The Monks Stand Guard
Published by TAN Books
Overview
In this delightfully illustrated and rhythmically written tale, a group of struggling monks discover a powerful spiritual lesson: not every thought comes from God. When discouragement and temptation begin to weigh heavily on them, Father Abbot patiently teaches them how to stand firm by guarding their minds and turning to Christ.
Inspired by the exhortation of 2 Corinthians 10:5 to “take every thought captive,” The Monks Stand Guard introduces children to the reality of spiritual combat in a way that is accessible, gentle, and memorable. Through engaging storytelling, charm, and subtle humor, young readers learn that thoughts can be examined, challenged, and redirected toward truth.
Rooted in Scripture and timeless monastic wisdom, this endearing Catholic children’s book offers practical formation for the interior life. It encourages children to recognize temptation, seek guidance, and grow in virtue with courage and trust in God.
- Teach children how to discern and resist tempting thoughts
- Introduce the concept of spiritual vigilance in an age-appropriate way
- Present Scripture-based wisdom through engaging storytelling
- Encourage confidence in Christ’s help during moments of struggle
From the Book
Not every thought is from God. Stand guard, and take every thought captive for Christ.
Intended Audience
This book is ideal for Catholic families, catechists, and classroom settings seeking to introduce children to the spiritual life in a clear and joyful way. It is especially well suited for early elementary readers and for read-aloud time at home.
It is not a heavy theological treatise, but a thoughtfully crafted story that plants lasting spiritual truths in young hearts through rhythm, imagery, and narrative.
Practical use cases include bedtime reading, religion class instruction, First Confession preparation, and parish children’s programs.
FAQs
What age group is this book for?
It is best suited for young children, particularly early elementary readers and families reading together.
Is the book doctrinally grounded?
Yes. It draws from Scripture and traditional monastic wisdom while presenting the message in a child-friendly format.
Does it address temptation directly?
Yes. The story gently teaches children how to recognize and resist temptation by guarding their thoughts.
Key Themes
- Spiritual vigilance
- Taking thoughts captive
- Scriptural formation
- Monastic wisdom for children
- Resisting temptation
- SKU:
- 3351
- Illustrator:
- Christopher Tupa
- Page Count:
- 24
- Publication Date:
- 01/13/26
- Height:
- 9.25
- Width:
- 7.25
4 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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Best monk book yet
We love this sweet series of books and this is my favorite one yet. Great, deep, graspable morals edifying readers young and old.
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Children's book
Love the rhythmical way Sylvia writes which keeps my littlest listening. And the illustrations are the cutest! Teaches important virtues and characteristics.
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Great book and series
I have read a few books written by Sylvia Dorham over the years, and I especially love this series. I really enjoy this series, particularly The Monks Make Amends. The books have the family seal of approval from 10 years to 55 years of age. They have been family favourites as long as they have been available. And even though they are well below their reading level, the youngest two still enjoy them. The description of this book is: “In this delightfully illustrated and rhythmically written tale, a group of struggling monks learn a powerful truth: not every thought is from God. When the temptation to give up hits hard, Father Abbot gently guides them to spiritual victory with wisdom from Scripture and timeless monastic insight. Inspired by 2 Corinthians 10:5, The Monks Stand Guard is an endearing Catholic children’s book that helps young readers learn how to resist temptation and take every thought captive for Christ. Perfect for Catholic families, catechists, and classrooms, this book brings the spiritual life to life—with charm, humor, and heart.” About the author on the TAN site we are informed: “Sylvia Dorham’s accomplishments are best summarized in the words, “wife” and “mother.” She appreciates truth, goodness and beauty and is grateful for skilled artists with whom she can collaborate.” There is no information about the illustrator on the TAN site or in the book itself. The illustrations are similar to the other three volumes in this series. But the palette used is brighter and more intense. The illustrations are great and add to the lessons in the book. Personally I am not a big fan of the angel on one shoulder and devil on the other trope, but I understand the purpose and use in this volume. The next paged with the adversaries is better. Father Abbot leads by example. He is the one pitching in and starting all the work. But soon some monks think they want an easier life. Father helps them to learn to discern spirits. And to seek to make good decisions guided by God. This story is a little less playful than the others, but it teachers a good and valuable lesson. We really hope that there will be more stories with these monks. This is a great picture book in a wonderful series. It would be a great addition to any home, school, or church library!
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The Monks Stand Guard
An absolutely wonderful addition to Sylvia Dorham's treasure trove of books that impart important spiritual lessons, using the lives of monks as examples. Children and parents alike will enjoy the story, which reveals that even monks at times struggle with thoughts about leaving chores undone. They even want to leave the monastery! Where do such negative thoughts come from? The book shows through delightful rhymes and clever illustrations that we must guard our thoughts against temptations, which come from the enemy. Children will learn the meaning of 2 Corinthians 10:5, where St. Paul encourages us to "take every thought captive to obey Christ." I look forward to the next book in this very creative and captivating series!
