Once Upon a Time Saints (Volume 1) (Once Upon a Time Series) Paperback – May 1, 1996

This book (and its sequel) are wonderful stories about actual heroes. I love that the author chose to tell the legendary versions of the stories, rather than aiming for "what actually happened". There are standard fairy-tale embellishments, the occasional anacronism, and some details changes to appeal a bit more to children - all in a very "storyteller" style. The illustrations are simple but clear drawings; there is at least one per story. The stories are a good length.I also love the "real" feeling of these tales. Next to the trite "be friends, share, play nice" stories for children that abound in pop culture, these stories feel deep and inspiring. They also can be "gritty", as many of the saints depicted died for their faith.And yes, I devoured all the stories myself, on my commute home from work. Even adults will appreciate these tales!

These saint stories are enjoyable and my three year old looks forward to them every night. The stories include fictitious parts and some silly modern elements, but it is done lovingly so. I much prefer these stories over some other offerings which are dry, "just the facts, mam" style.J.M.J.

Now, don't think that review title means I color in my books. I don't. (I did not even use the highlighter in my college textbooks...perhaps my librarian mother has that effect on me.)What I do mean, is that in addition to the wonderful stories, just right for a bedtime reading, there are simple black-and-which line illustrations. I have photocopied them more than once for my daughter to color, and have also shared them with the segrist at the parish to put on the children's coloring table on Sunday.I wonder if the author and illustrator realized they inadvertantly made a coloring book, as well? :)

I like this book, nice stories. Although I do need to preview the stories, as I'm reading them to a four year old and some saints had some gory things happen to them, but as she gets older, that won't be an issue. And my four year old's complaint was that the pictures were not colored (but she was happy to color them in with her crayons).

This is a great start to beginning learning about saints. My husband and I really enjoy reading this book and we will share this with our grandchildren. I would recommed this book to my friends.

A truly Catholic book, this is a perfect addition for any Catholic child's library! It's stories are not so long that children lose interest, and they are told in a way that does not make the saints sound like they were old, dusty bits of history. It merely shows the saints as they are--heroes. My son, age 6, and my daughter, age 5, have so far thoroughly enjoyed each story, and I will definitely be buying the book "More Once Upon a Time Saints."

This was my favorite saint book growing up and the stories have always stayed with me. I now enjoy reading them to my own children who enjoy them just as much as I did. The author really brings the saints to life and shows the joyfulness of living the faith, even in times of great suffering and hardship.

Perfect for 1st Communion, Baptism anniversary, Confirmation, Easter or anytime gifts.