Step into the sacred imagination of one of history's most beloved saints. Francis Woke Up Early by Josephine Nobisso tenderly envisions a quiet, luminous moment from the boyhood of St. Francis of Assisi, before the world knew his name. Brought to life by the breathtaking fine-art paintings of Maureen Hyde, a master trained at The Florence Academy of Art in Italy, this picture book carries the weight and beauty of the Old Masters while speaking directly to the hearts of young readers. Hyde's work, exhibited in significant shows around the world and held in distinguished private collections, including a revered school in Switzerland, makes its long-awaited return to the printed page after twenty-five years. This is not merely a children's book; it is a work of art and devotion.
- Stunning fine-art illustrations by Maureen Hyde, trained in the tradition of the Old Masters at The Florence Academy of Art in Florence, Italy
- A rare and reverent glimpse into the boyhood of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the Church's most cherished saints
- Written by award-winning Catholic author Josephine Nobisso, known for her lyrical, spiritually rich storytelling
- Hyde's paintings for this volume are held in the collection of a revered Swiss school — a testament to their artistic significance
- A meaningful return: Hyde's first illustrated book in twenty-five years, making this a collector-worthy edition
- Author: Josephine Nobisso
- Illustrator: Maureen Hyde
- Publisher: Gingerbread House
- SKU: 9780940112223
- Format: Picture book / Children's hardcover
- Price: $9.99
- Catholic families seeking faith-filled picture books for young children
- Parents and grandparents looking for a meaningful gift rooted in the lives of the saints
- Catholic school and parish library collections
- Art lovers and collectors who appreciate fine illustration in children's literature
- Educators teaching about St. Francis of Assisi or Catholic heritage
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