Author:John Cornwell
Backed by a wealth of new research, John Cornwell tells for the first time the story of the World War II career of Eugenio Pacelli, the man who was Pope Pius XII, arguably the most dangerous churchman in modern history. In the first decade of the century, as a brilliant young Vatican lawyer, Pacelli helped shape a new ideology of unprecedented papal power in Germany. In 1933 Hitler became his negotiating partner, an agreement was arranged that granted religious and financial payments to the Catholic Church in exchange for their withdrawal from social and political privillage, ensuring the rise of Nazism.
Gould is at his brilliant best... A truly convincing performance
—— GuardianConvincingly argued and thought provoking-Gould must rank as one of the leading scientific essayists of his generation and, as ever, he is in total command of his subject matter. He steers a deft route through contentious waters, but manages to retain a humorous edge, that keeps the book both engaging and highly entertaining. Gould provides the literary magic to deliver a light-hearted read
—— Irish TimesConcise, eloquent and passionate. It is a marvellous work. Gould speaks clear, sound sense, and Rocks of Ages should be required reading not only for scientists and religious people, but for anybody who cares about the quest for meaning
—— IndependentThis marvellous extended essay should have been the real lost book of the New Testament. Gould, arguably our greatest living popular science essayist, has many joyful enthusiasms. Among them are eternity, Charles Darwin and baseball-Gould has such insatiable and infectious enthusiasm for the intellectual challenge and fascination of being a mere speck in a vast universe
—— ScotsmanRocks of Ages is easy and enjoyable to read. It contains many charming illustrations and interesting insights
—— Sunday TelegraphJust when I think he can't go any deeper, he does. With How to Know God, Deepak Chopra makes it clear: we have in our midst a spiritual genius.
—— Marianne Williamson, Author of Return to Love and Enchanted LoveThe ultimate how-to book! Brilliant!
—— Dean Ornish, M.D., Founder and President, Author of Love & Survival