An exceptional document, published three months before the passing of Pope Francis, on the occasion of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, disseminating this precious legacy earlier.
Hope is the first autobiography published by a pope in history. A complete autobiography, which took six years to write, going back to the beginning of the 20th century, with the Italian roots and adventurous emigration of his ancestors to Latin America, developing through his childhood, the enthusiasms and disturbances of youth, his vocational choice, maturity, until his pontificate which ended with his death in April 2025.
By narrating his memories with a profound narrative force, Francis also addresses the crucial issues of his pontificate and bravely, frankly, and prophetically develops the most important contemporary themes: war and peace (including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East), migration, environmental crisis, social policy, the condition of women, sexuality, technological development, the future of the Church and religions.
Rich in revelations and illuminating reflections, it is a deeply human, moving, and humorous autobiography, representing a moral and spiritual testament destined to fascinate readers worldwide.
A book enriched with extraordinary photographs, including some private and unpublished ones, from Pope Francis’s personal archive.
Critical acclaim:
“After reading and re-reading his autobiography, I can no longer say it was unnecessary. On the contrary, this amazing form of wisdom should be a subject of meditation.”
Friar Bento Domingues, Público
“An absolutely unmissable book that I can’t stop reading. I highly recommend it, for the stories the Pope tells and the history they are embedded in. A book that brings light and hope in these dark times for so many.”
Laurinda Alves, journalist and professor of communication and leadership
“A lit candle that reminds us of our own light and brings us the humanity, goodness, perseverance, and tenderness of Francis. His legacy is evident in this book in a moving and beautiful way, making these pages indispensable reading. By sharing such relevant aspects of his life and youth, Francis takes us by the hand on this absolutely unforgettable literary journey.”
Marta Arrais, Além-Mar
“Extraordinary.”
The Guardian
“Elegant and radiant.”
Financial Times