Francis Trochu (1877–1967)

First read this odd little book 60 years ago at an impressionable age, as a 9th grade seminarian. Read it again about ten years ago. A churchy bio of St John Vianney, a simple French curate from long ago, now honored as the patron of parish priests. I remember the book suggesting he was not terribly bright, but was allowed to become a priest, maybe because of his strong faith. He fasted daily, preached a simple gospel of love and is said to have wrestled with Satan on a near nightly basis. show more The book's stayed in print for over 90 years now, probably achieving a Catholic cult status. It is what it is. You believe or you don't. I don't, but I still think of it from time to time. It has, I guess, a certain staying power.

- Tim Bazzett, author of the memoir REED CITY BOY

- show less

A long book of hagiography and historical investigation into the life of a saintly priest working in France during the era of Napoleon. A little bit of everything is in here, apparitions of saints, demonic infestations and torments, struggles with faith, and the negative effects of trying to live a life of poverty. His name is associated with the sacrament of confession but he was a huge popularizer of the Eucharist as well. Probably too much to take in for non-Catholic readers, and probably show more too detailed even for Catholics. Still, this is probably the most important book on Vianney's life translated into English. B&W photos. show less

Very good biography of a fascinating young woman. The many photos were an excellent addition.

Extensa biografía (669 pp.), con numerosas referencias al proceso de canonización. Estilo sobrio, lenguaje preciso, descripción del marco ambiental en que se desarrolló la vida del Cura de Ars. El autor resalta la lucha ascética del santo para vencer las imperfecciones y debilidades. Conviene advertir que el modo de vivir algunas virtudes dista mucho de un espíritu laical.