Book Review: Catholic Classic Edition of Story of a Soul

Story of a Soul is a spiritual classic that gives the reader great insight into the heart and mind of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, most commonly known as  the "Little Flower." This autobiography was requested of Thérèse by her superior, Mother Agnes of Jesus, who was also her biological sister, formerly known as Pauline. The book discloses the strong spirituality that pervaded her short life. She was born in 1873 in France and entered the Carmelite convent when she was a mere 14 years old. Simple and humble, with a great love for God, she lived out the rest of her life. The "little way" of spiritual childhood, to allow oneself to become completely and totally dependent on God the Father, has touched a multitude of hearts throughout the world.

The Ascension Press edition, the third book of the Catholic Classic series, includes the only fully authorized English translation, keeping it faithful to the original work, and revitalizes Catholics' understanding and appreciation of this spiritual masterpiece. Exquisitely typeset and designed, the book includes spiritual art from Ascension’s Sacred Art Collection of Holy Men and Women by Tianna Williams to enhance the reading experience along with expert commentary by Fr. Jacob Bertrand Janczyk, O.P., and Anne-Elisabeth Giuliani, to help explain Thérèse's teachings and relevance for readers today. The foreword, written by Cardinal Anders Arborelius, O.C.D., gives the excellent background the reader needs before entering the world of the “Little Flower.”

Thérèse writes in a tone and style that is incredibly honest, sharing her challenges with overcoming doubt, the immense suffering that she endured, and her yearning to attain holiness. She was aware of her own weaknesses and imperfections, which only brought her closer to God; having complete trust in His love and mercy. Throughout the pages of her autobiography the reader can experience the profundity of her thoughts on love, trust, and the nature of God, and can observe the simplicity of her soul. She was formed by her lived experience, not by conceptual theology.

When one reads the Story of a Soul he follows the pivotal moments along Thérèse’s journey from her childhood right into Carmel that help to form her in the spiritual life. She is quite candid when she discusses her struggles with illness, and her insurmountable desire to become a servant of God as a missionary, but Thérèse comes to the realization that her mission from God was to offer her life doing small things as acts of love for the Lord and for others. Her “little path” has taught others that even the smallest act of love is paramount before the Almighty God. 

The Story of a Soul is a compelling read because it appeals to those who live in the world. The spirituality of the “Little Flower” does not require one to be a nun living within the convent walls, but is written for any Catholic who wants to seek holiness through the ordinary moments in life, to trust in God's divine plan, and to approach life with that simplicity and purity of a small child. 

The Story of a Soul continues to be a classic that can tug on the heartstrings and inspire, inviting its readers into the spiritual life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Her “little way” continues to appeal to the people of today, whether they are younger or older. Her journey towards holiness was simple, accessible, and full of incredible love. Whether this is your first time reading Thérèse's autobiography or you have done so many times, this special edition of Story of a Soul will be a lovely treasure that will help you to grow in intimacy with God, and lead you heavenward. 

For more details or to purchase Catholic Classics Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, visit Ascension Press. 

Check out the Catholic Classic Podcast Season 3: Story of a Soul, beginning October 1st. Fr. Jacob Bertrand Janczyk and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris will take readers through the pages of Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and offer commentary. 

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