Upon immediately reading Kate O'Brien's Teresa of Avila, the author notes that the work "is an apology not for Teresa but for this writer's constant admiration of her." True enough, and if you don't share a constant admiration for St. Teresa, this may not be the book for you. While utterly readable in its style, the content is little more than an ode to St. Teresa's "genius for life." If, however, you're like me and you can't get beyond the fact that St. Teresa seemed to have only a genius for zealotry, this book will not strike the right note. But again, this slim volume is a declaration of admiration, not a biography. Take it for what it is. ( )

ILLUSTRATED