The Autobiography” was only supposed to be published after Francis’ death. But at his own request, the book is hitting bookshelves now in more than 80 countries to coincide with the start of the church’s Holy Year.

In this new, deeply personal autobiography, published January 15, Pope Francis does not reveal new information but instead retraces the encounters that shaped his early years and his family's history.

Pope Francis has released is autobiography "Hope". The book shares anecdotes from his life alongside his thoughts on the most trying issues of the era. View on euronews

Pope Francis, who turned 88 last month and asked an aide to read a major speech last week due to a cold, says in a new book that he feels healthy and has no plans to resign as leader of the global Catholic Church.

Hope,” the autobiography of Pope Francis, hit the shelves of Italian bookstores Tuesday and will be on sale starting Jan. 16 in more than 100 countries.

Reflecting on the Prologue of John’s Gospel, the Pope reminded the faithful that Jesus, the Word Incarnate, is ‘the light that shines in darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.’