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The Nun's Story
The lead character of the book, Sister Luke (pre-convent name Gabrielle Van Der Mal), finds her faith tested in Africa where she finds herself at odds with headstrong Dr. Fortunati, operator of a remote Congo hospital, with whom she gradually builds respect, and again during World War II, when she is ordered not to take sides. Ultimately, Sister Luke is forced to decide whether to remain in the convent or return to the outside world.
Gabrielle/Sister Luke is stretched between her desire to be faithful to the rule of her congregation and her desire to be a nurse. As a nun she must remove all vestiges of "Gabrielle Van Der Mal" and sublimate herself into the devoted bride of Christ. As a nun there is no room for her personal desires and aspirations. Ultimately, the conflict between her devotion to the Church and the nursing profession, juxtaposed with her passionate Belgian patriotism and her love of her father (killed by Nazi fighter planes while treating wounded) bring her to an impasse, which serves as the dénouement of the novel.
Gabrielle/Sister Luke is stretched between her desire to be faithful to the rule of her congregation and her desire to be a nurse. As a nun she must remove all vestiges of "Gabrielle Van Der Mal" and sublimate herself into the devoted bride of Christ. As a nun there is no room for her personal desires and aspirations. Ultimately, the conflict between her devotion to the Church and the nursing profession, juxtaposed with her passionate Belgian patriotism and her love of her father (killed by Nazi fighter planes while treating wounded) bring her to an impasse, which serves as the dénouement of the novel.
339 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1952
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
July 24, 2013
Never thought the book would be as good as the movie, but it was. Actually never knew that the movie had been made from a book until I saw someone rate it on here. One of my all time favorite movies, I remember watching it with my grandfather, and I loved Audrey Hepburn. Was going to Catholic school and my best friend who lived next door had a nun for an aunt so we used to dress up as nuns. When I went to Catholic School that phase ended quickly, Sister Luke was not there, in her place were many elderly and crabby sisters. Plus I quickly realized that taking a vow of obedience was just not in me. Loved reading every bit of this book. Memories.
September 27, 2011
I was totally obsessed with this book in junior high! Never have I seen such a complete and detailed look into the life of a nun! This book discusses everything in detail, from the daily schedule right down to their underwear. As you follow Sister Luke from her last night outside the convent through her novitiate and into her medical training and then her life of service, you are absolutely gripped by her story. The dedication that she had to serving her fellow man, even when she disagreed with church policy, the strange rules that she must follow, the times she makes the decision to break them, and unusual twists that her life takes . . . totally mesmerizing! This is also an interesting look at life in both the Congo, and Belgium during World War II. (Yep, nuns have some adventures!)
I think that her time in the Congo was my favorite thing, from the sexy doctor who liked to taunt the nuns to her treehouse (complete with monkey companion), was just sheer reading candy.
I think that her time in the Congo was my favorite thing, from the sexy doctor who liked to taunt the nuns to her treehouse (complete with monkey companion), was just sheer reading candy.
October 16, 2012
Oh. *hand to chest* What a bittersweet story. I've loved the Audrey Hepburn movie for years, and was so pleased to find this out-of-print title at my library. (The copy was acquired in the 1950s.) I was surprised that the movie stayed so close to the book.
Nuns have always fascinated me. I think that fascination may have stemmed from seeing this film when I was young, and seeing the struggles these women of God go through in their quest for Christ-like perfection. There's no doubt some Catholic heritage in my family, but you'd have to go way way back to find it. Nevertheless, I hold deep respect for these women who give up the world, give up their families and opportunities to have their own families, and devote their lives to service in this way. We follow Gabrielle Van Der Mal as she enters a Belgian convent at a tender age, and progresses through the religious life, hoping to eventually be posted as a missionary in the Congo. A trained and talented nurse, she is professionally capable in all her posts, but the spiritual aspects of her life seem to hold her back. She struggles, and finds many wonderful spiritual leaders around her who admirably try to guide her. When she finally does make it to the Congo, you know she has found her Heaven on earth. And though the 1950s descriptions of colonial Congo are not PC, there is still a tenderness and great reverence for the area portrayed through Sister Luke. But of course, that would not be the end of this story. World wars have a way of messing up the storybook endings.
I admit, I cried at the end. I cry at the end of the film. But in the film you don't hear all of Sister Luke's internal dialogue, which is heartbreaking.
I found this book very contemplative, especially when holding up the nun's Rule standards against my own, and comparing how these Catholic sisters interpret scripture against what I think, and my thoughts. It may take a certain kind of person in a certain kind of mood to read The Nun's Story, but oh, I do recommend it.
Nuns have always fascinated me. I think that fascination may have stemmed from seeing this film when I was young, and seeing the struggles these women of God go through in their quest for Christ-like perfection. There's no doubt some Catholic heritage in my family, but you'd have to go way way back to find it. Nevertheless, I hold deep respect for these women who give up the world, give up their families and opportunities to have their own families, and devote their lives to service in this way. We follow Gabrielle Van Der Mal as she enters a Belgian convent at a tender age, and progresses through the religious life, hoping to eventually be posted as a missionary in the Congo. A trained and talented nurse, she is professionally capable in all her posts, but the spiritual aspects of her life seem to hold her back. She struggles, and finds many wonderful spiritual leaders around her who admirably try to guide her. When she finally does make it to the Congo, you know she has found her Heaven on earth. And though the 1950s descriptions of colonial Congo are not PC, there is still a tenderness and great reverence for the area portrayed through Sister Luke. But of course, that would not be the end of this story. World wars have a way of messing up the storybook endings.
I admit, I cried at the end. I cry at the end of the film. But in the film you don't hear all of Sister Luke's internal dialogue, which is heartbreaking.
I found this book very contemplative, especially when holding up the nun's Rule standards against my own, and comparing how these Catholic sisters interpret scripture against what I think, and my thoughts. It may take a certain kind of person in a certain kind of mood to read The Nun's Story, but oh, I do recommend it.
April 19, 2017
I got this book as a surprise in a tea and book club and had never heard of it or the film. It's brilliant! Such a good book that makes you think through your own strength of character. I loved it.
June 26, 2017
I saw this as a film, a wonderful rendition, in 1959 when it was first released.
The next time I saw it almost ten years later, I too was in a monastery, as a monk or priest-to-be. I was struggling with my belief and finally left, a reluctant atheist.I can clearly remember after the film, asking my companion monk why he thought Sister Luke had left her religious order.His reply was that she had lost her vocation.I was startled.
Still am!!
To me, Sister Luke's religious order could no longer contain her. She was too much of a realist. She had neither lost her faith or her vocation.She had just kept growing and refused to stop.I, myself, felt that I was growing and regardless of the then bitter pill of atheism, with no Dawkins or Hitchens to support me - there were no popular atheists writing in those days - I followed my reasoned and reasonable doubts right out the Catholic Church's Front Door. I had sought help- to be told by one priest that my atheism was a big problem to me, but NOT a big problem. Another told me to separate my philosophical and theological worlds, as if two contradictory truths could co-exist in one mind.
I hope Sister Luke never regretted her chosen path. Me, I have no regrets about entering the monastery and absolutely none about leaving.
And none about my atheism which I now wear comfortably. Today I still can say with a sense of relief:"Thank God I left and Thank God I'm an atheist."(And She says:"That's OK ,mate.")
Sister Luke is a novel based on fact. Kathryn Hulme took her story from a real Belgian nun who in fact felt a deep nostalgia for her convent days. So like me she was reluctant but determined to follow her heart or instinct and has to some extent remained so.
I recall that she and Kathryn Hulme lived together and having just done my research Find that she and the woman portrayed in the Nun's Story were lifelong partners. Many gay people entered religious orders to give their lives a sense of purpose, some even becoming popes!!Two I know of in my lifetime.
I have reread "The Nun's Story" and seen the film too several times.
It gives the best depiction of a monastic life I have yet encountered and shows how a fictional/storytelling genre can have a distinct advantage over a documentary/factual rendition.
It is a read I'm sure you won't regret.
PS In conjunction with this book, the first person account of Monica Baldwin in her "I Leap Over The Wall" also about her convent life and her leaving of it would be worth a look.
This is a real Rip Van Winkle Story ,since she entered the convent in 1914 and left about 28 years later during the Second World War when society had made remarkable changes in every area -fashion, media,communications, transport,vocabulary etc etc!!!She does finally reveal why she left and I have not mentioned it here.
The next time I saw it almost ten years later, I too was in a monastery, as a monk or priest-to-be. I was struggling with my belief and finally left, a reluctant atheist.I can clearly remember after the film, asking my companion monk why he thought Sister Luke had left her religious order.His reply was that she had lost her vocation.I was startled.
Still am!!
To me, Sister Luke's religious order could no longer contain her. She was too much of a realist. She had neither lost her faith or her vocation.She had just kept growing and refused to stop.I, myself, felt that I was growing and regardless of the then bitter pill of atheism, with no Dawkins or Hitchens to support me - there were no popular atheists writing in those days - I followed my reasoned and reasonable doubts right out the Catholic Church's Front Door. I had sought help- to be told by one priest that my atheism was a big problem to me, but NOT a big problem. Another told me to separate my philosophical and theological worlds, as if two contradictory truths could co-exist in one mind.
I hope Sister Luke never regretted her chosen path. Me, I have no regrets about entering the monastery and absolutely none about leaving.
And none about my atheism which I now wear comfortably. Today I still can say with a sense of relief:"Thank God I left and Thank God I'm an atheist."(And She says:"That's OK ,mate.")
Sister Luke is a novel based on fact. Kathryn Hulme took her story from a real Belgian nun who in fact felt a deep nostalgia for her convent days. So like me she was reluctant but determined to follow her heart or instinct and has to some extent remained so.
I recall that she and Kathryn Hulme lived together and having just done my research Find that she and the woman portrayed in the Nun's Story were lifelong partners. Many gay people entered religious orders to give their lives a sense of purpose, some even becoming popes!!Two I know of in my lifetime.
I have reread "The Nun's Story" and seen the film too several times.
It gives the best depiction of a monastic life I have yet encountered and shows how a fictional/storytelling genre can have a distinct advantage over a documentary/factual rendition.
It is a read I'm sure you won't regret.
PS In conjunction with this book, the first person account of Monica Baldwin in her "I Leap Over The Wall" also about her convent life and her leaving of it would be worth a look.
This is a real Rip Van Winkle Story ,since she entered the convent in 1914 and left about 28 years later during the Second World War when society had made remarkable changes in every area -fashion, media,communications, transport,vocabulary etc etc!!!She does finally reveal why she left and I have not mentioned it here.
October 5, 2021
Having seen the famous film with Audrey Hepburn, when I stumbled across the book (there's a book?) I picked it up and read it with curiosity. It is well-written, but a few things came to mind during the reading.
What struck me most was the fact that "Sister Luke" becomes a nun for all the wrong reasons. I say "wrong" because for Gabrielle/Luke, becoming a nun is a means to her own ends: to be a nurse, to research and treat tropical diseases, to go to the Congo. (Or at least the Congo she dreams about, which turns out to be very different to the actual place.) In this day and age, "Luke" (named for the Evangelist who was a doctor, heavy-handed irony on the author's part) would simply have studied medicine and become a doctor, and probably cocked a snook at her father and married Jean into the bargain; in 1920s Belgium, a nice little bourgeoise girl could do none of those things, so she takes what she percieves is the only option open to her, by becoming a nursing nun. Not one word about any spiritual devotion to God, or Christ, or even Mary; not one word of feeling that she has an actual religious vocation.In fact, when she makes her vows we are told she privately admits to God that she doesn't think she can stick with it for life, but "for as long as I can."(Foreshadowing, anyone?) Throughout the novel, in all her struggles to adapt and conform to a life that she really does not feel fitted for, "Luke" sees herself as the hero/victim, doing her best within the bounds of a strict religious order--but an order that she voluntarily joined. She's not pressured into it by family expectations, nor does she seek refuge in active service to salve a broken heart--her desire to be a nurse in the Congo apparently was stronger than her affection for the man her father disapproved of anyway. (He disapproves of her choice to become a nun, too--perhaps he could see her choices more objectively than she herself could, recognising his own drive and purpose in his daughter.)
There is indeed a Belgian nursing order which at that time wore the habit described in this book, and its strictness is borne out in some French/Belgian films (I direct the interested reader to some of the later episodes of Bruno Cremer's Maigret TV series, in which the Inspector encounters a mystery in just such a Catholic hospital). However, it wasn't the only nursing order out there; just as "Luke" discovers there are English and Irish girls who crossed the Channel to join this nursing order, surely she was aware of, and could have joined, a milder order even if it meant travelling to do so. But of course Belgium controlled the Congo in those days, and for Luke, going to the Congo and working on tropical maladies was the entire point of the exercise. Not so much "all for Jesus" as "all for the Congo."
For another view of monastic life, I can recommend In This House of Brede. While the Benedictines of that novel (and in real life, along with the Carmelites and other orders) do indeed use a "discipline", it is made of knotted cords--not "metal chains with hooks." For a (voluntary) convert to Catholicism, Ms Hulme seems to have injected quite a lot of anger into the narrative.
What struck me most was the fact that "Sister Luke" becomes a nun for all the wrong reasons. I say "wrong" because for Gabrielle/Luke, becoming a nun is a means to her own ends: to be a nurse, to research and treat tropical diseases, to go to the Congo. (Or at least the Congo she dreams about, which turns out to be very different to the actual place.) In this day and age, "Luke" (named for the Evangelist who was a doctor, heavy-handed irony on the author's part) would simply have studied medicine and become a doctor, and probably cocked a snook at her father and married Jean into the bargain; in 1920s Belgium, a nice little bourgeoise girl could do none of those things, so she takes what she percieves is the only option open to her, by becoming a nursing nun. Not one word about any spiritual devotion to God, or Christ, or even Mary; not one word of feeling that she has an actual religious vocation.In fact, when she makes her vows we are told she privately admits to God that she doesn't think she can stick with it for life, but "for as long as I can."(Foreshadowing, anyone?) Throughout the novel, in all her struggles to adapt and conform to a life that she really does not feel fitted for, "Luke" sees herself as the hero/victim, doing her best within the bounds of a strict religious order--but an order that she voluntarily joined. She's not pressured into it by family expectations, nor does she seek refuge in active service to salve a broken heart--her desire to be a nurse in the Congo apparently was stronger than her affection for the man her father disapproved of anyway. (He disapproves of her choice to become a nun, too--perhaps he could see her choices more objectively than she herself could, recognising his own drive and purpose in his daughter.)
There is indeed a Belgian nursing order which at that time wore the habit described in this book, and its strictness is borne out in some French/Belgian films (I direct the interested reader to some of the later episodes of Bruno Cremer's Maigret TV series, in which the Inspector encounters a mystery in just such a Catholic hospital). However, it wasn't the only nursing order out there; just as "Luke" discovers there are English and Irish girls who crossed the Channel to join this nursing order, surely she was aware of, and could have joined, a milder order even if it meant travelling to do so. But of course Belgium controlled the Congo in those days, and for Luke, going to the Congo and working on tropical maladies was the entire point of the exercise. Not so much "all for Jesus" as "all for the Congo."
For another view of monastic life, I can recommend In This House of Brede. While the Benedictines of that novel (and in real life, along with the Carmelites and other orders) do indeed use a "discipline", it is made of knotted cords--not "metal chains with hooks." For a (voluntary) convert to Catholicism, Ms Hulme seems to have injected quite a lot of anger into the narrative.
June 16, 2017
Picking this up was truly a whim. I had just seen the movie with Audrey Hepburn and loved it, and was curious as to how closely it followed the book.
If you are a reader who gets annoyed or distracted by side stories or tangents, this is a book for you. Hulme writes briskly, sticking to the subject, moving things along. It’s as if she is using her simple, concise language as a metaphor for the nun’s life, because within the unadorned narrative is a rich, complex, emotional and bewildering tale…much like the character of Sister Luke.
It’s a very revealing peek into life in the convent, into the training of the Brides of Christ, and raises some very interesting questions and choices a nun must make. Absolute selflessness, and Sister Luke’s own nemesis, absolute obedience. Her desire to do good cannot be kept within the context of her vows; she cannot reconcile the nurse within her and the nun within her.
I thought it was a very engaging, powerful story, but again, it’s a matter of taste. For people who enjoy this sort of thing, this is the sort of thing they will enjoy. I'm one of those people, and I enjoyed this immensely.
If you are a reader who gets annoyed or distracted by side stories or tangents, this is a book for you. Hulme writes briskly, sticking to the subject, moving things along. It’s as if she is using her simple, concise language as a metaphor for the nun’s life, because within the unadorned narrative is a rich, complex, emotional and bewildering tale…much like the character of Sister Luke.
It’s a very revealing peek into life in the convent, into the training of the Brides of Christ, and raises some very interesting questions and choices a nun must make. Absolute selflessness, and Sister Luke’s own nemesis, absolute obedience. Her desire to do good cannot be kept within the context of her vows; she cannot reconcile the nurse within her and the nun within her.
I thought it was a very engaging, powerful story, but again, it’s a matter of taste. For people who enjoy this sort of thing, this is the sort of thing they will enjoy. I'm one of those people, and I enjoyed this immensely.
March 11, 2024
A young Belgian woman enters a closed world where novices are taught denial and self-abnegation by zealots and once doctrines are ingrained the nuns are sent as missionaries to West Africa. Fortunately Sister Luke has previous nursing training and so on her arrival in the Congo she is a much needed asset and makes a wonderful contribution in the hospital where a diligent doctor shines a light on her and helps her on her journey to enlightenment. I would love to have heard more about her clandestine activities with the Belgian Resistance and the British Agent masquerading as a senior Gestapo official.
August 27, 2016
I torture myself reading about nuns. That's what happens when you attend Catholic school for a few years in the late 1950s and early 60's - - and are left-handed. You spend your life trying to understand the logic. (logic?) Too bad none of the nuns that taught me had the grace of Audrey Hepburn. (who played Sister Luke in the movie)
May 17, 2017
P.S. I just learned that Audrey Hepburn starred in the 1959 movie version of this book. Warning, the movie trailer spoils the ending... I've got to check it out!
One of the best friends I met on my mission was a Spanish nun/nurse, Sister Maria, who worked in a southern Madagascar leper colony for 20 years and, when I met her, was working at a hospital in Antananarivo. After my mission, Matt and I visited her in Majorca, where she was staying with her family for a short vacation. A couple of years later, she helped me get a summer job with Catholic Relief Services where I spent three months living in a convent and working in the southern Madagascar "bush." The last time I saw her was in March 2007 on a short trip to France; she had been transferred to the Mother House there, sort of set out to pasture. We've communicated via e-mail since then. She is innocent, humble, and kind. Timid sometimes, I think because of her vows and the strict rules under which she lives.
This book showed me, in depth, what she went through to become a nun. What she gave up, and what she gained. It's an intriguing story that made me think a little harder about what I live for. It kept me up at night and gave me a new appreciation for Sister Maria.
Thanks for the recommendation, Alisse!
One of the best friends I met on my mission was a Spanish nun/nurse, Sister Maria, who worked in a southern Madagascar leper colony for 20 years and, when I met her, was working at a hospital in Antananarivo. After my mission, Matt and I visited her in Majorca, where she was staying with her family for a short vacation. A couple of years later, she helped me get a summer job with Catholic Relief Services where I spent three months living in a convent and working in the southern Madagascar "bush." The last time I saw her was in March 2007 on a short trip to France; she had been transferred to the Mother House there, sort of set out to pasture. We've communicated via e-mail since then. She is innocent, humble, and kind. Timid sometimes, I think because of her vows and the strict rules under which she lives.
This book showed me, in depth, what she went through to become a nun. What she gave up, and what she gained. It's an intriguing story that made me think a little harder about what I live for. It kept me up at night and gave me a new appreciation for Sister Maria.
Thanks for the recommendation, Alisse!
November 1, 2022
Nun's habits like Scottish kilts fascinate some people. So, I'll put you straight about the kilts first.
Question: What's worn under a kilt?
Answer: Absolutely nothing. It's all in perfect working order.
Now, to nun's habits. You'll have to search to find many these days apart from folk at fancy dress parties or at Halloween. But The Nun's Story takes place when all nuns wore them. And Audrey Hepburn was particularly beautiful in hers in the Hollywood film of this novel.
Hulme's book is based on an actual nun's experiences. So, it has all the details you might be wanting to know about each article or clothing that's worn and the rituals of silence and not touching other nuns, etc. Fascinating for sure.
The surprise for me was what else is hidden under there. You see, Sister Luke, is much more than a pretty face. She is brilliant and brave and her mind is in hyper drive. As only someone who later would love and live with her could do, Kathryn Hulme taps into the thoughts beneath that habit. And those thoughts are what make this book worth reading.
Question: What's worn under a kilt?
Answer: Absolutely nothing. It's all in perfect working order.
Now, to nun's habits. You'll have to search to find many these days apart from folk at fancy dress parties or at Halloween. But The Nun's Story takes place when all nuns wore them. And Audrey Hepburn was particularly beautiful in hers in the Hollywood film of this novel.
Hulme's book is based on an actual nun's experiences. So, it has all the details you might be wanting to know about each article or clothing that's worn and the rituals of silence and not touching other nuns, etc. Fascinating for sure.
The surprise for me was what else is hidden under there. You see, Sister Luke, is much more than a pretty face. She is brilliant and brave and her mind is in hyper drive. As only someone who later would love and live with her could do, Kathryn Hulme taps into the thoughts beneath that habit. And those thoughts are what make this book worth reading.
July 27, 2010
This has been my favorite book for years! I wish there was a sequel. I identify with Sister Luke in so many ways, though I have never attempted to be a nun. Her strength and self-examination are tremendous.
April 4, 2013
I loved this book. For anyone who is interested in why someone would choose to be a nun and what can be gained by being formed in such a discipline, this book is a serious consideration. It takes the community's faith seriously and also takes seriously the difficulties of living that faith as a nun, a nurse, a woman, in the "real world." The early part of the book is somewhat slow and internal, reflective of the life of discipline found during the first years of formation in the convent. This is very important, however, for understanding how the character acts and her motivations throughout the next two parts: her life as a missionary nurse in the Congo and her life back in the Belgian convent during WWII.
At a time when this way of life is coming to an end, at least in this form, and when there are so few positive portrayals of committed religious life as part of a religious order (nuns, particularly, are depicted as flat stereotypes), this book goes a long way in showing teh full humanity and the fullness of this life and formation.
For my full review,
At a time when this way of life is coming to an end, at least in this form, and when there are so few positive portrayals of committed religious life as part of a religious order (nuns, particularly, are depicted as flat stereotypes), this book goes a long way in showing teh full humanity and the fullness of this life and formation.
For my full review,
October 1, 2013
This is an old favorite of mine, reread twice, I believe. It's an extremely good example of the Church within one particular religious order of the R.C. at a particular point and time in history. But it does not reflect many religious orders for women in the Roman Catholic Church as much as some might believe it does (just reading other posters who do not have much context of R.C.). And as I am a Catholic of age that has been in Novitiate etc.- this is not a universal religious statement about Catholicism either, at all. But it IS in itself NOT revisionist or is it interpreted by outside eyes, and for that-coupled with the immense entertainment value of reading this woman's story from her conflicted soul; I give it a 5. As it accomplished both goals to a superb degree.
Also it has some African narrative that just seeps into your imagination and your senses. Many, many years later, I recall the red army ants, for instance. A story of immense bravery and hope held by one individual in a former age. BTW, most people think of Audrey Hepburn as Sister Luke. I thought of Therese de Lisieux's face when I read this book. Those same eyes. A nun with Therese's pure love in simplicity coupled with the physical strength for sustained action in the world. What a combination!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Th%C3%A9...
Also it has some African narrative that just seeps into your imagination and your senses. Many, many years later, I recall the red army ants, for instance. A story of immense bravery and hope held by one individual in a former age. BTW, most people think of Audrey Hepburn as Sister Luke. I thought of Therese de Lisieux's face when I read this book. Those same eyes. A nun with Therese's pure love in simplicity coupled with the physical strength for sustained action in the world. What a combination!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Th%C3%A9...
August 29, 2020
I had seen the movie starring Audrey Hepburn and really enjoyed it. I was unaware that it was a book until I stumbled across it on my mother's bookshelf.
Gabby enters the convent and begins the process that will turn her into Sister Luke. She is a nurse with dreams of going to the Congo. Before she can go there, she must undergo many trials that test her vows of Obedience and Humility.
I struggled with the beginning of the book, hence losing a star. I was much more interested after she finished her training and went into service, first at a psychiatric hospital and then to her Beloved Congo. She continues to struggle with the vows and that is true turmoil for Sister Luke. I felt the same frustrations that she did.
I thought it was a good book with a nice insight into the world of a nun in the 1930's.
Gabby enters the convent and begins the process that will turn her into Sister Luke. She is a nurse with dreams of going to the Congo. Before she can go there, she must undergo many trials that test her vows of Obedience and Humility.
I struggled with the beginning of the book, hence losing a star. I was much more interested after she finished her training and went into service, first at a psychiatric hospital and then to her Beloved Congo. She continues to struggle with the vows and that is true turmoil for Sister Luke. I felt the same frustrations that she did.
I thought it was a good book with a nice insight into the world of a nun in the 1930's.
March 27, 2020
I could only find a copy of this on eBay, and, to my disappointment, the book listed in " Very Good Condition" came as a weathered, brown-paged, mass market paperback. I don't enjoy reading the tiny print of such books, especially when they're stiff and brown with age. I almost put it in the "Good Will" bag. I'm glad I didn't. I gave it a shot and Kathryn Hulme's excellent writing kept me turning pages.
Having grown up Catholic, I still have the latent curiosity regarding "Sisters" that most Catholics feel. Why do they enter the convent? What is life like inside it? Are they happy there? This book, though fiction, answered these questions far more than the biographical accounts I've read in the past by ex-nuns. One would think Ms. Hulme was one of them, by the minutiae of detail she includes, and her intimate familiarity, not only with the exacting daily schedules inside a convent, but with the excruciating tenderness of conscience a good nun, it seems, must have. The book takes her from initiation "into the congregation" through medical school to become a nurse, from Belgium (her homeland) to the Congo, where she serves as a medical missionary nun. Then it's back to Belgium as World War II begins, and we get an account of how Belgians experienced the Nazi tyranny and cruelty. There are many good things which can be said about this book, but the best takeaway for me was to finally get the perspective of a dedicated nun, an earnest lover of God. Unlike some of the ex-nuns I've read about, the women here aren't there for the habit or the novelty of it. The protagonist's piety was so touching at times, it made me question my own. Am I as thoughtful of God in my words and deeds? Can I be more thoughtful, can I keep my mouth shut more, as nuns are trained to do? When the pages closed, I wished I could read more of the protagonist's story/ I highly recommend this book.
Having grown up Catholic, I still have the latent curiosity regarding "Sisters" that most Catholics feel. Why do they enter the convent? What is life like inside it? Are they happy there? This book, though fiction, answered these questions far more than the biographical accounts I've read in the past by ex-nuns. One would think Ms. Hulme was one of them, by the minutiae of detail she includes, and her intimate familiarity, not only with the exacting daily schedules inside a convent, but with the excruciating tenderness of conscience a good nun, it seems, must have. The book takes her from initiation "into the congregation" through medical school to become a nurse, from Belgium (her homeland) to the Congo, where she serves as a medical missionary nun. Then it's back to Belgium as World War II begins, and we get an account of how Belgians experienced the Nazi tyranny and cruelty. There are many good things which can be said about this book, but the best takeaway for me was to finally get the perspective of a dedicated nun, an earnest lover of God. Unlike some of the ex-nuns I've read about, the women here aren't there for the habit or the novelty of it. The protagonist's piety was so touching at times, it made me question my own. Am I as thoughtful of God in my words and deeds? Can I be more thoughtful, can I keep my mouth shut more, as nuns are trained to do? When the pages closed, I wished I could read more of the protagonist's story/ I highly recommend this book.
July 27, 2013
Written in another style, this book could be terrifying. Kathryn Hulme offers us visions of the ultimate in conformity, silent figures in black and white bound to the strictest obedience of the slightest detail, including thought itself. The main witness seeing not even a hint of emotion as a dead nun she just found with a knife in her back is carried off like an object no longer needed. She knows they care, but any display of such besides a few carefully chosen words uttered discreetly don't seem to belong in this 1984-ish world. Indeed, the nuns seem to function on telepathy, and there are no secrets here. And this is her struggle, to live "a life against nature," "all for Jesus."
But as it is written, this story based on true events about the lives of nuns and the trials of Sister Luke is for the most part eerily peaceful, as it has a way of dropping you gently right into the middle of her world. Even the vagueness of time is presented here, as nearly every day in her memory passes indistinguishable from the last. As an outsider the answers to many of the questions and difficulties she faces may seem obvious, and you want to reach through the pages to shake her, and ask, "Why the hell is it like this? How is this good for anybody?" But as this book spends so little time explaining every little detail, and really showing it to you instead, that you understand. You feel for her, alien as her life may be. You know what it's like to try so hard to be perfect, but constantly question yourself and find yourself wanting. And this is ultimately what draws you in and makes you accept it.
The nuns seem to live as though they're hypnotized. Detachment from the outside world is considered essential. Even their age and gender cease to matter, in certain key ways. Only The Rule matters. Those who evolve into Living Rules are the ultimate aspirational figures. But this would be a struggle for the strongest of people with the strongest of faith. For Sister Luke doubt is her only real companion, and it's constant, even as she grows in her spiritual wisdom. Even when everyone else believes in her and she accomplishes her goal of working in the Congo missions, doubt continues to haunt her, as much as her memories of growing up with her doctor father. The hardest part is that for her the separation of herself from the outside world must be largely symbolic. Sister Luke follows in her father's footsteps in the medical field, and thus is thrust into it through the care she must take of ordinary people. People of every kind.
This intersection of worlds is where the story climaxes. Because in the outside world, violence is a reality. And so is war. But in the nun's world, unconditional forgiveness is too. God commands his followers to love their enemies. There is no excuse for not obeying The Rule. The ultimate battle of Sister Luke revolves around whether or not she is capable of this, whether or not she really does belong in a convent living the life of a nun. As the years pass, she begins to feel more and more like a fraud.
"Just once she had tried to explain to her Superior why, in these days of so much suffering and dying, she was repeatedly late for meals and devotions when the bells caught her in the midst of a spiritual talk with a frightened patient. 'It always seems like time stolen from souls, ma mère, to break off abruptly and turn away...for food, or to read an Office.' It was as if she had torn up the Holy Rule before Mother Didyma's narrowing eyes."
Arguably, you could say that she begins to wake up from the hypnotism that never fully had her in its grasp. Unshakable hate for the Nazi enemy, and a sense of duty to her country of Belgium takes over. The ideology that it's up to God alone to judge people for their sins is in itself admirable. But it raises the question of where to draw the line. How brutally wrong does someone have to be before we step up and take action for ourselves? Whether or not Sister Luke is able to accept all the death and destruction around her, whether she can uphold her vows or will instead seek a divorce from God is up to the reader to find out. And as you do, you might find yourself wondering what you would do in the same situation, not as an outsider, but as someone dedicated to the religious life as she is. Poetic to the end, this book compels you to examine the state of your own soul.
But as it is written, this story based on true events about the lives of nuns and the trials of Sister Luke is for the most part eerily peaceful, as it has a way of dropping you gently right into the middle of her world. Even the vagueness of time is presented here, as nearly every day in her memory passes indistinguishable from the last. As an outsider the answers to many of the questions and difficulties she faces may seem obvious, and you want to reach through the pages to shake her, and ask, "Why the hell is it like this? How is this good for anybody?" But as this book spends so little time explaining every little detail, and really showing it to you instead, that you understand. You feel for her, alien as her life may be. You know what it's like to try so hard to be perfect, but constantly question yourself and find yourself wanting. And this is ultimately what draws you in and makes you accept it.
The nuns seem to live as though they're hypnotized. Detachment from the outside world is considered essential. Even their age and gender cease to matter, in certain key ways. Only The Rule matters. Those who evolve into Living Rules are the ultimate aspirational figures. But this would be a struggle for the strongest of people with the strongest of faith. For Sister Luke doubt is her only real companion, and it's constant, even as she grows in her spiritual wisdom. Even when everyone else believes in her and she accomplishes her goal of working in the Congo missions, doubt continues to haunt her, as much as her memories of growing up with her doctor father. The hardest part is that for her the separation of herself from the outside world must be largely symbolic. Sister Luke follows in her father's footsteps in the medical field, and thus is thrust into it through the care she must take of ordinary people. People of every kind.
This intersection of worlds is where the story climaxes. Because in the outside world, violence is a reality. And so is war. But in the nun's world, unconditional forgiveness is too. God commands his followers to love their enemies. There is no excuse for not obeying The Rule. The ultimate battle of Sister Luke revolves around whether or not she is capable of this, whether or not she really does belong in a convent living the life of a nun. As the years pass, she begins to feel more and more like a fraud.
"Just once she had tried to explain to her Superior why, in these days of so much suffering and dying, she was repeatedly late for meals and devotions when the bells caught her in the midst of a spiritual talk with a frightened patient. 'It always seems like time stolen from souls, ma mère, to break off abruptly and turn away...for food, or to read an Office.' It was as if she had torn up the Holy Rule before Mother Didyma's narrowing eyes."
Arguably, you could say that she begins to wake up from the hypnotism that never fully had her in its grasp. Unshakable hate for the Nazi enemy, and a sense of duty to her country of Belgium takes over. The ideology that it's up to God alone to judge people for their sins is in itself admirable. But it raises the question of where to draw the line. How brutally wrong does someone have to be before we step up and take action for ourselves? Whether or not Sister Luke is able to accept all the death and destruction around her, whether she can uphold her vows or will instead seek a divorce from God is up to the reader to find out. And as you do, you might find yourself wondering what you would do in the same situation, not as an outsider, but as someone dedicated to the religious life as she is. Poetic to the end, this book compels you to examine the state of your own soul.
November 25, 2014
Gabrielle Van der Mal, educated, refined, the daughter of a well-to-do doctor in Belgium determines to put her feet on the path of becoming a nun. With her we enter the Mother House. With her we experience the first day, week, month, year of the journey from novice to nun. She hopes to become a surgical nurse and serve in Africa along the Congo. Indeed, she is sent to school to be trained, but is encouraged by her superior to fail the examination so as not to attract untoward attention, acclaim, and even jealousy from other student nuns. This is just one of the many struggles we experience with Gabrielle, who is now Sister Luke.
Thus follows the fascinating, sometimes gripping, journey of Sister Luke.
In 1959 this story was brought to the screen starring Audrey Hepburn, which I now want to watch, having enjoyed the book.
Just a few vocabulary notes for me:
p.229 Atavisms (wikipedia def... is the tendency to revert to ancestral type. In biology, an atavism is an evolutionary throwback, such as traits reappearing which had disappeared generations before.[2] Atavisms can occur in several ways. One way is when genes for previously existing phenotypical features are preserved in DNA, and these become expressed through a mutation that either knock out the overriding genes for the new traits or make the old traits override the new one. A number of traits can vary as a result of shortening of the fetal development of a trait (neoteny) or by prolongation of the same. In such a case, a shift in the time a trait is allowed to develop before it is fixed can bring forth an ancestral phenotype.[3])
in context of book..."The drama of the expanding Congo touched off a patriotic pride she never knew she had, but accepted tranquilly now as one of those atavisms which every nun brought to the convent from her former life and never quite outgrew."
p.236 somnambulists (wikipedia def... is a sleep disorder belonging to the parasomnia family.[2] Sleepwalkers arise from the slow wave sleep stage in a state of low consciousness and perform activities that are usually performed during a state of full consciousness. )
in context of book..."There was a stupefaction in all their voices as they made the responses and their gestures seemed dreamy and thoughtless, like those of somnambulists hesitating on the edge of an abyss."
p.288 Quisling (wikipedia def...(Norwegian pronunciation: [ˈkʋɪsˈlɪŋ]; English: /ˈkwɪzlɪŋ/) is a term used in reference to fascist and collaborationist political parties and military and paramilitary forces in occupied Allied countries which collaborated with Axis occupiers in World War II, as well as for their members and other collaborators.)
in context of book..."The Belgian collaborators were called Quislings, a word Sister Luke pondered and could not solve because she had never heard that just before the blitz which captured her own country in eighteen days there had been a preparatory blitz that had subdued Norway. One of her students told her who Quisling of Norway was and how the hated name had come into their own language as a proper noun everybody understood."
Thus follows the fascinating, sometimes gripping, journey of Sister Luke.
In 1959 this story was brought to the screen starring Audrey Hepburn, which I now want to watch, having enjoyed the book.
Just a few vocabulary notes for me:
p.229 Atavisms (wikipedia def... is the tendency to revert to ancestral type. In biology, an atavism is an evolutionary throwback, such as traits reappearing which had disappeared generations before.[2] Atavisms can occur in several ways. One way is when genes for previously existing phenotypical features are preserved in DNA, and these become expressed through a mutation that either knock out the overriding genes for the new traits or make the old traits override the new one. A number of traits can vary as a result of shortening of the fetal development of a trait (neoteny) or by prolongation of the same. In such a case, a shift in the time a trait is allowed to develop before it is fixed can bring forth an ancestral phenotype.[3])
in context of book..."The drama of the expanding Congo touched off a patriotic pride she never knew she had, but accepted tranquilly now as one of those atavisms which every nun brought to the convent from her former life and never quite outgrew."
p.236 somnambulists (wikipedia def... is a sleep disorder belonging to the parasomnia family.[2] Sleepwalkers arise from the slow wave sleep stage in a state of low consciousness and perform activities that are usually performed during a state of full consciousness. )
in context of book..."There was a stupefaction in all their voices as they made the responses and their gestures seemed dreamy and thoughtless, like those of somnambulists hesitating on the edge of an abyss."
p.288 Quisling (wikipedia def...(Norwegian pronunciation: [ˈkʋɪsˈlɪŋ]; English: /ˈkwɪzlɪŋ/) is a term used in reference to fascist and collaborationist political parties and military and paramilitary forces in occupied Allied countries which collaborated with Axis occupiers in World War II, as well as for their members and other collaborators.)
in context of book..."The Belgian collaborators were called Quislings, a word Sister Luke pondered and could not solve because she had never heard that just before the blitz which captured her own country in eighteen days there had been a preparatory blitz that had subdued Norway. One of her students told her who Quisling of Norway was and how the hated name had come into their own language as a proper noun everybody understood."
March 11, 2015
The other title for this book could possibly be, “How to Become Ill-Equipped for Everything.” It beleaguers the mind to read this book, which, I must tell you, is an excellent book in its genre. My copy of it looks very cheesy, straight from a dusty shelf, a 1950’s paperback with a cover showing how good Audrey Hepburn looked in a habit. Do not be deceived, the story is extremely well written and rather objective raising questions about the human need to downgrade itself in order to arrive at sainthood, and let’s be grand here, any type of sainthood, including whatever these modern days are selling us about being good to ourselves by deprivation of basic needs. Behind the scenes the fascinating story behind the relationship of the author, Hulme and the protagonist in real life M.L. Habets, is equally intriguing to read about online. The book, though, is not about homosexuality, it’s about human dignity. Thoroughly recommendable and psychologically insightful for all of us, and especially riveting for those who recognize the descriptions brainwashing and mistreatment, descriptions which are not hysterical and pandering but certainly achieve their goal to make the reader stop and wonder about an institution that systematized such poor treatment of its own. The added bonus to this novel is the descriptions of life in Congo, during the reign of the Belgian colony.
February 9, 2013
The Nun's Story is a delight to read and is constantly on my mind even when it isn't in my hand. The plot has a fresh idea of a nun's perspective. The author achieves an excellent point of how different the world looks from a nun's window. That made me reflect how if different for a nun, why not consider how it is different for each individual. I was drawn completely into the story, feeling like I was walking along side the nun, my own feelings hurt when a passer by would callously yell out "There's a black crow!" I enjoyed traveling Belgium, the Congo, and Holland through the narrative. While authors are often hooking their readers with sex and scandal, Hulme kept me turning the pages with the well crafted suspense and intrigue over topics such as poverty and obedience. The story is over 50 years old and full of magic.
August 2, 2011
I liked the movie, 'The Nun's Story' with Audrey Hepburn. So when I found a copy of the book at the local library I added it to my reading list. Wow. I will have to watch the movie again sometime.
Most of the book is about the interior life and struggle of a young woman who becomes a nun. Of course it's difficult to properly portray that in the movie. I found the end of the movie left me with too many questions. The book did not tie it up neatly, but it was a much more satisfying end. I can see why this was a best seller in it's time. and it holds up beautifully.
Very well written.
Most of the book is about the interior life and struggle of a young woman who becomes a nun. Of course it's difficult to properly portray that in the movie. I found the end of the movie left me with too many questions. The book did not tie it up neatly, but it was a much more satisfying end. I can see why this was a best seller in it's time. and it holds up beautifully.
Very well written.
July 11, 2014
4.5 stars - one of the most interesting books I've read in a long time. A fascinating look at the rigorous training of a Catholic nun in Belgium before WWII, and her subsequent experiences in the Belgian Congo and in Belgium during the war. The book is largely biographical and was written by the nun's long-term partner. The pacing, tension, and emotion left me wishing the book wouldn't end.
June 9, 2008
I found this book after seeing the movie (with Audrey Hepburn) one random afternoon. I don't know why it appeals to me so much, but I've reread it at least four times. I love the level of detail about the life of a nun-in-training, and the struggles of faith and character Sister Luke undergoes.
November 15, 2024
As a young girl I dreamt of being a nun. If I'd read The Nun's Story at the time, I am certain my romantic dreams of joining a convent would have ceased. It's shocking to read, the expectation, the lengths a nun has to go to keep the Order!
The story of Sister Luke is epic with the only outcome I would accept.
Wonderfully written, compelling, descriptive, detailed. Of course written about a period long gone, yet I wonder how much the cloistered life has changed, even post Vatican 2.
with the rise of religious extremism and the focus on women and their rights to determine their bodies, I can't help but fear. I found reading The Nun's Story not only frighting about a period past but our very present.
May we all be like Sister Luke and walk out.
The story of Sister Luke is epic with the only outcome I would accept.
Wonderfully written, compelling, descriptive, detailed. Of course written about a period long gone, yet I wonder how much the cloistered life has changed, even post Vatican 2.
with the rise of religious extremism and the focus on women and their rights to determine their bodies, I can't help but fear. I found reading The Nun's Story not only frighting about a period past but our very present.
May we all be like Sister Luke and walk out.
November 12, 2021
Excellently-written story beginning with Gabrielle’s entry into the convent as a young postulant. She then became Sister Luke and the reader learns all about convent life, her further medical education, her work in a mental diseases sanatorium, her work as a medical missionary in the Congo, and more.
I first heard of this book in a biography of Audrey Hepburn; she read it in preparation for playing the leading part in the movie, which was apparently the movie she most enjoyed making. I was fascinated with this Sister Luke’s story and learned something more about the Christian teaching of dying to self
I first heard of this book in a biography of Audrey Hepburn; she read it in preparation for playing the leading part in the movie, which was apparently the movie she most enjoyed making. I was fascinated with this Sister Luke’s story and learned something more about the Christian teaching of dying to self
July 29, 2020
If you like the Audrey Hepburn movie, then you won't be disappointed in the book that it was based on, and vice versa. The screenwriter did a great job in staying pretty faithful to the original story. For me, the movie and the book work well together. In the movie, you get one of Audrey's finest acting performances. While in the book, you get more details of Gabrielle's/Sister Luke's background and thoughts, plus a better sense of the time that she spent in certain places.
March 12, 2022
warning: ****The age of the book does mean there are uncomfortable descriptions regarding POC.
The author is beautiful wordsmith; I would find my self reading sentences over again multiple times it was so pleasing to process it.
Due to the age of the book I encountered unknown-to-me words that were fun to look up and explore their meanings.
The detail that went into describing the rituals of the catholic faith were fascinating.
The author is beautiful wordsmith; I would find my self reading sentences over again multiple times it was so pleasing to process it.
Due to the age of the book I encountered unknown-to-me words that were fun to look up and explore their meanings.
The detail that went into describing the rituals of the catholic faith were fascinating.
May 29, 2017
Love faith and a look at life as Sister Luke is tested. In Africa at a remote Congo hospital, during World War II, she is ordered not to take sides. Sister Luke is faced with a decision,stay in the convent or return to the outside world. Interesting story
January 29, 2023
*Caution, Potential Spoilers*
As someone, coming originally from the Audrey Hepburn film version of this book (which happens to be one of my favourite Audrey Hepburn films) I can definitely say how much I loved this book, just as much, if not even more than the film!
Although the film follows the book really well, it was exciting to read the parts that were left out, which provided an even deeper look and understanding in Sister Lukes life in the convent and the effects this has on her soul and wellbeing!
You were with her throughout all the struggles she faced, you could feel the pains she endured, the ills that she had and the constant internal struggle of obedience.
The effects of the Second World War and the germans is powerfully presented, and I even found myself almost crying at the struggles Sister Luke was facing about leaving the convent and being an everyday person. Internally begging for her to stay inside the convent walls, a place where she would be the safest, and ride it out until the end of the war to see if her spiritual strength would return. But I have to admit, I also admire her courage for coming out, she knew she was using the convent as a safe house so to speak, and her inner struggles bring you back to Revend Mother Emmanuals quote in the beginning of the book, when Sister Luke first entered the convent; "you can cheat your sisters, but you cannot cheat yourself or god".
As someone, coming originally from the Audrey Hepburn film version of this book (which happens to be one of my favourite Audrey Hepburn films) I can definitely say how much I loved this book, just as much, if not even more than the film!
Although the film follows the book really well, it was exciting to read the parts that were left out, which provided an even deeper look and understanding in Sister Lukes life in the convent and the effects this has on her soul and wellbeing!
You were with her throughout all the struggles she faced, you could feel the pains she endured, the ills that she had and the constant internal struggle of obedience.
The effects of the Second World War and the germans is powerfully presented, and I even found myself almost crying at the struggles Sister Luke was facing about leaving the convent and being an everyday person. Internally begging for her to stay inside the convent walls, a place where she would be the safest, and ride it out until the end of the war to see if her spiritual strength would return. But I have to admit, I also admire her courage for coming out, she knew she was using the convent as a safe house so to speak, and her inner struggles bring you back to Revend Mother Emmanuals quote in the beginning of the book, when Sister Luke first entered the convent; "you can cheat your sisters, but you cannot cheat yourself or god".
June 6, 2012
After just finishing watching the movie with Audrey Hepburn, I remembered that I have this out-of-print book on my bookshelves. I was surprised at how closely the movie followed the book. There were lines directly from the text. Amazed and awed, I acknowledge women who choose a nun's life. It definitely is not an easy existence. Yes, the novel portrays the strict rules and the unflinching important of obedience, but I did not feel that is was a derogatory treatise on the Catholic Church.
This decision to change a chosen lifestyle would not be an easy one. I have reflected on needless conversation and the power of thought. How do you exactly exemplify humility? Was nursing a stronger call than the bride of Christ, or in many ways are they more similar than different? No one can question the dedication and selfless life of a nun.
I read an award winning first-time memoir from a Utah author years ago that told the author's personal story as she, too, forsook her life as a nun. This first book I read (a student's mother's story) was better written and dealt more with the author's spiritual trials. Granted, it was told in first person. It left a much stronger impact.
One nun left the convent and eventually married and raised a family. Sister Luke, from the Nun's Story, lived forty years with the author that wrote Nun's Story. Different endings. Life is interesting.
This decision to change a chosen lifestyle would not be an easy one. I have reflected on needless conversation and the power of thought. How do you exactly exemplify humility? Was nursing a stronger call than the bride of Christ, or in many ways are they more similar than different? No one can question the dedication and selfless life of a nun.
I read an award winning first-time memoir from a Utah author years ago that told the author's personal story as she, too, forsook her life as a nun. This first book I read (a student's mother's story) was better written and dealt more with the author's spiritual trials. Granted, it was told in first person. It left a much stronger impact.
One nun left the convent and eventually married and raised a family. Sister Luke, from the Nun's Story, lived forty years with the author that wrote Nun's Story. Different endings. Life is interesting.
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