Countless biographies have been written about Pope John Paul II. In this volumen a well-know Vatican insider reveals new details about Karol Wojtyla's youth, from his birth to his election to the papacy. This short, readable book chronicles the young life and personal development of this popular and beloved man through stories about his family, his vocation, and his intellectual training. It is enjoyable for both for adults and young people.

Stories of Karol: The Unknown Life of John Paul II originated as a 20-part radio program that aired from January to March 2001 and was narrated by the author himself. It was also the inspiration behind the Hallmark channel movie, A Man Who Became Pope.

Gian Franco Svidercoschi comes from a Polish family and has been a well-known Vatican observer since 1959. He has worked for press agencies, newspapers, radio, and TV networks. The author of numerous books, he is now a Vice Director of L'Osservatore Romano