Customer Reviews

Roses, Fountains, and Gold: The Virgin Mary in History, Art, and Apparition

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I havn't read every book about Mary, but I know a classic when I read it, and this book falls in that category. The sub-title "The Virgin Mary in History, Art, & Apparition" aptly summarizes the main themes. Mr. Martin traces the historical flowering of Mary's influence in Christendom. This is seen from the very beginning of the church and proves to be a guiding factor in keeping the Church from being ship-wrecked on the rocks of error and enemies. In addition to history and theology, the artistry of Marian paintings, cathedrals (such as Chartres), and music are also appraised and found to be valuble anchors to keep to us grounded in the truth. Finally, the apparitions reinforce the theme that Mary's work did not end when she gave birth to our Lord. She continues to draw people to Christ through miracles and messages which are difficult to ignore. The Remnant newspaper's book reviewer says, "I can think of no better book on the subject written in the last fifteen years." The National Catholic Register calls it "A Marian Tour De Force. . . the book stimulates the mind and enflames the spirit in equal measure." In addition to a beautifully written book, there are some beautiful art reproductions. Order one today and chances are you will order more later for gifts.

Whether you are part of the Judeo/Christian tradition or not, it would be impossible to name a woman who has more influence in the history of the world than the Mary of Nazareth, the mother of Jesus Christ. More paintings, sculptures, music, and architecture has been dedicated to and inspired by this remarkable, singular woman who lived nearly two thousand years ago in Asia Minor. Believers and non-believers alike can learn an immense amount from this truly well written book. I highly recommend it!

With all due respect to the previous reviewers, I think this book misses the heart of true Marian devotion. The author thinks himself most inteligent and clever, often presuming a familiarity with his Subject which strikes me as disrspectful. Unfortunately for me it was hard to cull the bits and pieces of "nectar" from the sea of words. The tone is also rather stridently Catholic--for example, in the section on the Guadalupe apparition, he portrays the indigenous people (i.e., Juan Diego's people) as virtually Satanic, yet gives not a mention of the abominations --the slaughter, the torture-- that the "good Christian" Spanish occupiers wrought upon that population-- who were arguably the culturally and morally more advanced of the two peoples. Mother Mary's appearances have *always* been imbued with intimate, maternal love for the nations to whom she comes-- she is never patronizing. Much more highly recommend the book "Miracles of Mary: Apparitions, Legends, and Miraculous Works of the Blessed Virgin Mary" by Durham- who although not avowedly religious keeps his ego entirely out of sight and delights the reader with page after page of heart melting and soul uplifting sweetness. Finally, I respect that the author of "Roses" cherishes a true personal devotion, but it really was not an inspiring book for me.