Book Review: Memorize the Faith!

When I picked up my copy of Memorize The Faith! (And Most Anything Else) I was very skeptical that the memory method would really work.  Much to my surprise, the mnemonic memory method of loci that was presented in this book made memorization a snap.

While learning to memorize key components of the Catholic faith with the loci method was delightfully easy, it is not a book that you'll want to sit down and devour in one sitting.  In fact, I think you'll probably put yourself into memory overload if you try to do just that.   I'm one of those people who can easily consume a well written book in a sitting [or two if it's lengthy] and I took my time getting through this book so that I could properly digest the material.  I did not memorize everything presented in this book, yet, but I have no doubt that I will be able to do so.  There is a lot of material presented in this book, but I think one could easily memorize everything presented in it in a month's time.

I'd say first and foremost, this book is a great work of catechesis.  Any Catholic who is not well versed in his or her faith could pick up this book and easily commit the basics of the faith and more to memory.  Now, if you are among those Catholics who are well versed in their faith, don't discount this book as something you don't need to bother reading.  Even if you think you know it all, this book can still offer you plenty.  For one, you can learn the loci method and use it to neatly file away apologetic arguments that may evade you when you need them most.  You could even use this method, or the two other mnemonic methods that are briefly covered towards the end of the book to expand upon what you already have committed to memory.

The beauty in learning the loci memory method taught in this book is you can use it for anything.  Maybe you need to remember a shopping list, or maybe you need to remember you key speaking points for a speech.  This method will help you keep track of your thoughts.

To help further your understanding of the memory method, Vost included "Memory Master Tips and Facts" at the end of each chapter.  These facts give you more insight into the science of memory.

Overall, I was incredibly pleased with this book.  I felt the mnemonics presented were particularly effective in helping me to learn and retain the information I was seeking to commit to memory.  The explanation of how to employ the loci method was expertly conveyed.  I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their ability to memorize anything.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Sophia Institute Press in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."