COVER
The American Pope (Religion)
On the eve of Benedict XVI's first papal visit to the U.S., a revealing look at his long fascination with America and how it is shaping his vision for the world
WORLD
Back in Baghdad (Baghdad Diary)
TIME's former bureau chief finds Iraq's capital has changed in many ways, mostly for the better. But the gains that have been made are fragile
Italian Elections: All Is Not Lost
As elections loom, Italy seems mired in a political and economic malaise. Yet amid the gloom, there are signs of hope and progress even in the perennially troubled south. How one town is finding its own way forward
ASIA
The High Cost of Control (China)
Beijing's heavy hand in Tibet is jeopardizing China's hope for a politics-free Olympics
GLOBAL BUSINESS
Bearing Fruit (Trade)
A historic free-trade agreement with Beijing will affect New Zealand more than its new big brother
PEOPLE
Queen of the Dalits (Profile)
Despite her low caste, Mayawati Kumari, leader of India's Uttar Pradesh state, is emerging as a national power broker — and even a potential Prime Minister
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Marty's Second Job (Movies)
As Scorsese takes on the Stones, an assessment of his career in documentaries