For God and Country the Heroic Life and Martyrdom of St. Joan of Arc

by Fr Michael J Cerrone, Michael Joseph Cerrone

Genres: Nonfiction

Paperback

Published April 15, 2015

Reviews

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I may be biased because this book was written by a Vietnam veteran and West Point graduate turned Army Chaplain, spanning three eras of service (Vietnam, Gulf War I, OEF/OIF). The book is succinctly written with historical accounts of events from Joan's childhood to her ultimate demise, including details of the length and experience of her imprisonment which I'd never read before. Interspersed are sections titled "Meditations"; the author's extrapolation of moral and spiritual meanings from the life of Joan. While written from a Catholic perspective, the book is not overly-religious, and the author does not shy away from criticism of the Catholic Church where criticism is due. The book does a good job of illustrating the context of Joan's efforts during the 100 years war, and the relationship between England and France (fascinating history itself!) Overall this is an accessible and inspiring account of Joan's life.

[RavenousRaven · Rating 3 out of 5]

This read much more like a history book than a theology book but I got some good notes and it was cool to tie in what was going on in the world around St. Joan before her ‘scene in the world stage’, during her life, and after her death and through canonization. I 3 starred it bc I wasn’t expecting a history book and it was pretty dense in all the names and politics rather than getting more interior life which would’ve been nice to know ahead of time- but the meditations at the end of each chapter really helped tie in everything big picture. Especially because she’s such a prominent figure both in and outside of the Church.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful tribute to my favorite saint, a shining example of faith, patriotism, and womanhood.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good content, poor writing