Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a theologian and Anglican priest who has charmed and captivated audiences globally, conveying his evangelical energy and intellectualism in a preaching style that blends humble language with self-deprecating humor. He has played crucial roles in peaceful transformations around the world--even receiving the Nobel Peace Prize for standing up to the racist policies of South Africa under apartheid, which led to the release of Nelson Mandela. Tutu: Authorized, a new biography by Allister Sparks (Beyond the Miracle) and the Reverend Mpho Tutu (Desmond's daughter), celebrates the archbishop's integrity as a compassionate liberator, leader and healer.
The biography highlights Tutu's conviction that religion cannot be kept out of politics. That principle has guided his political activism, which is committed to advocating nonviolence, even amid extreme aggression. His sensitivity to interfaith matters has also reinforced Tutu's belief that Christian theology benefits the poor, oppressed, victimized and suffering.
Intended to coincide with Tutu's 80th birthday, Tutu: Authorized shares the fascinating story and struggles of Tutu's life. The text is richly supplemented with photos and political cartoons, letters and documents from Tutu's private collection, and personal testimonies from notable friends, celebrities, colleagues and opponents--some from Tutu's own Anglican church, some who vehemently disapproved of Tutu's nonviolent stance amid the black liberation struggle in South Africa. This structure renders a multifaceted, intimate portrait of a man of faith, informed by learning and knowledge, who has emerged, through many trials and challenges, as one of the great moral leaders of our time. --Kathleen Gerard, blogger at Reading Between the Lines