A parent might reach for this book when their child is curious about a life of faith or feels like their personal calling makes them different from their peers. It tells the story of twin siblings, Benedict and Scholastica, who lived in fifth-century Italy. They chose to leave a life of wealth and comfort to dedicate themselves to God, founding communities that would influence the world for centuries. The book explores their deep family love, their quiet perseverance, and the self-confidence they found in their shared spiritual path. Suited for thoughtful readers aged 8-12, it's a gentle, beautifully illustrated introduction to historical Christian figures, focusing on their humanity and purpose rather than abstract dogma.
The book deals with religious devotion from an explicitly Christian (Catholic) perspective. It presents monasticism, miracles, and sainthood as positive historical realities. The deaths of both protagonists are described at the end. The approach is direct but gentle, portraying death as a peaceful, faith-filled transition and a reunion in the afterlife. The resolution is hopeful and consistent with the religious framework.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is an introspective 9 to 12-year-old, possibly from a faith background or simply curious about history and religion. It's for the child who asks big questions about purpose and meaning, or who feels a quiet, personal calling that sets them apart from their peers. It would also resonate with a child who has a particularly close sibling bond.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold, as it provides good context. However, parents may want to be ready to discuss concepts like monasticism (living in a community dedicated to prayer and work), what a 'Rule' is in this context, and the idea of sainthood. The author's note provides excellent background information for a post-reading conversation. A parent might seek this book after their child asks, "What is my purpose?" or expresses curiosity about saints, monks, or nuns. Another trigger could be a child feeling different for being more serious or internally-focused than their friends, and a parent wanting to validate that a quiet, dedicated life has value.
Age Experience
A younger child (8-9) will likely connect most with the story of the twins' powerful sibling bond and their choice to live a different kind of life. An older child (10-12) will be better able to appreciate the historical significance of the Benedictine Order, the concept of a life dedicated to a spiritual ideal, and the themes of legacy and influence.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many saint biographies for children that focus on dramatic miracles or martyrdom, this book is distinguished by its focus on the quiet, steady dedication of its subjects and, most importantly, their human relationship as siblings. The parallel structure, telling both their stories at once, is unique and effectively illustrates their shared journey. The warm, folk-art style of the illustrations by Tomie dePaola makes the historical subject feel accessible and gentle.
Read plot summary
This picture book biography for older readers details the parallel lives of Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica, twin siblings born into nobility in 5th-century Italy. Feeling a call to a more devout life, both leave the corruption of Rome. Benedict becomes a hermit and later establishes the famous monastery at Monte Cassino, writing his influential Rule for monastic life. Scholastica founds a nearby convent for women. The book highlights their deep, lifelong spiritual connection, which culminates in a poignant final meeting before their deaths.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
At their last meeting, Scholastica prays for a storm so Benedict can stay longer, even though it means breaking his own rule. Do you think she did the right thing? When is it okay to bend a rule for someone you love?
2
Benedict and Scholastica chose to leave a comfortable, wealthy life in the city to live very simply. Why do you think they made that choice? What do you think they gained by giving things up?
3
The twins lived apart for most of their adult lives but still had a very strong connection. How did they show their love and support for each other without being together every day?
4
Benedict's 'Rule' created a balanced life of prayer, work, and study for his monks. If you were to create a 'Rule' for your own life, what would be the most important things to include to have a balanced day?
