The Big Book of Women Saints

April 1, 2007
Editor-turned-author Gallick (founding member, Catholic Women at Work) has put together a fascinating collection that profiles more than 400 inspiring Catholic women. The book is organized by days of the year, each corresponding to a saint or group of saints. Well-known figures (e.g., Mother Teresa and Joan of Arc) are included, but because of the focus on women, less well-known figures (e.g., Saint Zita of Lucca and Saint Wiborada of Saint Gall, patron saint of librarians) also get attention. Many of these women have been canonized or beatified by Pope John Paul II; indeed, some 100 of them are contemporary, and this is refreshing, as 20th-century women are not typically included in such works. Catholics and Christians will enjoy the religious nature of the stories, while everyone can appreciate these remarkable women's lives. An introduction explains the canonization process, and a nice bibliography lists books and web sites. A refreshing view of Christianity from a feminine perspective; essential for religious reference and recommended for most libraries.Jennifer Kuncken, Williamsburg Regional Lib., VA

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