When We Were Saints

Fourteen-year-old Archie Caswell's dying grandfather makes a prediction that sets Archie on an unexpected spiritual journey. When he meets Clare, a teenage girl who believes she's called to be a saint, Archie finds himself drawn into her world of mysticism and religious devotion. The two embark on a pilgrimage that tests their faith, determination, and understanding of what it means to be holy. Through fasting, prayer, and acts of service, they pursue their quest while those around them grow increasingly concerned about their extreme dedication. This story explores the intersection of faith, doubt, and coming-of-age in rural North Carolina. The narrative examines how young people navigate spiritual callings while questioning what is real versus imagined, and where devotion ends and danger begins.

Readers describe this YA novel as a complex exploration of faith, mysticism, and teenage identity. The story prompts discussion about the line between religious devotion and fanaticism. Readers appreciated: - Nuanced handling of spirituality without preaching - Character development of protagonist Archie - Authenticity of teenage perspective - Thought-provoking questions about belief Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Some found the religious elements heavy-handed - Supporting characters needed more development - Ending felt rushed to some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (45 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Made me question my own beliefs" - Goodreads reviewer "The relationship between Archie and Clare kept me invested" - Amazon reviewer "Too much focus on Catholic mysticism" - School Library Journal reader review "Powerful but sometimes confusing" - Teen reader on CommonSenseMedia

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson A teenager's spiritual and emotional journey unfolds through silence after trauma forces her to confront truth and healing.

Going Bovine by Libba Bray A teenage boy's surreal road trip blends reality with mystical experiences as he searches for meaning while facing mortality.

A Ring of Endless Light by Madeleine L'Engle A young woman explores death, faith, and supernatural connections while spending a transformative summer with her dying grandfather.

The Passion of Dolssa by Julie Berry Medieval mysticism and faith intersect as a young matchmaker protects a hunted mystic in thirteenth-century Provence.

The Book of Boy by Catherine Gilbert Murdock A medieval pilgrimage becomes a quest for identity as a young outcast with mysterious abilities joins a relic hunter's journey.

🌟 Author Han Nolan won the National Book Award for Dancing on the Edge, showcasing her skill in writing about spiritual and psychological themes before writing When We Were Saints. 🌟 The book explores the complex world of mystical Christianity and stigmata, phenomena that have been documented in over 400 cases throughout religious history. 🌟 Archie's character was partially inspired by real-life accounts of young people who experienced religious visions, particularly during the Middle Ages. 🌟 The novel delves into the tradition of spiritual mentorship found in both Catholic and Orthodox Christianity, where an experienced spiritual guide (called a "spiritual father" or "starets") helps guide others on their religious journey. 🌟 The book's exploration of faith healing connects to a long history of such practices in the Appalachian region, where parts of the story take place.