6 best catholic books for young men
Catholic men today face a lot of struggles in a world that often pulls them away from their faith. Reading quality Catholic books provides spiritual guidance, strengthens resolve, and offers practical wisdom for navigating life’s complexities. These books help men develop their relationship with God, understand their roles as husbands and fathers, and grow in virtue.
Below are our top picks of Catholic books for young men with a brief description, key features, and a summary of reader feedback.
1. Be a Man!: Becoming the Man God Created You to Be by Fr. Larry Richards
Fr. Larry Richards speaks directly to men about embracing authentic Catholic masculinity. The book challenges readers to move beyond false strength and machismo, instead focusing on developing courage, compassion, and integrity. Fr. Richards combines scriptural wisdom with relatable personal experiences to guide men in understanding their identity as sons of God. His straightforward, no-nonsense approach resonates particularly well with young men seeking practical guidance.
Key Features:
- Addresses key aspects of manhood: purpose, faults, relationships, sexuality, and love
- Includes practical action items at the end of each chapter
- Written in an accessible, conversational style that feels like direct mentorship
- Substantiates teachings with abundant Scripture references
- Provides a clear roadmap for spiritual growth with 30 concrete tasks to accomplish
Reader Feedback:
Readers consistently praise the book’s directness and practicality. Many highlight how Fr. Richards seems to “speak directly to them” through his writing, making complex spiritual concepts relatable. Numerous reviewers mention purchasing multiple copies to share with friends and family members after seeing positive changes in their own lives. The book’s combination of theological depth and straightforward advice makes it accessible to men at different stages of their faith journey. One reviewer summed it up: “If every man who reads this book would do exactly what it says…this world would be a much better place.”
2. The Catholic Gentleman: Living Authentic Manhood Today by Sam Guzman
Sam Guzman addresses the confusion surrounding masculinity in modern culture by returning to timeless Catholic wisdom. The book provides a practical roadmap for virtuous manhood that counters cultural distortions while embracing authentic Catholic identity. Guzman explores how Catholic traditions, rituals, and practices can shape a man’s character and help him live with purpose in a confused world.
Key Features:
- Short, easy-to-read chapters on various aspects of Catholic manhood
- Practical guidance on courtesy, tradition, and authentic masculinity
- Addresses modern challenges to traditional gender roles
- Balances spiritual growth with practical everyday applications
- Includes guidance on prayer, humility, and developing holiness
Reader Feedback:
Readers appreciate the book’s timely message and accessible format. Many mention how it serves as an excellent introduction to Catholic manhood for those just beginning their faith journey. The book receives particularly strong praise from fathers looking to guide their sons and from men’s group leaders who use it as a discussion starter. Some readers note that while the concepts are traditional, the presentation feels fresh and relevant to contemporary challenges. A few reviewers mention they would have appreciated more depth on certain topics, but most find the concise format perfect for busy modern readers.
3. The Catholic Guide Through Anxiety by Catherine DiNuzzo
This unique book addresses anxiety from both Catholic spiritual and mental health perspectives. Catherine DiNuzzo combines professional counseling expertise with Catholic faith principles to help readers understand anxiety as a biological response while providing spiritual tools for managing it. The book’s approach validates the reader’s experience while offering practical strategies rooted in both scientific understanding and Catholic tradition.
Key Features:
- Purposefully designed with spaced, easy-to-read format (134 pages)
- Combines biological understanding of anxiety with Catholic spiritual practices
- Includes prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and quotes from saints
- Features practical action plans and coping strategies
- Foreword by Fr. John Paul Mary Zeller, MFVA (EWTN)
- Suitable for readers of all ages, including teens and college students
Reader Feedback:
Readers consistently praise this book for its unique integration of Catholic spirituality with practical mental health strategies. Many reviewers mention experiencing breakthroughs in understanding their anxiety after years of struggle. The concise format receives particular appreciation from those who find lengthy anxiety resources overwhelming. Catholic readers value the spiritual dimension that seems missing from secular mental health resources. Some mention purchasing multiple copies to share with family members or parish groups. The book appears to resonate strongly with readers seeking a holistic approach that honors both their faith and the reality of mental health challenges.
4. The Young Man’s Guide: Counsels, Reflections and Prayers for Catholic Young Men by Fr. Lasance
This classic spiritual guide (originally published in 1910) presents life as a spiritual battle requiring preparation and virtue. Fr. Lasance uses the imagery of knighthood to inspire young men toward noble character and faithful Catholic living. Though written over a century ago, its timeless wisdom on character formation, virtue, and spiritual discipline continues to resonate with young men seeking depth in their faith journey.
Key Features:
- Presents spiritual life as a heroic journey requiring courage and discipline
- Includes essential Catholic prayers and preparation for Confession
- Features practical guidance on developing virtues and overcoming vices
- New illustrations bring classic text to life for modern readers
- Serves as inspiration for the Blue Knights boys clubs
Reader Feedback:
Readers appreciate the timeless wisdom found in this classic text. Many value its traditional Catholic approach and clear moral guidance. Some reviewers express disappointment that this edition is abridged, omitting approximately 300 pages of prayers, novenas, and the Latin Missal from the original. While some find this makes the book more accessible and affordable, others would have preferred the complete edition. Despite this criticism, most readers find the content that remains to be valuable for spiritual formation and character development.
5. Unshaken Catholic: A Young Man’s Guide to Living with Faith, Purpose and Conviction by Edward P. Martin
Edward Martin addresses the unique challenges young Catholic men face in today’s secular culture. The book equips readers to stand firm in their faith while navigating a world that often questions or opposes their beliefs. Martin combines inspiring stories of saints and modern role models with practical spiritual tools to help young men discover their purpose and live authentically.
Key Features:
- Divided into sections on faith foundations and practical life applications
- Includes inspiring stories of saints and modern Catholic role models
- Provides practical tools like Lectio Divina and Scripture reflections
- Addresses finding purpose, facing rejection, and living authentically
- Emphasizes that holiness is accessible to every man, not just spiritual “elites”
Reader Feedback:
Early reviews praise the book’s balanced approach to deep theological concepts and practical everyday challenges. Readers appreciate the honest, conversational tone that feels like guidance from a trusted mentor. The inclusion of both ancient saints and contemporary examples helps young men see the timelessness of Catholic principles. Some non-Catholic readers mention finding value in the book’s well-articulated arguments and evidence-based approach to faith. A few reviewers note that certain sections take a more traditional perspective that might not resonate with all readers, but most find the overall message inspiring and accessible.
6. The Young Man’s Guide by Father Lasance (2019 Edition)
This hardcover edition of Fr. Lasance’s classic spiritual guide provides comprehensive advice for young Catholic men on conquering sin, developing virtue, and making important life decisions. The book serves as both spiritual advisor and practical handbook, covering everything from basic Catholic teachings to guidance on vocational discernment and devotional practices.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive coverage of Catholic doctrine supported by Scripture
- Guidance on conquering sin and occasions of sin
- Instructions on virtues needed for spiritual warfare
- Advice on choosing one’s state in life
- Includes devotions for Mass, Confession, and Holy Communion
- Functions as both spiritual guide and prayer manual
Reader Feedback:
Readers value this book’s comprehensive approach to Catholic manhood and its combination of spiritual guidance with practical advice. Many describe it as an “indispensable protector” and “bedside companion” for young men navigating modern challenges. The integration of prayers with moral guidance receives particular praise. Some reviewers note that the vocabulary can be challenging for younger readers, reflecting its early 1900s origins. A few mention concerns about print quality in certain editions, with reports of formatting inconsistencies and ink bleeding issues. Despite these production concerns, most readers find the content invaluable for young Catholic men seeking moral guidance.