Shepherd of Mankind: A Biography of Pope Paul VI
William E. Barrett
📚 Genre
Biography, Religion, Non-fiction
🏢 Publisher
Doubleday & Co., Inc.
📅 Publication Year
1964
🔢 ISBN
Not visible; standard 1964 editions predate universal ISBN, but it is identified as LOC catalog number 64-13813.
About This Book
A detailed biography of Giovanni Battista Montini, who became Pope Paul VI in 1963. The book covers his early life, his tenure in the Vatican's diplomatic service, his time as Archbishop of Milan, and his eventual election to the Papacy. It focuses on his role continuing the Second Vatican Council begun by his predecessor. The cover features a full-length photograph of Pope Paul VI in papal regalia, seated in a ceremonial chair.
Book Details
Language
English
Pages
Approx. 288 pages
Edition
First Edition (Hardcover with Dust Jacket)
Series
Stand-alone biography
Target Audience
Adults, Religious Scholars, Catholic Readers
Collector Information
Condition
Good/Fair. The dust jacket shows significant wear, including chipping and small tears at the bottom-left corner and corners. There is edge-wear along the top and bottom margins, and some mild creasing and surface scuffing visible on the jacket.
Estimated Value
$10 - $25
Rarity
Common. This was a trade edition published by a major house (Doubleday) and widely distributed through Catholic book clubs. Copies are readily available on the secondary market.
Historical Significance
Authored by William E. Barrett (best known for 'The Lilies of the Field'), this book provided the English-speaking world with an immediate, deep look into the life of the Pope who presided over the major transformations of Vatican II.
Collector Notes
Collectibility for this title is generally low. The most crucial factor for value is the preservation of the dust jacket, which in this instance is damaged. To preserve, place the jacket in a clear archival Mylar sleeve. Value in these biographies is typically stable but not appreciating significantly unless it is a signed copy.
Similar Books
The Lilies of the Field by William E. Barrett, Pope Paul VI: The First Modern Pope by Peter Hebblethwaite, Journal of a Soul by Pope John XXIII.
Notable Features
Includes 16 pages of photographic illustrations. This work by Barrett is notable for being one of the first major biographies published following the Pope's election.