Starred review from January 16, 2006
Martin, a Jesuit priest and associate editor of America
magazine, takes a splendid idea and develops it masterfully by weaving stories from his life into those of his favorite saints. Leading off with St. Jude, whom he affectionately dubs "the saint of the sock drawer" (where his statue of the saint of impossible causes took up residence after the author entered high school), Martin relates how he discovered various "saints" and how each has affected his life. Thomas Merton, for example, influenced his decision to leave a corporate career for the priesthood, and John XXIII taught him how to live chastely as a member of a religious order. Both Merton and Jesuit Pedro Arrupe served as models for obedience to religious superiors even as Martin's own superiors instructed him to avoid certain controversial topics in writing this book. Martin's personal experiences of befriending saints provide convincing testimony as to their efficacy as role models. He draws a distinction, however, between the superstition that sometimes surrounds Catholics' reverence for the saints and true devotion to them. Despite a theme built on a particular facet of Catholic belief, Martin's animated style and wide-ranging experiences make this a book readers of diverse backgrounds will enjoy.
April 1, 2006
This delightful memoir by Jesuit Martin (associate editor, "America" magazine; "Searching for God at Ground Zero") is a pilgrimage of the soul toward God and Christ through the succor of the saints close to the author -s heart -e.g., Thé rè se of Lisieux, Joan of Arc, Ignatius Loyola. From his youth, when he purchases a mail order St. Jude, to his time spent traveling abroad, Martin -s life is enriched by his relationships with these blessed personalities. Admittedly, the work often feels like a recounting of the lives of saints and occasionally strays into fragmented personal reflections, but Martin delivers some of his most poignant moments -e.g., reflecting at Thomas Merton -s grave; accompanying the sick to Lourdes as a chaplain; receiving a note from Mother Teresa; helping urban refugees in Nairobi -in an appropriate style. This memoir is Martin -s spiritual exercise of reflection and the self-expression of a varied and fascinating life. It is an easy and pleasant read that should be well received and is warmly recommended for church and public libraries." - Anthony J. Elia, JKM Theological Lib., Chicago"
Copyright 2006 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.