The Bishop of Lipoppo

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What a delightful book is Gerald McLaughlin's new novel, or fable, as he calls it, The Bishop of Lipoppo. I enjoyed every word! The main character of Samuel Harbinger is charming and full of heart, as well as simple and naive, but in such a whimsical way that it is okay. We first meet Samuel in his Kenyan village where he is chatting to his lion friend, Manda (shades of St Francis of Assissi and the #1 Ladies Detective Agency.) Soon Samuel finds out he is to be made a bishop and so off to Rome he goes, and there hilarious adventures begin. The pope himself is spellbound by Samuel's frankness and honesty and soon all of Rome and the world is in love with this diminutive and wise holy black man from Africa! Samuel accomplishes miracles and success in unimaginable ways, and we grow to love him dearly. This book will be enjoyed by all who want a hopeful and clever story filled with love and joy. (ages 12 to 100.)