OAPCE Book Nook

In our Book Nook, we love highlighting stories that gently teach children about identity, belonging, and God’s unconditional love. One of my favourites to share with families is the wooden people series by Max Lucado. These stories introduce children to Eli the Maker, who lovingly creates each person exactly as they are meant to be. Through characters like Punchinello, children see the struggle to fit in, to earn approval, and to compare themselves to others. When Punchinello meets someone who only cares about what the Maker thinks, the dots and stars no longer stick—a powerful reminder that our worth comes from God alone. These stories offer a deep but accessible message for children: even when they feel “out of place” or different from their peers, they are wonderfully made and deeply loved. They remind us that our purpose is not to meet the world’s expectations, but to live as God sees us. If your family enjoys these themes, here are a few wonderful titles to explore by Max Lucado: These books pair beautifully with conversations about self-worth, kindness, and remembering whose voice matters most.

A contemporary novel that blends historical memory with personal grief, exploring how the past continues to shape identity and relationships. Adults & Educators

Teens & Young Adults (Ages 13+) A WWI novel following two schoolboys who enlist and face the brutal realities of war. Through fictional school magazines and poetic prose, the story explores love, grief, and the cost of conflict.

A picture book biography of Molly Lamb Bobak, Canada’s first official woman war artist. It highlights her determination and creativity, offering a unique perspective on women’s roles in wartime.

Carlo Acutis is known as the first millennial saint and has been affectionately nicknamed “God’s influencer.” He used his tech skills to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles, and he lived a life of deep devotion to the Eucharist, daily Mass, and helping the poor. His relatable personality—jeans, sneakers, and love for video games—has made him a powerful role model for young Catholics around the world.

 (Graphic Novels) is a vibrant graphic novel series that brings the lives of Catholic saints to life with dynamic illustrations and compelling storytelling. Each volume features inspiring tales of courage, faith, and virtue, making the heroic journeys of saints accessible and engaging for middle grade readers and teens. A perfect blend of entertainment and spiritual enrichment.

The Brother Francis series offers a delightful and engaging way for young children to learn about the Catholic faith. Through colorful illustrations, simple explanations, and joyful storytelling, each book introduces key aspects of Catholic teaching—such as the Mass, the Rosary, the saints, and the sacraments—in a way that’s accessible and inspiring. Perfect for home, classroom, or parish use, this series helps children grow in love for Jesus and the Church while deepening their understanding of what it means to live as a Catholic.

Discover Bible Stories with LEGO Bricks! Hey kids! Get ready to dive into your favorite Bible stories, all brought to life with amazing LEGO designs. This awesome book is perfect for young readers who love Bible stories or are crazy about LEGO bricks. Inside, you’ll find six classic Bible stories, each illustrated in full color with LEGO creations: -Noah’s Ark: See Noah and his boat filled with animals. -David and Goliath: Watch David take on the giant, Goliath. -Daniel in the Lion’s Den: Find out how Daniel survived in a den of lions. -Joseph’s Colorful Coat: Learn about Joseph’s special coat and his dreams. -Jonah and the Whale: Discover how Jonah survive inside a whale. -The Birth of Jesus: Celebrate the birth of Jesus in a stable in Bethlehem.  This book is a must-have for any young LEGO fan or Bible story lover! 📖🧱✨

Parents are always looking out for the perfect bedtime book to create a sense of well-being before a night of rest. Mama Kisses, Papa Hugs explores a child’s curiosity about how love is shown between parent and child, with the reassurance that Mama and Papa will always love their little one. And like Lisa Tawn Bergren’s young protagonist asks his mother, this question is pressing on the minds of many children: “Mama, how does God kiss us?” Mama smiled. “He kisses us a hundred times a day; although if you don’t pay attention, you might miss it.”

A Child’s Guide to Lent and Easter” by Laura Alary, is a beautifully illustrated book that invites children to explore Lent through activities like cleaning, baking, and sharing. It fosters acts of justice and kindness, broadening understanding of Lent as preparation for Easter.