
Cassidy Van Slyke Blenke reviews Matthew Bunson's new book and gains a better understanding of how Pope Leo came to be.
Leo XIV: Portrait of the First American Pope
By Matthew Bunson
Published by Sophia Institute Press
Leo XIV: Portrait of the First American Pope by Matthew Bunson is a 127-page book dedicated to portraying the Catholic Church’s newly elected pope. The book weaves an engaging and factual portrait of Pope Leo’s life, including his upbringing in Chicago and his early education, and most importantly, his missionary work in Peru and his true dedication to the Augustinian Order and Augustinian spirituality. Bunson brings us up to speed on how Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church of Prevost became Pope Leo XIV.
The book is divided into three parts and eight chapters. The three parts include "Chicago: City of the Big Shoulders," "Peru: Land of Contrasts," and finally, "Rome: The Eternal City."
Pope Leo’s Childhood Was Relatable
Immediately, I was drawn into the account of Pope Leo’s early life in Chicago, not only because I met my husband there and we were married there, but also because his childhood was relatable. He was just another boy with two older brothers growing up in the Midwest on a neighborhood block. He most notably demonstrated a special interest in his family faith and priesthood.
He was reverent at church and played Mass at home, demonstrating a love for the liturgy that has clearly continued to today. That he would become a priest, in fact, was obvious to his brothers. “Nobody else in our ‘hood played priest, but Robert did.” (20)
Each part of the book displays a personalized and true portrait, including quotes, interviews, and references of people who have known Robert, now Leo, at various points of his life, including his statements. For example, Leo shares how Augustinian spirituality enhances our lives:
“As an Augustinian, having a rich community built on the ability to share with others what happens to us, to be open to others, has been one of the greatest gifts I have been given in this life. The gift of friendship brings us back to Jesus himself. To have the ability to develop authentic friendships in life is beautiful. Without a doubt, friendship is one of the most wonderful gifts that God has given us.” (53)
Pope Leo Brings Peace and Tranquility
I highly recommend Matthew Bunson’s book for anyone looking to understand Pope Leo better, especially his missionary work in Peru. After reading these pages, I was so heavily moved that I truly understood why he was selected to be the next pope. From his ability to be a faithful servant of God to communities in need, to sharing the Gospel in dire situations, to bringing peace and tranquility wherever he went, to utilizing his strong intellect, wisdom, and quiet listening power to lead, I see the hand of God in everywhere Leo went as described in Mattew Bunson’s words.
Ask for Leo XIV: Portrait of the First American Pope at your local Catholic bookseller, or order online from Amazon.com, EWTN, or the publisher, Sophia Institute Press.
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Copyright 2025 Cassidy Van Slyke Blenke
Images: Canva
About the Author

Cassidy Van Slyke Blenke
Cassidy Van Slyke Blenke is a stay-at-home parent to four young children and the owner of Arcadia Marketing. She is a devoted convert who is passionate about her Catholic Faith journey. Follow along Cassidy’s writing journey at HonestlyMamaCass.com and on Instagram @honestlymamacass.
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