Tag Archives: Anthony DeStefano

Gentle Woman: A Review Of ‘Our Lady’s WardRobe’

“You are not alone, my child, and you must not be sad.  I will be with you always, and my Immaculate Heart will be your comfort and the way which will lead you to God.” – Our Lady of Fatima (1917)

Interest Level

Ages 3-8

Review and Comments

Our Lady’s Wardrobe by Anthony DeStefano is a significant story that introduces children to the Blessed Mother through her apparitions [Our Lady of Nazareth, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Our Lady of Knock, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of Fatima, and Our Lady of the Angels].  The artwork in this book is marvelous!  Each familiar picture of Mary is beautifully illustrated and elegantly displays her gentleness and love. I found the pictures of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal wonderfully expressive.  Following each illustration of Mary is a brief story about the apparition.  Some pages are also embellished with intricate borders that enhance each story through color and design.

The story of Mary concludes with a beautiful prayer asking for her intercession.  Then, readers will become familiar with three things they can do for Jesus and His mother.  This gives children the opportunity to learn how each devotion brings us closer to Jesus through his mother.  First and foremost, we are reminded that Mary’s mission is to lead us to her Son. “Mary, you are our Mother. Pray for us to your Son. Amen.”

Continue reading Gentle Woman: A Review Of ‘Our Lady’s WardRobe’

Reminders of God’s Love: A Review of Three Books by Anthony DeStefano

The Donkey That No One Could Ride

[A tale of faith]

“Be strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the LORD, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

Age Range 5-8

Grade Level: K-3

Donkey was a small, frail creature.  He knew that was accurate because everyone told him it was true.  Even his owner abandoned him because he wasn’t able to carry anyone or do any kind of work so he considered Donkey worthless.  Donkey was left alone to ponder his weak and frightened life.  Then, quite by surprise he was brought to a man who was different than anyone he had ever met before.  The man’s voice was gentle as he explained that he wanted Donkey to carry him into the city.  Donkey knew in his heart he could not do what the man asked because he was a desperate loser.  This man told him that “the weaker a person is the more strength he would give if they had faith.”  Donkey didn’t know why he believed the man, but he felt his powerful love.  Suddenly, he gained strength and became more courageous!  He humbly accepted the duty before him and carried the man to the town. They walked through throngs of people who were actually praising the man as a prophet and savior.  Donkey was overjoyed that he was chosen to carry a king even though he was “young, weak, and small.” Continue reading Reminders of God’s Love: A Review of Three Books by Anthony DeStefano