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Pauline Comics Lives of the Saints #3
Philip Neri, the Laughing Saint
Saint Philip Neri's story is told in a full-color, graphic novel biography for children ages 9-12. When he goes to live with his uncle to learn business skills, he experiences a religious conversion. Enthusiastic Philip then moves to Rome to study under the Augustinian rule, dedicating his time and energy to helping the poor. This loveable saint, patron of joy and laughter, comes alive for young readers as he inspires them to live out Christ's call in their own lives.
168 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
November 21, 2025
This life of Saint Philip Neri is in comic book form. The graphics are very good. The story is faithful to the true life of Saint Philip Neri. Anyone who likes graphic novels will enjoy this book.
August 12, 2015
Philip Neri: The Laughing Saint is a children's book in the Shounen-style. This means that it is aimed at boys, high-action, and lots of humor. Some of the most popular mangas in Japan are Shounen and include series such as Dragon Ball, Naruto, and InuYasha. Unlike traditional Japanese manga, this title reads from left to right. My guess is that this was done to avoid confusion among those unfamiliar with this comic style. The artwork is spot on in the characters having over-exaggerated eyes and the sound effects where necessary.
The book begins with a classmate asking Philip for help with their Latin work. Philip is too distracted to help, because he is focusing on his hunger and all the bananas being gone. There are plenty of comical pieces like this littered throughout the book. However, behind the immaturity, the love for people is seen on almost every page, in Philip's words and deeds. All he wants to do is help take care of the poor and those less fortunate than him. He is able to do this both physically (curing illnesses) and spiritually (in the sacrament of Confession where he helped a young man who had a problem with stealing). This great saint never gave up on people, and that caused the people to never enter ultimate despair by turning away entirely from God. The book closes with information on his canonization and a list of his sayings and maxims. This was an exciting read and one that will greatly appeal to boys ages 10 and up. I even know some 30+ men who will enjoy this book as well.
The book begins with a classmate asking Philip for help with their Latin work. Philip is too distracted to help, because he is focusing on his hunger and all the bananas being gone. There are plenty of comical pieces like this littered throughout the book. However, behind the immaturity, the love for people is seen on almost every page, in Philip's words and deeds. All he wants to do is help take care of the poor and those less fortunate than him. He is able to do this both physically (curing illnesses) and spiritually (in the sacrament of Confession where he helped a young man who had a problem with stealing). This great saint never gave up on people, and that caused the people to never enter ultimate despair by turning away entirely from God. The book closes with information on his canonization and a list of his sayings and maxims. This was an exciting read and one that will greatly appeal to boys ages 10 and up. I even know some 30+ men who will enjoy this book as well.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews