A Boy-Sized Cross: St. Louis Ibaraki, the Youngest of Nagasaki's 26 Martyrs
- Historical Catholic novel based on a true saint
- Story of St. Louis Ibaraki and hidden Christians
- Themes of courage, friendship, and faith
- Set during the persecution of Catholics in Japan
- Written for middle-grade and young adult readers
A Boy-Sized Cross tells the true and gripping story of faith under fire through the eyes of a child.
The historical novel meant for older kids is set in a time when being Catholic in Japan could cost everything, the novel follows ten-year-old Louis Ibaraki, an orphan marked by pride, grief, and uncertainty. Drawn into the hidden world of secret Masses, whispered Latin prayers, and quiet acts of courage, Louis begins a journey he never expected.
His life changes when he befriends Maximus Tayeka, the steady and faithful son of a swordsmith. As their friendship deepens, so does their faith, even as the threat against Christians grows more dangerous. When Japan’s rulers turn openly against the Church, the boys must decide what they truly believe and how far they are willing to go to remain faithful.
Based on the true story of St. Louis Ibaraki, the youngest of the Twenty-Six Martyrs of Nagasaki, this novel brings history to life with emotional depth and spiritual clarity. It explores sacrifice, loyalty, and the strength found in trusting God, even at a young age.
This is not only a story about martyrdom, but about daily faithfulness in the face of fear. A Boy-Sized Cross reminds readers that holiness often begins small and that living for Christ can be the greatest act of courage
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Description
- Historical Catholic novel based on a true saint
- Story of St. Louis Ibaraki and hidden Christians
- Themes of courage, friendship, and faith
- Set during the persecution of Catholics in Japan
- Written for middle-grade and young adult readers
A Boy-Sized Cross tells the true and gripping story of faith under fire through the eyes of a child.
The historical novel meant for older kids is set in a time when being Catholic in Japan could cost everything, the novel follows ten-year-old Louis Ibaraki, an orphan marked by pride, grief, and uncertainty. Drawn into the hidden world of secret Masses, whispered Latin prayers, and quiet acts of courage, Louis begins a journey he never expected.
His life changes when he befriends Maximus Tayeka, the steady and faithful son of a swordsmith. As their friendship deepens, so does their faith, even as the threat against Christians grows more dangerous. When Japan’s rulers turn openly against the Church, the boys must decide what they truly believe and how far they are willing to go to remain faithful.
Based on the true story of St. Louis Ibaraki, the youngest of the Twenty-Six Martyrs of Nagasaki, this novel brings history to life with emotional depth and spiritual clarity. It explores sacrifice, loyalty, and the strength found in trusting God, even at a young age.
This is not only a story about martyrdom, but about daily faithfulness in the face of fear. A Boy-Sized Cross reminds readers that holiness often begins small and that living for Christ can be the greatest act of courage
