The latest offering in a flurry of books about Catholicism's new leader delves into the mind of the man and explores how his thinking is likely to affect the church and the world. Shortt, religion editor of the Times Literary Supplement
and author of two previous books (one on Rowan Williams, archbishop of Canterbury), traces Benedict's evolution from supporter of reform to agent of restoration. In analyzing the new pope's past and present views, Shortt probed Benedict's extensive writings and interviewed about three dozen individuals spanning various religious and academic realms in Europe, Latin America and the United States. He skillfully blends Benedict's own words with the observations of others to create a balanced portrayal of the man who was first characterized by such appellations as "enforcer" and "God's Rottweiler" (though Shortt seems to prefer casting Benedict as "The German Shepherd," the title of his last chapter.) Throughout his concise assessment, the author touches on Benedict's involvement in such issues as liturgy, the relationship of church to world, the ordination of women, ecumenism and liberation theology. Shortt's book is commendable for its balance and thoroughness, though some readers may find its theological analyses a bit tedious. (July 15)
