Lives of the Popes: The Pontiffs from St. Peter to John Paul II

McBrien, the dean of Roman Catholic church history who wrote the definitive history of the Roman Catholic church, Catholicism (HSF), here offers a comprehensive account of the lives of the popes. Not only does he provide a short, lively biographical essay on each pope, but he also provides fine essays on the future of the papacy, how popes are elected and how popes are removed from office. McBrien rates the popes, giving only John XXII (whose papacy lasted only five years, 1958-63) and Gregory the Great (590-604) the status of ""Outstanding."" The book also includes several tables: a chronological list of popes; a list of the longest and shortest pontificates; ""Papal `Firsts' and `Lasts'"" (e.g., the first pope to abdicate and the last non-cardinal to be elected pope); a list of key papal encyclicals. Offering readers complete, accurate information in a style that is both captivating and informative, McBrien's work is an exceptional study of the papacy. (Nov.)