Saint Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures
Illustrated by Pamela Dalton
Handprint Books/Chronicle, 2011
$17.99
28 pgs.
Goodreads rating: 4.07
My rating: 4 (The illustrations are a 5+, Paterson's words are beautiful, just a little too religious for me....I know, I know, that shouldn't impact my rating, but it does....)
Black background instead of white, cut paper and
watercolor! Magnificent illustrations.
Truly one of the most gorgeous books I know. And they’re all watercolored PAPER CUTS
! All on a black background. All spectacular.
The words, based on Saint Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of
the Creatures, written around 1224, translated from the Umbrian text of the
Assisi codex by Bill Barrett and now “reimagined” by Katherine Paterson, are
extremely religious. They praise god as
creator, caretaker, comforter, and sustainer.
Although this is not at all my own personal cup-of-tea, removing some of
the words and referring to the air – winds – sun, moon, stars – water – fire –
earth – courage … and death ---as brothers and sisters, suits me just fine.
“We praise you that in this world of hatred and war, you
still give us courageous brothers and sisters who offer their lives to the
making of peace. They are indeed your
beloved children.”
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