St. Francis - Hardcover

by Brian Wildsmith (Author)

Told through the kindly view of his guardian angel, this grandly illustrated story introduces children to the remarkable life of St. Francis of Assisi -- the joyful saint who heard God's call and gave all he had to follow Him.

Born into wealth and comfort, young Francis was the "life of the party," known for his laughter, music, and fine clothes. But when adversity turned his heart toward Heaven, Francis began listening for a different voice -- and soon heard the gentle call of God.

Kneeling in the crumbling chapel of San Damiano, he heard Jesus speak from the Cross: "Francis, rebuild my Church" -- and from that moment on, nothing would ever be the same.

Through rich, vibrant images, children will journey with Francis as he gives away his riches, rebuilds chapels stone by stone, and befriends every creature he meets. They will marvel at his long journey to the Holy Land, his creation of the first living Nativity using real animals, and his heavenly vision of the seraph who marked him with the stigmata.

From his songs and laughter to his final blessing over his beloved town of Assisi, this book brings St. Francis to life in brilliant detail. It is an essential true story that helps children see God's beauty in all living things and inspires them to love, serve, and "rebuild" His Church in their own small ways.

So deeply moved was the late Pope Francis by the life and example of St. Francis that he took his name upon becoming pope. This book will help you understand why he honored him so.

Author Biography

Brian Wildsmith was a renowned British illustrator and author celebrated for his vibrant, expressive artwork and beloved children's books. A graduate of the Slade School of Fine Art in London, he brought a painter's eye to picture-book storytelling, winning the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal for illustration in 1962. Over his prolific career, he published more than eighty books, many of which explore biblical themes with color and wonder. Wildsmith's distinctive style and commitment to visual storytelling have inspired generations of young readers worldwide. He spent much of his later life in France, continuing to create art that celebrates beauty, nature, and faith.