From School Library Journal
Grade 2-5 - This informative and eloquent biography highlights the key moments in the life of the diminutive but determined nun and the ongoing quest to have her canonized. In clear, readable prose and richly colored paint-and-ink illustrations adorned with decorative gold-leaf borders, Demi conveys Mother Teresa's innate goodness and religious devotion while recounting the story of her inspiring accomplishments on behalf of the "poorest of the poor." The narrative focuses on Mother Teresa's experiences coming to the aid of countless unfortunate, diseased, orphaned, and forgotten citizens around the world; describes the far-reaching work of her order, the Missionaries of Charity; and concludes with the many humanitarian honors and awards bestowed upon her. Every element of this lovely book reflects Mother Teresa's simple message of service, including the endpapers, which feature her words of wisdom enclosed in frames of kneeling Missionaries of Charity in their trademark white-and-blue saris. An elegantly executed title.
- Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.Gr. 3-5. Demi has done several picture-book biographies of religious figures, but this one seems to have a special fervor. Perhaps it's because of the reverence Demi feels for her subject. Or maybe it's the Apostolic Blessing from Pope John Paul II reproduced on the back cover. In any case, Demi artistically captures the nun's mission, especially in her use of Christian and Indian decorative motifs to enhance the gritty reality of India and its poor. However, Demi seems so enamored of her subject that she piles on the facts, leading to a text that is slowed by its weight. There are dramatic moments, as when young Agnes hears the call to religious life or awakens to the disease and misery around her. But gospel quotes aren't always well integrated, and there's too much about financial donations and what they bought. The square, framed pictures, with touches of illumination, demand several looks to appreciate the tragedies and glories that are displayed. Ilene Cooper
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
