What are some of the best catholic stories?

One great story is about Saint Francis of Assisi. He was born into a wealthy family but gave up all his worldly possessions to live a life of poverty and simplicity. He had a deep love for all of God's creation, often preaching to the animals. His life was a testament to self - sacrifice and devotion to God.

One of the well - known Catholic martyr stories is that of Saint Stephen. He was the first Christian martyr. Stephen was stoned to death for preaching about Jesus. He was full of faith and grace even as he faced his persecutors, and his story is a powerful example of standing firm in one's beliefs in the face of great danger.

One great Catholic short story is 'The Grand Inquisitor' from Dostoevsky's 'The Brothers Karamazov'. It delves deep into themes of faith, freedom, and the role of the Church. Another could be 'Flannery O'Connor's stories which often have strong Catholic undertones, like 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' where the encounter with the Misfit at the end has elements of grace and judgment within a Catholic framework.

A really good Catholic literary novel is 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Fyodor Dostoevsky. Dostoevsky was deeply influenced by his Christian beliefs, and in this novel, themes such as morality, sin, and redemption are explored in great depth. It's a complex exploration of the human soul. And 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' by Walter M. Miller Jr. is also a great choice. It presents a post - apocalyptic world where the Catholic Church plays a significant role in the preservation of knowledge and the hope for humanity's future.

One great Catholic historical fiction is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It vividly depicts the building of a cathedral in the Middle Ages and also touches on the role of the Catholic Church during that time. Another is 'Quo Vadis' by Henryk Sienkiewicz which is set in ancient Rome and shows the interaction between early Christians and the Roman society, with Catholic beliefs and values being central to the story. And 'I, Claudius' by Robert Graves gives a detailed look at the Roman Empire and the influence of religious beliefs including those related to Catholic precursors.

One great catholic mystery novel is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and involves complex mysteries and religious themes.

One of the best - selling Catholic novels is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although not strictly a Catholic novel in the most direct sense, its themes of good vs. evil, sacrifice, and redemption are in line with Catholic teachings. Another is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' series by C.S. Lewis. These books are filled with Christian allegories, which are very much in tune with Catholic beliefs. Also, 'The Power and the Glory' by Graham Greene is highly regarded. It explores themes of sin, grace, and the human struggle in the context of Catholicism.

One great Catholic romance novel is 'Brideshead Revisited'. It beautifully weaves themes of love, faith, and the Catholic upbringing of the characters. The relationship between Charles and Sebastian is complex and filled with a sense of longing and the influence of their Catholic backgrounds on their actions and emotions.

One of the well - known best catholic fiction works is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although not explicitly Catholic in a preachy way, it contains many themes such as the battle between good and evil, sacrifice, and the power of friendship which are in line with Catholic values. Another is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C.S. Lewis. These books are full of Christian allegories, like the character of Aslan representing Jesus. It teaches moral lessons and shows the journey of characters towards redemption and good, which are important aspects of Catholic teachings.

Some well - known ones might be 'The Lord of the Rings' which has strong themes of good versus evil, and can be related to Catholic values in some ways. Another could be 'The Chronicles of Narnia' series which has elements of sacrifice and redemption, much like in Catholic teachings.