A Forest in the Desert: The Life of Saint John the Short

 “A Forest in the Desert” is a graphic novel that tells the story of John the Short, a humble disciple turned monastic father.

Saint John the Short is a 4th century Christian who, inspired by the great desert fathers Macarius and Antony, travelled to the desert of Scetis to become a monk. When the harsh teacher Amoi accepted him as a disciple, John learned humility, faith and obedience and grew from an unwitting novice to the father of many monks and a great saint of his generation. 

“A Forest in the desert” brings the world of early Christian fathers to life in expressive pen and ink. The fluid lines read close to ancient icons with the familiarity of a graphic novel. Christians seeking truth in desert wisdom will find a virtuous example in the ever-relevant life of Saint John the short.

Creative Orthodox is a Canadian Egyptian writer and illustrator. He retells stories of ancient Christianity in modern mediums. Other works by the author include the graphic novel “Anastasis: The Harrowing of Hades” and numerous illustrations of church saints that can be found online.