August Selection

In recognition of the centennial of the birth of Mother Teresa of Calcutta on August 26, we thought this new book would be a welcome addition to everyone’s home library. In “Unconditional Love,” the book’s introduction, the noted pastor Rick Warren pens these stirring words: “Don’t just read this book. Let it change the direction of your life. Let it cause you to investigate the One who so transformed Mother Teresa that she was able to walk away from everything we spend our lives trying to attain.”  Up front is a double-page spread of small images, a timeline that captures highlights of this holy woman, who founded the Missionaries of Charity some 50 years ago.

Biema is the primary author, but the book includes contributions from James Martin, S.J., author of—among other works—My Life With the Saints,  Susan Van Houte (one of Mother Teresa’s infant “rescues”) and Father Brian Kolodiejchuk, M.C., who is postulator for the cause of Mother Teresa’s canonization. In Chapter Four, “Mother to the World,” Biema writes of the Missionaries’ first forays beyond India and eventual outreach and missionary work all over the globe, drawing from a variety of sources—journalists and filmmakers who documented firsthand the challenges—even danger—the Sisters faced with unflinching purpose, dedication and fortitude.

The book is printed on glossy stock with an open, airy and appealing design. The story is familiar to many readers, but is rendered here with a freshness and perspective that readers will welcome. The volume is studded with color as well as black-and-white photos—some of which are unfamiliar to us, despite the plethora of illustrated books about the saintly nun. Time Books has put together a beautiful commemorative package indeed.

Purchase TIME Mother Teresa: The Life and Works of a Modern Saint, with introduction by Rick Warren from amazon.com.