St. John Bosco: The Friend of Youth

St. John Bosco was kind and holy man who helped the forgotten boys of Italy. What an inspirational book. The story flows beautifully! The things this holy priest went through will make us think twice off the small minute things we go through. Some stories are mysterious (such as the dog), others shocking, some are hilarious. All ages will love this book!!! As he always told the boys, "Run, jump, shout, but do not sin." May we all become saints and ask this holy saint to help us reach that goal.

John Bosco's life was a mirror image of St. Francis de Sales, who he tried to emulate. Bosco took a life of poverty in order to serve boys that had gone astray. Though all to brief, Forbes's biography of the saint is a pleasurable and informative read. John Bosco was primarily raised by his mother, a continual influence in his life. Despite a poor background, Bosco was a quick learner and seemed immediately drawn to the priesthood. His vocation lacked any specific direction until he took in the first boy and asked that he bring friends. It was then that his dreams made sense and he devoted his life to saving the souls of young boys. From this day and even since Bosco's death, his mission has continued to evolve. Bosco's life is influential because of the interest that he took in redeeming youth. As somebody that works with youth, I can find inspiration in reading about his work. One can not forget that living a Christian life need not lack fun. Bosco proved this as he worked with the youth. A teaspoon of honey is a more effect insentive than a barrel of vinegar.

I'm fifteen, and I really enjoyed the book. St. John Bosco lived a great life, and this book is one of the best at displaying it. Both kids and adults can get an easy grasp of this "down to earth" saint's life. My pastor recommended Bosco's biography, so I took his advice and read it. I was not disappointed, and you won't be either if you read this book.

Like a modern day Joseph, Don Bosco (St John Bosco) was guided by God through his dreams. In his youth he was shown his life's work-to-be by Our Lady. In his middle age he was shown the futures of the boys he cared for. He called these his dreams, but in reality, they were visions. That fact is proven from the documented testimony of hundreds of his former students. They confidently state that through the dreams that Don Bosco experienced, God revealed to him not only their futures, but also the sins that they had committed...many times known only to God.Don Bosco also performed many miracles in his life. From healing the terminallly ill to raising the dead, God favored this saint with many gifts. More than for his mystical charisms, Don Bosco was loved by many for his charisma and great charity. He founded a religious order, known as the Salesians, which continues his work of caring for poor and needy youth the world over.F.A. Forbes has written a masterpiece, which appeals to both old and young alike. Difficult to put down, it has been enjoyed by many past generations and deserves a place in the library of future ones.