Nice book about Martin Luther's Wife

Katharine von Bora: The Morning Star of Wittenberg, by Jenna & Shanna Strackbein

(Unbroken Faith Productions, 2017), hb., 52 pp.

As we approach Reformation Day in this 500^th anniversary year, this is a nicely produced book on Martin Luther’s wife, Katharine von Bora. Luther commented on how much he owed to his wife, and his deep love for her was evident. Luther once commented, “I would not trade my Katie for France or Venice.”

The authors do a good job of telling the story of how Katharine was sent to be a nun as a young girl, later escaped the convent (along with other women) after embracing Luther’s teachings, and eventually ended up marrying Martin who had not been thinking of marriage. The Strackbeins continue the story telling us about the Luther family as it expanded with children. This is a great story that children and adults should know. Martin Luther loved his wife and children and rejoiced in them. The Luther marriage and family transformed Protestant thinking about Christian homes since for centuries pastors had not been allowed to marry.

The book is amply and nicely illustrated which enhances its usefulness with children.

With endorsements by leading scholars like Carl Trueman and Gene Veith, this is a great book to purchase for your family and to use as you celebrate Reformation day this year.