a North Dakotan girl through and through, wife, mother and die hard Catholic.

My Favorite Catholic Children’s Books – a Collection of Faith-Filled Stories to Nourish Young Souls

One of my greatest joys as a mother is sharing beautiful, meaningful books with my children—stories that not only delight their imaginations but also form their hearts in truth and virtue. In our home, we keep a special basket near the living room or in the kids’ rooms for mid day story time or bedtime —stories that speak of saints, sacraments, miracles, and the mystery of God’s love.

Today I’m sharing some of our favorite Catholic children’s books—tender, thoughtfully illustrated, and steeped in the richness of our faith. These are just the few of the ones my family loves!

1. Saint George and the Dragon

by Margaret Hodges

This classic tale reads like a medieval tapestry brought to life—noble, poetic, and rich with Catholic symbolism. The illustrations are breathtaking, and the story of courage, virtue, and good triumphing over evil makes it a treasure for older children especially. A true goodie for the eyes and the soul.

2. Curious Little Catholic Series

by Annemarie Thimons

(What Is a Vocation?, What Is a Sacrament?, What Is the Eucharist?)

These sweet books are perfect for those older toddler/young child. They explain profound truths of our faith in simple, engaging language that even very young children can understand. I love how each book gently introduces foundational concepts with clarity.

3. My Mama’s Garden

by Mary Williams

A tender, poetic reflection on faith through bring who we are to Our Blessed Mother through the ups and downs of life. A unique way of catechizing children and adults of all ages about Our Lady! The soft illustrations and lyrical writing make it a beautiful bedtime read—and a lovely gift for mothers, too.

4. The Weight of a Mass & Take It to the Queen

by Josephine Nobisso

These two titles are radiant with sacramental theology wrapped in fairy-tale storytelling. The Weight of a Mass is a parable that shows the infinite value of the Eucharist, and Take It to the Queen offers a Marian reflection that feels almost medieval in its beauty. Deeply moving, timeless, and rich with layers to revisit again and again.

5. I’m a Saint in the Making

by Lisa M. Hendey

This joyful, rhyming book is a favorite for reminding little ones (and us!) that sainthood isn’t just for long ago—it’s our calling, too. It’s a celebration of holiness in everyday life, full of encouragement and vibrant, playful illustrations.

6. Heavenly Host & Miraculous!

by Kathryn Griffin Swegart

Both of these titles bring the Eucharist to life in ways that are both reverent and accessible. Heavenly Host is a beautiful introduction to Eucharistic adoration, while Miraculous! Shares true Eucharistic miracles from Church history. These books invite wonder and reverence, especially around First Communion age.

7. A Boy Who Became Pope: The Story of Saint John Paul II

by Fabiola Garza

An inspiring story of young Karol Wojtyła’s early life, filled with quiet heroism and deep faith. This book helps children see that even great saints began as ordinary children—with hopes, hardships, and a heart for God. A touching introduction to one of our beloved modern saints.

8. Go and Fear Nothing: The Story of Our Lady of Champion

by Patrick O’hearn

A powerful retelling of the only approved Marian apparition in the United States. The story is deeply moving, and the message of trust and courage in Our Lady’s words—Go and fear nothing—is a balm for both children and adults. A wonderful book for Marian feast days or family read-alouds during May.

9. Saintly Rhymes for Modern Times

by Meghan Bausch

This book is pure delight! Short, witty rhymes highlight modern-day saints in a format that’s playful, memorable, and fun to read aloud. We often keep this one in our Mass bag or bring it along on road trips—it’s an easy way to spark conversations about virtue and sainthood.

10. Saint Bernadette and the Miracles of Lourdes

by Demi

A beautiful telling of Saint Bernadette’s story and the healing waters of Lourdes. The soft, reverent illustrations invite children to enter into the wonder of Marian miracles and trust in Our Lady’s love. This book pairs beautifully with Marian feast days or family prayer intentions for healing.

Final Thoughts

What a gift it is to fill that space with stories of faith, courage, and beauty. These books aren’t just stories—they’re seeds. Seeds of truth, of reverence, of holiness. And with God’s grace, they’ll grow deep roots in the hearts of our little ones and we pray these little things will keep the beauty of wonder of The Church!

Do you have a favorite Catholic book for children that’s been a blessing in your home? I’d love to hear what’s in your family’s basket! Below I link my amazon list to some children’s books including the ones on this list!