as for our Church library in addition to our copy. I hope many will be touched by this lovely book.

The book, He Said Yes: The Story of Father Mychal Judge, is well written and interestingly illustrated. The language and reading level are judged to be best accepted by students of third or fourth grade. The book concludes with some activity pages. Although it was made public after 911 that Father Mychal Judge was gay, this is not mentioned or even alluded to in the book. This book would be appropriate in any library or private collection. If Catholic schools and libraries are not placing this biography within their walls, then they are missing a real treasure.

Here is the story of a small boy who, in his youth, found a path to a life of service. The wonder of it all gave him great happiness. Life as a Franciscan was what he was born to be. It had hardships as well as joy. But Fr. Mychal Judge rejoiced in the love of the people he met daily along his path and loved each one in the depth of his soul. At the end of his life, Fr. Mike had the great good luck to be both friar and firefighter; he delighted in them both. All were his brothers, along with those who came into his life every day. Dympna [Judge] Jessich, Father Mychal's twin sister Father Mychal Judge was certainly a remarkable man. This book for children is a fine introduction to a person who gave of himself in so many ways, and all without prejudice." Tomie dePaola, Children's author and illustrator