By Anthony DeStefano
Illustrated by Richard Cowdrey
Published by Sophia Institute Press

A vivid, captivating story always helps little ones understand the more abstract truths of our Faith. After all, Jesus taught in parables to better help His followers learn His messages. In Anthony DeStefano’s new book, The Sparrow Who Fell to the Ground, he takes inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew to teach children what hope for heaven looks like.

We are all Broken

The story begins by introducing a sparrow who lives in the Valley of Tears. This immediately reminded me of how we pray to Our Blessed Mother in the Hail Holy Queen Prayer asking her to help us poor mourning and weeping sinners in the valley of tears. Richard Cowdrey’s artwork compliments DeStefano’s clever rhymes perfectly. The images are detailed and colorful, and children will love them.

Just like we are all broken in some way, the sparrow is physically broken. He was born with a broken wing, and cannot fly as well as the other sparrows. And, just like many of us, he has had a hard life.

A Message of Hope

The sparrow, however, does not despair! He is determined to get out of the Valley and find a better life. As he struggles to escape, he sees glimmers of hope that things will get better for him. I love how this could lead to great discussions with children about seeing the glimmers of hope from God in our own lives. The bird’s harrowing journey continues, but he does have a happy ending. I won’t spoil it, but he meets a very special little boy who helps him in the end.

Teaching Children About Hope Through Suffering

This is a powerful and beautiful story that would lead to wonderful discussions with children. We can use the sparrow’s tough experiences and show the children that he did not despair, and neither should we! God allows trials and suffering for our good. Our pastor recently remarked that God allows trials so that we call out to Him. This has stayed with me, and this book would be a great way to have that conversation with children.

Your Valentine

by Anthony DeStefano

Illustrated by Antonio Javier Caparo

Published by Sophia Institute Press

When you walk into our home, you will be greeted by a little table with liturgical and seasonal decor. It always contains a Pascal candle, prayer box, prayer cards, and a St. Benedict medal. There is also a little display of seasonal books for my kids and our guests to enjoy. This February, I cannot wait to display Anthony DeStefano’s new book: Your Valentine. I know that my kids and our guests will both be intrigued by this special story about this famous saint!

Anthony DeStefano – the Master Rhymer

Not all of Anthony DeStefano’s books are written in rhyme, but when they are, they are absolutely delightful! The rhythm is always perfect, and every important detail is carefully included.

The story begins by setting the time and place of St. Valentine’s life under Roman rule. Anthony DeStefano’s witty rhymes are paired with Antonio Javier Caparo’s amazing illustrations. I love how St. Valentine is portrayed in the images.

St. Valentine’s Miracle

I have heard of the story of the miraculous cure of a blind girl due to St. Valentine’s intercession, but this book makes the story come totally alive. I love how DeStefano always represents the Faith in truthful and age appropriate ways for children. We hear of St. Valentine’s time in jail and the miraculous cure in a very accessible, non-scary way for children. It is a truly touching story woven together beautifully in this book.

Just a note – St. Valentine’s martyrdom is included. Please consider reviewing this part before reading it with sensitive children. For most children familiar with martyrdom, it is perfectly appropriate, but this is a sensitive topic, so I just wanted to mention it. I encourage you to find appropriate ways to discuss martyrdom with your children if you have not already! The martyrs are truly such a source of inspiration for all Christians.

St. Valentine’s Example of Strong Faith and Charity

Anthony DeStefano always includes strong instances of catechesis in his books. He clearly defines the Sacrament of Matrimony between a man and a woman. When St. Valentine is told to renounce his faith, he says he will not stop witnessing marriages and he will always proclaim Jesus as his Savior and Lord. Children need clear catechesis and examples such as these to build a strong foundation for this Faith. Most importantly, St. Valentine’s example of charity is wonderfully represented in this book.

A Great Addition to any St. Valentine Celebration

This is the best picture book about St. Valentine that I have ever come across. The saint’s story is clearly and wonderfully told in a manner appropriate for all ages. What are your favorite St. Valentine’s Day traditions? Will you be adding this new book to your collection? Please share in the comments!

You can find Your Valentine from Sophia Institute Press.