Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland

I have always loved Tomie De Paola’s books, and wasn’t disappointed with this one. “Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland” is a wonderful book that tells the real story of St. Patrick, but also includes some of the legends he’s known for, such as the one about the snakes. It is illustrated in De Paola’s masterful artwork, that is simple enough for children, but beautifully detailed. As a parochial school chaplain, I read it to my students in grades Pre-K3-5th grade. I like for them to learn about the saints and how they can provide us with living examples of how to live as Christians. They loved it!

I read St Patrick’s Confessions before buying this book for my grandchildren. The illustrations are dignified and lovely. The text sticks to St Patrick’s own account of his life and is not mythologized. Solid book for children of all ages.

Love this author. This was fun and a brief explanation about St. Patrick’s Day perfect for kids.

Loved the story but book came like this so I ordered a replacement, the replacement came quick with pages stuck together. I thought opening would rip pages but it didn't. I'm happy to own this book in good condition.

I bought this book to study Saint Patrick with my children (ages 5 and 8) for our homeschool curriculum (we follow the Charlotte Mason philosophy of education). This book is beautifully written and illustrated! We had a really simple but rich lesson that day. We read it together, then they each made their own illustration along with a narration of what we read. We had a great discussion around the themes of the book. That evening we enjoyed an Irish inspired dinner (including an Irish soda bread that wasn't very sweet and has since become a family favorite). I loved that this book was the main element of our study and celebration of Saint Patrick.

Well written story. Nice illustrations. He enjoyed it.

This book is absolutely adorable and will be perfect for my Pre-K class! The illustrations are engaging and the story is great for young learners. Unfortunately, the copy I received appeared to have moisture damage and the pages were stuck together. However, customer service was very helpful and offered to replace it with the same book. I’m excited to use this with my students once the replacement arrives!

I had a book like this when I was a kid, so happy to find this! Love this book about St. Patrick!

Class

This is one amazing book! My Strega Nona loving son was asking about St Patrick and this was simply perfect coming from the same writer. The illustrations and story are captivating for his age (6) and I don’t mind reading it on repeat for him either. This is a great addition to any personal library with an appreciation for Tomie dePaolo books.

Very touching; focused on facts rather than strictly on legend. Well written and illustrated.

Great story, very detailed illustrations

Tomie de Paola is timeless. Our family has enjoyed his books for over 20 years and now passing them on to our grand children.