Lives of the Saints

... that corresponds with the Catholic Churches Liturgical Calendar. First published in 1955, this book is relevant even today, and it's look gives it an antique look which inspires one to respect the simple and pious attitude that one should bring into prayer. The saints are listed in alphabetical order in the "Contents" listing of the book, and then can be read in chronological order, from January 1 through December 31. Each day has the saint whose feast day is celebrated that day. Details into the saints life is listed, and the length is dependent on how much is actually known about that particular saint. It can range for a paragraph for the lesser known saints (for instance St. Fabias), up to a couple of pages for more predominantly known saints (for instance St. Basil or Saint Thomas the Apostle). Each saint reading is then finished off with a Church approved prayer to each saint which can then be prayed alone or with others. This book is an excellent resource for people who wish to bring a daily reflection into their lives, and the saints, models of virtue and piety are a great focal point for these reflections. The saints can serve as role-models for the lives that we should lead. I think this book does an excellent job of conveying that message. Another bonus to this book is its illustrations of a number of the saints, fitting a face to a story.