CV NEWS FEED // Throughout June, we’re not just taking the garbage off the children’s shelves in our libraries with “Hide the Pride,” but we’re also replacing it with great literature.
The books we consume as children stay with us our whole lives – the images, characters, heroes, and villains! Here are some great reads for teens (and adults!) who are struggling to understand and accept the truth about the human person, love, and life.
Look for them at your local library (or parish library, if you’re lucky enough to have one!) or favorite bookseller!
The Man Who Was Thursday
G.K. Chesterton
Detective Gabriel Syme goes undercover on the Great Council of Anarchists to bring the organization to its knees. Yet, he makes a shocking discovery… Written with the typical Chestertonian wit and poignancy all Catholics should know and love.
The Ball and the Cross
G.K. Chesterton
An atheist and a Catholic want to have a duel over the honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Unfortunately, modern society won’t let them. What follows is a romp across the English countryside in which two men work together to escape the police in order to duel to the death over their beliefs. The ending will surprise you…
Till We Have Faces
C.S. Lewis
The re-told myth of Cupid and Psyche which contains deep philosophical and theological themes. Lewis’ last and most sophisticated novel, it delves deeply into human nature and its interactions with the divine.
The Space Trilogy
C.S. Lewis
A philosophical science fiction series by the same author who wrote the Narnia books. The three novels, (Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength) are informed by Lewis’ orthodox Christianity and are permeated with the sense of spiritual battle.
Crime & Punishment
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
This Russian novel follows the mental anguish and moral dilemmas of Rodion Raskalnikov as he debates whether or not to kill an unscrupulous old pawnbroker…An interesting psychological novel about human nature.
Northanger Abbey
Jane Austen
In this satire of the gothic novel, Austen relates the coming of age story of 17-year-old Catherine Morland. Catherine must navigate the world away from her family, and the complicated relationships that come with adulthood.
The Children of Men
P.D. James
This is a dystopian novel published in the 1920s. In the novel, society struggles to deal with the ongoing fertility crisis. If the human race continues on as it has started, humanity will die out with the youngest generation. The book explores themes of existentialism, the meaning of life, and the abuse of power.
Atomic Habits
James Clear
A comprehensive and practical guide on how to change your habits for the better. Helpful for anyone trying to improve themselves and grow in virtue!
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
The original horror story, in this work Dr. Frankenstein discovers the secret to creating life, with terrible consequences. Yet, you may be surprised at who you sympathize with… A thrilling tale about human nature and the heartbreak of deism.
With God in Russia
Father Walter Cisek
The true story of American priest, Father Walter Cisek, and his fifteen year imprisonment in the Soviet Union during and after World War II. Father’s cause is currently open for canonization and his insights are still applicable to this day.
Diary of a Country Priest
Georges Bernanos
Inspired by the writing and theology of St. Therese, this novel collects the thoughts and experiences of a young country priest. It portrays the “little way” of sanctity, in which life does not consist of large acts of heroism, but consistent faith.
Autobiography of St. Teresa of Avila
St. Teresa of Avila
This sixteenth-century reformer describes her childhood, entrance into religious life, conversion, mystical experiences, and intimate relationship with God. A look into the life of one of the greatest mystical saints, told in her own words.
The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkien
One of the greatest trilogies of all time follows Frodo Baggins on his quest to destroy the ring of power and defeat the dark Lord Sauron. Tolkien masterfully weaves his tale with Christian allegories and themes, making these fantasy books ring with truth.
Unplanned
Abby Johnson
NOTE: Graphic abortion scene
The personal testimony of a Planned Parenthood clinic director who oversaw the performing of abortions until one moment changed her life forever. This book, while challenging, is a must read for those who are pro-life.
>> Want More? Check out all of our CatholicVote reading lists for kids!
14 Must-Read Books for Families
18 Must-Read Books for Very Young Children
24 Must-Read Books for Elementary School Children
19 Must-Read Books for Middle School Children
22 Must-Read Books for Teen Girls
22 Must-Read Books for Teen Boys
