The Story of a Soul - St. Therese of Lisieux - A Short Summary & Review

The Story of a Soul - St. Therese of Lisieux - A Short Summary & Review

By: a.d. elliott | Take the Back Roads - Art and Other Odd Adventures

A Rite of Fancy Book Recommendation and Review

The story of a saint told in her own words.

A short summary:

The Story of a Soul is the spiritual autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, written in obedience and humility rather than ambition. Through simple language and intimate reflection, Thérèse traces her childhood, vocation, and interior life, revealing her “little way”—a path of holiness rooted not in great deeds, but in small acts done with great love. Her reflections show how ordinary moments, sufferings, and quiet joys can become places of grace when offered with trust and simplicity. It is not a dramatic conversion story, but a patient unfolding of faith lived daily.

My favorite quote from the book:

"If a little flower could speak, it seems to me that it would tell us quite simply all that God has done for it, without hiding any of its gifts."

- St. Therese of Lisieux, The Story of a Soul

Questions to ponder while reading:

Do you want to do great work or simple work?

Do you pray?

My review:

I love her outlook, so gentle, so unpretentious, and yet so fierce in its devotion. Thérèse’s ability to find peace, purpose, and joy in the smallest things is both comforting and convicting. Reading her words made me wish I could let go of striving and comparison and instead rest more fully in simple faith. Her trust in God feels childlike without being naïve, and her sincerity makes holiness feel attainable rather than intimidating. I hope, someday, to carry even a fraction of her quiet confidence and love.

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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life

She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.

You can also browse her online photography gallery at shop.takethebackroads.com.

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