(1)A controversial national best seller upon its initial publication, The Book of J is an audacious work of literary restoration revealing one of the great narratives of all time and unveiling its mysterious author. J is the title that scholars ascribe to the nameless writer they believe is responsible for the text, written between 950 and 900 BCE, on which Genesis, Exodus, and Numbers is based. In The Book of J, accompanying David Rosenberg's translation, Harold Bloom persuasively argues that J was a woman—very likely a woman of the royal house at King Solomon's court—and a writer of the stature of Homer, Shakespeare, and Tolstoy. Rosenberg's translations from the Hebrew bring J's stories to life and reveal her towering originality and grasp of humanity. Bloom argues in several essays that "J" was not a religious writer but a fierce ironist. He also offers historical context, a discussion of the theory of how the different texts came together to create the Bible, and translation notes.
this is an excellent introduction for lay readers (T. M. Law )
A classic treasure that vividly captures the eternal theme of God’s unending love and the many people and occasions that fill the Old and New Testaments. The Bible for Children contains more than 200 Bible stories, retold by playwright and filmmaker Murray Watts and elegantly illustrated by beloved artist, Helen Cann. The stories comprehensively cover key themes of the Bible; they are faithful to the meaning and spirit of the original Scripture. The imaginative style reflects the variety of the biblical text—riveting stories, reporting, poetry, history, letters. The Bible for Children is a visual delight, filled with illustrations that add meaning to the stories. The rich color, the exquisitely drawn faces and settings draw readers into the emotion and power of all that happens. This book for 7-12 year-olds has the design and drama of a modern classic. Author Murray Watts has written many books and plays. He has also directed and produced for the theater and for film, radio, and television. Helen Cann is an experienced illustrator of books for children, including several that deal with ancient stories. Her art has been widely exhibited and can be found in private collections in the United States and Europe.
