Mary MacKillop

The book "Mary MacKillop" by Osmund Thorpe is a biography that provides an in-depth look at the life of Australia's first canonized saint, Mother Mary MacKillop. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Foundress of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart: The book focuses on Mary MacKillop's role in founding the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Josephite Sisters. This theme highlights her dedication to education and social welfare, particularly in rural Australia.
2. Spiritual Journey: The biography delves into Mary MacKillop's spiritual journey, including her struggles and triumphs. It explores her deep faith and how it guided her mission to serve the poor and marginalized.
3. Social Impact: The book discusses the significant social impact of Mary MacKillop's work. She established schools and churches in rural areas, providing education and spiritual guidance to many people.

Plot Summary

The biography covers Mary MacKillop's life from her early years to her eventual canonization. It includes details about her childhood, her decision to become a nun, and her founding of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart. The book also discusses her relationships with other key figures, including her brother Alexander and her spiritual advisor, Father Julian Tenison Woods.

Critical Reception

While specific critical reviews are not provided in the sources, the book's publication history and editions suggest it has been well-received. The first edition was published in 1957 by Burns and Oates, London, and a second revised edition was published in 1980 by Petty Publishing in Sydney. The availability of the book in various formats and the presence of a frontispiece and other detailed elements indicate that it is considered a significant and well-regarded work on Mary MacKillop's life.

Editions and Availability

• First Edition (1957): The first edition is a hardbound book with a black cloth cover. It includes a frontispiece of Mary MacKillop, a foreword, table of contents, and other preliminary materials. The main text is 327 pages long and includes notes and an index at the end.
• Second Revised Edition (1980): This edition is a paperback published by Petty Publishing in Sydney. It is a revised version of the original biography, likely incorporating new information and insights about Mary MacKillop's life.

Reading Length

The book contains approximately 62,750 words, making it a substantial read.

In summary, "Mary MacKillop" by Osmund Thorpe is a detailed and well-regarded biography that explores the life and legacy of Australia's first canonized saint. It covers her founding of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, her spiritual journey, and her significant social impact. The book's critical reception is positive, with multiple editions indicating its enduring value as a historical and biographical work.