Reluctant Saint: The Life of Francis of Assisi (Compass)

Great book!

Was recently in Assisi and wanted to do some follow-up on St Francis. Many books out there, but this one was especially readable and informative. No "saintly" hanky panky -- just a lot of facts with some opinions which were always pointed out as opinions or thoughts.

This was an excellent read – engaging, inspiring, and really enlightening about the deep life of Francis of Assisi. Francis had a truly remarkable life – humble, passionate, and radical. I appreciate that Donald Spoto helps us to see Francis’ earthy humanity, including his faults, as well as the deep relationship and commitment to God that guided his life.I really appreciated the effort that Spoto took to communicate the culture and context that Francis of Assisi lived in. He also made the effort to discuss and sift through some of the legends about St. Francis that grew up over the years after his death. I thought this was an excellent biography that helped to synthesize and sort through the wealth of information that there is about the life and ministry of Francis.It was moving to read about the physical and emotional suffering that Francis endured late in his life. His perseverance, continued love for people, and faithful devotion to Jesus Christ in the face of that suffering is a real inspiration to me when I am tempted to feel disillusioned and hopeless.

I have always been fascinated by the stories about St.Francis. And about 25 years ago my husband and I had the privilege of visiting Assisi in Italy which furthered my interest in this man.It's a nice size, well made paperback and comfortable to carry when you travel. I always have a book with me everywhere I go.This book tells the real story of this humble, simple man who was so very much misunderstood in his time. If he could see how his image has been so misrepresented and overblown in our time, he would be not only devastated, but also angry.He had a fascinating life but most of it was a huge struggle with his own church and its leaders, who somehow couldn't just let him be a nobody who wanted to minister to the poor and needy. That's all he ever wanted to do. He would have hated all the pomp and ceremony in today's world and how he is celebrated.He was another of the very few that we can truly call a saint.

This is a thorough presentation of the Life of St. Francis. It was very readable and keep one engaged throughout. I learned many aspects of the life of Francis of which I was totally unaware. It spoke to heart and mind and I feel I traveled the journey with Francis. His on-going conversion was such a real part of his life and I was able to see this on-going conversion in my own life. I would recommend this book as a biography and a look at the role of conversion in our lives to friends and spiritual groups of which I am a part. We used it for discussion in a group I belong to that is entitled: Food for the Journey. It was certainly that! It is even more meaningful now that our Pope has chosen Francis for his name!

A real eye opener, not only about where Francis came from (a dissolute lifestyle), but his drastic conversion and subsequent desire to serve God and mankind. Even in those days he was criticized and mocked for his faith, though many were drawn to his dedication and chose to join his Spartan way of living. An interesting effect after his death was how supposed Christians cashed in on his philosophy and eventually changed his spiritual piety to suit their commercial interests. The book will challenge your own sincerity as to your Christian walk, even though we needn't practice some of Francis's self-denials, you will know if you are true to your faith or just being a Christian when it's convenient.

Spoto is an excellent writer and threads the needle carefully telling this story. I'm sure zealots will complain as will athiests, but the story is about Francis and the inevitable perversion by religion of his powerful message of personal insecurity and devotion to a lifetime of authentic conversion - all during a volatile political period. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.

I believe Spoto could have said everything he covered in about 1/3 the pages. I felt he made far to many repetitions at various times through out the pages. He also concentrated on Francis's illness to the point that I wanted to say OK already I get it!I found his writing to me was disjointed a certain amount. Using vocabulary that caused bumps in what could have been neat and clear joining of the story of Francis's life. Bouncing around the timeline.Now as a description of mid evil times and following known references historically, I appreciated. So if a person is interested more in history with a famous Saint woven in then they my like it. I would have liked more coverage of Francis's writings and or statements.On the whole I give it a OK rating.

Donald Spoto's biography on St Francis of Assisi is thoroughly researched, informative and such a compelling read, I could not put this book down. One thing is for sure, Spoto can write, and who better to write about than St Francis, a truly exceptional follower of Christ who lived the Gospel with every fibre of his being. Spoto brings to life medieval Europe in the 12th/13th centuries, we learn what type of life Francis led before his conversion, the circumstances that led to his conversion, and how his practice of radical poverty, austere self denial, and willingness to always help those in need (humans and animals alike) was an example to everyone. I learned so much about the historical, cultural, religious and social events surrounding Francis's life, but especially about Francis himself; he was without doubt truly inspirational. Though uneducated, he was wiser than many of the learned of his time, courageous - he sought martyrdom, was compassionate, and incredibly humble (he took the gospel literally in that he had no tunic, sandals or staff), and was strongly against power, status and ownership of wealth (especially within the church). "Your life is too hard and severe, said Pope Innocent to Francis, "where will you obtain the necessities of life"? As one would expect, Francis replied, "I trust in my Lord Jesus Christ". Spoto relates how, while Francis was away preaching, a trio of violent robbers approached Angelou Tarlati (one of the brothers), for food, he severely rebuked them and sent them packing. On hearing what Angelou had done, Francis said, "you have behaved like a man with no religion at all", and giving him the bread and wine he had received as wages that day, asked him to "serve these unfortunate men with humility and good humor, then, and not until then, tell them to stop robbing and killing". The outcome? The brigands were not only converted, but joined the fraternity , and "died the death of saints". Spoto also gives an insight into the different personalities of those who joined his fraternity, and the changes/challenges that occurred as growing numbers wanted to join Francis's way of life . As Spoto argues, Francis wished others to be free from the obsession with money and things; to have a total dependence on God was liberating for him,not a deprivation. " Who are You my dearest God? And what am I, but your useless servant" was his mantra. I for one want to lead a less materialistic and self centred life after reading this book. Thank you, and as Francis said to everyone he met, "May the Lord give you peace!".

St Francis put the wild days of his youth behind him, because God touched his heart, soul and mind.His total love for his saviour and his deep awareness of the suffering, outcast, rejected Christ enabled Francis to embrace absolute poverty (with joy) and reach out to others who were rejected by society - the lepers, the poor, the unloved and the unwanted. With an all encompassing love of nature, he invited all of creation - animals, plants, natural forces, including Brother Sun and Sister Moon to honour their maker (as he did). He fostered compassion and sought peace at a time when power, status; institutionalised religion and brutal warfare ruled the day (in many ways it still does).The acute suffering of Francis, coupled by his total dependence on God nearer the end of his life is heart-rending. Donald Spoto has produced a book that goes beyond accomplished writing - this book could ultimately change hearts and minds. Having read this book, I want to lead a life less cluttered by materialism and more focused on love of God, nature and neighbour.

Reluctant Saint: Life of Francis of Assisi.This is a brilliant work of art from Donald Spoto. This is the 2nd book I've read on St Francis and is brilliant. Donald is very honest when it comes to tell the story of St Francis which deserves credit on its own, most people who write about saints tend to leave the negatives out even if they are only the writers speculations.I couldn't put this book down, its a really easy and enjoyable read. Donald also put in a lot of information about the popes of St Francis' time which helps paint the picture of his era.I would recommend this book to anybody who is looking for either an insight to St Francis life or an insight to the Catholic lifestyle of his era.I personally would read another Donald Spoto book if I come across one which appeals to me.

An excellent book. Donald Spoto is a superb writer. His book is very well researched and he gives the reader a real view of Francis the man and what motivated him throughout his life and mission. I would strongly recommend this book.

I really enjoyed this book. One of the best about Francis I have read. Great historical background without getting too heavy. Doesn't ideolise Francis to the point of losing his humanity which has happened in other books. I found myself hooked into the story. Well written too. Highly recommended.