FREE New releases, best-selling book charts, interviews, Take One reviews and more, courtesy of our advertisers. NNEWEW CCATHOLICATHOLIC BBOOKSOOKS && MMEDIAEDIA Inspirational Media for Today’s Catholics Spring 2012 • Vol. 3, No. 1 www.NewCatholicBooks.com • $2.50 Lenten Devotions for Entire Family Study: Distorted Reality on TV is Highlight New Spring 2012 Books Harmful to Girls

By Christopher Fenoglio short enough to be read in a few again the joy of the By Mark Pattison Editor in Chief minutes but can also be used as the risen Lord and the basis for a longer time of prayer. new life he came to WASHINGTON (CNS) – The Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Arch- bring us.” here is no better season for need for media literacy may be no bishop of Washington, writes about Another book of more evident than when it comes Catholics to set aside thirty the book: “As (our Holy Father) meditations is “Lent minutes a day to read, reflect to reality TV. T guides us through each day of and Easter: Wisdom Reality TV may show real and pray than Lent. With one or Lent, he shows us that Christ is from St. Alphonsus events, but it’s a director’s and more of the following new books, our “sturdy support” and the Liguori” by Maurice you and your family will gain a editor’s version of events. It can source of that “indispensable spiri- J. Nutt, CSsR (Ligouri Publica- be the visual equivalent of a deeper understanding of our faith tual energy” we need to live in tions, $10.99, 978-0764819889). St. and become more faithful disciples newspaper story where the sub- peace and happiness. The medita- Alphonsus Liguori was a musician, ject complains that he was inter- of Christ. tions in this book will nurture you painter, one of the most prolific “The Lenten jour- viewed for a half-hour, but the on your Lenten journey so that at writers of his time and recognized only thing that appears is a quote ney of forty days… Easter, you can experience all over Continued on page 2... is a favorable time taken out of context. when the Church Of course, real- invites Christians Authors Barron, Welborn & Camille ity shows bind to have a keener their subjects to awareness of the Headline 21st Annual RBTE nondisclosure redeeming work of clauses until it Christ and to live ST. CHARLES, Ill. – Father Robert and business opportunities to en- suits the network their baptism in greater depth,” Barron, author and host of the hance the knowledge of products – like having writes Pope Benedict in the preface best-selling DVD series “Catholi- and services offered by the various them appear on of his new book “Lent with Pope cism,” along with authors Amy business entities that attend each the network’s Benedict XVI: Meditations for Welborn (“Wish You Were Here: year. morning news program the day Every Day” (Word Among Us Travels Through Loss and Hope”), “RBTE has been after they’re voted off the island. Press, $11.95, 978-1593251987). Alice Camille (“A Book of Grace- at the forefront of But there is emerging evidence The pope’s book is a collection of Filled Days”) and dozens of other educating and dis- that reality TV can be damaging short reflections, one for each day Catholic authors will greet atten- cussing the ever- to girls – not that they had been of Lent. Taken from his homilies, dees and sign books at the 21st An- changing world of considered any more or less im- Angelus addresses and encyclicals, nual Religious Booksellers Trade publishing, manu- mune to the genre than other de- the reflections will help readers Exhibit May 29 - June 1 at the facturing, distribu- mographic groups. “delve into God’s word and be nour- Pheasant Run Resort and Conven- tion, and selling The Girl Scouts commissioned ished by it.” Each meditation is tion Center in St. Charles, Ill. and will continue to a study, released in October, that “RBTE provides opportunities do so at this year’s BARRON demonstrated the impact of real- for booksellers to gather and share event,” says Bob Byrns, president ity TV on girls. ideas about the marketplace, learn of the RBTE. “This year’s event One of the more eye-opening new ways to reach customers, build will offer new opportunities for findings is that girls who view re- relationships and buy product at both vendors and resellers to sell ality TV regularly are more fo- discounted prices,” says Julie their products and share success cused on the value of physical Cragon, owner of St. Mary’s Book- stories,” says Byrns. appearance. Seventy-two percent store in Nashville, Tenn. Booksellers also use RBTE to say they spend a lot of time on FORGIVENESS their appearance compared to 42 Three Minute “I find RBTE invaluable for meet and discuss the economic Reflections on meeting authors, publishers and pressures and changing technology percent of nonviewers. Redeeming Life’s other booksellers. It gives us a facing Catholic retailers in today’s The study, “Real to Me: Girls Most Difficult and Reality TV” by the Girl Scout Moments chance to have a voice in the pub- marketplace. The Catholic Retail- JOAN MUELLER lishing business, give suggestions, ers Association holds its annual Research Institute, also found share ideas, and tell the publishers meeting on the first afternoon of that 78 percent of the viewers vs. what our customers want,” says the conference. 54 percent of the nonviewers be- Cragon. Mass is held daily in one of the lieve that “gossiping is a normal orgiveness is written for people RBTE is the largest gathering of resort’s meeting rooms, offering part of a relationship between F     English language Catholic and publishers and booksellers the op- girls.”       liturgical publishers in North portunity to celebrate the Eu- The news isn’t necessarily all            America, but also attracts religious charist together and reflect on bad. The study also disclosed that          article manufacturers, greeting their shared ministries. 68 percent of girls agree that re-    
  card companies, distributors, book To register, order an exhibit ality shows “make me think I can and gift stores and resellers, and booth or read more information achieve anything in life” and 48 978-1-56548-426-9, paperback, $7.95 libraries from around the world. about RBTE, visit www.rbte.net or percent said that they “help me RBTE offers educational, social, send an e-mail to [email protected]. Continued on page 2...

Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com New Spring books deliver Lenten devotions...

Continued from page 1. meditations for based on that passage. life that illustrates the instruction. as one of the doctors of the church. Lent have been For instance, he links Isaiah 58:6 He finishes the reflection with a The book provides Scripture read- published in 2012. (“loose the bonds of injustice”) to short prayer, like “Sacred Heart of ings for the season of Lent and The first is “Redis- the daily burdens of sin that we Jesus, serene before the cross, Easter and pairs them with a daily cover Lent” by carry, linking us to the past and make my heart more like yours. selection of the saint’s writings. Matthew Kelly (St. hindering any efforts to find peace Two new books This volume is a continuation of Anthony Messenger in our hearts. But if we muster the provide fresh ideas the Lent and Easter series, also Press, $9.99, 978- courage to participate in the sacra- to help make Lent from Liguori Publications, that 1616362379). The author of the ment of Reconciliation, we will more meaningful for pairs Scripture readings with the bestselling book “Rediscover know the joy of a clear conscience. the entire family. wisdom from St. Francis and St. Catholicism” and 2011’s “Redis- This joy will lift the emotional, spir- “Bring Lent for Life: Clare of Assisi, G. K. Chesterton, cover Advent,” Kelly lists a Scrip- itual and physical burdens we Activities & Reflec- Fulton J. Sheen, Henri J. Nouwen ture passage as starting point for carry, helping us become more in tions for Your Fam- and Pope John Paul II. the day. He then offers a short re- tune with the ways of God. ily” by Kathleen M. Two other collections of daily flection about everyday life that is The other collec- Basi (Liguori Publications, $9.99, tion of daily medita- 978-0764820045) details activities tions is “The Sacred (crafts, family outings, recipes) and Distorted view of reality... Heart for Lent” by reflections that bring the central as- Rev. Thomas D. pects of our faith to life. Continued from page 1. of themselves or someone of their Williams (Servant “Welcome Risen realize there are people out there own gender,” the study said. Books, $9.99, 978- Jesus: Lent and like me.” “Females talked about sex acts 1616362386). A Vat- Easter Reflections “Girls today are bombarded with more than men, talked about sex ican analyst and for Families” by media – reality TV and otherwise – more graphically than men, men- consultant on faith for CBS and Sarah A. Reinhard that more frequently portrays girls tioned sexual body parts more than NBC, Father Williams teaches the- (Liguori Publica- and women in competition with one men, and talked about intercourse ology at the Regina Apostolorum tions, $9.99, 978- another rather than in support or and preliminaries to intercourse Pontifical Athenaeum in Rome. 0764820748) offers collaboration. This perpetuates a more than men,” it added, noting, Father Williams begins his book daily reflections and ‘mean-girl’ stereotype and normal- “Females were the recipients of an with the statement “Lent is the thoughts that encourage families to izes this behavior among girls,” said ‘F-word’ or ‘S-word’ 662 times or ideal time of the year to get to know think, pray, act based on words a statement by Andrea Bastiani once every four minutes and 10 Jesus better.” For each day of Lent, from Scripture. These exercises are Archibald, a developmental psychol- seconds.” Williams offers a passage primarily designed to engage your household ogist for the Girl Scouts. “We don’t Another common word used by from the New Testament for in- during the Lenten season by tying want girls to avoid reality TV, but women to describe other women: struction and enlightenment. He Scripture and reflection to your want them, along with their par- the B-word, “bitch,” along with then provides a reflection on Jesus’ daily life. ents, to know what they are getting “stupid” and “dirty.” These three into when they watch it.” ranked as the most-used deroga- Archibald’s remark about “girls tory words. and women in competition” is What may be the least surpris- borne out in another study, re- ing statistic is that “Jersey Shore” Your Source for Best-Selling Catholic Bibles leased in November by the Parents accounted for 59 percent of all of Television Council, which exam- the sexual references used on the ined the four top-rated reality four MTV reality series surveyed. shows on the MTV cable channel. Perhaps the saddest stat of all: The study, “Reality on MTV: When all the shows’ dialogue was Gender Portrayals on MTV Reality taken into account, only 24 percent Programming,” looked at “Jersey of what females said about them- Shore,” “Teen Mom 2,” “16 and selves was positive. Pregnant” and “The Real World.” And to think that the music According to the study, the real- videos that were a staple of MTV ity shows do women no favors. 30 years ago caused such a fuss. “Overall, women were more dis- Mark Pattison is media editor paraging than men when speaking for Catholic News Service.

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2 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012 New Releases

The Bible on the Question Communion of Saints as an “ex- of Homosexuality tended spiritual family” whose Innocent Himbaza, Adrien Schenker lives guide and resonate with our and Jean-Baptiste Edart own. Catholic University of America Press The Bad Catholic’s $19.95 • 150 pages • ISBN 978-0813218847 Mother Teresa of Calcutta: Guide to the Seven Addresses the hotly debated topic A Personal Portrait Deadly Sins of whether the Bible condemns ho- Rev. Leo Maasburg • Ignatius Press mosexuality by a close reading of $22.95 • 240 pages • ISBN 978-1586175559 A Vital Look at Virtue and biblical texts without taboo or prej- Vice, with Quizzes and udice, without personal or church The longtime traveling companion interpretation. of Mother Teresa shares numerous Activities for Saintly miracles and incredible, little- Self-Improvement known events about the holy Hilarious sketches of history’s Who Am I? The Theology of the woman determined to serve the greatest saints and sinners, Body in Prayer Lord and the poor. theological insights, and cringe- Gerard-Marie Anthony • Bezalel Books $14.99 • 130 pages • ISBN 978-0984486465 inducing quizzes of virtue and vice so you can discover just how close Essentials of Catholic Spirituality: to the precipice you are. With A devotional approach to Pope Living and Breathing Our Faith activities and adventures to help John Paul II’s Theology of the Body Rev. Joseph F. Classen • St. Pauls/Alba House that helps answer our fundamental $12.95 • 211 pages • ISBN 978-0818913297 you crawl your way back to solid human questions “Who am I?” and ground. Self-help has never been “What is my purpose?” Looks at the most relevant facets so fun. and dynamics of our faith, such as 978-0-8245-2585-9 liturgy, the Mass, prayer, the saints, $14.95 paperback • 240 pages Tending the Temple: 365 Days of angels, demons, the Blessed Mother, Spiritual and Physical Devotions the Church calendar and more. Kevin Vost, Shane Kapler and Peggy Bowes Bezalel Books $19.99 • 382 pages • ISBN 978-1936453009 Dating God: Live and Love in the The Bad Catholic’s Way of St. Francis A collection of daily devotions that Daniel P. Horan, O.F.M. Guide to Good use fitness routines and health tips St. Anthony Messenger Press Living to feed the reader’s body and soul $14.99 • 144 pages • ISBN 978-1616361365 for physical and spiritual growth. A Loving Look at the Lighter Offers an intimate view of the Side of the Catholic Faith, Franciscan tradition as a model Human Frailty, Divine Redemption: for beginning and deepening our With Recipes for Feasts Theology & Practice of the Examen relationship with the Divine. and Fun Marko Ivan Rupnik, S.J. • Pauline Books & Media $8.95 • 88 pages • ISBN 978-0819834102 Jump right into this hilarious new Muslims Ask, Christians Answer book and celebrate Catholicism in a Readers are guided through the Christian W. Troll, S.J. • New City Press whole new way! And indispensable Ignatian practice of the examen, a $15.95 • 160 pages • ISBN 978-1565484306 resource for observing the feast days daily spiritual act of prayer and of the saints, The Bad Catholic’s discernment through the examina- Offers both Christians and Mus- Guide to Good Living unveils the tion of one’s conscience. lims a platform for orientation and history and humor behind the a solid basis for interreligious en- Catholic faith. counter and dialogue, covering top- 978-0-8245-2300-8 The Work of Mercy: Being the ics ranging from scripture, Jesus $14.95 paperback • 240 pages Hands and Heart of Christ and Muhammad, to Eucharistic Mark P. Shea • Servant Books celebration, priestly celibacy and $14.99 • 176 pages • ISBN 978-1616360092 religious freedom. Reflecting on the seven corporeal The Bad Catholic’s and seven spiritual works of mercy, Embracing Motherhood the author examines their history, Guide to Wine, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle • Servant Books practice and meaning for today. $13.99 • 144 pages • ISBN 978-0867169942 Whiskey & Song The creator of the EWTN series A Spirited Look at Catholic Life Reading from the Edges: The Bible Everyday Blessings for Catholic & People on the Move and Lore from Apocalypse to Moms leads the reader to a deeper Jean-Pierre Ruiz • Orbis Books Zinfandel appreciation of the role that moth- $28.00 • 185 pages • ISBN 978-1570759444 erhood plays in the sanctity of a A national bestseller! An intelligent Hispanic theologian weaves to- vibrant family life. and church-loving introduction to gether biblical texts with “border” Catholic faith that explains the themes – migration, postcolonial- difference between God and vodka, ism, living in exile, and the immi- Strengthening Your Family: and why Benedictines make the grant experience – producing new Catholic Approach to Holiness best beer. insights for clergy and scholars. at Home 978-0-8245-2411-1 Marge Fenelon • Our Sunday Visitor $14.95 paperback • 416 pages $14.95 • 192 pages • ISBN 978-1592768776 The Saints in My Life Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel, C.F.R. • OSV Shows parents how to set family $15.95 • 208 pages • ISBN 978-1592760817 priorities, form ideals and keep a www.ipgbook.com • 1-800-888-4741 family grounded with a workable The host of EWTN’s “Sunday Night spiritual schedule in order to live in [email protected] Live” encourages readers to see the the world without being “worldly.”

Spring 2012 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com 3 Book Reviews from the Catholic News Service and Staff

Authors Aim to Move thor of “ Catholic Social Learning,” scandals, with bishops who don’t we’ve lost the who, meaning Jesus.” Christians to Help End has a less ambitious goal than seem to listen, with all of it. I came Both authors show a keen sense Todd, but both authors seek the tonight, not knowing what to ex- of humor in their writing and re- World Poverty same end: to move Christians to pect, but this guy ... I don’t know, sponses. Although one of the best greater service to the poor. somehow he just makes me feel lines is when Archbishop Dolan Reviewed by Graham Yearley, CNS Bergman’s book focuses on assist- good about being Catholic.” quotes Hilaire Belloc saying, “I’ve ing teachers of social justice at Her reaction in a parish hall is come to reluctantly accept that the he Occupy Wall Street move- Catholic universities to inspire stu- what readers will probably feel Roman Catholic Church must be ment has reassured many dents to engage in a faith that pro- after finishing this interesting and divine, because no merely human Tthat the fervor for social re- duces justice. entertaining book. One feels good institution governed by such imbe- form, so prevalent in the baby Some of about being Catholic and knowing cility could have survived a fort- boom generation, has not died in Bergman’s stu- the U.S. Conference of Catholic night.” American young people today. dents travel to Bishops is being led by Archbishop Although the book does not tell While that movement’s goals are the Dominican Dolan as president. The archbishop us too much about the life of Arch- confusing to some, there is no mis- Republic and live will become a cardinal Feb. 19. bishop Dolan, it does provide some taking what Scott Todd, the author in the homes of Even if one disagrees with Arch- great insights into what has of “Fast Living,” is seeking to the people they bishop Dolan, one still has to like formed and shaped him – his home change; his goal is nothing less serve. After the him. He is described by Allen at parish, his education and years in than ending extreme poverty initial shock of “affirmative orthodoxy on steroids.” Rome, his friendships. worldwide. Extreme poverty is de- shifting from Archbishop Dolan will not dis- However, Archbishop Dolan pro- fined as having less than $1 a day First World com- Catholic Social agree with the Vatican. (Although vides the most telling statement to meet the basic needs of shelter fort to Third Learning he does say that if anyone had about his life. “To this day, I think and food. World discomfort, Roger Bergman asked him about the current Vati- of myself as a priest, not a bishop or Todd contends students often ex- Fordham Univ. Press can-sponsored visitation of Ameri- archbishop, and there’s nothing else $24, 160 pages that governments perience feelings ISBN 978-0823233298 can nuns he would have advised I ever wanted to be.” cannot accom- of deep shame. against it.) However, he also will His contentment and joy are ap- plish this task be- While Bergman acknowledges that not ostracize or deal meanly with parent in this book. It is infectious cause political certain forms of shame are un- those with whom he and the and truly does make one feel good conflicts stand in healthy, this form of shame is a church disagree. about being a Catholic. their way. Only kind of self-indictment for living in Archbishop Dolan says, “My Peggy Weber is a columnist and Christian a culture that wastes resources, ig- hunch is that I’ll have more luck reporter with Catholic Communica- churches can end nores global poverty and fosters trying to nudge them closer to tions in the Diocese of Springfield, extreme poverty self-centeredness. Students often what the church considers to be the Mass. because it is de- Fast Living discover that the programs they truth if I’m in contact, in dialogue manded of them. Scott C. Todd have set up are neither helpful nor than if I’m standing off to the side The love of neigh- Compassion Internat’l wanted. Eventually, they come to tossing rhetorical bricks.” Book Sparks Question: bor and the love $12.99, 203 pages understand the poor are best Allen does a ISBN 978-1936899005 of God are one equipped to judge what kind of as- splendid job of in- ‘Do My Actions Bespeak and the same. Armed with money sistance is helpful. troducing Arch- My Beliefs?’ (at least in the Western world) and “Catholic Social Learning” is not bishop Dolan and the will and determination found a book for the general reader; it is probing his mind. Reviewed by Mark Barry in the Christ’s preferential love of a scholarly work, when Bergman Allen acknowl- the poor, the church can bring makes assertions there is plenty of edges that this have a confession to make. about this change, but not without evidence to support his arguments. book is not a biog- When I first saw “Catholics changing its believers first. Todd is more like a brilliant raphy. Rather it ISpending and Acting Justly,” I If it is obvious that Christians preacher rousing his congregants lets the reader quickly – and mistakenly – con- would want to end extreme poverty, to social action. Unfortunately, too into the thoughts A People of Hope cluded that this book is a “how-to” why haven’t we? Todd argues it is many Christians in the First World and personality Arch. Timothy Dolan for Catholics wanting to be more because we do not believe we can, enjoy the excitement of hearing the of the archbishop Image Books environmentally aware when mak- based on a serious misunderstand- Gospel preached in fresh and chal- who was profiled $25, 256 pages ing – or choosing not to make – ISBN 978-0307718495 ing of Jesus’ words in John 12:8: lenging ways in church, only to re- on “60 Minutes” their day-to-day purchases. “The poor are always with us.” turn home to a large, nap- and is what one might call a “rising Author Charles K. Wilber’s sub- Many biblical scholars maintain producing Sunday dinner. star” in the American Catholic title – A Small-Group Guide for that Jesus was addressing Judas Graham Yearley received his Church. Living Economic Stewardship – did and Judas’ mistaken priorities when certificate of advanced study in Allen also gives the readers nothing to dissuade me. Boy was I he objects to the pouring out of ex- theology at the Ecumenical Insti- some “inside baseball” understand- surprised when I started to read pensive oils on Jesus’ feet. Judas ar- tute at St. Mary’s Seminary and ing of the topics of each chapter. the book! It was all good, though. gues that the oils could be sold to University in Baltimore. Yet, he is very careful not to insert A handful of pages in, I was benefit the poor. When Jesus ad- himself into the book. It is very quickly reminded of a rhetorical monishes Judas, it is because he is clear that this is Archbishop comment from a retreat presenta- asking Judas to value his presence Archbishop’s Entertaining Dolan’s book. tion I heard many years ago. “Let while he is with his apostles, not Musings Make One Happy Both Allen and the archbishop me take a look at your check regis- making a blanket statement about have a clear and likeable communi- ter,” the speaker said, “and I will accepting poverty as inevitable. to be Catholic cation style. It might have been a tell you where your priorities are.” Todd recommends taking up the nightmare to edit hours of inter- Wilber takes that idea and goes ancient practice of fasting as a Reviewed by Peggy Weber, CNS views and appearances but the fin- several steps further. Regardless starting place to serve the poor by ished product seems polished and of the measure you use – check reg- experiencing what they experience. n the introduction of “A People easy. ister, credit card statement or Abstaining from food voluntarily is of Hope,” John Allen quotes a And the book truly contains Quicken® report – your actions not the same as being forced to go Iwoman from Westchester many gems by Archbishop Dolan don’t lie. hungry, but if enough Christians County in New York who was when asked about a variety of top- Part Economics 101 and part fast it could create, in Todd’s opin- moved to tears after a visit by ics. For example, in the chapter Catholic social teaching, “Catholic ion, an outpouring of love and serv- Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan to about “Affirmative Orthodoxy,” Spending and Acting Justly” is a ice because we will know something her parish. Archbishop Dolan says, “I worry compilation of carefully researched of how they feel. She said, “I’m a lifelong that we’ve become a glorified Ro- facts, economic theory and church Roger Bergman, a professor at Catholic, but the last few years, it’s tary Club. We’re so stumbling over writings. The book’s focus is quite Creighton University and the au- been so hard ... with the sex abuse the how of Catholic life that I think simple as it subtly asks the reader, 4 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012 Book Reviews from the Catholic News Service and Staff

“Do the purchases you make reflect speaking Hispanics who trace their parishes – is especially good. and large segments of the Hispanic the social teaching of the faith you families back centuries to the Span- Both books excellently frame is- community, but also has its critics. profess to follow?” ish colonial era, before their ances- sues, problems and the evolving in- The books also delve into the Are the items you purchase pro- tral lands passed to Mexico and stitutional church’s attitudes and successful and aggressive evangeli- duced in such a way so that part of then the United States. And let’s activities toward the growing His- cal Protestant proselytizing among the true cost of manufacture is not forget Hispanics who have in- panic population. Neither claims to Hispanics; the very low percentage passed on to those who happen to termarried in the growingly multi- have the answers in this dynamic, of Hispanics in lay and ordained live in a community downstream ethnic, multicultural and still fluid situation. ministry in comparison to their per- from the plant who must deal with multilingual United States. One of the key centage of the Catholic population; the river waste coming their way? When it comes to developing controversies the and the communitarian dimension What do the ministerial approaches, one size books deal with is of Hispanic Catholicism which products you buy does not fit all. Nor is there agree- whether new im- often overflows into social and po- do for the poor, do ment among Hispanics as to what migrants should litical action. to the poor, or en- are the best roads to evangelization. be assimilated or A major fault is the lack of de- able the poor to Clearly, though, Hispanics are integrated into tailed discussion of the gang phe- do for them- transforming U.S. Catholic life. U.S. society and nomenon and its devastating effects selves? Anyone who has participated in a church. Assimila- on Hispanic youths. The issue is Where does my charismatic renewal event or has tion refers to the mentioned in both books but never right to consume taken a cursillo (short course in “melting pot” Latino Catholicism developed. bump up against Christianity) is a witness to the image used with Timothy Matovina The starting point of the books is another person’s Catholic Spending growing Hispanic influence. They previous immigra- Princeton Univ. Press Hispanic perspectives on issues. tion waves where $29.95, 328 pages But they also elaborate on the criti- basic rights to and Acting Justly are the fastest growing segment of ISBN 978-0691139791 life, food, clothing, Charles K. Wilber the U.S. Catholic population and the aim was to cisms and controversies swirling and shelter? Ave Maria Press should be a sizable majority by blend them into a homogeneous around these topics so that readers $5.95, 82 pages These and ISBN 978-1594712586 mid-century. In addition to the unity with native-born citizens. Inte- clearly know that situations are other similarly growing Spanish Masses across the gration uses a “stewing pot” symbol still in flux and far from resolved. challenging questions are posed by country, they are injecting U.S. where immigrants add their flavor Agostino Bono, a retired CNS staff Wilber in his bargain-priced book, Catholicism with pilgrimages, pro- to the mix while retaining their cul- writer, covered Hispanic affairs. questions designed to promote cessions, rituals, popular piety, so- tural and ethnic individuality. thought, introspection and group cial activism and a conviction that Another hot button issue dis- In 2011 seven U.S. publishers cussed is comprehensive immigra- discussion. (After all, the book is faith needs to be expressed emo- released new English editions of actually designed as a guide for tionally and dynamically. tion reform, including a possible the altar Missal, each with eight-week group study.) “Hispanic Min- path to legalized residency for peo- numerous tabs, ribbons, art and Ultimately, “Catholic Spending istry in the 21st ple who entered illegally. This is 1,500 pages of two-colored text. and Acting Justly” did touch on a Century” and supported by many church officials few environmental matters. “Latino Catholi- More important, though, is the cism” outline the fact that in a short 82 pages (includ- challenges, com- NEW FROM PAULIST PRESS ing suggested group session opening plexities and con- and closing prayers), Wilber has troversies facing VATICAN II asked some very probing questions, a U.S. institu- The Battle for Meaning the answers to which may actually tional church Massimo Faggioli prove to be life changing. formed and led by Hispanic Ministry “This brilliant survey on an international basis of the history of Mark Barry’s undergraduate de- English-speaking in the 21st Century interpretations of Vatican II is absolutely indispensable reading gree from Duke University is in Eco- European descen- Hosffman Ospino for anybody who wants to understand what is at stake in today’s nomics. He now lives in Nashville, dents as it strives Convivium Press $22.99, 445 pages church. Faggioli is master of his subject and brings to it an TN where he tries to make con- for religious unity ISBN 978-1934996164 extraordinary combination of lucidity and subtlety. I cannot science-driven purchases. while acknowl- recommend the book too highly.” edging a mushrooming cultural di- —JOHN W. O ’ M ALLEY, SJ, University Professor, Georgetown University versity. The books speak of 978-0-8091-4750-2 $14.95 208 pages Paperback Books Examine Impact, Hispanic ministry in terms of mul- Challenges in U.S. of tiple strategies, approaches and vi- VOTING AND HOLINESS sions to reach the multidimen- Hispanic Catholicism Catholic Perspectives on Political Participation sional Hispanic population. Edited by Nicholas P. Cafardi While both overlap in themes, A collection of essays by leading Catholic thinkers that ad- Reviewed by Agostino Bono, CNS “Hispanic Ministry” is more for lay dresses ethical questions that confront all faithful Catho lics at and clerical ministers. It is a collec- election time. It will be of great assistance to Catho lics who inistering to Hispanic tion of six essays – each in English feel tension between their political choices and their faith. Catholics in the United and Spanish – developed from a se- “If you want to know how Catholics understand politics, MStates is a work in ries of talks by Hispanic ministry read this book. It bristles with insight.” progress. Defining it is like trying experts at a 2009 symposium. It —MICHAEL SEAN WINTERS, National Catholic Reporter to pinpoint the elusive colors of a looks to the future, stressing what 978-0-8091-4767-0 $24.95 272 pages Paperback chameleon leaping through autumn needs to be done based on where foliage. While much attention is fo- Hispanic Catholicism is now. HENRI NOUWEN AND cused on the challenges posed by “Latino Catholicism” provides the massive flow of Spanish-speak- more historical context and per- SPIRITUAL POLARITIES ing immigrants crossing the south- spective on how the situation got to A Life of Tension Wil Hernandez; Foreword by Richard Rohr, OFM ern border in recent decades, where it is. Timothy Matovina, di- “Henri Nouwen has never been more wisely and warmly pre- Hispanic Catholics are far from a rector of the Cushwa Center for the sented than he is here. Wil Hernandez has done a superb job monolith. Study of American Catholicism at of giving us the great man at his best and most accessible.” They include second- and third- the University of Notre Dame, of- —PHYLLIS TICKLE, compiler of The Divine Hours generation bilingual families strug- fers a crash course on Hispanic 978-0-8091-4741-0 $16.95 176 pages Paperback gling to scamper into the middle Catholics and their impact. The class and adapt to U.S. traditions book’s chapter on the importance of Available at bookstores or from Paulist Press while retaining ties to their ances- popular religiosity in Hispanic wor- Orders: 1-800-218-1903 tral culture and language. Added to ship and devotion – and the contro- Fax: 1-800-836-3161 • www.paulistpress.com the mix are predominantly English- versies it causes in multiethnic

Spring 2012 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com 5 Best Selling Books, Booklets & Bibles

Books & Booklets • October – December 2011

1 My Little Prayer Book • Rev. Michael Sullivan • Wm. J. Hirten Company • 978-1929198702 2 Saint Joseph Guide for the Liturgy of the Hours for 2012 • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899421575 3 New Saint Joseph Sunday Missal: Prayerbook and Hymnal for 2012 • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899421476 4 Catholicism Series Study Guide & Workbook (Binder) • Rev. Robert Barron • Word on Fire Ministries • 978-0983233459 5 YouCat: Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church • Ignatius Press • 978-1586175160 6 Magnificat Advent Companion 2011 • Magnificat® 7 Guide to the New Translation of the Mass • Edward Sri • Ascension Press • 978-1935940043 8 Saint Joseph Guide for Christian Prayer for 2012 • Catholic Book Publishing • 9780899421599 9 The Holy Rosary Illustrated • Rev. Michael Sullivan • Wm. J. Hirten Co. • 978-1929198672 10 Magnificat Roman Missal Companion • Magnificat® 11 My Little Book of Prayers: Mary • Rev. Michael Sullivan • Wm. J. Hirten Co. • 978-1929198931 12 Order of Prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours and Celebration of the Eucharist • Paulist Press 13 Heaven is for Real • Todd Burpo • Thomas Nelson • 978-0849946158 14 Catechism of the Catholic Church • Image Books • 978-0385479677 15 A Biblical Walk Through the Mass • Ted Sri • Ascension Press • 978-1935940005 16 Workbook for Lectors and Proclaimers of the Word 2012 • Graziano Marcheschi • Liturgy Training Pub • 978-1568549750 17 A Biblical Walk Through the Mass (Student Pack) • Ted Sri • Ascension Press • 811661011089 18 Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith (Hardcover) • Rev. Robert Barron • Image Books • 978-0307720511 19 Searching for and Maintaining Peace • Jacques Phillippe • Alba House • 978-0818909061 20 My Pocket Rosary • J. M. Lelen • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899420578 21 Handbook for Catholics: Our Catholic Tradition • Mary Kathleen Glavich • Loyola Press • 978-0829428551 22 Thirty-Day Devotions for the Holy Souls • Susan Tassone • Our Sunday Visitor • 978-1592760527 23 Rediscover Advent • Matthew Kelly • Servant Publications • 978-1616361648 24 My Pocket Prayer Book • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899420301 25 Preparation for Total Consecration • Louis DeMontfort • Montfort Publications • 978-0910984102

Music • October – December 2011

1 The Love in Between • Matt Maher • Provident/Integrity • 083061093129 2 Dream with Me • Jackie Evancho • Provident/Integrity • 886979318922 3 Noel • The Priests • Provident/Integrity • 886977572920 4 The Gift • Susan Boyle • Provident/Integrity • 000768486429 5 The Christmas Album • Libera • ACTA Publications • 978-0879464806 6 The Complete Still Waters Rosary • Vinny Flynn • Catholic Word • 978-1884479267 7 The Chaplet of Divine Mercy in Song • Trish Short • Catholic Word • 978-0944203675 8 Someone to Watch Over Me • Susan Boyle • Provident/Integrity • 886979625228 9 His Love Remains • Collin Raye • Ignatius Press • 857897003009 10 Noel • Josh Groban • Word Distribution Group • 093624992950 11 The Priests • The Priests • Provident/Integrity • 886973396926 12 O Holy Night: Journey of a Little Drummer Boy • VeggieTales • Word Distribution Group • 820413115722 13 The Complete Rosary • Robert Kochis • Liguori Publications • 659110110521 14 Jerusalem • Ellen • Ellen Soukup Ministries • 687474837129 15 The Rosary • Gretchen Harris • Heartbeat Records • 825346417127

Best-selling product charts compiled from actual retail sales data from the 4th quarter 2011 as reported by the Gloria Deo Catholic Books & Gifts stores in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, and from the stores’ website sales during the same period. Visit www.GloriaDeo.com to order the books, music, bibles and DVDs in this issue.

6 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012 Best Selling Music & Movies

Bibles • October – December 2011

1 NABRE Student Edition (Paper) • World Catholic • 978-0529064844 2 RSVCE Catholic Scripture Study Bible (Leather) • Saint Benedict Press • 978-1935302490 3 RSVCE Ignatius Bible (Paper) • Ignatius Press • 978-0898704914 4 RSVCE Ignatius Bible 2nd Edition (Leather) • Ignatius Press • 978-0898709360 5 RSVCE Ignatius Catholic Bible Compact Edition (Burgundy Leather) • Ignatius Press • 978-1586171018 6 RSVCE Ignatius Catholic Bible Compact Edition (Brown & Tan Leather) • Ignatius Press • 978-1586171001 7 RSVCE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament (Paper) • Ignatius Press • 978-1586172503 8 RSVCE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament (Hardcover) • Ignatius Press • 978-1586174842 9 RSVCE Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament (Leather) • Ignatius Press • 978-1586174859 10 RSVCE Truth and Life Dramatized Audio Bible (CD) • Zondervan • 978-1591713258 11 Douay-Rheims Confraternity Edition of the New Testament (Vinyl) • Scepter Publishers • 978-0933932777 12 NABRE Catholic Study Bible (Paper) • Oxford University Press • 978-0195297768 13 NABRE Compact Edition (Paper) • Oxford University Press • 978-0195298031 14 NABRE Holy Bible Standard Size (Paper) • Saint Benedict Press • 978-1935302599 15 NABRE Holy Bible Standard Size (Ultrasoft) • Saint Benedict Press • 978-1935302575 16 NABRE Prove It! The Catholic Teen Bible by Amy Welborn (Paper) • Our Sunday Visitor • 978-1592761951 17 NABRE St. Joseph Full Size Edition (Paper) • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0983233459 18 NABRE St. Joseph Medium Size Edition (Hardcover) • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899429519 19 NABRE St. Joseph Medium Size Edition (Paper) • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899421476 20 NABRE St. Joseph Medium Size Gift Edition (Imitation Leather) • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899426419

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Films & DVDs • October – December 2011

1 Catholicism: 5-DVD Set • Rev. Robert Barron • Word on Fire • 793573041630 2 Little Drummer Boy • VeggieTales • Word Distribution Group • 820413120399 3 Saint Philip Neri: I Prefer Heaven • Ignatius Press • 897079001997 4 Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Servant of All • Ignatius Press • 817531010015 5 Saint Nicholas: A Story of Joyful Giving • VeggieTales • Word Distribution Group • 820413114596 6 From Top Model to Role Model • Leah Darrow • Catholic Answers • 978-1933919478 7 The Miracle of Father Kapaun • Ignatius Press • 897079001843 8 Padre Pio: Miracle Man • Ignatius Press • 897079001379 9 The Scarlet and the Black • Ignatius Press • 012236139522 10 It’s a Meaningful Life • VeggieTales • Word Distribution Group • 820413117597 11 Veggie Christmas Favorites • VeggieTales • Word Distribution Group • 820413121693 12 Nicholas: The Boy Who Became Santa • CCC of America • 978-1568140629 13 The 13th Day • Ignatius Press • 897079001744 14 Blessed Duns Scotus: Defender of the Immaculate Conception • Ignatius Press • 817531010008 15 A Man for All Seasons • Ignatius Press • 043396032569

Best-selling product charts compiled from actual retail sales data from the 4th quarter 2011 as reported by the Gloria Deo Catholic Books & Gifts stores in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, and from the stores’ website sales during the same period. Visit www.GloriaDeo.com to order the books, music, bibles and DVDs in this issue.

Spring 2012 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com 7 Book Reviews from the Catholic News Service and Staff

Spiritual Practices Get about, which is the real reason she document on Catholic higher educa- It was 1945 and the St. Benedict Fresh Look, even for was named a doctor of the church. tion, ‘Ex Corde Ecclesia,’ and its im- Center was thriving as a place In “Shirt of plementation in the American where Catholic students were in- a 19th-Century Saint Flame,” for each context.” vited to come and discuss their faith. month of the year Amid all of that are his wonder- Its founder, Catherine Clarke, re- Reviewed by Mitch Finley, CNS King gives us a ful memories as he worked with quested that then-Archbishop fine, insightful re- those in formation with the Holy Richard Cushing of Boston assign a oo often, “spiritual exercises” flection on the Cross Fathers and his interaction full-time chaplain. It is then, as and formal prayer practices young saint – she with students as he lived a simple they say, that the plot thickens. Tend up going by the wayside died at age 24 – life in a two-room suite in a dorm, Jesuit Father Leonard Feeney ar- for one reason: We expect them to and her writings. Sorin Hall. rived with a bright mind and great have effects they don’t have, so we Each one con- Father Malloy’s deal of charisma. He created a pow- give up on them. Jana Riess found cludes with a Shirt of Flame book is a good erhouse at Harvard and was respon- this out from first-hand personal prayer written by Healther King read because of sible for many conversions and King that is in- Paraclete Press the voice of Fa- numerous vocations. experience, and that’s what she $16.99, 160 pages wrote about in “Flunking Saint- variably honest, ISBN 978-1557258083 ther “Monk.” He However, he also encouraged hood,” which is a literary breath of hopeful, and – if comes across as a students to leave school and pro- fresh spiritual oxygen. you read between the lines – not really likable and claimed that there was no salvation One month at a time, for a full without gentle humor. Along the good person. (The outside the church. year, Riess took a running jump at way, she quotes others including, nickname, Monk, He was chastised by the Vatican fasting, looking for the sacred in the from one of Therese’s fellow nuns, by the way, is one and by his order and eventually ex- words to be pondered and pondered: which came from Monk’s Tale: Way communicated. Many years later, he kitchen, “lectio divina,” giving up Stations on Journey shopping as a form of entertain- “I would never have suspected her childhood and Rev. Edward A. was reconciled. However, the dam- ment, centering prayer/the Jesus sanctity.” stuck.) Malloy, C.S.C. age was done. The splinter group prayer, observing the Sabbath, “Shirt of Flame” will wake you The reader U. of Notre Dame Press began. This led to many factions being thankful, Benedictine spiritu- up spiritually and put you back on cares about Fa- $25, 280 pages that still exist today. All believe ISBN 978-0268035228 ality, vegetarianism, practicing the right path, and you’ll be very ther Monk’s obser- themselves to be the authentic one. generosity – and she was a flop at glad it did. Read it. No excuses. vations because you care about Sister Mary every one of them. But, she con- Mitch Finley is the author of Father Monk. Clare, who was cludes, there are important lessons more than 30 books on Catholic This book makes one want to part of the group to be learned from trying each one, themes. read his first volume and anticipate for many years, from not giving up or giving in, and his third volume. (Editor: You can offers a fair and that’s what this book is all about. read a review of the first volume at honest history of “Flunking Authors Reflect on ‘Good www.newcatholicbooks.com) what happened. It also makes one hopeful about It truly shows Sainthood” is Old Days’ in Two College- easy to read; the the church because Father Malloy’s how so many good pages almost turn Related Books book shows how one can adapt and people can be mis- themselves. At grow and live a joyful life of service guided and mis- Keeping the Faith the same time, Reviewed by Peggy Weber, CNS as a good priest, good man and good led. It also is a at Harvard basketball player. good “for-the- Sister Mary Clare nearly every Vincent chapter whistles oth “Monk’s Tale” and “Keep- Sister Mary Clare Vincent offers record” document St. Bede’s Publications up the possibility ing the Faith at Harvard” a unique perspective in “Keeping about a movement $17.95, 258 pages that you, the Blook back at what many the Faith at Harvard.” that had so much ISBN 978-1879007499 reader, can be Flunking Sainthood might think of as “the good old A cloistered Benedictine nun, she promise. better than you Jana Riess days.” It was a time when vocations was involved with a controversial The first half of the book is in- are; whispers to Paraclete Press were more abundant and parishes movement at the St. Benedict Cen- triguing. The second profiles many $16.99, 179 pages ter in Cambridge, Mass. of the people who belonged to the your heart that ISBN 978-1557256607 were not closing their doors. you’re not nearly However, both books show that Born into the Episcopalian faith, group. This section might not hold as much of a spiritual wimp as you the church has always had its joys Sister Mary Clare graduated from as much interest to the reader. think you are. “I may have spent a and difficulties as people try to live Radcliffe College at age 19. While in Both books offer sincere revelations year flunking sainthood,” Riess de- out their faith. college, she abandoned all religion. and much material for reflection. clares, “but along the way I’ve had “Monk’s Tale” by Holy Cross Fa- However, before graduation she be- Peggy Weber is a columnist and unexpected epiphanies and wild ther Edward “Monk” Malloy is a came a Catholic and continued her reporter with Catholic Communica- glimpses of the holy I would never lovely memoir by the former presi- studies at the Harvard Graduate tions in the Diocese of Springfield, have experienced without these dent of the University of Notre School of Education. Mass. crazy practices.” Dame. It is the second of a three- St. Therese of Lisieux, she of a volume series that focuses on the late 19th-century Carmelite years after he did his doctoral stud- Spread the Good News monastery in France, was the “little ies until he became president of one flower” known for her famous “little of the United States’ most presti- about Catholic Books! way.” In recent decades, fortu- gious Catholic universities. nately, she has been liberated from This book covers the years 1975 For less than $20 an issue, your parish will the sappy spiritual sentimentality to 1987. He was president from receive 50 copies of each quarterly issue of to which she was relegated for so 1987 to 2005, and that will be the long after she became, you know, third volume of the memoir set. New Catholic Books & Media to distribute famous. He writes that this volume re- to RCIA candidates, new parishioners, book Heather King wrote a great auto- veals “my ministry as a teacher, club members, lectors, ministers and biographical book, largely about her scholar, liturgical leader and pas- interested readers in your parish. journey to Catholicism, titled “Re- tor.” He also writes about his “ex- deemed.” In “Shirt of Flame” – an tracurricular involvement in the Get your parish reading today! Sponsor an image from T.S. Eliot’s “Four Quar- academy, on government commit- tets” – King completely knocks the tees and entities and a number of annual bulk subscription for your parish patina of false piety off Therese and not-for-profit boards” He also ex- for $75. Double the subscription for $140. gives us back the rock-solid spiri- plains his “15 years of participation tual wisdom and theology this un- in the process that led up to the Order online at: conventional nun lived and wrote formulation of Pope John Paul II’s www.NewCatholicBooks.com/churches

8 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012 Children’s Books from Staff Reports Pope Benedict Releases dance and the im- other hand, when illustrating sin New Releases Illustrated Children’s Book portance of the and trouble, these pictures are Bread of Life in smaller and bordered, signifying about Holy Communion My Playtime Angel adoration and our the limiting effects of humanity. Cat Darens • Illustrated by Julia Oliver daily life. One of the most striking illustra- Paulist Press Reviewed by Shellie Braeuner Each child is tions in the book deals with the $7.95 • 18 pages • ISBN 978-0809167586 highlighted as his parent’s responsibility to take new picture book, “Friend- or her question is young children to Mass. In this pic- This charmingly illustrated board ship With Jesus,” explores asked. The illus- ture, the majesty of the Basilica lies book offers an engaging child’s APope Benedict’s views on trations include Friendship with in the background while a child in prayer that assures children that First Communion for children. artistic represen- Jesus the foreground stares straight out God loves them, watches over them, On October 15, 2005, Pope Bene- tation of sepia- Pope Benedict XVI, of the illustration toward the and keeps them safe while they Amy Welborn, Ann play with friends and siblings. dict invited children who had made toned photos in Engelhart reader. their first communion to the Vatican addition to soft, Ignatius Press While this book makes a wonder- for a special audience. Seven chil- watercolor paint- $14.95, 32 pages ful gift for any First Communicant, Sometimes Life Is Just Not Fair dren were chosen to ask the Holy Fa- ings. Ann Kissane ISBN 978-1586176198 this book is also appropriate for Father Joe Kempf ther questions about his own First Engelhart brings the power and younger children. The short ques- Our Sunday Visitor (Available in March) Communion and the Eucharist. Edi- grandeur of the Vatican to life while tion and answer format keeps $19.95 • 64 pages • ISBN 978-1612785929 tor Amy Welborn has collated these keeping the children the center of preschooler’s attention. There are Big Al and Annie are back with questions and the Pope’s answers each picture. Her soft lines blend so many things for a child to ex- plenty of support for children who into a picture book illustrated by into the margins and text. Pope plore in the illustrations that even experience for the first time the Ann Kissane Englehart. Benedict is always portrayed with a pre-readers may want to look at the death of a loved one. Reflections, Each chosen question reflects an grandfatherly smile as each of the book again and again. The Pope’s prayers and activities help children important aspect of this Rite of Initi- children approaches and speaks simple words explain the mysteries find their way forward to God. ation. The children ask about the with the Pontiff. of the Eucharist in ways that young Pope’s own first Communion, and he All of her illustrations of Christ children can understand. Beyond My First Cathechism is able to relate his own childhood or the Vatican break the frame and that, this book makes the Pope, the Christine Pedotti • Ignatius Press experience to that of the children. making them appear larger than head of the Catholic Church and $12.99 • 32 pages • ISBN 978-1586176556 Other topics include reconciliation, they are. This gives these subjects successor to Saint Peter, an ap- transubstantiation, Mass atten- the feeling of omnipresence. On the proachable, caring person. It re- Youngsters ages 2 and up can learn minds us that the word “pope” the fundamentals of the Catholic comes from the phrase “papa.” faith with this charming board book. Shellie Braeuner M.Ed is the Basic prayers, holidays and concepts Best Selling Children’s Books Children’s Book Reviewer for like forgiveness are introduced with NCB&M and the author of “The sweet illustrations and easy to un- October – December 2011 Great Dog Wash.” derstand text.

1 The Mass Explained for Kids Maria Grace Dateno • Pauline Books & Media 978-0819848857 2 Heaven is for Real for Kids Todd Burpo • Thomas Nelson • 978-1400318704 3 Catholic Book of Prayers for Children Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing 978-0899425412 4 Catholic Child’s Prayer Book Rev. Thomas Donaghy • Catholic Book Publishing 978-0899420646 5 Prayers for Everyday Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing 978-0899423814 6 The Mass for Children Rev. Jude Winkler • Catholic Book Publishing 978-0899424897 7 The Way of the Cross for Children Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing 978-0899424972 8 New Catholic Picture Bible Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899424354 9 The Story of the Birth of Jesus Rev. Jude Winkler • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899429601 10 Book of Saints: Part 1 Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899422954 11 Scriptural Rosary for Children Rev. Jude Winkler • Catholic Book Publishing• 978-0899425320 12 My First Prayers Rev. Jude Winkler • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899424903 13 Book of Saints: Part 3 Rev. Lawrence Lovasik • Catholic Book Publishing • 978-0899423074 14 Sacrament of Reconciliation in My Pocket Daughters of St. Paul • Pauline Books & Media • 978-0819871053 15 God Loves You Kathy Bostrom • Tyndale House • 978-0842353700

Best-selling product charts compiled from actual retail sales data from the 4th quar- ter 2011 as reported by the Gloria Deo Catholic Books & Gifts stores in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, and from the stores’ website sales during the same period. Visit www.GloriaDeo.com to order the books, music, bibles and DVDs in this issue.

Spring 2012 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com 9 Video Game Analysis & Reviews Catholic News Service

New Video Games: More Phelps – a 1940s Los Angeles police Catholic News Service of the Same or Grand detective trying to outrun his past and evade corruption. Video Game Classifications A-1 – General patronage Theft Redemption? Rockstar’s developers have thus A-II – Adults and adolescents begun to explore more nuanced A-III – Adults Analysis by Adam Shaw themes, among them the inevitably L – Limited adult audience, games unsatisfying results of indulging in whose problematic content many EW YORK (CNS) The an- evil. It may be noteworthy, then, adults would find troubling. nouncement of the impend- that the trailer for “Grand Theft O – Morally offensive Ning release of “Grand Theft Auto V” shows its main character Auto V” was probably enough to expressing his desire to become a finds its protagonist, together with send shivers down the spine of “good guy.” two sidekicks, called on to investi- many a parent with video game- Speculation is gate the appearance of a mysterious playing children. likely futile at this ghost-like creature in the quiet fic- So enormous, so pervasive, so in- – who was actively trying to get early stage – the tional hamlet of Misthallery. An famous is the franchise that for away from life in the underworld. game, after all, won’t ideal combination of enjoyable puz- many people the phrase “grand theft By dealing with CJ’s background as actually be released zle-based gameplay and positive auto” now primarily calls to mind the a young black man from gangland until late 2012 – and messages makes this prequel, with video game series, not the real-life Los Angeles, moreover, the game it would take a brave its emphasis on upright conduct crime from which it takes its title. raised important social issues con- observer to predict and polite behavior, first-rate fare The games, often referred to sim- cerning race, family life and the that “Grand Theft Auto V” will ulti- for kids and their elders alike. Mild ply as “GTA,” are frequently cited effect of environment on behavior. mately turn out to be acceptable to cartoon violence, some potentially by social commentators, religious Then in 2008 came “Grand Theft Catholics or others with scriptur- upsetting plot points. (Nintendo) groups, politicians and parent advo- Auto IV,” in which the player as- ally founded standards of morality. A-1 • E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) cates as symbolic of everything sumed the persona of Niko Bellic, But there is reason to hope that that’s wrong with the industry that an East European immigrant to the Rockstar’s designers are gearing up Battlefield 3 produced them. And their impact, U.S. Bellic’s story is that of a man to introduce into their number-one With its developers for good or ill, has been discussed in who yearns to live a good life – and franchise the thoughtful themes choosing to appeal to arenas as august as the Supreme escape the horrors of his past – but they have matured in their other ti- fans of the multi- Court of the United States. who is ultimately dragged back into tles. Though surprising, such a turn player format at the Is it premature, though, to con- wrongdoing, fatally corrupted by of events could offer the “GTA” fran- expense of the sin- demn the forthcoming fifth install- the many temptations of the game’s chise itself at least partial redemp- gle-player campaign, ment of the series when so little is, fictional urban setting, Liberty City. tion in the eyes of faith-based this military simulator makes for a as yet, known about it? Possibly. While CJ and Niko were charac- gamers. short, creatively sketchy first-person “GTA” is un- ters with depth, the “struggling” as- Adam Shaw reviews video games shooter experience – one replete, doubtedly the most pect of the plots centering on them for Catholic News Service. moreover, with the rawest vocabu- controversial fran- seemed to ebb quickly as they (and lary. The engaging, if less than strik- chise in gaming his- the player along with them) were Call of Duty: ingly original, story involves the tory. For non- submerged into – and overwhelmed Modern Warfare 3 quest of multiple characters across gamers, especially by – a world of excessive violence, While not as hyper- the world to prevent a terrorist plot parents, the 1996 release of the sex, foul language and general violent as might involving nuclear weapons. Though first “Grand Theft Auto” – accompa- skullduggery. have been feared, the bloodletting on display is rela- nied, as it was, by a frenzy of in- That was not the given the controver- tively limited and intermittent, the tense media coverage – marked the case, though, with sial track record of its predecessors, adventure would be more enjoyable moment when digital entertain- Rockstar’s next hit, this latest installment of the vastly – and suited to a wider audience – if ment was transformed: Instead of a “Red Dead Redemp- popular series includes the usual the designers had stemmed the collection of such harmless distrac- tion.” This successful round of explosions and firefights. steady stream of over-the-top vulgar- tions as those which featured Sonic, offering – which took As they explore an imagined Third ity, as they have, at least partly, in Pac-Man and Mario, the medium gamers back to the World War pitting the U.S. against the multiplayer version. Intense vio- was now seen as a genuine threat beginnings of the Russia, the developers provide a lence with gore, some profanity and to children’s psychological and so- 20th century and the end of the Wild multitude of locales and some visu- frequent to pervasive levels of rough cial well-being. West – established a new direction ally impressive set-pieces. Yet and crude language. (Electronic Arts) Although the reaction to the origi- for the Rockstar team. Not only was there’s no disguising the fact that L • M (Mature) nal “Grand Theft Auto” is commonly the game set in a different era, it the majority of the gameplay re- described as an example of overkill thrust players into the spurs of re- mains standard fare for a first per- Elder Scrolls V: and hysteria by some gaming histo- formed outlaw John Marston, a man son shooter while the lack of a Skyrim rians, there were legitimate reasons trying to buy his freedom and gain significant personal dimension se- In this epic but prob- for serious apprehension. Developed Pelagian-style self-redemption by verely damages the overall experi- lematic fantasy role- by a company now called Rockstar helping the government hunt down ence. Throw in a crass but heavy- playing game, the North, this first entry – best termed his ex-comrades. handed attempt to stir controversy player creates a char- an anarchic crime simulator – put “Red Dead Redemption” could through the terrorist victimization acter and explores a vast land full of the gamer in control of a faceless, rightly be described as “Grand of a vacationing couple and their quests, monsters, and ordinary peo- nameless individual for whom vio- Theft Auto Grows Up” in that it adorable little girl, and you have a ple. The main plot concerns the re- lent criminality was the only option. abandoned what might be termed conflict scenario from which many turn of dragons to the titular region; The next few the Beavis-and-Butthead approach gamers will prefer to abstain en- secondary plots mix conversation, sequels merely devel- to violence, toned down the offen- tirely on the grounds of conscien- crafting, quests, puzzles and com- oped the formula. sive content, and introduced posi- tious objection. (Activision) L • M bat. Much of the game involves bat- But things changed tive themes relating to religion, (Mature 17+) tling with edged weapons and occult with 2004’s “Grand family, morality and, of course, the spells, and the imagery is often gory Theft Auto: San An- meaning of redemption itself. Con- Professor Layton and disturbing. Graphic combat and dreas,” which was sequently “RDR” had a multitude & The Last other violence, disturbing images, notable for the inno- of beautiful moments that could Specter occult and pagan themes, tacit ac- vative character of its protagonist. be appreciated – and lauded – by This fourth install- ceptance of same-sex unions, as well Although previous installments had gamers of faith. ment in the mystery as instances of sexually explicit or brought in named personalities and More recently, Rockstar co-devel- game franchise built suggestive dialogue, although with- more detailed story lines, “San An- oped “L.A. Noire,” a game in which around the gentlemanly British out foul language. (Bethesda Soft- dreas” introduced a character – CJ the player assume the role of Cole professor-cum-detective of the title works) L • M (Mature) 10 Read more reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012 Music News Catholic News Service

Country Star Wanted with a disease that ultimately thrilled to have a hit record on con- “it’s a cliche, but there was a pres- Newest Album to Sound claimed her life. Haley would be 10 temporary Christian radio, because ence in the room I’d never felt be- were she still alive, he noted. that’s crossing the barriers,” Raye fore. A heaviness, a good heaviness. ‘Like you were in Church’ “Any anger or frustration I had said. “That’s a primarily Protestant I’d never been in a room like that.” for the Lord not getting involved the fan base. To have a hit in that fan By comparison, in the Baptist By Mark Pattison way I wanted him to get involved base would be a coup for me.” churches of his youth, “I never felt went away the moment she passed Catholic artists Marie Bellet and there was any physical presence in WASHINGTON (CNS) – Collin away,” he said. “He gave us a peace Andrea Thomas are also featured. the building other than us.” Raye, the Catholic country singer that was His from the beginning.” Raye Raye even remembers his Rite of who had a string of hits in the Making a religious album was became a Christian Initiation of Adults 1990s, said he wanted to make his “something I’d been dreaming of Catholic in teacher, Sister Sheila Marie. “She latest album “feel like you were in doing for over 20 years,” Raye the early knew her Bible pretty good. It’s all church for an hour or so.” added. “So I said, ‘Let’s do it, let’s 1980s. After there if you know where to look,” he “His Love Remains,” the title of do it, let’s make the best one possi- a show said. “It was the greatest decision I his new release, contains some fa- ble.’ I’m thinking maybe God has when he ever made in my life. I thank God miliar church melodies, like “Let given me a new niche here. If I did was chat- all the time, especially after confes- All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” and nothing but these kinds of records ting with a sion. ‘Thank you for making me a “Here I Am, Lord.” Raye, 51, said in the rest of my life, I’d be a happy married couple who were fans of Catholic, for making me realize the liner notes that he was inspired camper.” his, he noticed the wife wearing a how full a faith it is.’” to make the album from witnessing After a career with No. 1 singles necklace bearing a crucifix. Before Not that Raye has a lot of love his granddaughter Haley’s struggle and platinum albums, “I would be the conversation ended, Raye said for the country scene in Nashville. he asked the couple if he could go to He makes his home in Dallas. Mass with them. “There’s so much evil in the music Best Picture nominees... Raised “a heavy, heavy Baptist,” business. It’s not pretty. It’s just as by his own reckoning, in Texarkana, political as politics. There’s a lot of Continued from page 12. starting point – the juxtaposition of Texas, Raye, in a recent telephone distractions, there’s a lot of people alcohol consumption. (Sony Classics) nature and grace – and its glancing interview with Catholic News Serv- who call themselves Christians and A-III • PG-13 endorsement of New Age spiritual- ice, said he felt he always had a then try to rob you,” Raye said. ity rather than belief in God. Al- good relationship with God. “I have “Wouldn’t you love to have an- Moneyball though free of any morally a pretty good Bible knowledge,” he other hit record? If I could have one Based on the book objectionable content, the film’s added. “But I always felt there had without having to go through all by Michael Lewis, mature subject matter and es- to be something more to it.” what you go through,” he added. this enjoyable, chewal of plot and dialogue in favor When Raye stepped inside Our “There’s a lot of compromise in that thinking person’s of mood and imagery make it a bet- Lady of Sorrows Church in Port- business. I did it once and I don’t sports movie centers ter fit for cinephiles than main- land, Ore., with the couple, he said, care to do it again.” on the real-life gen- stream audiences. (Fox Searchlight) eral manager (Brad A-II • PG-13 Pitt) of baseball’s Oakland Athletics who, together with a young statisti- War Horse cian (Jonah Hill), gambles on a new Epic screen version approach to the game and fields a of Michael Mor- Catholic team with a comparatively minis- purgo’s 1982 novel, cule payroll. Director Bennett previously made Miller, working from a script by into a successful Treasures Steven Zaillian and Aaron Sorkin, stage play, about an This 4-CD box set includes all the has crafted a mature, humorous English farmer’s son beloved family and seasonal tunes, songs, and modest film that will appeal to (newcomer Jeremy Irvine) who hymns, and anthems of our Catholic faith aficionados and nonfans alike. Re- trains and cares for a thoroughbred performed expertly by the WLP Choir. spectful of America’s pastime yet horse that his father (Peter Mullan) A digital bestseller now available for the eager to spur positive change, it re- misguidedly buys just to thwart the first time in this affordable box set! lays a timeless, double-headed piece local squire (David Thewlis). De- ISBN 978-1-58459-557-1 of wisdom: Money can’t buy base- spite the animal’s successful adap- 003469 4-CD Box Set ...... $39.95 ball pennants or happiness. Two tation to farm work, and the lad’s Over uses of rough language, some crude emotional bond with him, at the 60 classic Includes: and crass language, an instance of start of World War I, the tiller sells songs! Volume I: Classics for Feasts & Seasons sexual banter, a few sexist remarks him to an army officer (Tom Hid- Volume II: Classics for Worship and a scene in which a player’s reli- dleston) bound for the Western Volume III: Classic Hymns & Songs giosity is treated in a sarcastic man- Front, thus initiating a series of ad- Volume IV: Classics of Praise & Honor ner. (Columbia) ventures and trials that are, by Individual CDs sold separately A-III • PG-13 turns, touching and harrowing. for $17.00 each. While the intensity of the drama, The Tree of Life the level of violence and some of the Terrence Malick’s vocabulary used make director metaphysical rumi- Steven Spielberg’s vast canvas un- nation weaves to- suitable viewing for kids, mature gether sequences audience members will encounter a featuring a married stirring affirmation of human soli- couple (Brad Pitt darity amid the tragedy of the and Jessica Chas- trenches – a realization of shared All sound-clips available at tain) raising three boys in 1950s values brought about, ironically, by wlpmusic.com. Texas with special-effects-laden the heroism and endurance of the passages depicting the origins of nonhuman protagonist. Consider- the universe and change in the nat- able combat and other violence, in- ural world. Consistently beautiful cluding an execution; about a World Library Publications and frequently moving, the lyrical half-dozen uses of crass language; 800-566-6150 work ultimately proves unsatisfy- and a few vague sexual references. wlpmusic.com ing due to its overly schematic (Disney) A-III • PG-13 CBM211 Spring 2012 Read full movie reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com 11 Movie Reviews – 2012 Best Picture Nominations Catholic News Service

The Artist shared suffering and familial soli- his spare time, he struggles to re- Catholic News Service A modern-made darity as it upholds positive, hu- pair a mysterious automaton he silent film proves to manistic values. But the main and his beloved father had been Film Classifications be a breath of fresh character’s eccentricities – he may tinkering with before the latter’s A-1 – General patronage A-II – Adults and adolescents air without uttering or may not have a mild form of death. His search for the necessary A-III – Adults a word. A dashing autism – and the diffuse nature of spare parts brings him into contact L – Limited adult audience, films star of the silent his search, which brings him into with the embittered owner (Ben whose problematic content many screen (Jean Du- contact with a whole series of Kingsley) of a toy shop and with the adults would find troubling. jardin) plays every role with strangers, makes it difficult for merchant’s adopted daughter O – Morally offensive panache: the handsome lover, the viewers to establish a sense of con- (Chloe Grace Moretz), a vivacious swashbuckling hero, the athletic co- nection with his plight, and renders girl he swiftly befriends. Adapted Would you be happier living a dif- median with a sidekick Jack Rus- his story, for the most part, more from Brian Selznick’s best-seller ferent life in a long-ago, mythically sell terrier. But Hollywood is emotionally trying than cathartic. “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” remembered past? A frustrated changing, and the arrival of the Mature themes, some disturbing director Martin Scorsese’s paean Hollywood screenwriter and would- “talkies” presages his decline. images, a transvestite character, a to the City of Lights, the human be novelist (Owen Wilson) gets to Meanwhile, an adoring fan couple of crude terms, occasional imagination and – via plot develop- find out during a visit to the French (Berenice Bejo) gets her big break vulgar wordplay. (Warner Bros.) ments concerning the shopkeeper’s capital, escaping his indifferent fi- in show business and becomes des- A-III • PG-13 mysterious past – the pioneers of ancee (Rachel McAdams) and her tined for stardom. Their paths in- early cinema casts a charming obnoxious parents (Mimi Kennedy tersect in a film that is at turns The Help spell. Only fleeting passages of dia- and Kurt Fuller), with whom he’s zany and hilarious, sad and affect- This warm, deftly logue touching on adult matters unhappily traveling, and gaining ing, uplifting and inspiring. One ob- acted drama com- and some mild misbehavior hinder mysterious entree to a fantasy scene hand gesture, two scenes of pellingly portrays recommendation for all. A few ma- world of 1920s Paris. There he attempted suicide. (Weinstein) the efforts of a re- ture references, occasional peril, mixes with his literary idols, in- A-III • PG-13 bellious white some implicitly endorsed petty law- cluding Ernest Hemingway (Corey Southerner and breaking. (Paramount) A-II • PG Stoll), F. Scott Fitzgerald (Tom The Descendants would-be journalist Hiddleston) and Gertrude Stein Spiritually bereft (Emma Stone) to write a book docu- Midnight in Paris (Kathy Bates), while falling for dark comedy in menting the lives of group of black Writer-director Pablo Picasso’s mistress (Marion which, with his wife housemaids (most prominently Woody Allen’s Cotillard). Eventually the past of- (Patricia Hastie) left Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer) valentine to the City fers a new perspective on the pres- brain-dead by an ac- in her hometown of Jackson, Miss., of Lights – an ex- ent, and he seeks a way back to the cident, a grieving in the early 1960s. To complete this tended travelogue future, on his own terms. At least Hawaii lawyer secret and potentially dangerous filled with sumptu- three uses of profanity, some sexual (George Clooney) and previously project, the novice reporter braves ous scenery and and drug-use references, frequent neglectful father is forced to deal the opposition of her good-hearted pretty people – asks the question: Continued on page 11... with the impact of her loss on their but traditionally minded mother two daughters (Shailene Woodley (Allison Janney) and the wildly and Amara Miller) as well as with a racist thinking of her privileged “Powerful, heroic, entertaining, and life-changing!” family crisis involving the planned peers (personified most viciously by Tony Dungy, Super Bowl-Winning Coach sale of a pristine beachfront prop- Bryce Dallas Howard). Writer-di- erty held in trust for generations. rector Tate Taylor’s adaptation of Director and co-writer Alexander Kathryn Stockett’s best-selling Payne’s astringent adaptation of novel uses vivid characterizations Kaui Hart Hemmings’ novel is nei- to bring the Civil Rights-era strug- ther hostile to religion nor to people gle for human dignity alive. But a of faith. But belief of any sort is harsh scatological plot development conspicuously absent as characters marks this as off-limits for younger grapple with fundamental ques- viewers, who might otherwise bene- tions and emotions. Mature themes, fit from its generally uplifting including end-of-life issues and story, and will even be off-putting adultery; frequent rough and crude for many adults. Graphic scatologi- language; and fleeting profanity. cal theme, brief violence and med- (Fox Searchlight) L • R ical gore, veiled sexual references, a half-dozen uses each of profanity Extremely Loud & and crude language, a few racial Incredibly Close slurs. (Disney) A-III • PG-13 Devastated by the sudden loss of his Hugo devoted father (Tom This family-oriented Hanks), a victim of 3-D fable, set in the terrorist attacks 1930s Paris, follows Bring Home The Movie That Is Changing Families! of 9/11, an intro- the adventures of a The Exclusive Collector’s Edition of COURAGEOUS, available only at Christian verted grade schooler (Thomas 12-year-old orphan stores and online retailers, has more than 2 hours of special features, including The Horn) sets out to identify the pur- (Asa Butterfield) Making of Courageous, Commentary by the Kendrick Brothers, Courageous in 60 pose of a mysterious key he discov- who lives in one of Seconds, Outtakes and Bloopers, and much more! ers among his dad’s belongings. His the capital’s great train stations. To quest gains him the friendship of avoid being shipped off to an or- Step up men and say, “I will!” the traumatized German immi- phanage by the merciless officer re- grant (Max von Sydow) who lodges sponsible for the terminal’s security Impact men in your community— with his grandmother and ulti- (Sacha Baron Cohen), the mechani- lead a Courageous Movie Night at your church! mately brings him closer to his cally gifted lad clandestinely car- Learn more at ProvidentFilms.org seemingly grief-paralyzed mom ries on the work of the drunken (Sandra Bullock). Director Stephen uncle (Ray Winstone) in whose cus- Daldry’s grim drama, adapted from tody he was left, but who has since the best-selling novel by Jonathan disappeared, by keeping all the Safran Foer, focuses on community, clocks on the premises ticking. In

12 Read full movie reviews and features at www.NewCatholicBooks.com Spring 2012