Book excerpt: What qualities make a provincial French nun who died at the age of twenty-four one of the world's most fascinating women and perhaps the best-loved Roman Catholic saint? In this eloquent appreciation, Jean Guitton captures the special essence of Thérèse of Lisieux in much the same way as a gifted photographer captures his subject. The result is an intimate portrait of the intellect, charm, and spiritual vision of the saint widely known as the 'Little Flower'. Ranking Thérèse as one of the 'Lights of the World', alongside Saints Paul, Augustine, Francis of Assisi, and Joan of Arc, Guitton examines her faith and its special relevance for the modern world. He illuminates seven salient themes in her writing: love of the world as it is; the notion of authenticity; divine love as inimical to human suffering; the afterlife as a continuation of this life; purgatory as a place to love; human life as an effortless striving; and the vision of eternity in the present moment. These seven pivotal concepts, for all their childlike simplicity, constitute a profound theological vision. Now, over one hundred years after her death, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux has been proclaimed a Doctor of the Church. Guitton's lyrical celebration of Thérèse originality reveals the beloved saint as both oracle and guide for our time and all time.