Merton: A Biography

by Monica Furlong and monica-furlong

Book Overview

Originally published fifteen years ago, Merton: A Biography sold 25,000 copies before being taken out of print. For Liguori's reissue, Furlong provides a new introduction, additional material, & a new index to the original edition. Through his work as a spiritual leader, social activist, internationally acclaimed writer, & teacher, Thomas Merton deepened the spiritual life of Christians & non-Christians throughout the world. With great sensitivity...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0060630795
• ISBN13: 9780060630799
• Release Date: January 1980
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
• Length: 342 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.

Customer Reviews

A Thoroughly Delightful Read

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!

Great Entrance!

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.

Highly-recommended

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.