Everyone is happy to see Mary in the creche at Christmastime, but by the time the Magi head back East after the Feast of the Epiphany, Christians of many traditions are often ready to place Mary to the side, too.

But in Blessed Is She, Timothy Perry presents a Mary who belongs in Lent as much as in Advent, who shows what it means to die and live with the crucified and risen Jesus. Drawing primarily from the Gospel of Luke, this lovely book of devotions sketches a Lenten Mary who teaches us about being disciples. The result is a complex, inviting, strong character a disciple to be emulated by all Christians, especially during this holy season.

With a meditation for each day of Lent, along with reflection questions, this is a thought-provoking volume for private use or parish study.