Just for Today

by Saint John XXIII

Known fondly as "The Good Pope," John XXIII was recently canonized as a saint, and his daily Decalogue continues to be a source of inspiration for people the world over. In this picture book, graceful illustrations connect the text to everyday life, showing how the statements apply to school, family, and friendships.

The pairing of Saint John XXIII's cherished words and Bimba Landmann's symbolic artwork instills readers of all ages with a sense of peace while they savor each page. This lovely book provides the perfect reminder of how to make the most of every day.

Genres: Picture Books, Biography, Religion, Childrens, Christian, Nonfiction, Inspirational

34 pages, Hardcover

First published April 27, 2015

Reviews

[Jennifer Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this very short book by St. John XXIII. This is the name of the church we attend and it makes it all the more meaningful to have these words of inspiration!

[Peter Ralston · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was troubled by the pictures in this book, especially on the cover, but took encouragement from the publishing house that produced the book, which has, to my knowledge, been reputable for a long time. The illustrations are by a woman who is from and who lives in Italy, so her tastes and intentions are undoubtedly different from mine, and so somewhat difficult for me to take to quickly. Illustrations inside the book seemed on the whole an improvement on the cover illustration. I am not a child, so I am unable to judge how an adult reading this book with a child might respond to a child's questions and observations. I was, however, distracted from St. John XXIII's meditations owing to my focus on the pictures. I wish it had been otherwise.

[Mary T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was happy to have stumbled upon this little gem. I like his words, but I also may have my students write their own "Just for today" thoughts.

Curriculum Tie-Ins -who I want to be, setting goals, one day at a time, pope, saint, Christian living

[Briana · Rating 3 out of 5]

the writing was good but the illustrations weren't for me

[Ann]

Top 10 Religion & Spirituality Books for Youth (2016)

[Stuart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just for Today is a hardcover illustrated children's book, which was a daily set of rules of Pope John XXIII. It begins by telling us that Angelo Roncalli (later Pope John XXIII) declared at his First Communion that he always wanted to be good to people. In this book, he talks about what he will and will not do today. It focuses on self-improvement, not the improvement of others. There is also talk of taking it one day at a time and resting in God knowing that He loves you. It is a simple book with a simple message, but the message is powerful. In fact, it is a book I feel children and adults should read at least once a day. About the only thing I don't like about the book is the illustration style. I can't put my finger on it, but I'm just not a fan. Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars and think the message of this book puts it in the category of must have for a Catholic home.

[Linda Lipko · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this lovely small unbound book via the Librarything.com early review program. The opening page states that when Angelo Roncalli, later Saint John XXIII, received his first communion, he noted "I want always to be good to everyone." Throughout his life he continued to hold steadfast to his original thought/feeling.

This book is a wonderfully illustrated book of his life-long intentions. The illustrations are quite lovely.
The text is eloquently written and serves as a reminder to life simply, love often and enjoy each precious day.

I very much enjoyed the artistry and will follow this artist and read more of the books published.

[Ruth Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely illustrations help depict the early years of Angelo Roncalli, known to us as Pope John XXIII.

He gave himself simple rules to follow to help him comply with a vow he made on his first communion day "to be good to everyone."

[Kim Piddington · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a picture book for adults filled with wonderful advice for dailey living. How I felt after I read it...Peaceful.

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

See review at LibraryThing, since this was received as a LibraryThing Early Reviewers book: http://www.librarything.com/work/1561...

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

These illustrations evoke elements of iconography. very detailed with some interesting bits to notice throughout. simple message.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. Words to live by.

[Laura Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous book. Fascinating subject with luminous, glorious illustrations.

[Jo Oehrlein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful words from Pope John XXIII. The people in the illustrations remind me a bit of medieval illuminations, but the setting is a bit fantastical.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made me remember what an outstanding person Pope John XXIII was. Completely selfless.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one for the personal bookshelves for sure.