Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Pope Francis (Life) delivers a series of compassionate if flat meditations on seeking joy in the mundane. Contending that God "created us because he wants us to be happy"--and that despite earthly challenges, he has given humans the tools to cultivate a sunnier perspective--Francis encourages readers to perform acts of charity; to love others rather than get swept up in materialistic lifestyles that spark "unhappiness, apathy and... boredom"; and take risks even if it means making mistakes. Much of his advice boils down to centering one's life around God and other people, which he characterizes as a "revolutionary" act in a world ruled by self-obsession and superficiality. While such lessons may not offer much new insight or be as "against-the-grain" as the author suggests (even as he frequently relies on inspirational quotes from Francis of Assissi, J.R.R. Tolkien, and others), Francis's down-to-earth prose and matter-of-fact guidance makes for a sound reminder to seek the good in a world filled with bad news. Catholics will be reassured and inspired. (Feb.)
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
