Description
Sorin Starts a School: The Foundation of Notre Dame
Experience the depth and delight of Notre Dame’s founding in the pages of this beautiful children’s picture book.
All proceeds support the work of the Congregation of Holy Cross.
Read about the story behind the book here.
Praise for Sorin Starts a School: The Foundation of Notre Dame
“A really beautiful book, at once fun and profound, to teach children, and the adults who read it to them, about the spiritual birth of Notre Dame by Fr. Sorin and the Congregation of Holy Cross.”
-Fr. Lou DelFra, CSC – ND ‘93, ‘03 MDiv, Director of Pastoral Life for the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE)
“Since 1842, Notre Dame has shared its beauty and its values with one generation after another, helping Our Lady lead our families to faith and hope and love. Paul Mitchell and Katie Broussard have given us a sweet little book that will help us share this story with our children and strengthen each of us in hope. Holy Cross values took flesh long ago in the ongoing story of Sorin’s school and now again in this delightful book.”
-Fr. Thomas McDermott, CSC – ND ‘72, ‘77, Notre Dame University Bangladesh
“Paul Mitchell has produced a wonderful and very honest portrait of Fr. Sorin and the beginnings of Notre Dame in a catchy poem. It is clear why this is Our Lady’s school – Sorin’s devotion and her grand response.”
-Fr. Frank Quinlivan, CSC – ND ‘66, ‘69
“Sorin Starts a School not only compellingly shares the story at the heart of Notre Dame’s vast legacy. It also opens in our own hearts the opportunities that are possible in this life when we step out in faith with love and purpose as Father Sorin did. Enchanting prose by Paul Mitchell and captivating art by Katie Broussard combine to make this a book that is sure to become a family favorite.”
-Lisa M. Hendey – ND ‘85, founder of www.catholicmom.com, author of I’m a Saint in the Making
“For all of us who love the Congregation of Holy Cross and the University of Notre Dame, Fr. Sorin’s story is part of our own. I found this book a wonderful resource for families to share that legacy with the next generation.”
-Dan Allen – ND ‘07, ‘11 MDiv, Associate Director of Spirituality and Service – Notre Dame Alumni Association
“Do not misconstrue this book as only a children’s book. It is a great read for adults and all who appreciate the school that Sorin started.”
-Sr. Sallie Latkovich, CSJ – Director of Biblical Study and Travel Program, Catholic Theological Union
“We all know Notre Dame is a special place — this tale reveals the dynamic behind that mystique: a rugged faithfulness that still animates campus through the men of Holy Cross. Sorin Starts a School is the story of what it took to see a world-leading University in the wilderness of northern Indiana — a vision that can inspire us to excellence in whatever frontiers we face.”
-Josh Noem – ND ‘98, ‘05 MDiv, Senior Editor, Grotto Network
“Read this story and you’ll find yourself seeing Notre Dame in a new way. It exposes the foundations that make the University a unique force for good in the world: trust in God’s providence and the tender care of His mother.”
-Stacey Noem – ND ‘98, ‘05 MDiv, Director of Human and Spiritual Formation, University of Notre Dame MDiv Program
Fran French –
These books that Katie and Paul have created together are simply charming! The detail and scope of the illustrations is amazing!! They teach a little history as well as how to love God, each other and ourselves. Well done!!
Chris Labadie –
My son’s new favorite bedtime story! What a great introduction to the story of Notre Dame and the charism of the Congregation of Holy Cross.
Bryan –
This book combines an incredible story with wit and artistic whimsy. A beautifully done book.
Jana –
Fantastic and fun book – especially for any one who loves Notre Dame!
Casey –
This beautifully illustrated well crafted story had both my 7&9 year old enthralled. And I was renewed in hearing afresh the story of Notre Dame’s founding – the graced and the human intertwined. An inspiring book worthy of the purchase! Can’t wait to gift other copies.
Felipe Witchger –
You won’t be disappointed. The beautiful artwork brings back so many memories of being on campus. The story brings to life Sorin’s sense of purpose and mission in a way that makes me wonder: what about my own faith, confidence, and conviction am I modeling for my kids? What am I kindling in them about their affection and sense of Notre Dame? The book does a beautiful job of making it real — and the illustrations bring me right back to the wonderful memories. We’ve already given away the first 10 copies that we bought.
Beth Franzosa –
This book has a beautiful message of how we can all hear the voice of Deep Love saying “Come, Follow Me,” as Sorin did, even among struggles and missteps. The illustrations are beautiful and drew me into the story and message. This will be a wonderful gift for my nephew to read again and again!
Drew Reynolds –
Awesome! Love the story and connecting with our kids over the story of Fr. Sorin and Notre Dame. A great addition to Audacious Ignatius!
Molly Corrigan (verified owner) –
All of my children love this book, but especially my 3.5 year-old. He loves the detailed, beautiful illustrations and the whimsical rhyme. This book is such a gift for kids and parents alike, inspiring all of us to draw closer to Christ in the midst of everyday life by learning from Fr. Sorin’s example.
Cara –
I love everything about this book, but the illustrations most of all. It makes the perfect gift for ND alumni and fans and looks beautiful on a bookshelf.