Children's Bible Reader;

This Bible storybook for children is especially notable for its many large, delicate and detailed watercolor illustrations done in a style reminiscent of the Byzantine icons of the Orthodox Church. These illustrations were commissioned for the original edition of this book done in Greece in the Greek language. While they are not icons, strictly speaking, they should appeal strongly to all Orthodox Christians, whether children or adults. Orthodox parents and church school teachers may be tempted to buy two copies, one to read, and one to cut up for pictures for bulletin boards and craft projects. Many of these Bible scenes are hardly found elsewhere in Orthodox-style art. There are one or more full-color illustrations at every opening of the book. Included are 74 stories from the Old Testament and 81 from the New Testament. The text is excerpts of actual Scripture in the very simplified CEV translation, and the Bible chapter is noted at the end of each. The large clear print will please readers young and old. At the back are 15 pages of very clear Bible maps. Clergy and lay leaders of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit were involved the editing and production of this American edition. --- Randall Mark Trainer