Robin Hood the Just: A Catholic Hero

This book arrived in a box of books for review. My youngest daughter was immediately taken with it. She loved the cover, loved the format, and loved the illustrations. But she struggled with the calligraphy. She can read and write cursive but gave up on the calligraphy, especially the fancy first letters of sentences. So I read it to her twice, and she is working on the font. The description of this book is: “Few fairy tales mention faith, let alone religion. But kids need to see characters who are grounded in faith. Robin Hood the Just is based on a song from the Middle Ages that tells how Robin Hood went to Mass and prayed the rosary. Inspired by Pope John Paul II’s call to the New Evangelization, this story is designed to entertain children while teaching them important basics of the Catholic faith.” My daughter was confused. She had always thought that Robin hood was a bad guy. She was unfamiliar with the legends and that his being good or bad is a matter of opinion. I personally was unfamiliar with his Catholic faith. None of the versions I have encountered have had his Catholic faith as an element. This book brings the life and faith of this man to young readers. It focuses on a few key facts that are known about his and his faith. The book is written in the style of a classic Celtic manuscript. With embellishments around each page. Sharp bold calligraphy in each page. The story is in verse. With lots of space on each page. My children both loved this book. They both give it 5/5 stars. I gave it a very solid 4/5. It is a good book. And really shows the importance of faith, and living that faith out. A fun read.

This was so well done, and we loved the Catholic aspects, even though they were subtle enough that non-Catholics wouldn;t have probably noticed or been annoyed This was pure radio theater for the family. Please have more!!