Rome (AsiaNews) – An "autobiographical reflection" of his last 50 years: this is how the pope's new book, "Get up. Let us go!" was described. John Paul II's latest work will surely become an international best seller.

The 200-page book, published by Mondatori, will hit bookstores May 18, the day the pontiff turns 84. The book's title was inspired by what Jesus said to his apostles in the garden of Gethsemane on the eve of his death.  

When introducing the book, Holy See spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls urged everyone not to consider the book to be John Paul II's final testament, even if the pope has been seriously ill with Parkinson's disease for quite some time. He stressed that the book is "more of a call to action, like saying 'there is much work to be done'." 

The book's 40 brief chapters were written by the pope last spring and summer. His words are an "autobiographical reflection" on his life since 1958, the year in which he became bishop of Krakow in southern Poland. "It is a book of thoughts and memories," said Navarro-Valls. "It is an easy-read, full of freshness, vitality and humor.  It is a book that promises to inspire many readers." 

Mondadori, which holds international rights on the book, has not released any financial details on the deal, but it said the book will be a success. John Paul II's first book "Crossing the Threshold of Hope" (also published by Mondatori) has sold over 20 million copies and published in 50 editions worldwide, since it was first released in 1994.   

As now, as had been done before with other publications by the pope, the Vatican will use all earnings gained from royalties toward charitable works and development projects.

The first release in Italian ("Alzatevi, andiamo!") will total 280,000 copies and if deals with other publishing houses are made in time, foreign language editions might also be published by May 18.

John Paul II's is the most prolific pope in history, having written dozens of encyclicals for the Catholic Church in addition to essays and official world messages. Last year he returned to one his passions as a young man, publishing a new book of poetry.

Below we offer a short excerpt from the conclusion of John Paul II's "Get up. Let us go!" (translation by AsiaNews): 

 

"When 'his time' had come Jesus said to those who were with him in the garden of Gethsemane, that is, the disciples who particularly loved – Peter, James and John: "Get up. Let us go!" (Marco 14,42). It was not only He had to "go" and fulfill the Father's will, but they too had to follow him. Christ's summoning to "rise up and go!" has particular relevance to us bishops, His chosen friends.

"Even if these words spell a time a trial, of great effort and a painful cross for us to bear, we must not be afraid. These are words which bring us joy and peace, and without making demands on those for whom it is impossible to cope with such difficulties.

While He asks, Jesus also offers us the necessary help. I say this from a place in which Christ the Savior's love led me, after asking me to leave my homeland to bear fruit elsewhere by the help of His grace. And this fruit was destined to be long lasting. Repeating the words of our Master and Lord, I too say again to all of you, my dear brothers and sisters: "Get up. Let us go!" We will go while trusting in Christ. It will be He who will accompany us along the way –until the end, which only He knows." 

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