Frustration with others is a way of life. Our sinful nature always tends towards “me first” and that struggle is no different whether you are one or ninety-one. There are a myriad of articles and advice out there to parents suggesting the best ways to guide children with handling their emotions and this innate selfish desire. Over the years I’ve found that one of the best ways to spark this conversation with children is through story.
“Father Abbot wonders why…Monks fuss. Monks make a scene. Monks say things they know are mean.”
In The Monks Make Amends, the Monks of Archangel Monastery are having a hard time handling their emotions. Through clever rhyme, the monks, with the help of Father Abbot, work through practical ways to deal with their anger towards one another. While the story is simple, it makes a strong statement that can be easily understood and appreciated by all ages.
While the word “amends” might be a new word to many children, in sharing this story I would hold back on explaning what this word means and give children the opportunity to work that out themselves. The story is beautifully clear in the sinfulness of our anger and the beauty in forgiveness; in making amends.
“Father Abbot taps his chin. ‘You can be angry, just don’t sin.’
Monks nod. Monks forgive. Monks know how they want to live.”
Christopher Topa’s clever illustrations bring to life the monks and the background of their monestary. The monk’s expressions add to the simple text, demonstrating that our emotions are not expressed merely by our words, but also our bodies. These illustrations lend themselves to great conversations with children about how our faces and bodies tell a story. While you read, point out the grimaces, the scowls and the pinched faces and contrast that with the kindness in Father Abbot’s face. Then point out what happens to the monks features after they extend kindness to one another in the end.
While the text echos heavily Catholic themes, for those outside this church tradition, the overarching idea is still easy to understand. I appreciate the message that we all mess up (even monks!) and say or do things we don’t mean. Thankfully, God offers a way out of that mess and always the opportunity to try again. The book concludes with an encouragement from Father Abbott to hide Romans 12:18 in your heart to help in times of frustration with others.
The Monks Make Amends is the third installment in a trilogy of books about the Monks of Archangel Monastery. The Monks’ Daily Bread and The Monks’ Stormy Night round up the set written by wife, mom, author, and teacher Sylvia Dorham. Each book tells a clever tale about trusting God and handling emotions.
She savors quiet moments with a cup of tea when she’s able to catch those words and find the courage to write them down.
- Review: The Monks Make Amends - June 30, 2025
- On Teaching Fairy Stories: A Review - March 24, 2025
- Review: Two Delightful Forest Books - October 7, 2024
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