The Pageturning Report: January 2025
Family emergency, new books, a "digital sabbath", Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, and more.
If you follow me on Substack Notes, you probably saw my posts about last week’s family health crisis: we took my father to the emergency room. He’s still in the hospital, resting comfortably and (thank God) on the road to recovery.
I want to express my gratitude to everyone who’s sent prayers, kind words, and blessings my way. My family and I appreciate the support immensely.
As for myself, I’m holding up as well as I can. Though, I’m very tired. So, I’ll keep this month’s update relatively brief.
New books!
The Riddle of the Tongue-Stones
I’m thrilled to announce the release of my debut children’s book The Riddle of the Tongue-Stones: How Blessed Nicolas Steno Uncovered the Hidden History of the Earth published by Word on Fire Votive!
I will post a lengthier update about the book soon, including the behind-the-scenes story of how it came to be! Until then, you can order The Riddle of the Tongue-Stones on the Word on Fire Bookstore.
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.
Unexpectedly Catholic
My latest collaboration with the team at Voyage Comics & Publishing is a new collection of essays entitled Unexpectedly Catholic: Seeds of the Gospel Found in 20 Popular Stories. Learn more about this book (featuring three of my essays) in the announcement post below:
Articles
Busted Halo
Why I’m Committing to a Digital Sabbath This New Year
Human beings are simply not equipped to spend most of their days staring at glowing screens. Yet we spend countless hours every week scrolling through a barrage of random posts and videos on our phones or managing an avalanche of documents and spreadsheets on our computers. This can’t be good for us! We have become so absorbed in our devices that we’ve forgotten how to spend quality time unplugged from the digital world. We’ve forgotten how to truly rest, which is what the Sabbath Day was established for in the first place.
Podcasting
The Work of Thy Hands
Many thanks to my friend Allison Ramirez for inviting me onto her new podcast, The Work of Thy Hands. Check out
for more episodes of the podcast and other writing resources!The Secrets of Middle-Earth
The panel and I continue to discover hidden themes in The Silmarillion. In this episode, we highlight the alliances of men and elves, High King Fingolfin’s epic duel with Morgoth, and the tragedy of the Dagor Bragollach—the Battle of Sudden Flame! Plus, news on future Tolkien adaptations and fan feedback!
The Secrets of Star Wars
I join the panel to unravel the twists of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, episode 5. From pirate betrayals to ancient treasure, we discover the mysteries shaping this thrilling chapter. Who is the supervisor? Who is the mysterious pirate captain? And what is Jod up to?
The panel and I unpack episode 6 of Skeleton Crew as the kids of the Onyx Cinder face danger, teamwork challenges, and personal growth. KB shines as her struggles and strengths come into focus, while Jod’s charismatic scheming raises questions of trust.
At Attin's secrets unravel as Jod’s true colors emerge, the vault is revealed, and the kids face new dangers. I join my friend Patrick Mason to dissect Skeleton Crew, episode 7, including all the twists, themes, and mysteries. What’s next for this galaxy far, far away?
The Secrets of Movies & TV / The Secrets of Sacred Art
In this crossover with The Secrets of Movies & TV Shows I join Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray of The Secrets of Sacred Art to unpack the stunning visuals and hidden themes in Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio! From the surprising Catholic imagery, to the poignant journey of love, sacrifice, and redemption, there’s so much to enjoy about this stop-motion masterpiece!
Thanks so much for reading this month’s Pageturning Report. This newsletter only exists with the support of my readers and followers. I’m can’t express how grateful I am for your support. It means the world to me.
Until next time, take care, God bless, and happy reading!
Congrats on the book. From what I can see it looks like an excellent introduction to geological science. Also, it opens the door to follow-up books to dig deeper into the science worlds of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, Van Rensselaer Potter, and Ilia Delio.