Absolutely fascinating! A Life with Karol offers an intimate portrait of Pope John Paul II. Written by his personal secretary of 40 years, Cardinal Dziwisz, we are privileged to partake of an up close and personal view of Pope John Paul II and we are not disappointed. Together with Gian Franco Svidercoschi, they discuss the life and times of Pope John Paul II, beginning with the first time the Cardinal met Pope John Paul II until his death. Gian Franco Svidercoschi asks provocative questions, sets the scene, or provides political commentary, while Cardinal Dziwisz shares anecdotal information. Together the conversation flows back and forth. Of course, it should come as no surprise that Pope John Paul II's life is absolutely riveting, because of the extraordinary feats he accomplished during his lifetime. In looking back at Pope John Paul II's years as a young archbishop of Krakow, we feel the tension mount as he challenges the authority of the Polish communist government with his desire to build the church at Nowa Huta. We follow him across the world as he reaches out to many countries with his many missions of love. We experience perhaps the biggest surprise and disappointment of his life as he meets with his attempted assassin, Ali Agca. These are just a few of the many topics touched on. More than a biography of what he accomplished, we also witness his hopes and dreams, the reasons why he did the things he did. We also witness his disappointments and confusion that people would misunderstand his purposes. Through it all, we are inspired to follow his heroic example of love and to also fearlessly proclaim the truth of Christ's transforming love. Through his lived example of daring love, Pope John Paul II gives the world a blueprint of how to address the many controversial topics of contemporary society. Take the time to read a story of inspiration and love, the life of Pope John Paul II. A Life with Karol will allow you to see a new and intimate side of Pope John Paul II. It may even inspire you to enthusiastically follow his example and set the world on fire with the love of Christ.