This is a wonderful book, which is the inspiration for Xavier Beauvois’ moving film, "Of Gods and Men." A group of Benedictine monks establish a monastery in Algeria, committed to a life of prayer and service to their local neighbors. The monks become part of the community fabric, and provide food, comfort and medical care to their village neighbors. The Muslim leaders and clerics view them as friends and colleagues. Enter the Algerian war with France, and the monks become sources of political discomfort to both sides. Their violent deaths at the hands of unnamed "rebel" assailants conveniently suit both the French and Algerian politicians.

posted Dec 4, 2012 at 11:11AM

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