Mother Teresa (On My Own Biography)

Characters: Mother Teresa

Setting: Calcutta, India

Theme: Love, God, Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me

Summary: Mother Teresa was a prominent nun who made a difference in the world by serving the poorest of the poor with sincerity and love. She especially loved children, but she embraced everyone regardless of age, social status, sex, race, and degree of illness. She is a Nobel Peace Prize winner who is loved by not only Catholics, but people around the globe. Her works (e.g., Missionaries of Charity for the poor and the sick in 126 countries) and the love she poured out will continue to live on.

Review: The illustrations are very soothing and calming, reflecting the personality of Mother Teresa. The vocabulary is easy to understand and blends well with the pictures. It feels more like reading a story than a biography. Usually, biographies are less appealing and take a stronger willpower to read than fiction books.

I liked that the book had important dates listed in chronological order and a photo of her at the end of the book. Students who read this book will not only be exposed to the great life Mother Teresa led as well as her unforgettable and ever living good deeds, but they will take a quick look at Catholic and how the religion practices along with its core values. Also the book can bring forth thought-provoking, inspiring journal prompts. However, teachers should keep in mind that they stay away from controversial, age inappropriate topics.

Curriculum ties: Social studies and geography (India, different religions) ( )