A good explanation of the Faith 
Let me first state I am a Protestant and study the Eastern Orthodox church quite a bit (just so you guys know :), but I have to say this is a good catechism for anyone to understand the Christian faith. While there are parts I do not agree with theologically (Assumption of Mary, etc) I do find the book to be very concise and informative. For Catholics this would have to be the book to get to understand one's faith. And for protestants it would be good to read to get the facts before they bash. 
st_clement   from Ohio

Authoritative and inspiring. 
The Catechism of the Catholic Church is the official summary of the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Yet it is so much more than a summary. It explains the Church's teachings in a way that is both profound and accessible to readers with no formal training in theology.
It contains four major parts. The first part explains what Catholics, as Christians, believe. It uses the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed as models. The second part explains how Catholics worship God, with special attention to the seven Sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. The third major part explains how Christians should live their lives, and the Catholic teachings about right and wrong, as well as grace and sin. It explains how the Catholic Church interprets the Ten Commandments. The fourth part teaches Christians how to pray.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church is written in a way that inspires true love towards God. The language is abstract, but does not always explain the reasons for the teachings either. If one wants to deepen one's spiritual life, the Catechism is a great place to start. If one wants to learn what the Catholic Church teaches in general, the Catechism is also excellent. However, one should not use the Catechism to look up answers to specific questions, nor should it be used to answer the question, "Why be Catholic?"

The book reflects the official teachings of the Church. It was written by a group of bishops under close supervision of a Vatican committee, and was approved by Pope John Paul II.
: Jonathan D Loo   from Maryland