For all who wish to embrace Franciscan spirituality, with its emphasis on radical simplicity, joy, openness to all, compassionate action, the celebration of creation as well as a love of learning, this guide explores how the Franciscan experience today was shaped by its founder and earliest members. The author, an Anglican Franciscan friar and theologian, draws out the movement's core teachings from its founding figures and its earliest texts: * Francis and the essence of prayer and reconciliation with all created things; * Clare of Assisi and contemplative practice; * Giles of Assisi, solitude, storytelling and spiritual direction; * Bonaventure, study and spiritual wisdom * Angela of Foligno and mystical experience; * Jacapone da Todi and praise in poetry and song. Intended as an introduction to living the Franciscan charism today, this also includes a reader's guide with questions for personal or group discussion.