The Pope Encyclopedia: An A to Z of the Holy See

Like the last reviewer, I am not Catholic either, but found this book an excellent resource on the papacy and the Vatican. Much of Western and European history has been influenced by the Roman church so it is wise to know what the popes have done and how the Vatican operates. The book's format is most helpful, including the popes and other features of importance in Rome and elsewhere. After each entry on a pope, his successor is listed. All in all a wonderful reference piece.

I read this book cover-to-cover as soon as I bought it. I love things that are organized and encyclopedic, and though I'm not Catholic, I love this book. I frequently look up information in it, it contains not just information on Popes, but many Vatican buldings, departments, and artwork. This would be invaluable to anyone taking a trip to the Vatican. I have also read Bunson's Encyclopedia Sherlockiana and found it to be equally detailed and informative. I heartily recommend these two books to anyone who is even remotely interested in either subject. After you're through, you'll be more than remotely interested, you'll be hooked.