I've read several books critiquing, justly, Pope Francis. Some came from the traditionalist side, George Neumayer's book, some from middle of the road Catholics, Philip Lawler's book. They are mostly criticisms and didn't seek to put this contentious Pope into a historical context or seek to look deeply into the theological implications of Francis' utterances and those of the people he encourages.

Douthat's book is different and fantastic. It's not a litany of abuses, although he refers to many more than he examines. Instead he looks at the recent history of the Catholic Church, showing us balanced views of Vatican II and the two previous popes. This serves to set up his view that the church is divided between reforming liberals and orthodox John Paul II Catholics who look to retain the theology of the past, although not for most rigidly.

This sets up his look at Francis' words and actions, most importantly those surrounding communion for the divorced and remarried. In looking at this he sees deep and church-altering theological implications. While the prospect is disturbing to many, I have not read anything that went so clearly to the heart of the serious problem this has brought to the Church.

Douthat doesn't stop there, instead he goes to look for historic similarities to this controversy and to this Pope. He finds them and the lessons he draws from them are thought-provoking. Finally he looks at possible outcomes of this Papacy and the conflict between reform and continuity.

It's a sobering and balanced book, one that every Catholic concerned for the Church should read.