A Life with Karol: My Forty-Year Friendship with the Man Who Became Pope

by Stanislaw Dziwisz

This intimate, affectionate portrait of Pope John Paul II by his longtime secretary and confidant reveals fascinating new details about the opinions, hopes, fears, and dramatic life of this public man.

“I had accompanied him for almost forty twelve in Kraków and then twenty-seven in Rome. I was always with him, always at his side. Now, in the moment of death, he’d gone on alone. . . .And now? Who is accompanying him on the other side?”
—From A Life with Karol

Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz worked side by side with Pope John Paul II for almost forty years, enjoying unique access to both the public and private man. In A life with Karol , he provides a close-up glimpse into the Pope’s life and the critical events of his papacy.

Dziwisz was sitting next to the Pope during the assassination attempt in 1981. He recounts the Pope's reaction to 9/11, describing his thoughts and feelings on that day. And the Cardinal’s moving description of the Pope’s haunting memories of World War II uncovers the roots of the pontiff’s intense opposition to George W. Bush’s war on Iraq.
The two men shared moments of fun and spontaneity as well. Dziwisz writes about the times the Pope would slip out of the Vatican, wearing a Panama hat, to stroll the streets of Rome, and he describes the clandestine ski and hiking trips the pair made to escape the Vatican. His firsthand account of the Pope’s last years also reveals that John Paul II considered resigning. These stories and others lend added poignancy to Dziwisz’s extraordinary portrayal of the Pope’s courage and calmness during his final illness.

Genres: Catholic, Biography, Religion, Memoir, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, Christian

272 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm in the middle of this book and am really enjoying it. I have already learned a few things I never knew about the Holy Father...and I really like the way the book is written in a very "conversational" style. Cardinal Dziwisz is very open and forthright. I will add more to my review when I finish it...
4/16: I finished the book this afternoon and I have to say, it was a very moving and worthwhile read. I had a hard time completely understanding the political climate and its effects on Poland and Eastern Europe but it was so enlightening to have a "behind the scenes" look at how our Holy Father felt as he saw Communism fall.

The last three chapters were riveting and we have Dziwisz's first-hand account of what it was like in that room on the day John Paul II "went home to the Lord." I cried and then reminded myself what a powerful intercessor we have now that he is Home.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those fans of the late Pope John Paul II (the Great as he is referred to as now) who are looking for more of an intimate biography...this book was written by his right hand man, not the current Pope, Benedict XVI, but his personal secretary, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz.

Its a story of the rise of Pope John Paul II through the eyes of his personal secretary. It described the Pope and how he tackled some of the many problems of the world and also his many accomplishments of his pontificate...This is a very easy read and a touching story of one of modern history's most famous people.

[Alvaro Hu · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5.

There was a lot more in here about the politics of the time and the Pope's stance on communism, labor unions, etc than I was expecting. I wish it focused more on what the second half was about, which was his spirituality and how he was able to bridge the gap between many of the world's religions.

It also didn't help that this was a conversation that was then translated into the final product, so he talks about many people and events without really explaining who they are, and circles back in a pretty unstructured manner that was kind of jarring.

Nevertheless, it was evident that Pope John Paul II was an amazing person and Pope, who's lifestyle everyone should try to emulate.

[Mary Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not only a testimony to a 40 year-old friendship based on loyalty and respect but also a mini history lesson. Oh, you'll need your Kleenex reading the last chapter. :)

[Arthur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed.

[Carolyn O’Connor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went on a Pilgrimage in Poland in June 2024. It was a tremendous trip. I learned a lot about St John Paul II while there. The Polish People love him and all over the country he was remembered with pictures, statues etc. I was very fortunate to have visited JP II’s house, church, private chapel to name a few. We were privileged to have had a private audience with Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, Pope JP II’s friend and secretary by his side for 12 yrs in Krakow as Bishop to Cardinal, then 27 years beside him at the Vatican as Pope.
I have read another book about JP II previously that showed more of his human side and I felt like I learned so much more about him. Since I met Cardinal Dziwisz, I wanted to read what he had to say about him. I was expecting a more personal account, but the book was more intellectual of events and different events of the church in Rome I wasn’t aware of. I still enjoyed it, but was a bit disappointed it wasn’t more personal about their friendship. Still a good read.

[Paul Rubio · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was definitely a great read. It gave a very in-depth look at Pope St. John Paul II from someone who was close to him for years. The part of book that was lacking was the end. Cardinal Dziwisz gave a touching account of his final days and funeral, but then ended rather abruptly without additional analysis. Other than that, I enjoyed seeing this Pope through Cardinal Dziwisz's eyes. Having attended World Youth Day 2019, it was especially notable to read about the concerns surrounding World Youth Day when it was started, and how they were quickly allayed by the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response.

[shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Paul II is the first pope after Vatican II and he was a loving, compassionate and hardworking man. Called the "travelling pope", he travelled to so many countries including remote poor areas. There were 2 countries he really want to go but couldn't. China and Russia. He even took Mandarin lessons in the hope of using them if he gets to visit.

[William · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first fourth of the book seemed a bit choppy; it dealt with Pope John Paul II's years in Poland. The rest of the book seemed to flow more smoothly but seemed to be an intellectual discussion of various initiatives of Pope John Paul II. The exceptions were the discussion of the assassination attempt and the death of Pope John Paul II. Those were touching depictions.

[Joseph Serwach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Constant companion to one of the greatest saints

The cardinal became personal secretary to the world’s youngest cardinal and a future pope at a young age and was an eye witness to history. His insights are valuable.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only got about 3/4 of the way through this but found it so engaging. Sad to have to return it to the library so that I could return to Indiana. I plan to resume the read when I can find it again.

[Barbara H. Turkowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gods man!

Truly a man of God! Who brought our Lord to millions of people! And lived his life to please the Lord at all times! 😍😍😍

[Adam Skrzypczyk · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good novel detailing Dziwisz's experience with JPII.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

land in chains, go meet world in Gospel, negative freedoms as tolerance, purification of memory with Germany 1966 1K Poland, aetheism of east materialsm of west, 75 freedom breaks out via Helsinki accord Prague rebellion of workers 6.25.76, respect rights of man and nation, pope at 58, 68 Warsaw students revolt w/o workers, Krakow restarted with both in 77, liberation theology promoted suppression of rights, follow Gospel not human criticisms, traditionalist and progressive, basic human issue is morality, calm Falklands, protests of Sandinista and Pinochet Chile, renew marriage vows, 5.13 shot motherly hand guides life and why aren’t you dead, moral support for solidarity, youth first at Paris 83 to WYD 700k Denver Paris 97, revolution of heart first, Mother Teresa mirror of JP2, saints of all nations, Holiness doing God’s will, not hard to be Saint door wide open, consecrate Russia 84 encyclical communism, as death of communism late 80s unrestrained liberalism, 83Haiti something has to change, liberal ideology is to live as God does not exist, family at center of struggle of good and evil, 94UN against family, suicide of humanity via Bosnia then prayer for peace 10.27.86 Assisi, 200m persecuted Christians, 00forgiveness of history, God called and will recall, visit Abraham and Syria mosque, the world can change, prayers to stop Iraq war, thy will be done, no hospital again only prayer. 1956 first protests crosses of univ students in Poland peaceful praying protests, solidarity vs marxism, communists allowed no God at school, dealt with materialistic west and atheistic east, regime media lies vs workers/students, media used to erase God from people’s lives, Mexico allowed no open public blessing, all are children of God, resist exploitation by media, mob of Sandanista anti-pope, Roma Amor, shooter never asked for forgiveness forces beyond control why aren’t you dead, mans right to struggle for freedom, youth group began in Paris 83, don’t be afraid to be Saints remain faithful to what Jesus said and did self-giving to deepest happiness Teresa, holiness is doing god’s Will in your daily life and the door to holiness wide open to everyone, know how to read signs of times,

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a sucker for books about Pope John Paul II, so I was eager to read this one by Cardinal Dziwisz, who served as the Holy Father's personal secretary for many years. I have to say, though, that this one isn't what I was hoping it would be. The narrator's preface doesn't really explain how Cardinal Dziwisz and the journalist came together on this project, so the narration seems to come out of nowhere. They have to cover the vast amount of time, geography, and material of Pope John Paul II's pontificate, and if I hadn't read both of the Weigel biographies I don't know if I would have the context for many of the events that they discuss.

That being said, I still liked this book and would recommend it. It's an easy read, and a neat complement to those Weigel biographies because it's so personal. Cardinal Dziwisz was one of the Pope's closest collaborators, and their deep spiritual friendship is really moving. It's cool to get Cardinal Dziwisz's reflections on and memories of the Pope's response to these events and experiences because we have previously only seen their public face.

I also have to say that if I had been asked to rate the last chapter, I would have given it 5 stars. It is called, "Let me go home to the Lord," and it's the Cardinal's memories of the Pope's physical suffering and death. This chapter reflects on the Pope's experience with suffering in many forms throughout his life, offering then Cardinal Ratzinger's comment that, "In his life, the word 'cross' is not just a word." This chapter is simple and profound, letting the Pope's last moments serve as a powerful witness of what it means to follow Christ.

[Rachielle Sheffler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was written by Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, the Pope's personal secretary from his days as Bishop of Krakow. The Cardinal begins the book by looking back on what he missed most about the Pope - his peaceful gaze. I immediately understood what he meant, and I felt the same. Even though I had met the Pope only once, when I was twelve, his presence pervaded most of my life, and continues to do so after his death in 2005.

I thoroughly enjoyed the stories about the Pope. I discovered more of his adventurous spirit, his prayer life, his travels around the world, devotion to Mother Mary and his capacity for forgiveness. I admit that I was disappointed that nowhere in this book was the visit to the Philippines mentioned. Nevertheless, I listened to the book as one would to stories about one's family heritage. In a way, it is.

[Richard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually, about 2.5 stars. More hagiography, but this time from the Great Man's secretary. One of these days we'll get the warts and all story of John Paul the Great, but probably not until he's a Saint. There are a few things to learn in this volume: his interview with his would be assassin is illuminating, JP was there to forgive, Agfa just kept wondering how he could have missed; the tales of Solidarity are interesting; and the Pope's final days are heart-breaking. I have to admit I liked (maybe even loved) the guy, and his life was worthy - even to an apostate neo-atheist like me own self. Here's what gets me, though: the author mentioned the pedophile scandals once, and gave it a total of 7 words! Not even a whole f'ing sentence - a seven word phrase!

Jesus wept.

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

So it definitely took me a while to get through this book. Often chapters referenced documents or topics that I had no idea/understanding of which was confusing. Also, the story was written in two points of views which caused the book to be kind of choppy and not flow well, as the story sometimes doubled back or repeated itself.

That being said the parts of the book that really focused on Pope John Paul's accomplishments and goals were fascinating. I gained a whole new appreciation for what he did for not only the Catholic Church but also the world. It was amazing for me to learn how great he affected world affairs - not just populations but also leaders. He was a truly inspiring person and I really enjoyed learning more about him through this book.

[Kimball · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a 3.5 star read. It's neat getting to learn more about someone I know nothing about. Yet for someone who knew him for 40 years I was expecting more quirks and things from the Pope. Stuff you don't see when he's in the public eye. I liked how he did a day in the life of the Pope.

This was a good historical book about Europe and the Soviet Union as well. I wasn't aware that he was involved in so many World Affairs. I wonder if today's Pope is more or less involved than John Paull II.

I couldn't help but think of Angels & Demons during this read. The narraotr sounded a lot like Hratli.

[Crystal Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting and enlightening insider's view of Pope John Paul II. As he became Pope very early in my life and held the papacy for 27 years, he is still the person who comes to mind when I hear the title "Pope". The book paints him as a consistent, authentic, credible person whose devotion to prayer and Scripture should be a lesson, example, and conviction to us all. Though I do not necessarily agree with all of his theology or platforms, after reading this book, I can certainly see where and how he came to his positions on major topics and why he staunchly pursued them from the standpoint of pastoral care for a world congregation.

[Amy kravitz · Rating 3 out of 5]

So far so good. I wish the author gave some beginning biographical history on Pope John Paul 2. The book explains how John Paul was instrumental in bringing down the walls of Communism in Eastern Europe and in his native Poland.
Towards the end it talked about the Pope's failing health, but it was only discussed in passing.
In general, I liked the book, but I felt that the book needed more "meat." There were quite a few chapters, but I wish they went into more depth concerning the life and actions of Pope John Paul 2.

[K. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting book about Pope John Paul II. From the title, I expected a somewhat personal look at the Pope and his day to day life, but the focus of the book is more on the big movements in the Pope's life--his rise from Cardinal to Pope, Poland's struggles for freedom, the collapse of communism, and events on the world stage. There is also a good deal of discussion on theological points, some of which I did not have the theological background to catch the significance.

[Cristian · Rating 2 out of 5]

I started reading intensely this book enchanted by the sublime emotional preface. I must confess now, at the end, that the grandious personality, spirituality and deeds of Pope John Paul II could have been more suitably reviewed. Even though, I do understand, this is not the Pope's biography but the humble confession of his closest witness, his secretary... Does this lack of strength belong to Cardinal Dziwisz or to journalist Svidercoschi?

[Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I particularly like the conversational style of the book. One comes away from the book feeling like they new the Holy Father. It also gives a context for many of his actions through his papacy, especially in Poland. I was not aware of how much impact he had in Poland during his reign. I heartily suggest this book for anyone who would like a quick read about John Paul the Great.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Pope John Paul died on the Saturday before Divine Mercy Sunday, I was sadden that he didn't have Mass for one of his favorite feasts, so I was very happy to learn that Cardinal Dziwisz started saying the Vigil for him before he died. :)

I also like hearing about how he would sneak out to go skiing or he would jump from moving cars to escape spies. Pope on a mission, indeed.

[Monika Barbara Potocki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book, and it covered a wide range of topics from politics to overseas visits to Cardinal Dziwisz's personal life. However, I was disappointed by the fact that relatively little was said about the author's and the Pope's personal relationship and interactions. There were no huge revelations or anything of the sort, but still, it was a good read.

[Robert Luke · Rating 3 out of 5]

The descriptions of the attempt on his life in 1981 and of his passing in 2005 were moving and better than I have read elsewhere. The book is merely okay otherwise but is still worth reading by those interested in Blessed Pope John Paul the Great. Santo subito!

[Katarzyna Mlynarczyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really good to know some more polish culture, history. You can learn, how to be, from a Great Person.

[Kathy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think it could be a great book, but just very hard to read and follow.

[Nick Aho]

It was a good insight of the Late Holy Father from the eyes of his secretary Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz.