Long description
Written by a distinguished journalist and longtime associate of Desmond Tutu, this definitive biography captures the flavor and details of Tutu's life while shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of modern society. Drawing on personal experiences with Tutu, as well as unprecedented access to his papers, the author explores how Tutu transformed from a barefoot schoolboy in a deprived black township into an international symbol of the democratic spirit and religious faith. During face-to-face confrontations with South African leaders and violent protests in the streets, Tutu maintained his faith in the power of peace, and when appointed to head the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Tutu seized upon it as an instrument of healing and redemption. Through his moral example and his lyrical command of language, he has successfully appealed to the conscience of the world and brought a whole new meaning to the phrase human rights.
Review
There is no one on earth who will not profit from reading this story, told with such precision, sympathy, and mounting dramatic tension by John Allen. But don't bother to pick it up unless you are willing to be transformed into a better person than you are at the present moment. --Thomas Cahill, author, Desire of the Everlasting Hills, The Gifts of the Jews, and How the Irish Saved Civilization