The mother of all books on Mary, Mother of Jesus. Most people agree that Mary of Nazareth was an actual historical figure. But how did this average Jewish girl become the woman that Christians the world over adore—and call the Mother of God? This fascinating guide explores Mary in Scripture, Mary in tradition, and Mary today; Mary’s links to the Earth Mother and the Buddhist Kwan-Yin; Mary apparitions and shrines throughout the world; and Mary in art, music, and literature.