by Cornelia Mary Bilinsky
This book relates the legend of St. Helen and her journey to Jerusalem to find the cross on which Jesus died. It begins when her son has brought her to be Queen in Rome (leaving the details of how her husband divorced her to a note in the back, where parents can choose whether to share it). Through prayer, trust, and miracles, the true cross is found and identified.
While I haven't read every saint story, I have read quite a few. This is the first I've seen on St. Helen for young children. It would be appropriate to read aloud to all ages. I also liked the illustrations of St. Helen. Though she is a Queen, she seems like a beautiful grandmother, someone anyone could approach.
I appreciate how Pauline Books and Media have published this book in hardcover. They last so much better than paperbacks, especially in families with multiple children.
This would be a good book to share with children on St. Helen's feast day, August 18th, or for the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14th. (You could read the book while munching on delicious hot cross buns.)
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an objective review. This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on The Queen and the Cross-The Story of St. Helen. The Catholic Company is the best resource for all your seasonal needs such as First Communion gifts as well as ideas and gifts for the special papal Year of Faith.
