JON M. SWEENEY is an independent scholar and a respected writer. A biographer of St. Francis and translator of his writings, Sweeney's books on Franciscan subjects have sold 200,000 copies. He's the author of over thirty books including The Pope Who Quit, which was optioned by HBO. Sweeney is editor in chief and publisher of Paraclete Press. He's appeared on CBS Saturday Morning and numerous other programs. Jon is married to Rabbi Michal Woll, the father of four, and lives in Milwaukee.
This is a much-needed bridge to reach Merton, or visit him again, so we can sit with the themes of solitude, inner freedom, silence, and respect for all humanity. --Robert J. Wicks, author, The Tao of Ordinariness: Humility and Simplicity in a Narcissistic Age Beautifully written and expertly researched, this is a truly superb short introduction to the life of one of the great spiritual masters of our time--of any time. --James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage and Becoming Who You Are: Insights on the True Self from Thomas Merton and Other Saints