"A beautiful book -- something very positive for our young people. Thanks for offering a very positive, healthy, and beautiful Catholic alternative ... which is so badly needed right now."
--Teresa Tomeo, host of Catholic Connection (EWTN Radio)
“Nancy Carabio Belanger has created a contemporary example of how to live like a saint — the most worthwhile goal for every child! In a culture that portrays 'tweens as miniature adults consumed by our grow-up-too-fast world, Nancy’s Olivia will inspire and encourage young readers toward a more wholesome childhood marked by a generous and vibrant faith. A delightful 'tween novel!”
-- Marybeth Hicks, Author, "Bringing Up Geeks: How to Protect Your Kid’s Childhood in a Grow-Up-Too-Fast World" www.marybethhicks.com
"...most definitely a gem worth owning, is Olivia and the Little Way, by Nancy Carabio Belanger. Belanger makes the message of St. Therese of Lisieux relevant to children today through the plight of Olivia Thomas, recent transplant from Texas to Michigan. Eager to make new friends, Olivia falls in with the popular crowd, excluding some of the kinder people in her class.
She learns the error of her ways, but rather than turn her back on the snobby girls, she strives to teach them about the Little Way as well! Olivia is a wonderful character, sinful, yet repentant.... Truly, this is one of the best saint stories for children that I have ever read. My daughters loved this book, and I even caught my 13 year old son reading it. Highly recommended!"
-- From catholicbookreview.blogspot.com
"This is a really lovely book, beautifully crafted with gorgeous illustrations. It's a book that children and adults will enjoy, maybe even together."
-- Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, Author, "The Domestic Church: Room by Room"
It has been awhile since all three of my girls, ages 8 – 14, clamored to get their hands on a book before I could finish reading it aloud. I'm so glad it was this particular book.... It’s not hard to find a book that deals with problems like: moving to a new place, trying to fit in, or fear of being shunned by popular kids. But few pop books get straight to the heart of the matter: it’s spiritual warfare. ... Because Olivia is Catholic, she is not alone in her struggle. She has God and His friends rooting for her. Her grandmother has introduced her to one of God’s dear saints: Therese of Lisieux. Olivia has begun to learn and listen to the life and voice of this humble saint. It is with the added prayers of Therese before the throne of God that Olivia overcomes her own weaknesses and learns to exercise true charity. In the end, there is no good guys vs. bad guys, but instead a growth in understanding and grace for all. Of course, no saint would pray for less. Thoroughly enjoy…."
-- from the Treasure Chest for Teens book review blog, www.booksnblather.blogspot.com (January 11, 2010)
"I found myself cheering for Olivia as she struggles with new friends and a new school. I enjoyed the marvelous weaving of St. Thérèse's life and quotes into Olivia's own life. It is a delight to read such a Catholic book that is uplifting and entertaining without being too preachy. Olivia could be you (or me) with messy room and all. Throughout the story I was wondering how would it all end. Would Olivia's own rose arrive?"
-- Rachel Watkins, Developer/Creator of the Little Flowers Girls' Club, www.eccehomopress.com
Olivia and the Little Way makes a great gift for birthdays, special occasions, Christmas, and Easter.
The book also makes a great gift for teachers and religious educators, who are quickly recognizing the tremendous value of integrating it into their curriculum.
Coming soon: The sequel to Olivia and the Little Way!
Olivia's Gift will be available from Harvey House Publishing November, 2010.
