Secrets of Siena

Secrets of Siena

Secrets of Siena

by Dianne Ahern

Book 4 of the series!

Even nuns get to take a holiday! After all the investigations Sister Philomena’s conducted this summer, she needs one. In this adventure, Sister Philomena, her niece, Delaney, and nephew, Riley, are invited to Siena, Italy, for the famous Palio horse race and festival.

Their vacation plans abruptly change when they stumble upon mysterious documents while visiting the childhood home of St. Catherine of Siena. It’s possible they have found a centuries-old letter written by Saint Catherine along with a ransom note addressed to the Pope. Of course, they must investigate!

Their search for answers takes them on a fast trip across Europe to Avignon, France, and the famous Palace of the Popes. In the course of their investigation, the children learn about Saint Catherine and the history of the Church in the 1300s when the papacy was forced to flee from Rome to Avignon for safety.

Hardback Gift Edition: $24.95 | Paperback $14.95 | Kindle $9.99

HARDBACK
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Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Secrets of Siena is the fourth book in the series, although they need not be read sequentially. The adventure begins when Sr. Philomena announces to her nephew and niece that Mother Superior has given her permission to take them on a holiday and that they will be staying in an apartment right above the main Piazza del Campo in Siena.

On arriving at their destination, the three are greeted by a man dressed as a jester in the spirit of the festival who takes their bags for them. And that’s just the beginning of all the wonderful new sights, sounds and tastes they find in this strange and new city. As they are experiencing Siena, a mystery begins to unfold around them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

 

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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Curse of the Coins

Curse of the Coins

Curse of the Coins

by Dianne Ahern

Book 3 of the series!

The 30 pieces of silver that Judas was paid for betraying Jesus were found in Israel. The Franciscan monks of Jerusalem sent the coins to the Vatican Museums for authentication and safekeeping – but then they disappeared! The Holy Father naturally must call upon his special agent, Sister Philomena, to find them. The search for the coins leads Sister Philomena, Riley, and Delaney on a harrowing ride through Rome with that crazy Sister Lisa Renee at the wheel. In the hunt for the coins, the reader gets to visit some of the great Basilicas of Rome and discover the many relics of the Passion of Jesus that are preserved in the basilicas.

Hardback Gift Edition: $24.95 | Paperback $14.95 | Kindle $9.99

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Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Curse of the Coins is the third book in the series, although they need not be read sequentially. The adventure begins when Franciscan monks in Jerusalem find the 30 pieces of silver that Judas was paid for betraying Jesus. The coins are sent to the Vatican Museums for authentication and safekeeping, but are stolen by a mysterious thief. The thief leaves clues that lead Sister Philomena, Riley and Delaney on a treasure hunt to recover the coins.

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The clues lead the threesome to some of the great relics and basilicas in Italy. Among the stops are the Sistine Chapel, Basilica of Saint John Lateran, Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Church of Saint Peter in Chains, Scala Santa and Basilica Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. Not only is the reader given detailed descriptions of the locations, but also learns about their history and significance to the Catholic faith.
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The beautiful art, from illustrator William Shurtliff, transports the reader to Italy, and the text provides information about the customs and atmosphere in Italy. The glossary of Italian-to-English words and phrases encourages the child’s curiosity, while also teaching adults a thing or two.

TESTIMONIALS & REVIEWS

“In this third adventure, Riley and Delaney are on a treasure hunt around Rome searching for the coins that Judas received for betraying Jesus.  Someone has stolen the coins and has stashed them in various churches with mysterious notes!  I love how Aunt Philomena, secret agent to the Pope, allows Riley and Delaney to help her in the most fun ways.  Their antics had me laughing, holding my breath, and breathing sighs of relief, especially when they were being driven by Sister Lisa Renee!  I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.” – Sr. Paule Pierre Barbeau, OSB, Duluth, Minnesota

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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Break-In at the Basilica

Break-In at the Basilica

Break-In at the Basilica

by Dianne Ahern

Book 2 of the series! 

Luigi, a desperately poor man, breaks into the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, Italy, to steal something of great value. He hides behind the wooden choir stalls and waits for nightfall. The howl of a wolf breaks the quiet of the night and a burst of warm air sends chills down his spine. Thus begins another adventure with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope. Eager to assist their aunt and find clues, Sister Philomena’s niece and nephew explore the basilica, study its frescos, sneak into the tomb of Saint Francis, wander through the hill town of Assisi, and end up in the little church of San Damiano. Every once in a while they spot a wolf, hear its howl or feel its presence. Is it real or a spirit? Good or evil? What is it trying to tell them? Woven into this great tale of adventure are the personal stories of Saint Francis and Saint Clare and the sights and sounds of Assisi.

Hardback Gift Edition: $24.95 | Paperback $14.95 | Kindle $9.99

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Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Break-In at the Basilica finds Luigi, a desperately poor man, breaking into the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy, to steal something of great value. He hides behind the wooden choir stalls and waits for the right time. The howl of a wolf breaks the quiet of the night and a burst of warm air sends chills down Luigi’s spine. Thus begins this Adventure with Sister Philomena, Special Agent for the Pope. A boy, Riley, and his little sister, Delaney, are sent to Italy to stay with their aunt, Sister Philomena. At first the kids were sure this would be a miserable summer stuck in a convent with a bunch of nuns that do nothing but go to church and pray all day. Boy, were they wrong!

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Sister Philomena, the Pope’s private eye, is called upon to go to Assisi to investigate the break-in and theft of the priceless Chartula of Saint Francis and she has no alternative but to take the children with her. Eager to assist their aunt and find clues, Riley and Delaney explore the basilica, study its frescos, sneak into the tomb of Saint Francis, wander through the hill town of Assisi, and end up in the little church of San Damiano. Every once in a while they spot a wolf, hear its howl or feel its presence. Is it real or a spirit? Good or evil? What is it trying to tell them? Woven into this great tale of adventure are the personal stories of Saint Francis and Saint Clare and the sights and sounds of Assisi. The book also has an appendix of Italian words and phrases that will help young readers become world travelers.

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TESTIMONIALS & REVIEWS

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From Sr. Paule Pierre Barbeau, OSB

A theft at the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and a mysterious wolf are at the center of Riley and Delaney’s second adventure.  Riley and Delaney learn about St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare of Assisi, and I was touched by the inclusion of a blessing by St. Francis as well as one of his prayers.  I loved how Riley and Delaney were able to solve the crime by doing what kids do – play!  It was also heartwarming that the main message of the story turned out to be one of forgiveness and mercy. water in baptism, the baptism of Christ, anointing with oil and the baptismal gown. In the back are pages for photographs and “My Baptism Memories.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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Lost in Peter’s Tomb

Lost in Peter’s Tomb

Lost in Peter’s Tomb

by Dianne Ahern

Book 1 of the series!

Lost in Peter’s Tomb is the first book in a series of mystery adventures designed to present the stories of the saints in an intriguing and educational manner. Set in modern Italy, the stories follow a brother and sister in their adventures with their Aunt, who is a special agent for the Pope. In this first adventure, Sister Philomena and the children track an intruder in St. Peter’s Basilica and help recover the missing relics of St. Peter, all the while learning about St. Peter’s life. Children will be introduced to Italian words and phrases, learn about the Vatican and Italian lifestyles, as well as famous places and works of art in Italy.

Hardback Gift Edition: $24.95 | Paperback $14.95 | Kindle $9.99

HARDBACK
PAPERBACK
eBOOK
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Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Riley and Delaney are supposed to stay with their aunt, Sister Philomena, in her convent near Rome for the summer. Riley expects this to be a horrible summer living with a bunch of nuns with nothing to do but pray and go to church. That attitude starts to change when the secret nature of their aunt’s work begins to unfold.

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On their first morning in Italy, Sister Philomena rushes Riley and Delaney to the Vatican to help the Pope with an intruder in the Apostolic Palace.

“The real Pope? How can his aunt know the real Pope? She must be nuts,” thinks Riley. As it turns out, not only does she know the Pope, but Sister Philomena is the Pope’s special agent and private investigator.

In Book One of Adventures with Sister Philomena the children learn about St. Peter, explore the Vatican Gardens, follow a mischievous white cat, make friends with a Swiss Guard, discover the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, and fall upon the mystery of Peter’s tomb and relics. Unexpectedly they help the Pope and their aunt solve the mystery of the intruder and the theft of St. Peter’s bones!

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Lost in Peter’s Tomb is the first book in a series of mystery adventures designed to present the stories of the saints in an intriging and educational manner. Set in modern Italy, the stories follow a brother and sister in their adventures with their Aunt who is a special agent for the Pope. Children will be introduced to Italian words and phrases, learn about the Vatican and Italian lifestyles, and famous places and works of art in Italy.

TESTIMONIALS & REVIEWS

“I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful book full of adventure.  I felt as though I was actually with Riley and Delaney on their adventure around the Vatican.  It was one surprise after another, as Riley and Delaney explored all around the Papal Palace, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Museum – with the Pope’s blessing, of course – and discovered a few secrets not known to the general public!  No wonder Riley has warmed to the idea of spending quality time with his aunt, Sister Philomena – secret agent to the Pope.  I can’t wait to see what other adventures await Riley and Delaney.” Sister Paule Pierre Barbeau, OSB (September 17, 2016)

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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Today I Made My First Reconciliation

Today I Made My First Reconciliation

Today I Made My First Reconciliation

by Dianne Ahern

Wonderfully instructional book!

Best friends Maria and Riley accidentally break a window then lie to their parents. Their growing discomfort coincides with encounters with their parish priests and teachers and lessons of forgiveness, love and reconciliation. Includes a “Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation” and memory book section.

This book carries theimprimatur of the Catholic Church.

Price: $19.95





BULK ORDERS
Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Best friends Maria and Riley accidentally break a window while playing ball. They fear they have done something wrong, anticipate the consequences, then decide to lie to their parents about it.

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Coincidentally, they are just learning about sin and the commandments in their religion classes in preparation for the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. After Ms. Kelly explains sin to the children, Maria and Riley know they are in big trouble but don’ t know quite what to do. Words like penance, reconciliation, and absolution are just too big and too confusing.

One day the children coax Father Mike and Sister Mary Rose to join them in an impromptu soccer game. Afterwards, Father questions them about their lessons and then provides examples of how children can commit sins that offend God.

As time passes, Maria and Riley grow more uncomfortable and feel alienated from their parents and each other. Events lead them to question: Can sin make me sick? If I did something bad, would you still love me?

Along the way their parish priests, teachers, and parents use stories of the prodigal son, Adam and Eve, the temptation of Jesus in the desert, ‘hit and run’ accidents, and Jesus’ suffering on the cross to explain sin, repentance, forgiveness, and God’s grace.

Father Hugo, their pastor who loves to de-mystify the church for the children, takes the class on a visit to the reconciliation room and answers their questions and fears about going to confession.

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Through it all Maria and Riley begin to understand. However, it isn’t until they research the meaning of reconciliation, penance and absolution on their own, that they see the whole picture.

Full of confidence, Maria and Riley make their First Reconciliation and witness the peace and joy that is theirs through sacramental graces.

Today I Made My First Reconciliation is a storybook, a reference book, and a memory book.

The “Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation” contains information on confessionals, the Commandments, examination of conscience, prayers, how to go to confession, and includes scriptural references.

The “Memories of My First Reconciliation Day” section allows the first-time penitent and his or her family to personalize the book and create a lasting memory of this special day.

TESTIMONIALS


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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Today I Made My First Communion

Today I Made My First Communion

Today I Made My First Communion

by Dianne Ahern

A favorite gift for First Communion!

Join Maria and Riley and their classmates as they offer to help Father Hugo solve the Mystery of the Eucharist. Learn about the Church, the Mass, music and prayer. “Look in the Back of the Book” for clues and information on the sacrament. A keepsake book to record events of the day.

This book carries the imprimatur of the Catholic Church.

Price: $19.95 hardback gift edition





BULK ORDERS
Listen to "Bonus Episode: Christine Mooney-Flynn interviews Dianne Ahern, Author of Today I Was Baptized and Others (December 6, 2020)" on Spreaker.

About the Book

Join Maria and Riley as they enter their church to begin First Communion classes. The children’s anxiousness gives way to curiosity and finally to confidence as they offer to help Father Hugo solve the Mystery of the Eucharist!

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Although initially taken-back by this offer, Father Hugo deftly turns it into a teaching opportunity. He challenges the children to look throughout the church for clues to solve the Mystery. Then he explains how the things they find point to the Eucharist.

Other members of the parish staff get involved too! Deacon Paul helps the class with their prayers. Sister Mary Rose, the music minister, invites them visit the choir loft and discover the importance of music. Their teacher, Ms. Kelly, brings it all together as she explains the Mass to the children.

When it’s Father Hugo’s turn to explain the Eucharist, he makes the connection between the Last Supper, the Mass, and the clues the children found in the church during their earlier classes. However, Maria and Riley continue to struggle with the Mystery.

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Following an evening of family participation in Benediction and Adoration, Maria and Riley find their prayers are answered. A miracle happens and the Mystery is solved. (Sorry, you have to read the book to discover how the Mystery is solved!)

Full of confidence and joy, Maria and Riley receive the Eucharist at their First Holy Communion.

Today I Made My First Communion is a storybook, a reference book, and a memory book. The “Look in the Back of the Book” reference section contains a rendered drawing of ‘Our Church’ and expands the understanding of prayers, the commandments, and the ‘Parts of the Mass’. The “Memories of My First Communion Day” section allows the First Communicant and his or her family to personalize the book and create a lasting memory of this special day.

TESTIMONIALS

AMSNews
(Archdiocese of Military Services) Vol 2 No 3, 2003
“Spreading the Faith” a letter from the Archbishop
“I was especially taken by a series of colorful, highly informative and attractive gift books ($19.95 each), ‘Today I Was Baptized’, ‘Today I Made My First Communion’, and ‘Today We Became Engaged’, each solid, amazingly comprehensive and bound to appeal to the whole family.” Edwin F. O’Brien, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA

 

The Daily Journal
August 7, 2003
Book makes prepration for First Communion fun

Learning about Holy Communion in the Catholic Church can be fun.

Just read the new book, ‘Today I Made My First Communion’ ($19.95 by publisher Aunt Dee’s Attic), written by Dianne Ahern, who grew up on a farm near Dwight.

Although it explains the Catholic church’s sacrament of Holy Communion and its origins in terms children 9-12 years can understand, their parents also may find it a learning experience.

Ahern’s latest book is structured into three parts all within the same book: the story, a very handy reference section of definitions and a memory book.

The author says she made her First Communion at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Campus, Illinois, at the age of 7. Growing up on a nearby family farm, she learned to appreciate her faith, family, and freedom to pursue the world.

The book tells the story about the steps Catholics take to prepare for First Communion through the eyes of two children, Riley and Maria, who are about 8 years old. Both are very concerned that the 12 weeks of classes will be really hard — even confusing.

But Father Hugo makes the experience interesting by presenting it as the “Mystery of the Eucharist.”

The clues to solve the mystery can be found as the children study different elements of the Catholic religion: Prayers, the Commandments, parts of Mass, and, of course, what Communion actually means.

Father Hugo said, “When you and I receive the Body and Blood of Jesus in Holy Communion, we receive special sacramental graces that help us to live our lives according to His rules. And, if we believe in Him, love our neighbors, and live our lives according to the Commandments, we will live forever with God in heaven.”

The text is broken up by the eye-catching illustrations of Katherine Larson. One is a large, colorful picture of the interior of a church which names all the different parts, from stained glass windows to the holy water font. Their definitions are explained on the next page. Behind that are pages giving prayers, explaining the Rosary and giving a detailed explanation for each part of the Mass.

Adults who are not familiar with the Catholic faith, will find these pages very helpful.

At the end of the book are seven pages where children can put the name and pictures of the people who shared the day with them to help make the First Communion experience even more memorable.

There is a lot to learn, so children may need several nights to absorb everything, listening and asking questions as they go. But the book will help them understand that going to church is much more important than just a Sunday morning habit.

The author has also written “Today I Was Baptized, “Today We Became Engaged” and other books.

 

CRUX of the News
August 18 AD 2003
Workbook, keepsake
Cleverly designed, illustrated and written, ‘Today I Made My First Communion’ combines the fun of a mystery story with the helpfulness of a workbook and the joy of a keepsake for children and their parents as the child receives First Communion. The book begins with two friends who are preparing for their First Communion, and are determined to figure out the “Mystery of the Eucharist.” Author Dianne Ahern and illustrator Katherine Larson combine their talents to tell a story that will keep the children involved and interested. Farther back in the book are the workbook and keepsake parts. The former includes a “map” of the church that shows the different parts (ambo, baptismal font, holy water receptacle, etc.) and defines them in terms that children can understand, as well as prayers that children should learn, and an explanation of the rosary, the ten commandments and a thorough look at the parts of the Mass, with definitions. Following that is the keepsake protion of the book, allowing children (and parents) to write thoughts and dates, places and times, as well as place for pictures or drawings. A fun idea for teachers and children.

 

Faith Magazine
(Diocese of Lansing), June 2003
Reviews, Today I Made My First Communion

‘Today I Made My First Communion’ is a beautifully designed storybook, which proceeds into a reference section and ends as a keepsake memory book. Written, illustrated and published in Ann Arbor, it is presented at a level at which everyone — including those making their First Communion and the parents — can understand, learn and enjoy.

A delightful, informative children’s story comprises the majority of the book. As readers join members of a First Communion class trying to understand the mystery of the Eucharist, some may recognize St. Thomas the Apostle Church and Fr. Roger Prokop in the wonderful illustrations. A reference sections follows, which contains things such as an illustrated “map of our church” and a step-by-step explanation of the order of the Mass. It also features the Commandments and popular prayers, including a guide to praying the rosary.

Lastly, a memories sections is provided, offering the opportunity for this book to become a personalized First Communion keepsake. This local treasure is a perfect way to create a lasting memory and grow in understanding of this special day.

 

The Southern Cross
(Diocese of San Diego) April 17, 2003
Children’s Book on First Communion Helps Teach About Eucharist

What to get a child for First Communion? You have your rosary, your First Prayer Book, a crucifix, a medal, a necklace.

Perhaps you should consider ‘Today I Made My First Communion’, a new book in the Aunt Dee’s Attic series of books on the sacraments.

This book is written primarily for children who are about to make their First Communion and their families. However, it may help others to learn about the Catholic Church and the Eucharist, as well.

The book would also make an excellent ‘refresher’ gift for a confirmation candidate.

The picture book, with lengthy and informative text, tells a tail about what happens when an affable parish priest is confronted by a pair of curious second graders who want to know about the Mystery of the Eucharist.

The story follows Maria and Riley as they enter their church to begin First Communion classes. The children’s initial anxiety gives way to curiosity and finally to confidence as they offer to help Father Hugo solve the Mystery of the Eucharist.

Although initially taken aback by this offer, Father Hugo deftly turns their questions into a teaching opportunity, challenging the children to look throughout the church for clues to solve the Mystery. Then he explains how things they find point to the Eucharist.

‘Today I Made My First Communion’ is wonderful combination of storybook, reference book, and memory book.

In the storybooks section, the author mixes a bit of ‘who-done-it’ drama with traditional religious education to uncover the mystery of our faith.

The reference section includes things children should know when making First Communion, including a rendered drawing of “our Church” and expands the understanding of prayers, the commandments and the ‘parts of the Mass.’

The Memories of My First Communion section allows the First Communicant and family to personalize the books and create a lasting memory of this special day.

 

The Catholic Telegraph
(Archdiocese of Cincinnati), March 5, 2004

Books help children solve ‘the mystery of the Eucharist’

What happens when affable Father Hugo, a parish priest, is confronted by a pair of curious second-graders who want to help him solve “the mystery of the Eucharist”?

In Today I Made My First Communion ($19.95 hardcover), author Dianne Ahern, a Catholic writer from Michigan, turns a second-grader’s confusion into a story of a pastor who finds himself blessed with the opportunity to teach the first Communion class at this parish school about the sacrament.

Among characters figuring prominently in the book are the two children, the parish deacon, the music minister and the second-grade teacher.

The book uses the setting of the class preparation for first Communion to teach children — and adults — that the songs sung and prayers spoken all point to the Eucharist.

There’s a bit of whodunit drama mixed in with traditional religious education so that children find a new way to uncover the mystery of faith.

A reference section is also included, helping children learn the terms they should know when making first Communion. And the last section of the book allows a child and his or her family to record the events of their special day, making it a lasting keepsake.

The book is the third in a series of books on the Sacraments authored by Ahern. “I want to preserve all the pomp and circumstance that goes along with our rites of passage,” she explained. “But more importantly, I want people to understand and reflect on how important certain events, and in this case, the sacraments are in our lives.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Dianne Ahern grew up on a farm in Illinois, has traveled extensively for business and pleasure, and now resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Technology from Marian College (University), and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University.  After rewarding careers in laboratory medicine, hospital administration, and healthcare consulting, Dianne found a new love: researching and writing about the events that shape our lives.

It was after her first Vatican visit in 1999, when Dianne looked into the eyes of Pope (Saint) John Paul II, held his hand, and kissed his ring, that she felt called to write books for Catholic children and their families.  Already a successful businesswoman, Dianne formed her own publishing company, Aunt Dee’s Attic, to support her new calling.

Beginning with the sacrament of baptism, Dianne outlined a series of books on the sacraments designed to prepare families for these most important events.  Her books’ formats merge storybook, reference book, and memory book elements into beautiful keepsake books. The sacrament books feature the imprimatur of the Catholic Church to assure families that the contents are true Church teachings.

In addition to her books on the sacraments, Dianne has developed a series of adventure/mystery books for young readers subtitled Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent to the Pope.  The Adventure books place fictional characters in real settings to teach about the Church, saints, and holy places.  Her books have won accolades from retailers, readers, clergy, teachers, grandparents, and moms and dads.

OTHER CHILDREN’S BOOKS

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