The elevation of Joseph Ratzinger to the Papacy raised more questions than it answered about what the future holds for the world's one billion Roman Catholics. One year on, it is still uncertain. Seasoned Vatican watcher, John L. Allen, Jr. is ideally placed to probe these questions, tracing Ratzinger's story from his Bavarian roots, his support for Vatican II, and the unique relationship he shared with John Paul II as number two in the Catholic Church. Whilst a Cardinal, Joseph Ratzinger never failed to polarize opinions, attracting adoration and opprobrium in equal measure. He has continued to do so as Pope. This book is essential reading for Catholics and non-Catholics seeking to understand the mind of a man who will wield worldwide influence.