And I, Francis: The Life of Francis of Assisi Word and Image

While much has been written about St. Francis, Dunlap and Fruge-Brown have combined their talents to bring forth one of the most breathtaking books on the subject. Through both paintings and words, writer Dunlop and illustrator Fruge-Brown allow Francis to ""share"" his own stories through his eyes and narration. The device works. The book is divided into seven chapters, each with an illustration and story from a part of Francis's life--giving the leper alms, renouncing his material possessions, cutting St. Clare's hair, receiving the stigmata. Dunlap notes, in an afterword, that her text was inspired by Fruge-Brown's powerful illustrations of Francis's life. The artwork is strong, conveying a sense of the mystical, making for a beautiful book that will remain for a long, long time in the minds and hearts of readers. (Oct.)