Almost five years ago, I published the Kindle version of my book, God Has No Grandchildren: A guided reading of Pius XI's encyclical Casti Connubii, On Chaste Marriage. I had to publish it myself, because as I say in the introduction, who is interested in reading a dusty old encyclical?
But funnily enough, thousands of you did want to read it. Many of you had read my posts and were excited to have an edited version, all in one place, that you could take to your study. You wanted to think more about what the Church teaches about marriage. You were willing to put in the work to find out. You got together in reading groups, you read it alone, you read it with your spouse.
And after you read it, you exclaimed, “I never knew… ” “This changed my marriage… ” “We had another baby… ”
But the one comment I always got was, “Auntie Leila, please make this a real book! I don't want to read it on my Kindle!” Or many just don't read on a Kindle, period.
Well, thanks to Peter Kwasniewski, who innocently asked me, “Have you ever written anything about Casti Connubii?” (Me: “Do I ever!”) and then expressed great enthusiasm for getting it published for real, and Alexandros Barbas, publisher of Arouca Press, who was equally excited and got right to work, the second edition of God Has No Grandchildren has been released! In both hard- and soft-cover!
And I am happy to offer a giveaway of a signed hardcover copy of this book! Just leave a comment to be entered!
What I'm really thrilled about is that this edition has a new introduction, the full text of the encyclical for easy reference while studying, a timeline of events leading up to it, and in general has been spruced up. The book, although 224 pages, is a good size to pop into your bag for book club. The margins are ample enough for little notes and the book opens up pleasingly (these are the hills I die on!).
In addition to the endorsement by George Cardinal Pell and a nice plug from Fr. Jerry Pokorsky, this second edition has new endorsements from Prof. Robert George and Kimberly Hahn.
But the most important update to this book came about in an interesting way. After I published the first edition, the apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia was promulgated. At the time, I thought and wrote a lot about this letter, which deeply disturbed me. At that point, I realized two things: one, it seems to contradict paragraph 10 of Casti Connubii, and two, that is the one paragraph I did not discuss in the book; I didn't even include #10 in the paragraph schema.
Some critics mentioned difficulties with the claim of Amoris Laetitia that those in a second relationship can basically make their peace with the Church, and receive Holy Communion, if the presence of children requires it. But that is exactly the opposite of what Pius XI (citing St. Augustine) says in Casti Connubii!
So this new edition has a new chapter, in which I carefully lay out the steps that expose the lack of continuity in Pope Francis' exhortation; and of course, continuity is essential for the Magisterium.
My original lacuna was providential; it gave me the opportunity to delve deeply into the question, study it, and offer what I hope is a good analysis of the implications of accepting this new interpretation.
I hope you will read it. I hope you will read the whole thing, because I truly believe that the crisis of our time is a crisis of marriage. Ordinary people, abetted by a corrupt clergy, have turned away from their God-given responsibility to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth in a way that is faithful, generous, unitive, and sacramental. The refusal has implications that resonate throughout the natural and spiritual realms, for as St. Paul tells us, “This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” (Ephesians 5:32)
I believe that Christianity has the answers but they have been hidden from us. Perhaps you have read the encyclical Humanae Vitae; I assure you that you will be challenged, in a good way, by reading Casti Connubii. My aim is to get it into your hands! If I can do this, I will truly rest easier, because the words are life-changing! We need to return to them.
Please note that the publisher is open to discounting bulk orders; if your pastor, for instance, wants to get in a supply for marriage prep (for which this book is ideally suited, as my explanations are geared towards those who really have never heard any of this teaching before), he should be encouraged! Or for your book club… or for you to distribute to all and sundry! Just email him for details: info@aroucapress.com
To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment! I will choose a winner next week!
And please, please leave a review on the Amazon page or in your Goodreads account. It makes such a difference to bringing a book to people's attention. I would be so grateful!
bits & pieces
- Things are hotting up. It seems like aggression has increased, and even just stating obvious facts like girls are girls and boys are boys is met with diabolical scorn, anger, and silencing. Let's be calm but strong. Dr. Paul McHugh provides a good role model and combines the highest standard of medical expertise with the clear vision and fortitude of a Catholic gentleman.
- A brief history of British socks (knitters corner haha)
- Transgenderism and the End of the Sacramental Order Why do I keep posting links about this? Please know that this ideology has entered the mainstream. It's likely that a medical professional will ask your child, if given the chance, what his preferred pronouns are. In many states, you will lose your rights over your child if these professionals can drive the thin edge of the wedge into the situation by finding a pretext in the answers to pursue “transitioning,” which is quite simply a lucrative market for them. The fact that it destroys lives doesn't seem to stop this juggernaut.
- Carnegie Hall Selects is a new series of free concert films from legendary stages around the world, featuring some of the greatest performances of music central to the Hall’s history. Each film is introduced by Clive Gillinson, Carnegie Hall’s executive and artistic director, who shares insights about the various connections to the Hall, as well as personal anecdotes about the performers and the music. A new Carnegie Hall Selects film will be released each Friday at 12 PM (Eastern), available to stream for one week exclusively on the Hall’s website.
from the archives
- In case you missed it: I talk to Eric Sammons of Crisis Magazine about feminism. In podcast form here. I think people have really not heard some of my arguments…
- I posted about summer salads and rushing and being so efficient that the food doesn't seem fresh and basically just let's be calmer and enjoy!
liturgical living
St. Mother Orsola (Giulia) Ledóchowska. Tomorrow is Trinity Sunday!
follow us everywhere!
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We share pretty pictures: Auntie Leila’s Instagram, Rosie’s Instagram. Sukie’s Instagram. Deirdre’s Instagram. Bridget’s Instagram.
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The boards of the others: Rosie’s Pinterest. Sukie’s Pinterest. Deirdre’s Pinterest. Habou’s Pinterest (you can still get a lot of inspiration here! and say a prayer for her!). Bridget’s Pinterest.
Jamaica says
This is so exciting, congratulations!
Cindy says
Yes, I, too, have been waiting for your book to come out in hardcover!!!! This is fantastic!!!! My husband and I and have friends who are interested in having a study together with your book. Praise the Lord and thank you for persevering to get it our for all of us. God bless you.
Denise says
So wonderful! Congratulations!
Pius franco says
Congratulations and really an important one at these times
Jessica says
Soooo excited for this!!
Matthew Balan says
Congratulations!
Arouca is doing great work, and I’m glad they’ve published a “dead-tree” edition of your book.
Barbara Juneau says
We thank you for offering the gift of your new book on Marriage. It looks like very interesting reading.
Katy Presnell says
Congrats on getting published. I would love to read your book 🙂
Candice says
Oh I am so excited! If I don’t win I will be rushing to order a copy, in hardcover!!!
Michelle says
I do have it on Kindle, but my Kindle is kind of like my photo library on my hard drive—I know they are there, but I never go and find them to actually enjoy them. I am so happy it is in a “bookshelf” form now!!
Melissa says
Ohh this is just what I need, being a child is divorce. Thank you for making it in print form.
Adele says
Hurray! I read your old posts on this probably once a year but I look forward to being able to get a book copy. Thank you.
Spring Maertens says
I would love to have your book! What a great giveaway!
Kirsten says
How exciting, and how providential! Thank you for offering a giveaway!
Meghan says
I’ve always hoped that you would be able to publish a hardcopy of this book one day! Now that the day is here, I would be delighted to win a signed copy. Thank you!
Jen says
I am very excited for this! I cannot wait to read it.
Rachel says
So glad a physical copy is now available! I never read it because it was only digital but will surely pick this one up
Patricia says
So excited that the second edition is here; I’ve been waiting for it since I took a class on Humanae vitae and wanted to continue learning about this area of Church teaching. I can’t wait to read it!
Barbara Juneau says
Is the new chapter included in ebook, or can we purchase it separately?
Angela says
What a Providential moment for you and the Church! I read you weekly and then some 🙂
Betsy M. says
How exciting! I am one who loves holding the book in my hands. I can’t wait to read it!
Sue K says
I’ve never read this encyclical. Thank you for offering the giveaway!
CD says
Ah, commenting! I honestly can’t believe I still haven’t read CC!
Judith says
How exciting! I only read through your old posts when they first came out. I will be sure to recommend your book to my local library; that is how I read The Little Oratory! Thank you for the opportunity to enter to win a signed copy. <3
David says
Congratulations on the publication!
Blayne says
I can’t wait for a physical copy of this book!
Laura says
I would love to win a copy! Thank you!
Cary says
So glad this is in print version!
Mary C. says
Leila, I have enjoyed your blog since it was first started. I am inspired by your writing. God bless.
Piper says
Congratulations on the new publication! Would so love to read it! God bless you!
Stephanie Finley says
I’d love to enter to win! Thank you for the opportunity.
Kris says
Entering! I would love to read your book.
Linda says
Hungry for this. TY!🙏🥰
Yvonne says
Our book club has been on hold since we prefer to meet in person. We are excited to start again and this book will make a great summer read. Thank you!
Ann says
So happy to hear that the second edition is available in hard copy! I have the Kindle version and so enjoyed reading it, but I do prefer a sturdy book that I can hold and leaf through. Love that a copy of the encyclical is included in the newer version, which will make for easier flipping back and forth from the text to your comments. Also looking forward to reading your thoughts on paragraph #10. Thank you for writing this book! It is so needed in these times.
Kristi says
I have been wanting to read this but I’m one of those who doesn’t like reading on a kindle! I would love to win a copy, thank you for holding the giveaway and doing the work to make a new edition!
Nicole says
Congratulations!!! I’m definitely buying a copy to support what you’re doing, but if I win a free copy, I will be more than happy to share with a friend! ❤️
Amanda Farnum says
Pick me! Pick me! Can’t wait to read it!
Gina says
I can’t wait to read it and make a study of it.
Thank you!
Grete says
Thanks you for the chance to win.
Andrew Likoudis says
I would love a copy.
Cathy says
Wonderful news! Can’t wait!
bigmamaquilts says
I cannot wait to suggest this book to our marriage group. Congratulations!
Toni Graham says
Please enter me in your giveaway for the signed copy of your book!
And thank you for a great blog post today!
BekahS says
I can’t wait to read this and share with my adult children. Congratulations on your print edition!
Melisa says
“To find something funny is to take away its power.” This, from the article about Beverly Cleary’s mortifications, is so true! When I can muster it, I notice that humor does lighten many situations. For instance, when I announce it’s time to check my 9 year old daughter’s blood glucose – or give an insulin shot – and she runs away, if I can make a game of it (which is what I think she is ‘fishing’ for), it changes both of our perspectives of the whole situation, and brings us closer, too. This also speaks of the beauty of reading books to not only our children, but ourselves. When we ‘find’ ourselves in stories, it is so affirming, and reminds us that we are not alone.
Congratulations on your book being published as a real, solid, hold-it-in-your-hands book! I think it would be a good read for me, as my husband and I celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary this year.
Many blessings to you and yours!
Melisa
DG says
I’m interested in reading your thoughts
Kiera says
I’m interested in reading your thoughts
Clare says
I would love to read this! Thank you!
Jenna says
I read Casti Connubii as part of my marriage prep—I would love a copy of your book!
Cami says
This is so exciting! Thank you, Auntie!
Emily says
Wow, this is so exciting! Congratulations!
Monuca says
Congratulations! This book does seem timely!
Jessica says
How wonderful! If I dont win I will be ordering a copy ASAP!
Pam says
Well done Leila! Thank you for your perseverance! I look very forward to reading this. I agree with you completely about the crisis of these times being a crisis of marriage.
Kristen says
Thanks for the chance to win!
Mary Wilmot says
Can’t wait to read it. We also just got back from Clear Creek abbey and it was an amazing trip and pilgrimage for our family. Can’t wait to go back!
Kristi says
I’m looking forward to reading your book!
M Schoen says
Sounds like a good read!!!
Rebecca says
I am really looking forward to reading your book! God bless you for all that you do!
Dixie says
Well, sign me up!
Natasha LeBlanc says
I’m definitely interested in a copy of your book in hardcover! Thanks for the giveaway!
Maxine says
Congratulations on your being physically published! I’d love to read it.
Raquel says
I have this in the Kindle version but I have to admit that I haven’t gone through all of it because of an aversion to digital reading, so I’m very happy to know that there is now a hard copy. Now for your LMLD Volumes in physical form, as printing out my favorite LMLD posts and putting them in a binder in not cutting it!
Jennifer says
I love this title! I would love to win a copy. If I don’t I am definitely going to buy a copy.
Amanda L says
I would love to read this!
Leah says
Thank you for all the advice over the years I have followed you 🙂
Emily says
This is such a gift!! I too dislike reading in a kindle so I’m so happy it’s not available!
Anne Marie Hart says
Need to talk my book study group into this one!
Frances says
So excited that there is now a hard copy! I plan to share.
Bridget says
Thank you, Auntie Leila! I read the Kindle edition, and now look forward to reading the expanded print book. It’s terribly important to build up home libraries of real books now, so thank you for making this one available to us!
Seán says
Looking forward to reading this and sharing the insight with those who will be so enriched by it.
Ava says
Interested in reading it and happy to win a free copy. : )
LeighAnna says
I’d love to win a signed copy! (But I’ll be getting the hardback in any case!)
Heather says
I am a physical book reader, so the idea of getting my hands on this (literally) is very exciting! I’d love to have an autographed copy 🙂 Congratulations on it being published!
Charlene says
Hooray!! I am so happy to hear that your book is in print.
Monica Schlais says
I would love a copy.
Danielle Lajoie says
Thank you, another book to add to my very large library.
Clara says
I’m so excited for this new book!
Cathy says
My friend just recommended this blog last night and I can see why. We neeed more faithful catechisis like what I imagine what is in this book. I would love to read it!
Nancy says
Congratulations! A hard copy will be great for book circles. Enjoyed the links.
Jalaena Kelley says
Congratulations Leila! What an accomplishment! I am very interested to read this, to be sure.
Anh Ciardella says
I’m so excited for the hardcover edition of this book! My husband and I have been meaning to read Casti Connubii together, and it will be amazing to have a guide to help us understand it and delve into the meaning of our marriage.
Kristen says
This is a great giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity! Any chance you will also update the kindle version? I’m a mostly Kindle reader (little bookmark stealing kids) and my husband is a physical copy
Only reader.
Elizabeth says
I would so love to win a copy!!
Heather says
Looks like an interesting and thought provoking read. Not sure if this competition is open to those in other countries, but I’d love to win a copy of either the physical book or kindle edition.
Kelly Mantoan says
Well, I would love to win a signed hard cover, but happy to buy one too. Sounds wonderful!
alereflammamveritatis says
I would love a copy!
Elizabeth Turner says
Happy news, indeed! Thank you for the time and effort to put things down in writing and on paper. Congratulations.
Sarah F says
I would love to read this! Thank you for your commitment to the truth.
Lori G says
Looking forward to reading and sharing your book!
Maurisa says
Pick me! Pick me! I you don’t I’ll be sure to buy one. I can’t wait to read it.
Arenda Dehaan says
Exciting news!
Lisa Guarnaccio-Racioppa says
I hope I can win a copy of your book!!!😊
Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Boever says
When we read Humanae Vitae for the first time shortly after our marriage, it changed our lives. Now, eight children and 49 grandchildren later, we are so pleased to see that you are making the rich teachings of the Church on marriage and family more widely available. May God bless you!
Laura Koehn says
I would love to win a copy!
Linda Fantauzzo says
Thanks for all you do. I have enjoyed “watching” your children get married and give you grandchildren. You have a beautiful family. There is a definite need for books like this.
Ashley says
Congratulations! I used the original notes on your blog years ago when my husband and I read it with another couple. 🙂
Andrea Montgomery says
Congratulations! I would love a copy of this! Our husbands / wives study group did a study years ago when you first posted about Casti Connubii. But I know I need to revisit it.
Maria says
Looking forward to reading your book!
Sarah says
I was one who was hoping for a print copy so I could read it! I ordered my own copy today bc I never win giveaways :). I will definitely leave an Amazon review, and am so grateful for your thoughtful perseverance in releasing your work in print so that more of us can study it.
God bless!
Angel says
Congratulations! Wonderful news!
Tracy Bua Smith says
Congratulations! So exciting! Can’t wait to read this!
Betsy says
Thank you for offering this giveaway! I’m excited to read this book.
Brigid says
How exciting! I’m looking forward to leafing through this. I’m sure that there is much to learn. Thank you for writing it.
Lillian Bielinski says
Yes, thanks for doing another book giveaway! : )
Donna L. says
Hurray! I’d love to win a signed copy–thank you for helping us all find our faith through this labyrinth of lies~
Love and prayers, Donna
Donna L. says
Hit send too soon… 🙁 I was intending to write: “labyrinth of lies that the modern world tries to throw at us”
Eireann says
I would love to win this and share it with my women’s group!
Julie C says
Oh yay for a book!
Elizabeth says
How exciting! Thank you for the giveaway!
Kathleen L says
Would love to have a copy! Much needed reading for today’s situation! Congrats on the 2nd copy. I have the Kindle version, but, will order a hard cover:)))
Cristina Baez says
Thank you for the work you and your husband do for the Church!
Amelia says
It’s always good to get another solid book and this looks like a new essential! I think of them as wedges we keep tapping in to hold back the evil aspects of our culture, or perhaps to split open lies.
I might have to start giving this as an engagement present, too. It’s really hard to know what to say to loved ones who aren’t really well-formed to encourage them towards the sometimes-difficult but beautiful, joyous truth about marriage.
Ann says
I would be interested in reading this book. Thank you for fighting the good fight.
Susan Urban says
This is so awesome. Congratulations, and thank you for authoring this book and for the opportunity to win a copy!
Stephanie Linden says
I have the kindle version and I am thrilled about the hard cover copy. I already ordered one! But only one;- )
Mary says
Congratulations on publishing your book in print form! Would love to win a copy!
Mary says
I was wondering what your thoughts were on the Ramona books. Do you recommend them for young readers? I read them as a child, and enjoyed them, but skimming through them as a parent, I’m not sure I want my 8 year-old to read them – Ramona strikes me now as kind of bratty, and she has a large name-calling repertoire that I’m not sure I want my daughter to learn!
Leila says
Mary, I do love the Ramona books because of the insight into the problems children have with being understood and with just grappling with the adult world.
I don’t think that a steady diet of only Beverly Cleary is probably a good thing, overall. And a lot depends on how they are read, if they are read out loud. Deirdre points out that the audio Ramona books she has come across are atrocious, because they really emphasize the brattiness!
Bridget says
So excited about this.
Amy says
How can I find out whether our pediatrician will ask what pronoun our child prefers? Before the fact. I live in New Jersey.
Leila says
You can ask what kinds of questions he asks your child. There are a number of objectionable questions, actually, so it’s good to find out. If they are going to do it, there’s a list…
And just don’t leave your child alone with him.
Susan Kosh says
Can’t wait to dig into this book.
Nichole says
I read it on kindle, but I’d love to have a hard copy. So glad you published!
Judy says
I would love a paper copy! So much easier to share the good news.
Lisa says
I would love to win! Congratulations on the book!
joann dana says
Dear Leila, Thank you for your important work. I am old school and love that this is now in print form! I don’t think I have ever left a post, I probably wasn’t sure how. But be assured, I have enjoyed and benefitted greatly from your voice!!
Anne Marie M says
Please include me in the drawing – I’m not enkindled, exactly, so I have never read this book and I would love to!
Mary says
Congratulations on your new book! What a gift for us all.
Mignon says
Of course, I have to leave a comment! How about, that was really sneaky of you to publish a book while we are all waiting for the Three Volume Tome to Motherhood, Homemaking, and the Collective Memory!!!!! Well done, you overachiever!
Melanie says
Pick me!
Jennifer says
So exciting! Congratulations!
Amanda says
What a lovely result of your hard work! I’ve love to win a copy, thank you.
Anel says
Me, please, aunty Leila! 😊❤️
Nina Werner says
It would be good to learn more about Catholic marriage.
Carol says
I have the Kindle version, but I’d love to have a hard copy to share with others. This is a wonderful book!
Karen says
I much prefer print versions of books; I just can’t get into e-readers. Congratulations on this latest accomplishment!
Anonymous says
This is wonderful, and I’d love to give this to a couple I know who are getting married!
Margaret P says
Congratulations! I’m intrigued enough to buy it if I don’t win and to get a few to share. Somehow I missed what this book was about.
sibyl says
I would love to win this book! So excited to see it in hardcover. My daughter is getting married and I’d like to give it to them.
Murielle Blanchard says
Congratulations!! Happy to enter the drawing!
Kate says
I am so excited to read this, one way or another!
Lisa B says
Wonderful! I’d love to read this book.
Terri says
I would love a copy of this. Thank you Leila!
Ash A says
Looks like a great read!
Anamaria says
Would love to read this!
I’m reading Hannah Fowler and totally engrossed. Great read- interesting little insights into men and women, even when the woman is so atypical.
Emma says
Yay! I’ve read the Casti Connubi post many times, and have suggested this book for book clubs… but the general consensus has been to wait for the print edition. Well, our time has come! Congratulations, Leila, on another print book. Can’t wait to get my hands on one!
Emma says
*postS
Kimberlee says
Congratulations on the new edition! I pray it will be a great blessing to many!
Danielle Elgin says
Congratulations on the tangible book! God bless.
Katie M says
Wonderful job! I can’t wait to recommend this book.
Carly O says
Thank you! I’m looking. For something for our small sharing group.
Christina A says
Thanks for the chance to win!
Kelly McD says
Congratulations on the second edition! Thanks for the chance to win one.
Karen F. says
Wonderful book! I need one!
Mary says
So grateful for this book. My husband and I learned of Casti Connubii when we were first married 35 years ago. Deo Gratias!
Dawn says
Very exciting! Congratulations!
Jamie Salvucci says
Hope I am not too late for the giveaway!
Jean says
Thank you! I look forward to reading the revised edition.
Kate says
How exciting! I’ve been hoping for a print version. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Elizabeth Nichols says
I would love a copy! (I will also happily buy one!) So excited for you Leila and so thankful for your voice of clarity on so many issues!
Katie says
Would love to win this- I’ve been hoping you would release it in print!
Our pediatrician is lovely- she made a comment at my 7 year old’s check up this week about how neat it is at such young ages to see how clearly their true gender shows (I was there with all 4 girls, and they were all in dresses and reading princess stories while we waited). Unfortunately I think she will retire before my girls are grown…
Catherine says
3 cheers for real marriage and real books! 🙂
Jen says
I am newish here, and I would love to read this book (not on Kindle!)…most importantly as guidance for my almost adult daughters. Thank you for the opportunity!
Kathy says
I would love to read this as a “real” book – I have tried, but I can’t get used to reading on a Kindle.