HarperCollins, a major player in the global publishing industry, has recently announced a notable agreement to publish Pope Francis’ new book, titled “Life, My Story Through History”. This book is slated for release in various countries, including the U.S., U.K., Italy, Canada, Brazil, France, Germany, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, and several South American nations. The publication, expected next spring, marks a significant addition to HarperCollins’ extensive and diverse catalog.

The Making of the Book

The agreement for this publication was finalized by Laura Donnini, the managing director of HarperCollins Italia, and journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona of Mediaset, who plays a pivotal role in writing the book alongside the Pope. Ragona’s contribution is crucial as he narrates the story and contextualizes the Pope’s experiences within the broader scope of historical events.

A Memoir-Like Recollection

While not explicitly categorized as a memoir, “Life, My Story Through History” offers a unique perspective on significant global events through the eyes of Pope Francis. Starting from World War II, the book encompasses pivotal moments such as the Nazi extermination of Jews, the atomic bombings in Japan, and other critical events up to recent times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. These reflections are intertwined with discussions on pressing current issues like social inequality, the climate crisis, and racial discrimination.

Pope Francis’ Vision for the Book

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and elected as Pope in 2013, aims to reach a broad audience, especially the youth, with this book. He emphasizes the importance of learning from the past to avoid repeating historical mistakes. This book adds to his previous works, including “The Name of God is Mercy” and “Let Us Dream: The Path to a Better Future,” which have seen significant sales worldwide.

HarperCollins’ Commitment and Legacy

Brian Murray, President and CEO of HarperCollins, expressed the company’s honor in publishing the Pope’s book. He highlights Pope Francis’ extraordinary life, witnessing key historical moments, and the opportunity to share these insights globally. HarperCollins, with a history spanning over two centuries and a catalog featuring Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners, continues to uphold its tradition of publishing significant and impactful works.