Hope is the first autobiography to be published by a sitting Pope. I am not a Roman Catholic, but this is written for a global audience with a strong message of inclusiveness. He describes the conclave in 2013 when it was apparent that he would become the next pope. Brazilian Cardinal Hummes, who had studied at a Franciscan seminary, said, ‘Don’t forget the poor’, and with those words the name Francis came to the unassuming Argentinian Cardinal.

Pope Francis tells the story of his Italian roots and upbringing in Buenos Aires, his love of football, his passion for classical music and dancing the tango in his 20s. After school he went to technical college and trained as a chemist, before following his calling to the church. He talks honestly of his mistakes: when he was in a brawl with one of his classmates, and when, as a priest, family friends had asked to see him, and being busy he pretended he wasn’t in the building.

The book moves between recollections and philosophical reflections. Having studied and taught literature, he draws on the profound wisdom of authors such as Dostoyevsky and Jorge Luis Borges. As well as many inspirational stories from his papacy, he addresses controversial questions such as global conflicts, AI, the need for worldwide change to overcome poverty, and what it means to be Christian in its broadest sense. The overriding message of this 88-year-old pope in these uncertain times is that the best days are yet to come. Hope is a wonderful read.

Reviewed by Rosamund Burton