North Star: St Herman of Alaska

The North Star is always above me because I live in Alaska. Father Herman is our North Star, forever guiding us in God’s way. — from North Star: St Herman of Alaska

In 1774, a group of Russian Orthodox missionaries landed on Kodiak Island, Alaska, with the intent to preach the Gospel. Of this initial effort there survived one monk, Father Herman, who lived among the Aleut people for more than forty years and earned the loving nickname Apa, or “grandfather.” Saint Herman’s sense of humor, strict asceticism and care for the physical and spiritual needs of the natives left a memorable legacy.

In this charming volume, author and illustrator Dorrie Papademetriou captures the divine spark that shone in the monk Herman and reflects it across the pages. The world of Apa and the Aleuts comes alive in vibrant illustrations while readers are warmed by the words of this human heart aflame with divine love.