Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation as the head of the Roman Catholic Church on Monday, February 11, 2013. His history-making announcement, being the first pope to resign in 600-years, kicked off one of the most secretive and selective processes—the election of a new Pope.

Award-winning author Greg Tobin offers a compelling guide to what will surely be one of the most important and headline-making events in modern history. Every rule of this process receives close scrutiny, as does the rich history behind the conclave and the key issues that will shape the future of the Catholic Church at a time when it is in crisis, in the U.S. and abroad. Following the election of Pope John Paul IIs successor and current Pope, Benedict XVI, youll discover why the election always concludes with the rising of white smoke; what powers the Cardinals hold during the vacancy of the holy See; and what startling changes Pope John Paul II made to the centuries-old procedures. Look back at some of the more than 200 holy men and scoundrels, geniuses and mediocrities who have held the lofty position of Pope. In addition, theres a day-by-day account of the balloting inside the Sistine Chapel.

Whether your interest is historical, religious, or political, youll enjoy a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Vatican.