Saint Anthony the Great

K-Gr 3—A picture book biography of a Christian leader who lived a life of consecrated solitude and who is considered the father of organized monasticism. The book focuses on Saint Anthony's spiritual life and struggles as well as his kindness toward others. Chryssavgis and Rouvelas cover the basics: the loss of Anthony's parents when he was 19, his decision to give everything he owned to the poor and to wander the desert, the ways in which he was tormented by the devil, and the choice he made to live alone for 20 years, pondering how to become closer to God. The text is adequate, with some thoughtful insights about religious life, and is complemented by Brent's brightly colored paintings and decorative borders. Those who want more information about Saint Anthony will appreciate the end matter. Though this is a merely serviceable work, it provides an introduction to an important Orthodox Christian figure.