The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of Saint Therese of Lisieux

Happily, about 1956 the "Manuscrits authentiques," Therese's original manuscripts, were released to the world, and in 1976 Fr. John Clarke, O.C.D. translated them in the book "Story of a Soul: the autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux," published by the Institute of Carmelite Studies. This is universally acknowledged as the only authentic and authoritative English translation. Mother Agnes's version remains of interest to scholars who wish to compare the two manuscripts, or to study the version which gave rise to the original cult of St. Therese.


An Inspiring Spiritual Autobiography!!!   December 25, 2001
Cynthy (Richmond, VA USA)
The autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux is a wonderful and inspiring story of a soul's journey in attaining sanctity. Filled with hope, love, and joy, the book describes her mystical journey toward holiness and union with God and can be more likened to a spiritual autobiography rather than one of purely historical dates and facts. In describing her faith journey, St. Thérèse writes in a simple yet poetically charming style. From the portrayal of her earliest childhood memories up until the time she entered the cloistered life at Carmel, St. Thérèse speaks from her heart. In conveying the events of her early years, she describes her early faith journey through relating stories of her struggles and growth, in learning about her Catholic faith, as well as progression in grace and virtue. It is through these stories that St. Thérèse imparts to the reader her character; a singleness of mind, heart, and soul toward devoting her life to following Jesus. The revelations and knowledge that her book imparts for souls journeying toward sanctity are immeasurable; from her "Little Way" of spiritual childhood to her unpretentious words for spiritual directors. It is clear that St. Thérèse had great aspirations; one in particular was that she spend her "heaven" doing good upon earth. Her autobiography and the "Little Way" of spiritual childhood is just one of the many bouquets of roses she is "showering" down from Heaven upon all.


Faith in all simplicity and humility   October 12, 2001
This book is simply enthralling. The reader gets a glimpse of sanctity personified in Therese. In simple, unpretentious, straightforward language the reader becomes so entwined with the mind, heart and soul of Therese as to become one with her in spirit. One cannot read this book without developing a deep love and devotion for this very simple, holy person.


The Story of a Soul   December 30, 1999
This is an excellent book! In telling her life story St. Therese of Lisieux reveals in the process a sure and simple (though not necessarily easy) method to achieve union with God's will and the serenity of the soul that accompanies this. The style, while distinctively late 19th century, adds rather than detracts from the charm this book. The Story of a Soul is just that. It relates one soul's mystical journey toward holiness and union with God. I highly recommend it.