Anyone who reads the pages of this demanding book will find it hard to escape the immediacy with which the question of faith is posed here. Ratzinger's truly successful and bold work is undoubtedly a significant achievement. Here, no stones are offered, but rather bread, vital and life-sustaining nourishment for Christian existence today. This book by Ratzinger provides new hope, especially for despondent Christians. It impressively makes clear in its own way that it is worthwhile to be and remain a Christian. This is an introduction to Christianity, not to a Christian denomination. This invaluable book can be counted among the best faith books of our time.