“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)

For as long as she could, His mother carried Him in her arms. When He was able to hold His head up, she placed Him on her lap. This simple motherly gesture created a throne for Jesus—the Word. 

J.T. Frodin has once again created a delightful Litany of Loreto book for children blending traditional teachings of the Church, sacred art, prayers and stories of the saints. Mary, Seat of Wisdom begins by explaining the meaning of this Marian title with the use of Bible verses and saint’s quotes. Although the focus is on Mary and the meaning of her title, Seat of Wisdom, the book also features the prophet Isaiah, Saint John the Evangelist, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the gift of knowledge. Isaiah was a great prophet, but  he didn’t know as much as Mary. St. John the Evangelist was the only Apostle that stayed with Jesus during the Crucifixion. After Jesus’ death, John took Mary into his home. St. Thomas Aquinas is one of the Church’s best theologians. He often asked Mary for help with his studies. 

A child’s drawing of a heart and a cross with a crown of thorns is on the front cover. Next to the drawings are the words, “Mary’s pierced heart.” In the book we explore why her heart is pierced. We also meet St. Simeon, a priest and prophet who told Mary her heart will be pierced. The Seven Sorrows of Mary are listed and explained with the use of art, poetry, and traditional teachings. Mary, Seat of Wisdom creatively teaches children and families the seven sorrows and to pray this often-forgotten Marian devotion. We will all experience suffering. Mary in her gentleness teaches us to suffer well.

The Litany of Loreto series is a gem in Catholic faith books for kids. Mary, Seat of Wisdom, is fun and interactive. It is set up like a scrapbook. Sacred art and children’s artwork appear throughout the book accompanied by scripture, saints’ quotes, prayers, and poems. The children’s artwork and poetry will melt anyone’s heart. Frodin encourages young readers to write poems and draw pictures for Mary.

As a Catholic mom, teaching my daughter the faith is a top priority. Unfortunately, many Catholic faith books for children can be dull. Frodin has created a series to teach Catholic families the beauty of the often long forgotten prayers and traditions. Mary, Seat of Wisdom is exciting and interactive from beginning to end. Although this book is aimed at all Catholic families, more traditional Catholic families will enjoy this lovely book.  I recommend this book to all Catholic families. Young children will enjoy the pictures, older children may take up the poetry challenge. Adults may decide to read Thomas Aquinas’ works on their own after reading a quote or two of this great saint.