The Riddle of the Tongue-Stones
How Blessed Nicolas Steno Uncovered the Hidden History of the Earth
by Thomas Salerno
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Pub Date Feb 03 2025 | Archive Date Not set
Word on Fire Publishing | Votive
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Description
Journey into the exciting life of Nicolas Steno, the father of geology whose passion for truth led him to groundbreaking scientific discovery and a deep religious devotion. Interwoven into this biography of a scientist and Catholic bishop is the story of fossils and the hidden history of the earth beneath our feet. With an extensive glossary of scientific terms and delightful field-guide sketches, this beautifully crafted book will inspire any young person eager to learn about the natural world and its Creator.
Advance Praise
“The Riddle of the Tongue-Stones is a remarkable journey into the life and legacy of Blessed Nicholas Steno. Gifted author Thomas Salerno invites readers of all ages to consider how the unlikely life of one curious young man forever impacted our world intellectually and spiritually. Illustrations by Dillon Wheelock and a thoughtful layout invite readers into a phenomenal learning adventure. Blessed Nicolas Steno’s life reminds us that the call to sainthood invites each of us, in our unique ways, to explore, love, worship, and share God by living with curiosity, passion, and generosity. Masterful!”
- Lisa M. Hendey, author of I’m a Saint in the Making
“Young and old who find themselves fascinated by fossils and the history of our planet will find here a holy companion, inspiration, and hero. Blessed Nicolas Steno is that hero, and here we meet him in story and beautiful images. This is the perfect companion volume for a middle or high school earth science text.”
- Christopher T. Baglow, Ph.D., Academic Director, Science & Religion Initiative, McGrath Institute for Church Life, University of Notre Dame
“Just the thing for science-loving kids!”
- Meg Hunter-Kilmer, author of Saints Around the World
Available Editions
| EDITION | Hardcover |
| ISBN | 1-68578-164-0 |
| PRICE | $24.95 (USD) |
| PAGES | 56 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Steven M, Reviewer
I was excited to give this book a read. I have followed Thomas on social media for a few years. And read some of his articles across numerous Catholic Sites. This was a really exciting read. The description of the book states:
“Journey into the exciting life of Nicolas Steno, the father of geology whose passion for truth led him to groundbreaking scientific discovery and a deep religious devotion. Interwoven into this biography of a scientist and Catholic bishop is the story of fossils and the hidden history of the earth beneath our feet. With an extensive glossary of scientific terms and delightful field-guide sketches, this beautifully crafted book will inspire any young person eager to learn about the natural world and its Creator.”
The book is very engaging. Once I started reading it I could just not put it down. I had to stop reading to pick my son up for work, and it very hard. It is a real page turner. The volume is written for a Middle grade or tween audience, but to be honest anyone or any age could enjoy this fascinating story. The book ends with these words:
“And it all began that day in 1666 when the enormous shark head arrived on Steno’s dissecting table. IT took Nicholas Steno’s inquisitive and tenacious mind to discern the hidden connection between shark teeth and tongue-stones and to relentlessly pursue the riddle until he uncovered the answer. God has written his truth in two great books. – the Book of Scripture and the Book of Nature. Nicholas Steno had the knowledge and wisdom to read and learn from them both.”
The illustrations are wonderful and really add to the story. As do the side boxes explaining terms, called ‘Word Studies’. It was great to read and I believe my 16 year old son is going to read it next.
A great read, and will make a wonderful addition to any home, school or church library! A great little volume I can easily recommend.
