From Ordinary Girls to Extraordinary Saints

Author Claire Swinarski has released a new historical fiction series titled Fiat Girls to help young readers connect with the childhoods of famous saints. Published by Ascension, the series follows St. Rose of Lima, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and St. Teresa of Calcutta as nine-year-old girls.

Swinarski, a member of St. Charles in Hartford and an Edgar Award nominee, wrote the books to make saints more relatable by imagining events from their early lives. The stories are intended for girls between the ages of 6 and 12, though Swinarski noted that boys may also enjoy them.

The series uses the distinct personalities and spiritual gifts of the three saints to engage readers. Swinarski stated that the story of St. Thérèse of Lisieux can be empowering for readers, while the account of St. Rose of Lima aims to show young girls that physical beauty is only one part of their identity.