Francis of Assisi: The Rebel Who Found Peace

By Angel B. LaFay

Most people picture a gentle man in a brown robe feeding birds. But the real Francis of Assisi was loud, ambitious, and desperate to be the center of attention.

Before he was a saint, Francis was a teenager obsessed with fashion, fame, and being a knight. He spent his father's fortune on velvet doublets, chased worldly glory, and ended up rotting in a freezing dungeon. Later, he battled chronic illness, deep self-doubt, and the heavy burden of a movement that was growing out of his control.
He wasn't a perfect superhero. He was a messy, deeply human young man who simply refused to give up on Jesus.
Francis of Assisi: The Rebel Who Found Peace strips away the caricature to reveal the radical, beautiful, and often painful journey of the Little Poor Man. From kissing the leper he was most terrified of, to stripping naked in the town square to renounce his father's wealth, Francis chased a freedom the world could not offer. He discovered that true joy isn't found in building an empire, but in letting it all go.

If you or your teenager have ever felt the crushing pressure to be perfect, to have the right clothes, or to be someone you are not, Francis understands. This book invites readers to walk with him through the muddy valleys of Italy and up the jagged peaks of Mount La Verna. You might not end up wearing a rough tunic, but Francis will show you how to be truly free.

Inside this book, you will find: A Relatable, Human Saint: Francis's struggles, doubts, and failures are highlighted, proving that holiness is possible for imperfect people.Rich Historical Context: "Historical Snapshots" bring 13th-century Italy, the Crusades, and the medieval Church to life.Spiritual Depth: "A Saint's Words" and "Prayer Corners" help readers connect directly with Francis's unique spirituality.Action-Oriented Faith: "Try This This Week" sidebars offer practical ways to practice radical detachment and charity in daily life.Group-Ready Resources: Includes a clear timeline, an original prayer, and ten discussion questions perfect for families, youth groups, and confirmation classes.Part of the Our Friends the Saints series, this book is designed to help teenagers and young adults do more than just learn about the saints. It helps them make friends with them.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0H936S313
• ISBN13: 9798187530434
• Release Date: July 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 94 Pages
• Weight: 0.22 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.0" x 8.0"