Thomas Aquinas The Heart and Mind of a Medieval Theologian By Jason Burns

As a seminary professor dedicated to introducing students to the richness of Thomistic thought, I can confidently say that Thomas Aquinas: The Heart and Mind of a Medieval Theologian by Jason Burns is the best introductory book on Thomas Aquinas’s life and theology available today.

This book strikes a perfect balance between accessible storytelling and scholarly depth, making it an invaluable resource for seminarians beginning their journey into Thomistic philosophy and theology. Burns’s engaging narrative brings Thomas’s life to life, emphasizing not only the historical context but also illuminating the profound spiritual and intellectual motivations behind his work.

What sets this book apart is how it helps students see Thomas as both a deeply contemplative heart and a brilliant, rigorous mind—an approach that resonates with my students and encourages a more holistic understanding of his contributions. It has significantly deepened their appreciation for the integration of faith and reason, and has inspired many to engage more critically and passionately with Thomas’s writings.

Since incorporating Burns’s book into my curriculum, I have noticed a marked improvement in students’ grasp of Thomistic thought. It’s especially effective in preparing them for more advanced studies, as it lays a solid foundation for understanding Thomas’s metaphysics, ethics, and ecclesiology.