Introduction to Christianity
Recommended. Age: 17+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
A wise priest who later became Pope wrote this book. He explains, line by line, the prayer called the Creed. He shows why believing in God makes sense today. This is one of the great Catholic books of the last century, by the future Pope Benedict XVI. It is demanding, but it is faithful and it builds faith, hope and love. Catholic World Report calls it the perfect place to start reading Ratzinger. It is faithful to the Creed from start to finish. The shown age is 17, set by Lumen's own reading age, since Common Sense Media and the publisher give none.
For parents
Not a read-aloud. Independent reading from seventeen for a serious reader, and ideal for adults. This one age is Lumen's, because no Common Sense or publisher age was found. There is no objectionable content. It is hard going in places, so read it slowly, a section at a time, beside the Creed itself. Ask: what does it mean to say 'I believe'? Why does faith need the Church? Which line of the Creed is hardest for you, and why?