A REVIEW OF GUIDO VISCONTI'S CLARE AND FRANCIS

Toni Bunker

Guido Visconti’s Clare and Francis is a colorfully illustrated children’s book, celebrating the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare, both born in Assisi, Italy, around 1200 AD. Visconti’s book records the major events in the lives of these saints, who, though born to wealthy families, gave all they had to those in need because God called them to live in poverty. They devoted their lives to ministry and modeled Christ's sacrificial love to the world.

The book begins with a chronological history of the lives of Francis and Clare, told in a way that is historically true yet also personal. The end includes the beautiful, “Canticle of the Brother Sun,” which Francis composed before his death. Click here to read St. Francis,’ “Canticle of the Brother Sun.”

Clare and Francis offers new insights into the servanthood element of ministry which is so inspiring and necessary for Christians of all ages. Children will be motivated by Francis and Clare’s willingness to serve and follow God wherever He leads them and will be encouraged by the joy these saints found in doing such service.

Visconti’s book has much to teach children about devotion to God and loving others unselfishly. It empowers both boys and girls to live out their calling to ministry and shows that God uses those with willing hearts despite the limitations often placed on them by societal or cultural expectations. Francis and Clare joyfully and willingly give themselves to others through their time, money, possessions, and food, and bless and care for those around them. Their concern for all people is obvious and encouraging.

Soft lines, bold colors, and peaceful depictions of nature characterize Bimba Landmann's illustrations. She models her work after medieval altar pieces; each page is carefully touched with gold, suggesting an element of divinity and transcendence. The gold highlights contribute to the book's uniqueness, while helping readers to better understand the beauty and significance of the saints' lives and devotion to God.

The history of Francis and Clare, coupled with the beautiful, bold illustrations, provides people of all ages a unique model of godliness. This moving story encourages Christians to live in humility and generosity and to experience the joy that God gives to those who obey Him.

Clare and Francis is recommended for children ages 8 and up.



An additional comment from a CBE staff member!

I was first attracted to Clare and Francis because of its stunningly beautiful artwork. The deeper beauty of this book, however, is in its simple telling of the lives of St. Clare and St. Francis, and how they chose to follow God and serve others in the ways they were best gifted. This book is a great way to introduce mutuality in ministry to children and is a moving reminder to adults about how throughout history God has used men and women in partnership to demonstrate love to the world.

  --Julia Butcher, CBE Conference Coordinator