"The Penguin Dictionary of Saints" authored by Donald Attwater is an extensive and enlightening guide that delves into the lives and legends of the saints. It is an invaluable resource for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge about the history and significance of these revered figures.
One of the book's notable features is its alphabetical organization, which allows for easy navigation and quick reference to specific saints. Each entry provides a concise yet detailed account of the saint's life, including information on their birthplace, major accomplishments, and notable miracles. Attwater's writing style is captivating and accessible, making it enjoyable to read for both experts and novices alike.
What distinguishes this book is the author's impartial approach. Attwater presents a diverse range of saints from various Christian traditions, encompassing both well-known and lesser-known individuals. He provides substantial historical context and delves into the cultural and religious significance of each saint, enabling readers to develop a profound understanding of their role in Christian history.
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Apart from the saints' biographies, the dictionary also encompasses a glossary of terms associated with saint worship and iconography. This enriches the reader's understanding of the religious practices and symbols interconnected with saints. Additionally, the book includes an extensive bibliography, making it an ideal starting point for further research on the subject.
Overall, "The Penguin Dictionary of Saints" by Donald Attwater is a meticulously researched and comprehensive resource for those intrigued by the lives and legends of saints. Attwater's engaging writing style, unbiased approach, and inclusion of a glossary and bibliography make this book indispensable for scholars and general readers alike. It is a valuable tool that sheds light on the captivating world of saints throughout Christian history.
What are readers saying?
"The Penguin Dictionary of Saints" by Donald Attwater has garnered positive feedback from readers. This comprehensive book offers an extensive collection of information on saints from different religious backgrounds and time periods.
One aspect that readers appreciate is the thoroughness of the book. It provides detailed biographies of saints, including both well-known and lesser-known individuals. The information is deemed reliable and well-researched, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in exploring the lives and stories of saints.
The organization and user-friendliness of the book are also commended by reviewers. With its alphabetical arrangement, readers can easily locate specific saints. The inclusion of cross-references and indexes further enhances the accessibility and usability of the book.
Another commendable aspect is Attwater's scholarly approach. His engaging and authoritative writing style captivates readers, while providing a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural context surrounding the saints.
While there are a few minor critiques, overall feedback remains positive. Some readers note that although the book covers a wide range of saints, it may not include every single saint in existence. Additionally, a few entries could benefit from more detailed information or additional references.
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