The Voyage of Saint Brendan

Item No. 9781955890960

by Mike Stonelake

Journey back to the sixth century and join St. Brendan the Navigator, known as one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland, and his crew on their seven-year seafaring adventure! As the crew of Irish monks searches for the "Promised Land of Saints," they encounter sea monsters, dodge erupting volcanoes, happen upon the Isle of the Strong Men, and encounter a community of silent monks. The legendary journey (which may or may not be true!) is retold in this graphic novel, illustrated by English artist, Mike Stonelake, in the Bande Dessinée style. From celebrating Pascha on the back of a whale, to dispelling the torment of evil spirits, Brendan's pilgrimage hones his character and tests his resolve, courage, and faith.

About the Author/Illustrator: Mike grew up in suburban West London in the ’70s and ’80s, one of five brothers and part of a very religious, Calvinist family. Comics like the Beano were a part of every child’s life back then, although they had to be smuggled into his home. Growing up without a TV was difficult, so when he found an Asterix comic book in the local library, it changed his life. From then on the brothers keenly purchased or sought Asterix and Tintin books at the library and shared them.
 
Art was the only subject Mike excelled at in school. He tried to be more serious when attending art school, painting large abstract canvases, but after getting a job in a design studio, he rediscovered his original love for illustration. This is when he started drawing cartoons again, creating a comic with a friend that featured cartoons about religion and church. After marrying and moving to St. Petersburg in the 1990s, where he converted to Orthodoxy, Mike and his wife opened a gallery and publishing house back in London that specialized in art and photography from the former Soviet Union. In addition to cartoons, Mike illustrates for advertising and editorials, literature and branding, and designs books. He still lives in West London with his two daughters (when they’re home from their travels), a whippet, and a cat. He enjoys walking and boating holidays in the north of England.

Age Range: 9-15+

Author/Illustrator: Mike Stonelake

Paperback: 90 pages

Dimensions: 8.25 x 11.75 inches

Publisher: Ancient Faith Publishing

LOOK INSIDE... The Voyage of Saint Brendan