The ABCs of Thomas Merton

Young readers (age 5-9), parents, grandparents, teachers, and catechists will enjoy learning about the major events in Thomas Merton's life and the choices he made along the way to become the world's most famous monk and hermit. 

The playful ABCs format used in this book will help children to remember what they are learning about Thomas Merton and the Christian life in general. With childlike simplicity, the book creates an open and contemplative mood for the child and grown-up sharing in the reading experience. 

“This is an extraordinary book, creatively written and beautifully illustrated, that invites a whole new generation of young people to meet the great spiritual writer and Catholic monk Thomas Merton. I highly recommend this book to all parents, teachers, and librarians—it is sure to become a classic!”
— Fr. Daniel Horan, OFM

"Every reader whether young or young at heart will warmly be invited through this unique, informative, and cleverly illustrated little book to travel further into the heart and message of Thomas Merton in his ardent zeal to know the God of love and peace." 
— Msgr. Edward J. Arnister, Diocese of Trenton, NJ

"The perfect tool to invite the next generation to discover Merton, read his books, and see how his wisdom is a guide for our lives." 
— Sr. Monica Weis, SSJ, Rochester University, Merton scholar

"This book really astonishes me.  I wouldn't have thought it possible to communicate so winsomely, so creatively, so age-appropriately, every important aspect of the life and formation of Thomas Merton to children.  We, whose lives have been changed by knowing Merton, say thank you"

- John M. Sweeney, author of the Pope Who Quit and the Complete Francis of Assisi

"The Ryans have created a touching and truthful biography of the great Thomas Merton.  With a delightful visual presentation, the book gives young readers a glimpse of the depth of Father Louis's monastic roots and the breadth of his global wisdom."

- Carla Cooper, The World Community for Christian Meditation, Past U.S. National Coordinator

Gregory Ryan is a charter member of the International Thomas Merton Society and has published articles and book reviews on Thomas Merton in numerous journals.  He taught second grade for forty years and has co-authored a series of six books on famous children's authors and illustrators. Greg has published another children's book by Medio Media 'My Happy Heart ' Prayer of the Heart

Elizabeth Ryan is a painter with a degree from Temple University's Tyler School of Art.  For over thirty years she has taught painting and shown her work in galleries throughout New Jersey.  Se resides with her husband Gregory, in Wall NJ.

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