by Pope Francis
First published 2025
Pope Francis opens his memoir in early twentieth century Italy, where his ancestors prepare for their bold journey to Latin America. The future pontiff grows up as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina's vibrant neighborhoods, navigating childhood adventures and youthful passions before discovering his religious calling. His path leads through decades of adult ministry until he assumes the papacy, where he confronts the Church's most challenging questions. Francis addresses war, migration, environmental destruction, and social justice with the same candor he brings to personal revelations about his own struggles and growth. He reflects on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, debates over women's roles, sexuality, and technology's impact on faith. Originally planned for posthumous release, this first papal autobiography spans six years of writing and covers his entire life through the present day. The Pope shares private photographs and unpublished materials, creating an intimate portrait that moves from family stories to global leadership. His narrative captures both humor and gravity as he builds toward his spiritual testament for future generations.
Genres: christian, autobiography, religion, biography-memoir, 21st-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: family-story, personal-growth, spiritual-testament
Setting: Argentina, Italy, Latin America
Period: 20th Century, 21st Century, Early 20th Century
320 pages · Hardcover · Random House