Review: Pope Francis First Pope from the Americas by Stephanie Watson

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

On March 19, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina became Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church. His election to the papacy was notable in many ways. He became the first pope from the Americas, the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, the first non-European pope in more than 1,200 years, the first Jesuit pope, and the first pope to choose the name Francis.
Pope Francis was not the person that most people expected to ascend to the papacy when Pope Benedict XVI resigned from the role in late February 2013. While serving as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Cardinal Bergoglio was known for his dedication to helping the poor and admired for his modest lifestyle. After his inauguration, Pope Francis retained many of his humble ways. People around the globe eagerly watch to see what changes he might bring about in the Catholic Church.
Follow Pope Francis's journey to the papacy, from his days as a young chemist to his studies of theology. Learn more about his beliefs and hobbies—including his interests in soccer and tango dancing. Find out the true story behind the man who became the 266th pope.

MY TAKE:
Pope Francis is one of the most famous people in the world, but how much do you know about him?

In Pope Francis First Pope from the Americas, readers learn about Pope Francis' life from his childhood until he was named Pope Francis.

What I know of Pope Francis, I learned from newspapers. This book contains a lot more information than your average newspaper and there's a lot of interesting tidbits in the book. There are also anecdotes and quotes from different cardinals who have met and worked with Pope Francis.

The layout, color scheme and font used are all simple but a perfect fit for the subject. There's roughly one picture a page, but that's okay as the text isn't boring and the pictures are well-chosen.

Thanks to NetGalley and Lerner Publications for the e-ARC. Publication date of Pope Francis First Pope from the Americas is on October 31, 2013.

THE GOOD:

1. The book tells the story of Pope Francis' life from childhood.
2. The layout and color scheme work well with the subject.
3. The pictures are fascinating.

THE BAD:

1. Younger kids may find the simple color scheme and layout boring.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

"So he greeted each of us as brothers, literally on the same level as we were," said Cardinal Dolan.

READ IT IF:

1. You're curious about the life of Pope Francis.
2. Your child wants to learn more about the life of the pope.
3. Your child likes reading biographies.

RATING:


SOUNDS INTERESTING?