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A Philadelphia Catholic in King James's Court: A Novel
After the tragic death of his father, Michael OShea travels from his native Philadelphia to rural Kentucky for the summer. In this land of tobacco farming, bluegrass music, and devout fundamentalist Christianity, he is compelled to explain and justify the Catholic faith. His only defense, the Bible. Join Michael on an Amish-style farmstead as he learns to milk a cow, harness a horse, disk a field, and harvest hay with a team instead of a tractor. Will he discover the truth about the papacy, the Eucharist, and devotion to Mary in Sacred Scripture?
330 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
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115 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 16, 2011
One of my favorite books of all time! I reread this every year or so and love it more each time I read it. Favorite line: the very last one in the book because I think it sums up the message of the whole book in two words :)
March 8, 2024
I would probably give it a 3.5. It's pretty heavy handed but the apologetics are sound and that is what saves it. The author definitely missed the boat on the "show not tell" rule of writing and over-explains everything.
March 30, 2010
My first impressions when I just began the book weren't so great. I found it jarring the way the point of view switched from one person to the next at the start. It got better when the actual apologetics part came around, although it was a bit unrealistic... The protagonist was so brave in defending the faith! Once he learned a bit about the Bible and all the divisive issues between Catholics and non-Catholic Christians, he wasn't met with many arguments of any substance. When he presented his Biblical evidence, there was no adequate response on the substance of the matter.
A few times, I sort of wanted someone to tell the protagonist that when he saw no results from these discussions that he shouldn't expect to convert the opponents on the spot or something! It was after only two discussions that he nearly despaired and decided to abandon apologetics for a span of half an hour. All you can do is explain that there are valid reasons why Catholics believe what they do, and the rest is up to the Holy Spirit.
I liked this book; it was fun.
A few times, I sort of wanted someone to tell the protagonist that when he saw no results from these discussions that he shouldn't expect to convert the opponents on the spot or something! It was after only two discussions that he nearly despaired and decided to abandon apologetics for a span of half an hour. All you can do is explain that there are valid reasons why Catholics believe what they do, and the rest is up to the Holy Spirit.
I liked this book; it was fun.
June 22, 2016
Well, that childhood obsession of mine with pioneers led to a good place.
Three years ago I found this book lying around the house and started reading it because the blurb mentioned living on an Amish-style farm (hence the influence of the pioneer obsession). The highlight of the book turned out to be the wonderful introduction to apologetics, rather than the farm. In the three years since then, I've learned so much about my Faith, both about our beliefs and how to defend them (which is good considering my Protestant extended family). All something I'd probably never have gotten into without A Philadelphia Catholic in King James's Court.
The writing is not always the best and there are a lot of long descriptions of various farm chores and other events. However, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel for any Catholic, tween, teen, or adult; and as a starting place for non-Catholic Christians interested in learning what Catholics really believe and that even our peculiarly Catholic doctrines are grounded in the Bible.
Three years ago I found this book lying around the house and started reading it because the blurb mentioned living on an Amish-style farm (hence the influence of the pioneer obsession). The highlight of the book turned out to be the wonderful introduction to apologetics, rather than the farm. In the three years since then, I've learned so much about my Faith, both about our beliefs and how to defend them (which is good considering my Protestant extended family). All something I'd probably never have gotten into without A Philadelphia Catholic in King James's Court.
The writing is not always the best and there are a lot of long descriptions of various farm chores and other events. However, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel for any Catholic, tween, teen, or adult; and as a starting place for non-Catholic Christians interested in learning what Catholics really believe and that even our peculiarly Catholic doctrines are grounded in the Bible.
September 14, 2011
It was funny, intriqueing, and eye-opening. As a Catholic it was truly inspirational and it reinforced some of the values and beliefs that I had been doubting at the time. Even if you aren't a Catholic it is a good picking-myself-off-the-ground-and-starting-at-square-one book and little bit more.
February 15, 2013
This book is great! For any teen who wants to get excited about the awesomeness of Catholicism, this is the book for you. This is the second time I've read this book, and I loved it just as much this time.
I would recommend reading this book with a group of people or at least taking notes. There are so many rich discussions and great arguments for Catholicism that it's hard to keep track of it all.
I really like the way that theology is mixed right into the story. IT makes the book interesting and fun.
I would recommend reading this book with a group of people or at least taking notes. There are so many rich discussions and great arguments for Catholicism that it's hard to keep track of it all.
I really like the way that theology is mixed right into the story. IT makes the book interesting and fun.
August 31, 2008
I re-read this book as part of a summer study. Very concise answers for Catholic apologetics, yet wish it presented a better representation of the non-denominational viewpoint. I would have appreciated learning more about the response to questions regarding their understanding of Faith. That way I could have learned more about both.
February 9, 2013
This book is absolutely amazing! For anyone who has ever had misconceptions about Catholicism or wanted to learn more about Catholicism this book is fabulous. It gives great answers to questions I've never even thought of before. I loved this book and have to say that the author gave the book a really gripping ending.
April 27, 2012
I have read this book at more than a dozen times and at least once a year since I was 16. The book takes place in South Central Kentucky, the area I grew up in. Whether you are Catholic or not it is an engaging coming of age story.
April 13, 2008
great read for Catholic youth who want to aspire to learn more of their faith. An apologetics novel.
September 27, 2008
This such a good book I encourage anyone who is struggling with their faith to read this book! Its AMAZiNG!!!!
February 9, 2009
Interesting book. I enjoy apologectics books that are in fictional settings.
October 18, 2020
3.5 rounded up to 4. This author attempts to do what no other author to my knowledge has done -write a novel for older teens that gently but insistently instructs them in how to defend their Catholic Faith to a Protestant with charity! Admittedly, the action in the first half of the book was slow-going, as the author took us through the ins and outs of living the Plain lifestyle on a farm during the spring and summer seasons. Michael's story was woven throughout, and in this backdrop the beginnings of his need to defend his faith in the Catholic Church (Apologetics) took place.
But I really sat up and took notice about halfway through when the Apologetics started picking up! This older teen in the story, Michael, is 17 and nearing his senior year in high school and finds himself in situations where he feels compelled to defend the Catholic faith to adults who question his beliefs. Michael steps up to the plate, studies long and hard, and with charity and clarity shows these well-meaning Protestants where exactly in the Bible to go, to defend why we Catholics believe in Peter as Pope, Mary, the Holy Eucharist, and on & on. By the end of the book, I was so impressed with what Kennedy has accomplished! Yes, an older teen might have to plod through the first section, especially if they are used to exciting plots, but wait till they get to the meaty part! Absolutely worth it!
An important heads-up to those parents who might want to hand this book to a younger teen: in the epilogue there is a reference from Michael's well-intentioned but misled uncle to sexual activity, barrier protection, and sexually transmitted diseases. Michael's response, though, is spot-on, and brilliantly and lovingly delivered. And the ending? I'm still smiling over the ending!
But I really sat up and took notice about halfway through when the Apologetics started picking up! This older teen in the story, Michael, is 17 and nearing his senior year in high school and finds himself in situations where he feels compelled to defend the Catholic faith to adults who question his beliefs. Michael steps up to the plate, studies long and hard, and with charity and clarity shows these well-meaning Protestants where exactly in the Bible to go, to defend why we Catholics believe in Peter as Pope, Mary, the Holy Eucharist, and on & on. By the end of the book, I was so impressed with what Kennedy has accomplished! Yes, an older teen might have to plod through the first section, especially if they are used to exciting plots, but wait till they get to the meaty part! Absolutely worth it!
An important heads-up to those parents who might want to hand this book to a younger teen: in the epilogue there is a reference from Michael's well-intentioned but misled uncle to sexual activity, barrier protection, and sexually transmitted diseases. Michael's response, though, is spot-on, and brilliantly and lovingly delivered. And the ending? I'm still smiling over the ending!
March 24, 2021
One man's spiritual journey into self-examination and destiny
5/5
I first read this book in my class of Apologetics. I did not get along too well with many of the students but one thing we did agree with was this book and its content, bringing up questions and answers of faith. This is a very funny book if you look at it in a wry manner. It is brutally honest, being careful not to demonize any denomination but instead show the faithful as the faithful, and the lax as the lax.
In a world in which Catholics are greatly looked down upon, this book aged like fine wine. The most startling and revealing portion of the novel I thought was the scene in which When we were reading this part, I read the demon's voice and made it as dark and scary as possible, causing my classmates to get nervous and tell me to shut up.
My class was reading this years ago but never finished it. I picked up a copy at my school and finished it. I wish I had done this much sooner but it still holds up as a great story.
Every Christian should read this, at least to have a broader scope of religion and belief as well as the Catholic factor and its function within Christianity. The well-researched story with fun and sometimes funny prose, unique characters and lively storytelling make this a great read which should be broadcasted on a much bigger scale.
5/5
I first read this book in my class of Apologetics. I did not get along too well with many of the students but one thing we did agree with was this book and its content, bringing up questions and answers of faith. This is a very funny book if you look at it in a wry manner. It is brutally honest, being careful not to demonize any denomination but instead show the faithful as the faithful, and the lax as the lax.
In a world in which Catholics are greatly looked down upon, this book aged like fine wine. The most startling and revealing portion of the novel I thought was the scene in which When we were reading this part, I read the demon's voice and made it as dark and scary as possible, causing my classmates to get nervous and tell me to shut up.
My class was reading this years ago but never finished it. I picked up a copy at my school and finished it. I wish I had done this much sooner but it still holds up as a great story.
Every Christian should read this, at least to have a broader scope of religion and belief as well as the Catholic factor and its function within Christianity. The well-researched story with fun and sometimes funny prose, unique characters and lively storytelling make this a great read which should be broadcasted on a much bigger scale.
May 10, 2021
A fantastic book! A great read for anyone struggling to understand some of the more controversial doctrines of the Catholic Church. Having it in story format as opposed to textbook type format made it easier to understand. It gives the basics and from there you can go and dig deeper. A great intersection of characters in this book!
January 20, 2023
Honestly I didn’t expect to sail thru this in two days- I wasn’t super excited about reading it, but as it’s in the line-up of apologetics books that Ethan might study next year, I figured I’d better. It’s not excellent literature, obviously, but that isn’t the point of it either. It was compelling and to the point, as well as gracious to all the characters involved.
March 5, 2023
This is a unique book, a blending of coming-of-age fiction and Catholic apologetics. The apologetics part wins out, I think, as the plot is sometimes dragged down by too much description of the mundane and often just too unbelievable.
March 23, 2020
Really good book. Learned a lot about the Biblical foundations of my Catholic faith through an enjoyable story.
September 24, 2020
This book was amazing!! One of the best books I have read!
February 26, 2025
Great book. Had the author as my religious education teacher in high school which was pretty cool
May 31, 2012
A Philadelphia Catholic in King James' Court is a decent book for what it seeks to be. The book defends Church teachings well and captures a search for truth that most teenagers, and maybe adults, face. It is probably a great book for teens to read in religious ed classes.
However...
I didn't like the writing style. The narration would switch from one character to another mid-paragraph. It took a few chapters for me to be able to follow the author's train of thought. I don't want to have to work that hard to understand what I am reading when I am supposed to be understanding religion.
The characters fell into stereotypes. Perhaps that was necessary for the concept of the book, but it was just a little annoying. People aren't that black-and-white.
It was preachy. Again, maybe it needed to be that way for the concept, but I felt judged just reading it, as I fell into one of the less desirable stereotypes.
It didn't flow like a story. It wasn't a fun-read.
To be honest, I am not sure who I would recommend this book to. Maybe Catholic teens? For avid readers, the style and slow-moving plot would be a drag. For non-Catholics, it is too strong and preachy, and I fear it would push them away or make them defensive. For most teenagers, it's not interesting enough. For devout Catholics, some of the teachings and ideas are well worded, but the information is not new.
Overall, I think this is a decent book for what it strives to be, but I am confused as to who the audience is. It certainly isn't me.
However...
I didn't like the writing style. The narration would switch from one character to another mid-paragraph. It took a few chapters for me to be able to follow the author's train of thought. I don't want to have to work that hard to understand what I am reading when I am supposed to be understanding religion.
The characters fell into stereotypes. Perhaps that was necessary for the concept of the book, but it was just a little annoying. People aren't that black-and-white.
It was preachy. Again, maybe it needed to be that way for the concept, but I felt judged just reading it, as I fell into one of the less desirable stereotypes.
It didn't flow like a story. It wasn't a fun-read.
To be honest, I am not sure who I would recommend this book to. Maybe Catholic teens? For avid readers, the style and slow-moving plot would be a drag. For non-Catholics, it is too strong and preachy, and I fear it would push them away or make them defensive. For most teenagers, it's not interesting enough. For devout Catholics, some of the teachings and ideas are well worded, but the information is not new.
Overall, I think this is a decent book for what it strives to be, but I am confused as to who the audience is. It certainly isn't me.
October 29, 2013
Michael O'Shea is surviving a bittersweet summer. Following the loss of his father, his family elects to spend time with the family of his mother's brother, staunch "Bible-believing" folk who choose to live practically like the Amish. As if dealing with the death of his father was not enough to bear, Michael soon finds himself cornered by people dismissing his Catholic faith as "pagan."
Explanations outside of actual Bible quotes fall on deaf ears, and soon Michael is self-propelled into a crash course in apologetics, with only the Bible and the prayers of his mother to sustain him. As Michael prepares to successfully defend the Faith against the local nay-sayers, many of whom know much of the Bible by heart, he finds himself becoming more confident in this mission set out for him. It is his knowledge of the Faith through God's Word which helps establish an atmosphere of tolerance which some in this tight-knit community are more willing to embrace than others.
Michael's dialogue and evangelization is well woven into Kennedy's prose; he delivers the facts without making it sound as if the "Philadelphia Catholic" is reading his lines from a book. Having visited Amish country myself, I also found the story's setting quite engrossing, and I enjoyed reading Kennedy's detailed portrayal of life among the "plain" people as well. Philadelphia Catholic is a book adults as well as young people can enjoy, a great informal apologetics tool.
Explanations outside of actual Bible quotes fall on deaf ears, and soon Michael is self-propelled into a crash course in apologetics, with only the Bible and the prayers of his mother to sustain him. As Michael prepares to successfully defend the Faith against the local nay-sayers, many of whom know much of the Bible by heart, he finds himself becoming more confident in this mission set out for him. It is his knowledge of the Faith through God's Word which helps establish an atmosphere of tolerance which some in this tight-knit community are more willing to embrace than others.
Michael's dialogue and evangelization is well woven into Kennedy's prose; he delivers the facts without making it sound as if the "Philadelphia Catholic" is reading his lines from a book. Having visited Amish country myself, I also found the story's setting quite engrossing, and I enjoyed reading Kennedy's detailed portrayal of life among the "plain" people as well. Philadelphia Catholic is a book adults as well as young people can enjoy, a great informal apologetics tool.
February 27, 2014
I liked this book. I gave it a four because I was half way through it before Michael started defending the Catholic Church. This is the part that interested me the most. The differences between the Protestant faith and the Catholic faith.
December 17, 2015
This was absolutely amazing. As a Catholic, this reinforced my faith and I learned so much more about it. I feel... Better, really, and more equipped to defend my faith should I get into a conversation like that one day. Also, that ending was great.
August 27, 2015
if your looking for an great apologetic book to teach your kids their fait in an interesting way that grabs their attention this is it! I would recommend this book to any age.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews