Vincent J. MILLER, The Theological and Ecological Vision of LAUDATO SI': Everything is Connected. Bloomsbury T&T Clark, NY: Bloomsbury T&T Clark, 2017. pp. 218. $32.00 pb. ISBN 978-0-67315-206-2. Reviewed by Marie CONN, Chestnut Hill College, Philadelphia, PA 19118.

Let me begin with a conclusion (something I never allow my students to do): this book is recommended for anyone interested in gaining more background into and interpretation of the material in Pope Francis’ encyclical.

One of the practical strengths of the book is the inclusion, at the start of every chapter, of an “Encyclical Reading Guide,” indicating the bits of the pope’s letter to which the chapters are connected.

Miller’s intent is “to help non-specialist readers understand the elements of the encyclical’s argument.” (1) The13 chapters are organized into three parts: “Everything is connected;” “Theological and ethical themes in Laudato Si’;” and “Responding in care for our common home.” Contributors include academics (among other disciplines: Physics, Theology, Christian Ethics, Theological Ethics, Economics of Climate Change), as well as experts in the fields of climate change, sustainable development, life science research, and outreach.

Pope Francis challenges us to be open both to divine creativity and to the cry of the poor. The voices of the marginalized have theological relevance. There is no room for fear which closes, rather than opens, the doors of the church. Genuine encounter transforms hearts and minds.

A theme running through the various chapters echoes the pope’s insistence on the interconnection of all of creation. This calls for a conviction on our part that “creation” includes the natural world and all that it contains, both animate and inanimate.

This book provides accessible overviews of the encyclical's major teachings. Chapters on the encyclical's theological and moral teachings situate them within the Christian tradition and papal teaching. The book provides a guide for those wishing to explore the issues raised by Laudato Si' but who lack the specialist knowledge required to know where to begin.

Another strength of Miller’s arrangement of the chapters is the freedom he affords to readers to go from chapter to chapter in order or to concentrate on those chapters most suited to the individual reader’s background and purpose.

This book is thus suitable for a wide general audience but will also be an important resource for readers with more specialized backgrounds in theology, ecology, political policy-making, economics, and ethics. I agree with the observation of Michael Northcott (back cover blurb): “This penetrating collection…is testimony to the depth and range of ethical, economic, and ecological teaching in Laudato Si’.”