Book Review: “Louie’s Lent”

We are in the early phase of our 2022 Lenten journey, and I am excited about sharing this review in hopes it deepens your awareness for what the true meaning of Lent can be. 

The book, “Louie’s Lent,” is a very special story of a young Catholic boy and his personal Lenten “journey.” The book is published by Ascension Press and authored by Claudia Cangilla McAdam. The colorful and well-depicted illustrations are by Michael Rogers. 

While the book is designed for young children (ages 4-8), I found the story to be quite touching and inspiring. McAdam’s has done a wonderful job of writing a realistic and interesting story and Rogers’ illustrations bring life to the various characters.

The story is based on Matthew 9:13 (“Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’”) and the main character is a young Catholic boy named Louie.

Louie’s friends are all excited about what they want to do for Lent. Some plan to give up sweets, others plan to give up playing video games or make other “sacrifices.” Louie is not sure what his Lenten plan will be though he has heard his teacher, Sister Mary Lawrence, mention that Lent can be a time for us to live in a way to imitate Jesus.

As the days pass, Louie continues to reflect on Sister Mary’s comments and decides to spend his Lent supporting and encouraging his friends as they make their sacrifices. For example, Louie wakes up early so he can go offer one of his classmates some company on their walk to school. He also notices a classmate who is discouraged having decided to give up playing video games for Lent and offers to play soccer with him.

Louie, it seems, is living Lent by giving the gift of love as God commands in Matthew 9:13. And I found this story a great reminder that Lent doesn’t have to be limited to making sacrifices. Louie provides a clear example for us to expand our Lenten journey to include acting in the image of God by giving love. “Louie’s Lent” is a wonderful book and I highly recommend you consider reading it!

This book sparked my curiosity to explore what else is available through the Ascension Press website (ascensionpress.com), and I was glad to find Bible Studies, Sacramental Prep programs and other resources for children. I encourage you to take a few minutes to visit the website and explore it for yourself.

John H. Dolezal is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.