Teen Book Review: Friends in High Places: Carlo Acutis

Friends in High Places: Carlo Acutis by Corinna Turner

Summary:

DEAD? DEFINE DEAD.

"You have leukemia."

Daniel's just received the worst news a teen can get. The adults in his life are crumbling under the shock. In desperation, he turns to his parish priest for help and is introduced to a boy his age, Carlo Acutis—who just happens to be dead.
Daniel's convinced the priest is wasting his time. But as he struggles to come to terms with his uncertain future an unlikely friendship develops between him and the holy dead boy—who may not be quite so dead after all.

Review: 

This short story by Corinna Turner is a fabulous introduction to the extraordinary life of Blessed Carlo Acutis. Carlo was an incredible, modern teen who died at the young age of 15 from leukemia. Amazingly, this young man is already on the road to sainthood. It’s incredible for young people to have such an inspirational role model with who they can identify with. Carlo enjoyed playing soccer, video games, and hanging out with friends. He was also deeply devoted to his faith and even used his interest in computers to create a website about Eucharistic miracles.

Turner’s fictional story revolves around another young teen who is also diagnosed with leukemia. Daniel, and his family, are struggling to deal with his devasting diagnosis. When his Priest shares with him the Carlo Acutis Novena, Daniel finally finds a special friend who understands what he is going through. With the help of the prayers of the Novena and learning more about Carlo’s faith and kindness, Daniel is able to come to terms with whatever his future might hold. This story is a wonderful way for anyone to learn about Carlo and provides a powerful reflection on how we are living our own lives.

Amazon Link

https://www.amazon.com/Knew-Carlo-Acutis-Friends-Places/dp/1910806463

A note from Reviewer:

As a writer and a mother, I’m always searching for wonderful Christian books for teens of all ages. I truly believe one way we can encourage teens in their faith is through fiction with positive messages, embedded in great stories. There are many fantastic Christian and Catholic teen novels out today but they can be hard to find. I’m excited to share some of these books with you.

Leslea Wahl

www.LesleaWahl.com