An American Cardinal: The Biography of Cardinal Timothy Dolan

Boyle, a British journalist and former staffer at the New York Daily News, gained unprecedented access to one of the most famous Catholics in the United States and tells his story eloquently. She presents an eminently readable and enjoyable description of Timothy Dolan, a gregarious and generous human being who can also stand his ground like a pit bull in a verbal battle. Dolan was incredibly accommodating to the author, opening all aspects of his life and ministerial career to her, even recommending some family members and old acquaintances to interview for the project. Dolan's affable nature is clearly presented, but so is his role as a company man. For Dolan, contested issues such as abortion and gay marriage are not debatable; the Church's teaching is clear. At other times, the author portrays the cardinal as humble and vulnerable, as when he discusses what it has been like to live a celibate adult life. Boyle effectively portrays a complex and intriguing human being who could one day become the first United States born pope. (Nov.)