The Pontiff in Winter

Both writing and narration bring a studied elegance to this biography of Pope John Paul II. Cornwell summarizes the Pope's youth and early priesthood in the first two of twelve hours and then spends the remaining ten discussing John Paul's papacy and philosophy of life. Narrator John Lee has no trouble with the book's formal language and brings freshness and respect to a weighty treatise. His slight British tone conveys erudition, while his vitality imparts both the criticism and admiration of the author for his subject. While this reviewer would likely have a hard time sitting still long enough to absorb the written text, the audio version proves riveting. R.L.L. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine


Graeme Malcolm gives an expert reading of a well-balanced look at the life and work of Pope John Paul II. Malcolm's scholarly tone complements Cornwell's impartial assessment of the papacy and the Pope's contribution to the world at large, covering both flaws and strengths with equal voice. Cornwell touches on the hot topics relating to Catholicism today: abusive priests, political involvement, the role of women in the Church, birth control, and abortion. Cornwell's criticisms of the Church may be difficult for devout Catholics to hear, but anyone looking for a balanced perspective on the impact of John Paul II's papacy will find a thoughtful retrospective read with gentle authority. H.L.S. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine