Top Books About Catholicism

By

Updated on April 15, 2019

Some of the most popular books about Catholicism, Catholic literature, and resources on the Roman Catholic faith have been arranged in this top 10 list of books about Catholicism.

01

of 10

Why I Am a Catholic

Author Garry Wills writes from an unorthodox perspective in this controversial look at traditional Catholic teachings such as the male priesthood, papal infallibility, and the vow of celibacy, to name just a few.

Hardcover and Trade Paperback; 400 pages.

02

of 10

The Catholic Church: A Short History

Author Hans Kung fearlessly tells the history of the Catholic Church, from a small band of persecuted Jews to one of the most powerful institutions in the world. Kung boldly looks at the controversies surrounding the Vatican, confronts several Catholic doctrines, and even faces the matter of the Holocaust.

Trade Paperback; 256 pages.

03

of 10

Rome Sweet Home: Our Journey to Catholicism

Author Scott Hahn, together with his wife Kimberly, tell the story of their spiritual journey and conversion from conservative evangelicalism to Roman Catholicism. This book encourages Catholic traditions, challenges anti-Catholic convictions, and defends the Catholic faith.

Trade Paperback.

04

of 10

The Essential Catholic Handbook

This handbook offers a summary of Catholic beliefs, practices, and prayers by Francis Cardinal, O.M.I. George.

Trade Paperback; 304 pages.

05

of 10

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The U.S. Catholic Church sketches a complete summary of what Catholics believe, drawing from the Bible, the Mass, the sacraments, Church tradition and teaching, and the lives of the saints. Believers will find challenges and answers about the Catholic faith.

Hardcover and Trade Paperback; 825 pages.

06

of 10

Catholic Etiquette

Author Kay Lynn Isca has created a modern and practical guide to appropriate behavior in Catholic life and liturgical situations, including funeral Masses, Baptisms, and Communion practices.

Trade Paperback; 192 pages.

07

of 10

What Catholics Really Believe

Author Karl Keating addresses 52 common misconceptions about the Catholic faith held by Catholics themselves as well as other Christians. In this excellent guide, he clearly explains Catholic teachings, including its frequently misunderstood doctrines and practices.

Trade Paperback.

08

of 10

Catholicism for Dummies

Authors John Trigilio, Jr. and Kenneth Brighenti present with simplicity the perfect book for those who want to know more about Catholicism. It is a casual, easy-to-understand introduction to Catholicism for non-Catholics and a reintroduction for Catholics, including a description of the Catholic Mass, the seven sacraments, the liturgical calendar, the duties of the clergy, and much more.

Trade Paperback; 432 pages.

09

of 10

Catholic for a Reason

Author Scott Hahn teaches from Scripture about the mystery of the family of God and Catholicism.

Paperback.

10

of 10

Why Do Catholics Do That?

Author Kevin Orlin Johnson presents a detailed guide to the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church with answers to the most frequently asked questions about the worship, culture, rituals, symbols, traditions, and customs of the faith.

Paperback; 287 pages.

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Fairchild, Mary. "Top Books About Catholicism." Learn Religions, Aug. 27, 2020, learnreligions.com/top-books-about-catholicism-701393. Fairchild, Mary. (2020, August 27). Top Books About Catholicism. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/top-books-about-catholicism-701393 Fairchild, Mary. "Top Books About Catholicism." Learn Religions. https://www.learnreligions.com/top-books-about-catholicism-701393 (accessed June 1, 2023).