This work investigates the life and reported miraculous phenomena of Saint Joseph of Cupertino, a 17th-century Franciscan friar known for his alleged levitation. Michael J. Gross examines the historical records, ecclesiastical testimonies, and contemporary accounts surrounding the friar to determine the intersection of faith, mysticism, and documented observation. The text utilizes a biographical framework to contextualize the saint's experiences within the rigid social and religious structures of the Italian Counter-Reformation. By analyzing primary source documentation, the author attempts to reconcile the extraordinary claims of Joseph's life with the historical reality of his era.

Scholars and readers often note the meticulous attention to archival detail provided by the author in documenting the friar's life. Experts highlight this text as a useful resource for those interested in the history of Catholic mysticism and the challenges of verifying historical accounts of supernatural events.