Katie Bogner's Top Picks
We asked Katie Bogner, Director of Religious Education, Author and Writer at Look to Him and Be Radiant, to pick her favorite books to review* from Thy Olive Tree Market. Here's her list and what she had to say:
"All of the books in this stack have two things in common:
1. They are intended to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary and her spouse St. Joseph, and therefore lead us closer to Jesus Christ.
2. AND they all happen to be independently published! These lovely, well made, faithful books are the result of the hard work of each author- and they are all available through Thy Olive Tree Market! There you’ll find a growing collection of hidden gems that you should totally check out.
Here’s a few to highlight:
- A Stained Glass Rosary and A Painted Rosary by Kate Frantz. These books are a perfect companion for praying the Rosary, offering a piece of sacred art for each Mystery and printed beads to keep track of your prayers. She even has Rosary Bead Stickers to make each page tactile!
- The Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Catholic Family Art also features gorgeous sacred art for each Mystery, and offers a meditation line for each Hail Mary. It includes info on the history of the Rosary and text of the prayers used.
- LOVE the Word® with Mary by Sonja Corbitt (and lovely image of Mary by Elizabeth Zelasko). This quality spiral bound journal has so much space for reflections using the Bible Study Evangelista LOVE the Word® method of praying with Scripture. Perfect for personal study or as a Mass journal.
- Go to Joseph: 10 Day Preparation for Consecration to St. Joseph by Renzo Ortega of Two Become Family. In this era of St. Joseph, there can’t be too many books helping us get to know the Guardian of the Redeemer! I found this one super approachable and practical. Great background info at the beginning, and substantial reflections and prayers for the ten days.
- Go to Joseph for Children: Consecration to St. Joseph for Children and Families by Renzo and Monica Ortega of Two Become Family and illustrated by The Simple Saints. Perfect for family or classroom discussion about the characteristics of St. Joseph. The text is rich, but kid friendly, and I love the simple illustrations that leave room for little imaginations.
I think that Kate’s Thy Olive Tree Market is a brilliant way to support independent authors & help get the word out about great Catholic books!"
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Thanks for your review, Katie!
Katie Bogner is a Director of Religious Education and author of Through the Year with Jesus: Gospel Readings and Reflections for Children & Through the Year with Mary: Ponder and Pray Together with Children.
*Katie received free review copies in exchange for an honest review.