Broken families, abortion, AIDS, internet pornography, clergy abuse, homosexual 'marriage': church and world are in a profound sexual crisis. Is there a way out? For such a time as this have we been given Pope John Paul II and his 'theology of the body'. Based on the words of Jesus, his reflections on the body and sex take us to the root of the modern crisis and chart the path to authentic sexual liberation. Yet the Pope's profound scholarship often intimidates the average person.

Christopher West therefore provides a short summary of this revolutionary teaching. I love his book because he speaks the truth in love, proclaiming clearly and fearlessly, yet with gentle tone and effortless humour. Moreoever, it's for our healing and redemption, rather than condemnation.

God created us male and female because in essence our sexuality is an icon: the physical represents divine truth. The ultimate purpose of marriage is to point to the infinitely deeper union within the godhead, and between Jesus and the Church. Sex should therefore be revered and held in high esteem, not grasped at grubbily. If sexual sin is a problem for you, read this book. If not, read it anyway, better to minister to those who struggle in this area.