Merton: A Biography (Paperback)

by Monica Furlong (Author)

Product Details

• Paperback: 327 pages
• Publisher: Liguori Publications (November 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892438290
• ISBN-13: 978-0892438297
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #282,723 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Thoroughly Delightful Read, September 27, 2001

By	James Murray Elwood (Wayne, PA USA) - See all my reviews

I, too, read this book by Ms. Furlong some years ago in its galley proofs, no less! In my view, it is even a better intoduction to Merton's life than the Seven Storey Mountain. Read Merton's autobio, by all means, but read Furlong first. She situates Merton in his place and times, and although not a Roman Catholic, is very understanding of the monastic life,discipline and spirituality. Furlong apparently didn't have access to as many primary sources as Merton's later biographer, Michael Mott, but she does a splendid job with what documents she had in hand. She is especially compassionate, and forgiving, with Merton's love affair with his nurse. Mott goes into more detail on this interesting chapter of Merton's life, but it is easy to understand - reading both authors - why it happend and how it gives him an even greater appeal as an authentic American mystic and saint to the rest of us poor Christians. Although this will never be recognized, unfortunately, at the Vatican. Well worth reading as an introduction to the life of a great American Catholic and mystic. Read about Merton in this order: Furlong, Merton & Mott!

14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly-recommended, November 1, 1998

By	Theresa Hardman ([e-mail]) (South Africa) - See all my reviews

For anyone interested in the spiritual development of Thomas Merton, this is an excellent book. Furlong tackles her subject with sympathy and insight. Like Merton, she writes clearly, directly and truthfully. A gem.

7 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Entrance!, November 21, 1998

By A Customer

I read this book some years ago. I feel in love with the book: from beginning to end. I strongly recommend it to the fun-loving spiritual minded.