Book excerpt: R is for Rosary, A Catholic Family Alphabet by Barbara Gowanhard cover first edition.Masterful use of prose and poetry are hallmarks of Barbara Gowan's books. R is for Rosary is no exception, but it is exceptional in its added dimension of faith and family. This Catholic alphabet book provides a beautiful means for children and parents to learn together about many aspects of the Catholic faith and tradition and opens a path to prayer and worship at home. Beginning with "A is for altar," Barbara Gowan skillfully and lovingly weaves vocabulary, facts, history, children's prayer and the tenets of our Catholic faith within a familiar format that inspires the reader to anticipate with excitement the twenty-five letters that follow. As an adult I found this book both educational and moving. For children it will easily become a favorite book of reference and prayer that they will treasure long after childhood. For Catholic families it is an invitation to learn and grow in their faith. Barbara Gowan gets better and better with every book, and with R is for Rosary her talent is enriched by her expression of faith and love. Dr. Sharon H. Pristash