Clare and Her Sisters: Lovers of the Poor Christ

by Madeline Pecora Nugent

In this compelling biography, Madeline Nugent unfolds the story of St. Clare and her sisters. Inspired by St. Francis and his ideal of holy poverty, Clare left everything to follow Christ. This decision meant conflict with her family and an uncertain future, but Clare never wavered. Her small group of followers took root, and the new foundation, eventually called the Poor Clares, flowered throughout the world. Nugent bases her work on extensive research, time spent in Assisi, and interviews with Franciscan experts. On this solid foundation, she builds Clare's story through vignettes of various characters, some historical, some fictional, creating an authentic biography with the appeal of a novel. Madeline Pecora Nugent, SFO, has been writing for over forty years. She is the author of many articles, booklets and a column as well as Saint Words of Fire, Life of Light, also published by Pauline Books. She writes and publishes brief stories of patron saints, distributed through the non-profit organization Saints' Stories, which she founded. A member of the Secular Franciscan Order, Mrs. Nugent holds a graduate degree in English and is a former teacher. She is a wife and mother of five children and lives in Middletown, Rhode Island.

336 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2003

Reviews

[Anna Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it was difficult to adjust to the writing style (each chapter is written from a different person's perspective), once you get used to it, this book is incredible. The multiple perspectives give you a broad view of the politics and history happening in the Church and in the world at the time, as well as different sisters spiritualities within San Damiano. It is carefully written & researched, and a truly inspiring look into St. Clare's life and fervent dedication to the humility and poverty of Christ.

[divergent.shakespeare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Czytalam co innego, ale musi sie liczyć do wyzwania, więc wzielam coś zbliżonego (ja czytalam komiks Pierra Dhombre'a)

[GC · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far, this account of St. Clare is one of both academic prowess and literary tenderness - Nugent is extensive in her study of both the history of the Penitential Movement and the lives of the sisters/brothers, as well as the modern application of the rule from the saints of Assisi.
Nugent writes this account as if it were a fictional narrative - she narrates the lives of these 12th century Christians as if she has been within their own minds! As I am reading, I feel as though I am coming to a much deeper understanding of the Franciscan rule - simply because Nugent focuses on the application and fruits of the penitential, monastic, God-fearing life!

[Joseph Pearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A biography that combines historical fact with imagination and fiction to bring a fuller picture of St. Clare of Assisi and her companions.

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Full disclosure: this book was written by my mom, though I do not intend for that to influence my review.)

This book tells stories from the life of Saint Clare, as well as some of the early Clare sisters, from the point of view of those who knew her. The book is sort of pious historical fiction. Most events and people in the book are recorded somewhere, but many details are filled in, including aspects of the lives of early sisters that we know nothing about, or details about how Clare did certain things or learned about certain events, etc. The author does a good job in the appendix of separating accepted facts, from things that scholars disagree on, from what is completely fiction.

The book is a fairly easy read, and does seem to record all of the major events in Clare's life. The stories are written to be interesting, and to explore individuals' personal emotional and spiritual struggles (though I'm sure some of it would sound very strange to those unfamiliar with the Catholic spiritual tradition, especially since the emphasis on fasting and penance was much greater in Clare's time than it is now).

My main complaint about the book would be that the style is not really my favorite. I think I prefer facts, personalities, and events to be described outside of a story context (when it comes to telling history), as I think then it is easier for me to see the big picture. Since each chapter is from the point of view of a different person, I also had a hard time keeping track of the personalities and biographies of all the different people involved (especially the different sisters) (though this may be because I read the book over the course of months). I also find myself questioning some of the fictional details (would Clare really have said that, or would St Francis or one of the other sisters really have acted that way?)

Overall, I enjoyed the book and learning about Clare. I think it is appropriate for someone who wants to learn a bit about Clare but enjoys stories more than traditional biographies.

[Tim Mcmahon · Rating 4 out of 5]

very nicely written. It is historical fiction but seems well researched and is well presented. the author manages to present Clare's spirituality in a real and honest way without it being hokey or pushy.

[Lisa Cmpini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book at a local parish. We named our daughter Clare because of a devotion to St. Francis, but I never knew too much about Clare, even after visiting Assisi. I thought this book would allow me to get to know her and form a deeper spiritual connection with her and it most certainly did!! The first few chapters were difficult to get in to. There were long Italian names and several characters. Once you get into the book though the characters sort themselves out and the names aren't as cumbersome. I really enjoyed how the author took real life events from Clare's life and dramatized them for a novel. It made me feel like I was reading a fictional tale, but one that I knew was true; which lead for a much more interesting and easier read. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about the lives of St Clare or St. Francis. Or even someone traveling to Assisi. Assisi is one of my favorite cities in the world, and this book helps to bring a deeper connection to the faith and history of the city.