LifeCraft Read-Alouds

This is a powerful sketch of an early Bishop in French Canada (he was declared a saint in 2014) and his interaction with an illegitimate boy he encounters on the streets of Quebec. (Cather's portrayal is historical fiction about a real man.)

An exciting and moving tale set in western Ireland of a unlikely canoe race involving a father and his daughter’s suitor trying to win his approval. Suitable for all ages (though perhaps a little beyond younger children).

In this heart-stopping sketch, a spiritual master retells one of the most dramatic moments of the Passion of the Lord: the interchange with the good thief. It offers a unique angle into the Divine Mercy and will emblazon on your heart the words, “This day you will be with me in Paradise.”

This essay has no soft edges. Peguy is controversial and minces no words. “Today, an artisan is no longer an artisan.” “Those bygone workers… had an absolute honor.” Writing at the dawn of the twentieth century, Peguy is a Frenchman recalling pre-Industrial France; yet his trenchant reflections raise issues that have only become more pressing.

In this provocative essay Belloc offers a conception of pilgrimage as a unique kind of journey that speaks to the deep desires of the heart. And though pilgrimages have become rarer today, what Belloc describes remains very much within our reach. This essay calls for a couple of listens.

This famous excerpt from the novel Dostoevsky called “a flawless work of art” is a stunning account of the beauty and power of real manual labor.

Just a few unforgettable lines from Peguy's great poem on hope The Portal of the Mystery of Hope , reflecting on a father's work in his home.

This is a classic and inspiring story that illustrates how the Gospel message of serving others applies in everyday life. Suitable for the whole family.

Our family favorite scene from A Christmas Carol : the amazing dance put on by Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig when Scrooge was young. Here is a striking testimony to the power of good people to make others happy. We have a podcast reflecting on this amazing scene, which you can find HERE: https://life-craft.org/the-power-to-make-others-happy-scrooges-dance-as-a-feast-for-the-ages/

This German Christmas story is a family favorite that we return to again and again.

This classic Christmas story never fails to delight the whole family while it gives occasion to reflect on what really matters.

A touching and rare personal statement by St. Thomas Aquinas about the focus of his life.

A classic tale of the danger of vanity and the importance of courage and honesty.

A classic Willa Cather story offering a delightful sketch of a Nebraska summer and the adventures and dreams of boyhood friends.

This wonderful story is a deeply moving classic for all ages.

One of America’s greatest naturalists gave unforgettable descriptions of our native birds. These are shot through with a sense of wonder and provide an accessible sketch that moves us to closer observation for ourselves. Listen to what he says about this common songster.

In this classic and fetching Irish story we have opportunity to reflect on what really matters in life.

In one of the most striking passages in the history of philosophy we see Aristotle’s conviction that happiness consists most in contemplation. This gives much food for thought regarding our deepest longings and a divine plan for their fulfillment.

The Northern Cardinal by John James Audubon. One of America’s greatest  naturalists gave unforgettable descriptions of our native birds. These are shot through with a sense of wonder and move us to closer observation for ourselves

Beautiful and challenging, touching and provocative, this story of a sickly yet soulful boy is sure to move you, and get you thinking. Can be suitable for all ages, but with guidance/discussion for the young.