Customer Reviews

The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis

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Probably one of the best 10 books I've ever read. You almost feel like you're walking and living with St. Francis, sharing his spiritual quest at every turn. Historical fiction and writing at its best.

easy to read and beautifully written in novel form, this story of the life of Francis as a true follower of Jesus is perfect.
a must read for followers of Francis and those interested in his story and ministry

I have read a number of biographies of St. Francis, including:

"Saint Francis" by Nikos Kazantzakis

"Saint Francis of Assisi" by Ivan Gorby

"God's Fool" by Julien Green

"Saint Francis of Assisi" by G.K. Chesterton

"The Life of St. Francis" by St. Bonaventure

While each of these books has its strengths and approaches the Saint of Assisi from a different angle, I have to say that "The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis" is my favorite St. Francis biography. What I love most about this book is that it beautifully conveys the passion behind the saint - his all-consuming desire to follow, and imitate, our Lord Jesus Christ, regardless of the consequences. Too many modern images of Francis lead one to see him as an eccentric lover of nature who led a pseudo-hippie movement. Yet the real Francis was consumed with one thing - complete abandonment to Jesus Christ. His example has inspired thousands through the ages, and even today there are many who follow his example in a radical way (such as the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal based in New York City; incidentally, the endorsement on the back cover of this book is written by Fr. Benedict Groeschel, one of the founders of that order).

"Perfect Joy" takes its name from the revealing exchange between the saint and his most devoted follower, Brother Leo, in which Francis told Leo that perfect joy does not come from accumulated wisdom, beautiful teaching, or successful preaching. Instead, perfect joy is found in accepting trials without complaint, bearing insults charitably, and enduring sufferings gladly for the love of Christ. This truly sums up the outlook of Francis: the things of this world do not matter in comparison to the glory of following Jesus Christ.

If you are looking for one book that reveals the depths of greatness of St. Francis of Assisi, then I recommend buying "The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis." You won't be disappointed.

Great bio of an amazing Saint. I couldn't put it down. It was very well written unlike many biographys

This biographical novel of the life of St. Francis of Assisi filled me with divine inspiration, devotion, dedication, and exultation. It showed me how to develop patience, cheerfulness, surrender to God's will, humility, perseverance, compassion, austerity, sacrifice, charity, and so many, many other virtues that Saint Francis profusely manifested. This book, so sweetly and affectionately written, was truly a festival for my soul. St. Francis showed me the magnificence of God's grace upon all who develop the habit of depending on Him, praying to Him, following His commandments, and serving Him with love. I feel genuinely transformed! God is a fact, not merely a hope. And He lives in everyone's heart, now and forever!