Unexpected and wonderful characters with immense impact on the lives of those around them. We're happy to be celebrating Tolkien Reading Day, discussing some of the best unlikely heroes in the work of JRR Tolkien. If you're already a Tolkien fan or want to learn more about why so many people love the works of Tolkien so deeply, join us!

In this episode, we trace the extraordinary true story of St. Patrick — from Roman Britain to slavery in Ireland, from lonely shepherd to bold missionary bishop. Captured at sixteen, Patrick spent six years tending sheep, where his hardship became the backdrop for deep faith in a loving God. Years later and after a miraculous escape, he could have stayed safely at home.

He didn’t.

Instead, he returned to the very people who enslaved him and not with revenge, but with the Gospel.

This is the story of the man who became the Apostle to the Irish.

This one's for the parents out there, trying to their best to raise good kids.

Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle lives in an upside-down house, smells faintly of sugar cookies, and has an earnest love of children. When parents are at their wits’ end, she offers up creative (and often hilarious) cures for kid problems like "I thought you said"ers or "won't go to bed" or "won't take a bath."

This warm and sweet children's classic by Betty MacDonald reminds us that kids grow best with a whole lot of love, some natural consequences, and a good sense of humor.