Biographical note:
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is a lawyer with the Pace University environmental clinic, and is well known for his dedication to activism. He has written two books for adults, and two other books for children, St. Francis of Assisi: A Live of Joy and Joshua Chamberlain and the American Civil War. He lives with his wife and children in Westchester County, New York.
Main description:
He turned away from his life of wealth and privilege to live with lepers, the "untouchables" of his society. He preached the idea of the sanctity of all life, becoming an advocate of animal rights and environmentalism in a time when even human life often had little value. He found joy in owning nothing, and giving everything away. He was story of Saint Francis of Assisi and the story of his life is inspiring and radical. And now more than ever, it bears important messages for American children living in a culture of casual abundance and waste. Saint Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.-a father, a devout Roman Catholic, a crusader for clean air and water, and a member of a family famous for its dedication to public service. It is no wonder, then, that this saint's story should resonate so powerfully with him. Mr. Kennedy has retold Francis's story as a lesson and inspiration for his own children-and for children everywhere.
