How the Bible Came to Us

I used this book with my kids during our overview of the Old Testament when they were all in elementary school. We needed a book, suitable for children, that would quickly illuminate the origins of the text we were reading. Even my first grader could read and understand it. We pulled it out again this year when we studied the Renaissance & Reformation, and the children still found it interesting and informative. I know of no more concise and accessible explanation for the Bible's origins and how it came to us in its present form. Richly (though informally) illustrated, the book is laid out in little "mini articles," which the kids found easy to read and remember. Although meant for children, I would even use it to help adults understand where the Bible came from and how it was transmitted to us.

A multi-faceted subject handled well for its intended audience as well as older readers unfamiliar with the topic. The addition of subject/event tracking helps to clarify the content as well as the reason for the process. Especially helpful are the inclusion of contemporary efforts to make the scripture accessible to all who care to read them. The art work is interesting and the text is well written.