Dear Pope Francis: The Pope Answers Letters from Children Around the World

K-Gr 3—This collection of correspondence between children and Pope Francis is sure to comfort and inspire readers who may have their own questions for the pontiff. Each spread features the child's photo, age, and country, along with a copy of their original letter (with artwork) and a text version. The opposite page is dedicated to the pope's transcribed response. The questions range in tone from political ("How can you settle conflicts in the world?") to lighter, personal ones ("Did you like dancing?"). The pope handles the questions with great care and sensitivity, at times using the child's own drawing to further expand or demonstrate a point. The candid nature of the questions add to the value of this book, as readers will be able to identify with the worries and hopes explored. Back matter includes a note from Antonio Spadaro (the priest in charge of delivering the letters to the pope) and a world map pinpointing the locations of the children featured.