Review of How to Be a Saint: An Extremely Weird and Mildly Sacrilicious by Kate Sidley
There’s something delightfully curious about the process of sainthood, especially when it’s explored through a comedic lens. I stumbled upon How to Be a Saint by Kate Sidley and found myself both amused and enlightened. Sidley, a seven-time Emmy-nominated comedian and writer for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, offers a fresh take on the quirks of Roman Catholicism, intertwining humor with the surprisingly bureaucratic road to sainthood. As a Catholic who often feels a mix of reverence and amusement towards the Saints, I was eager to dive in.
From the very first pages, Sidley greets readers with a letter from God, inviting them into the slightly zany yet informative world of canonization. The structure’s clever—short sections tackle themes like “the virgin martyrs” and “hermits.” It’s like flipping through a quirky encyclopedic guide that manages to keep things light while sprinkling in genuine facts about a multitude of Saints. Each chapter is well-paced and filled with succinct, humorous commentary that makes even the most complex procedural steps feel accessible.
One of the standout elements of this book is Sidley’s ability to poke fun at the more outrageous bits of Catholicism. I found myself chuckling at stories like that of Saint Alexius, who left his bride on their wedding night to become a hermit. Sidley’s dry wit captures the awkwardness of traditional Catholic life—jokes about forgotten baptism candles and Holy Cards go straight for the heart of a shared communal experience. If you’ve ever looked at a neglected baptism candle tucked away in your attic and wondered, “What now?” you’ll likely find something to relate to here.
Reading the audiobook was a delightful experience; Sidley’s voice adds an extra layer to her already vibrant humor. I appreciated the witty narrative style as it flowed effortlessly, making it perfect for a road trip or a cozy evening at home. While the print format might feature stylized pages, the audiobook captures the essence of Sidley’s comedic flair—something that many book lovers might equally enjoy.
However, it’s essential to mention that while How to Be a Saint is meant to entertain, it may not resonate with staunch traditionalist Catholics. Sidley’s humor is sharp and slightly irreverent, appealing more to those who appreciate a nuanced jibe about Catholic traditions rather than a straightforward exposition.
Readers will especially enjoy the sections that dissect the canonization process—from baptism to the Vatican’s numerous bureaucratic hoops. Sidley sheds light on how the Church has adapted over time, creating a captivating dialogue about the evolution of faith and the instrumental role of Saints in modern Catholic life. Her observations are thought-provoking, prompting reflections on the current state of the Church, particularly her commentary on the rush to canonize figures like Carlos Acutis amidst dwindling youth attendance.
In conclusion, I found How to Be a Saint to be a quirky, enjoyable romp through a topic often reserved for solemn discourse. This book is a charming pick for anyone who enjoys a blend of humor and insight—whether they’re curious about the Saints, have fond memories of their own Catholic upbringing, or are just looking for something light-hearted to dive into. Sidley’s fresh voice promises a heartwarming and laughter-filled exploration of what it means to strive for sainthood, making it a fitting gift for the upcoming holidays or for some light reading during a weekend retreat. Grab a copy, kick back, and enjoy the enlightening hilarity that this whimsical guide delivers!
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