A Basket of Flowers

This very old book is an absolute treasure and one of my favorite books. French priest and teacher Christoph von Schmid began writing books to read to his school children in order to instill Christian values in them. His writings became so popular that his books were translated into 24 languages. A Basket of Flowers was first published in 1755 and tells the story of Mary, who is brought up by her gentle, devoted father who delights in growing flowers and teaching Mary the truths of the gospel through the symbolism he finds in his beloved garden. But Mary’s sheltered, peaceful life suddenly changes when she is falsely accused of a crime punishable by death. Although the writing is over 250 years old, I did not find it that difficult to read. The writing is beautiful, the story is intriguing, and the messages are profound. I found myself underlining lines in the book that were packed with wisdom. Even though this book is relatively short, I gave it high points because I believe it is so worthwhile.

(Reviewed by Jenny Phillips)