FROM THE PUBLISHER

Clear, easy-to-understand language and beautiful artwork make this little book is a treasure for young readers. Written in conjunction with educators, scholars, and religious advisors, Old and New Testament tales including the Birth of Jesus, Jacob's Ladder, Noah's Ark, and the Resurrection fill this little book that's perfect for sharing with loved ones.

About the Author:Selina Hastings is the author of several children's books that reflect her interest in language and history including Sir Gawain and the Loathly Lady and The Canterbury Tales.
Eric Thomas, a teacher of graphics, print, and illustration, has worked as a freelance illustrator for the BBC, The Times of London, and The Economist.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature

Concise prose aided by a multitude of detailed illustrations and photos make this book of Old and New Testament stories a treasure for children. Key Bible stories, accompanied by maps, quotes from Scripture, pictures and definitions to explain certain passages, provide a wealth of information. For example, in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, the angels admonish Lot and his wife not to look behind them as they flee the burning cities. When Lot's wife turns to watch the destruction raining down, she is instantly transformed into a pillar of salt. An inset on this page shows salt clusters in the Dead Sea and explains that the large amounts of salt prevent anything from growing there. The clusters serve as a reminder of the terrible fate suffered by Lot's wife. The book also provides two excellent sections¿¿¿"Introduction to the Bible" and "Who's Who in the Bible Stories." This book would be an asset to both family and school libraries. A minor criticism is the small print size used for the text. A ribbon bookmark is attached to the binding of the book. 2000, DK Publishing, $12.95. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati

BookList - Ilene Cooper

Considering the spectacular graphics of most Dorling Kindersley books, this illustrated Bible may be something of a disappointment. The book combines small photographs with rather listless pastel artwork. The color photos show artifacts, clothing, architecture, and various plants and animals of biblical times, among many other items. The big draw here is not the art, but rather the fluent retellings and the chapters of background information that place the stories in their historical and geographical contexts. Topics include life in Canaan, the land of the New Testament, and the early Church. A comprehensive volume that should find a place on religion shelves.