Kara: The Lonely Falcon

by Joseph F. Girzone

A tale of life, love, and self-sacrifice as they occur among both the meek and the powerful animals in a forest. Kara is the fastest, fiercest, and consequently loneliest falcon in the forest--until he vows, as the result of a moving experience, to never again kill another animal, even if it threatens his own survival. An inspiring parable by the author of Joshua.

Genres: Fiction, Spirituality, Religion, Christian Fiction, Birds

52 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

About the author

FROM PUBLISHER:
JOSEPH F. GIRZONE retired from the active priesthood in 1981 due to health reasons, and embarked on a second career as a writer and speaker.

In 1995 he established the Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to making Jesus better known throughout the world.

His bestselling books include Joshua, A Portrait of Jesus, and Never Alone. He lives in Altamont, New York.

Reviews

[Kathy Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the simplistic story/analogy of living the Christian life. I really enjoyed this.

[Joanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute and quick read about a falcon that decides not to kill anymore and become friends with the small woodland creatures. Written by a priest, there are deeper messages tied to communion, sacrifice, friendship, and trust which may surface depending on your mindset and religious belief. It got me thinking somewhat about spiritual nourishment and change in one’s behavior along with the kindness of the animals with their daily breakfasts they left for Kara.

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very quick read of a falcon who finds compassion and decides to not kill any more animals, even though it means he will not have enough to eat. He sacrifices himself for the better of the forest, finding peace in his decision.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 that I’ll round to 4⭐️. The title with my name featuring a bird caught my attention as one of those interesting used bookstore finds that you weren’t looking for. I didn’t read the back, and didn’t look up the author prior to purchase. It’s a sweet story about change with spiritual overtures and biblical themes, but done in a way a child of about 8ish on up could understand and sit through. Simple writing for an adult read, but a good reminder to help others told through the life a predator bird.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this in a lot with a bunch of nonfiction bird books and had no idea it was Christian fiction until I started reading it. The story doesn’t work for me, even as fantasy and allegory. It brings up all the usual questions I have about Christianity and answers none of them.

I will say it’s beautifully written and contains warmth and peace. Nothing about it seems insincere or judgmental. But you really have to shut your brain off to enjoy it.

[Rich Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tale of a lonely falcon is laced with delicate as well as powerful emotions. The need to know and be known is felt by the falcon and he searches for a way for that to happen. He discovers a way of peace that brings with it the ability to have friends. Then he discovers something more. It's a beautiful thing to find something more.

[Juliette Sarrazin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, simple and amazing. I loved it so much.

[Eleni · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully written, touching animal story.

[Ebookwormy1 · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is another Girzone book I read as a child. It was all the rage to buy reading Christian children the Girzone books back then. I found it to be an unmemorable read.

Generally, I don't like allegories. I'd rather just go to the source than mess around with all the literary illusions. I think that may have been the problem for me with this work, but I honestly don't remember enough of it to say.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joseph Grizone the author of Joshua also is the author of Kara The Lonley Falcon. Words such as TRANSFIGURATION,COMPASSION,EUCHARIST.THANKSGIVINGCOME TO MIND I BELEIVE I COULD READ THIS BOOK AGAIN AND AGAIN. READ THIS BOOK YOU WILL BE TOUCHED.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I had money to buy copy upon copy of this book to give to high-schoolers!!! Even adults would benefit from reading this!!

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very nice story. It was a quick read, I liked the theme. I recommended it to my daughter.

[Michael Garreffa` · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Inspirational Book

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heartfelt story of a bird who yearns for something "more." Gets a bit obviously religious at the end, but not painfully so.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful, timeless story. Can't wait to read this to Mollie.