Pope Francis

December 1, 2013

Gr 4-7-Pope Francis's life is detailed in not entirely unbiased terms, but for a figure who is likely to be relatively unknown to most young people, this biography is a fairly thorough introduction. Readers learn that he is a soccer lover and that he embraces the lifestyle of ordinary citizens. The color photos throughout are helpful and interesting, driving home the fact that the pope is an international figure who has had a long and distinguished career. Inset paragraphs give more information about historical events and Catholic traditions. This is a serviceable addition where there is a demand, but the writing is not particularly engaging and leaves something to be desired.-Trina Bolfing, Westbank Libraries, Austin, TX

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2013
A serviceable biography introduces readers to the first pope from the Americas. Beginning with the long wait in Saint Peter's Square for the white smoke signaling the election of the new pope, the text moves to an exploration of the childhood of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the boy who would become Pope Francis. Facts that bring his story to life (he loved soccer and dancing the tango and has a master's degree in chemistry) alternate with background details that help readers understand the events that shaped him, including those surrounding his native Argentina's "dirty war." Throughout, Watson presents a balanced view of the young Jesuit priest: While the humble man is celebrated for his work with the poor and sick, there are also those who feel he did not do enough to fight the oppressors or aid others. Watson's portraits of Pope Benedict XVI and the scandals that swirled around him are not as nuanced. And some of her facts about the Catholic Church are incomplete or erroneous; she states the Sistine Chapel is the home to the pope (he lives in the Vatican Palace, not in a church) and that the cardinals are in charge of electing the new pope (they also advise the current pope). For good or for bad, Pope Francis' life and papacy cannot be separated from the tarnish on today's Catholic Church, and readers may end up with more questions than answers, though their respect for Pope Francis should grow. (Biography. 9-14)

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November 15, 2013
Grades 5-8 At 7:05 p.m. on the evening of March 13, 2013, white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. A new pope had been chosen: Jorge Mario Bergoglio of ArgentinaPope Francis. The first pope elected from Latin Americaand one of the first chosen from outside Europehe was now the 266th leader of the Catholic Church. This title takes readers back to Bergoglio's birth on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires; discusses his childhood passion for soccer and tango dancing; and describes his days as a young chemist. Ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1969, Bergoglio was named Provincial of Argentina four years laterwhile the country was on the verge of turmoil following the death of Juan Pern. Interweaving politics and religion, Watson offers up a fascinating history of a country and the rise of an influential and humble religious leader. She then covers the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis' early days post-inauguration. Lots of pictures, a clean design, and sidebars (for instance Papal Names ) make for an informative inside look at the spiritual leader of 1.2 million people.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)

January 1, 2014
This unremarkable biography covers the life of Jorge Bergoglio from his childhood growing up in Buenos Aires to his rise as a Jesuit leader to his election as Pope in 2013; the narrative also touches on controversial issues such as Bergoglio's actions during Argentina's "dirty war." The photographs, sidebars, and historical context serve as useful supportive material. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

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