The scope is wide, the arrangement topical, and the material (mostly) fascinating. Separate sections address
such concepts as "Atonement," "Charity," "Devotion," "Greed," "Marriage," "Imagination," "Living," and "Strength."
While numerous subjects are covered, the book is less than exhaustive. Can there only be one worthwhile quote
from a saint on the topics of "Kindness," "Ignorance," and "Doubt"? In the preface, Guiley states that for the sake
of variety she eschewed alphabetizing the selections by saint names within each category. Unfortunately, embracing
variety over organization in a reference book does a disservice to researchers. Another aspect of the volume that
may confuse some readers is that Guiley has chosen to include quotes by individuals who are not canonized or
beatified, but recognized by acclaim, such as Julian of Norwich. Including these comments in a book called The
Quotable Saint may call into question the seriousness of the approach. An appendix provides brief biographical
profiles of the individuals noted, alphabetized by their first names. Thus, a student looking for a comment by
Elizabeth Seton must look under "E." While sometimes confusing, this arrangement is consistent. Despite flaws,
this book will allow readers, especially neophytes to the topic, to brush elbows with much grand and glorious wisdom.

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