ÔDear Reverend Mother,ÔMy name is Mary Clare OÆBrian and I am in sixth grade. I would like to join the convent right after eighth grade before I start liking boys too much. IÆm already having problems with boys liking me. Gregory in my class throws spitballs at me and told my best friend he likes me. I havenÆt told him that I want to be GodÆs bride yet. Do you think I should?ÖMary Clare is on the lookout for a miracle.Mary Clare OÆBrian is determined to be a saint when she grows up (the halo will help cover her frizzy hair). But lately none of her prayers seem to be working the way she wants them to: her mother is losing her faith, her parents canÆt pay all the bills, and her brother receives a draft notice for the war in Vietnam. Mary Clare has a plan to help, but it just doesnÆt seem to be working. How is she supposed to become a saint when her world is falling apart?Advance Praise for Saint TrainingÔThis is a novel that is painful, but true; honest, and hopeful; gutsy, and funnyÙa compelling read for all readers aware of their own spiritual pilgrimages.ÖÙ Gary Schmidt, Newbery Honor Winner and author of Lizzie Bright and the Buckminister Boy and The Wednesday Wars