Therese: The Little Flower of Lisieux (Life of a Saint)
Life of a Saint Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Continuing with The Life of a Saint series for young people, Therese: The Little Flower of Lisieux tells the story of Saint Therese of Lisieux, France, the young Carmelite nun known as the Little Flower and declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II. Raised in a loving and devout family, Therese heard the calling to religious life at an early age. She was sensitive by nature, and her tremendous confidence in the love of God was the secret to her joy and perseverance. With sanctity and wisdom beyond her years, she wrote the spiritual classic Story of a Soul before dying of tuberculosis in 1897. Illustrated on every page with bright, four-color pictures, this life of Therese can be read independently by young readers, or read aloud to small children. Because of her childlike trust and simplicity, Therese is an ideal role model for young people.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
ThéRèSe Martin
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire about Therese and why?
How did Therese show kindness and love to others in the story?
What lessons can we learn from Therese’s faith and determination?
How do you think Therese felt when she faced challenges?
What would you have done differently if you were in Therese’s shoes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about Therese's character and actions to open up the conversation. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story, even if they differ from yours. Highlight the moral and spiritual lessons drawn from Therese's life, connecting them to everyday situations your child might encounter. Finally, ask your child how they might incorporate qualities like kindness and faith into their own life, making the discussion personally relevant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Humility in Service
Explanation: Through Therese's journey, the book showcases her modesty and commitment to serving others quietly without seeking acknowledgment. Her actions teach that true service is selfless.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping around the house or supporting their friends without expecting rewards or praise.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Through Challenges
Explanation: The narrative describes how Therese faces several obstacles in her path to spirituality but remains steadfast. Her resilience teaches children the value of persistence even when faced with difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to keep trying in their studies, sports, or other activities, even when they find tasks challenging.
Example Lesson: The Power of Small Acts
Explanation: Therese believed in doing small things with great love. The book illustrates how her small, everyday actions accumulated to have a significant spiritual impact.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the importance of small acts of kindness, like sharing or comforting a friend, and understand their potential impact on their community.
Example Lesson: Love and Compassion
Explanation: Therese's interactions are characterized by deep compassion and love, highlighting these virtues as central to her life and teachings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express love and compassion in their interactions with family and peers, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: Spiritual Growth
Explanation: The book covers Therese’s deep commitment to her faith and how it guided her actions and decisions, emphasizing the importance of personal beliefs in shaping one's life.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore, respect, and learn from various spiritual or moral beliefs that influence their families and communities.