On Tuesday last I had the singular pleasure of showing Portland to the world-renown Catholic author Piers Paul Read. In between five radio and newspaper interviews, and a book signing, we had time to meet a long list of Catholic movers and shakers, as well as dine at a few fine establishments and have some serious discussions.

I just finished reading his book, "The Death of a Pope," and it is remarkable for the apologetic angle: it brings up most of the controversies that Catholics are facing today within the Church, and presents both sides -- ultimately letting the reader make up his mind. I recommend it.

He's on EWTN's Catholic Answers today at 4:00 PM PST, he'll be in San Francisco on Sunday night (http://www.ignatius.com/death-of-a-pope-book/event-rsc/pprflyer_sanfrancisco.pdf), and actually at St. Sebastians in Greenbrae on June 4th (http://www.ignatius.com/death-of-a-pope-book/event-rsc/pprflyer_greenbrae.pdf).

Check out his website for more:

http://www.deathofapope.com

And he's on Facebook at:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Piers-Paul-Read/82996687222?ref=ts