This translation of the bible, which is available in many of the worlds languages, and published by the Society of St Paul, is an excellent resource for all Christians, and people of other faiths or none. It is often found amongst Catholic bibles because of its inclusion of the deuterocanonical (apocryphal) books, but makes a great gift - especially for young Christians. The Christian Community Bible is written in clear contemporary English which is accessible to all. In addition, it contains extensive footnotes to obscure or difficult passages, it contains beautiful photographs and illustrations, whilst each book has a concise introduction setting the book in its political, social, and religious context, which aims to engage the reader and deepen understanding. At the beginning of this edition there are various notes explaining where the bible came from, how it came to be in its present form, and what existed before the various books were collected into the single volume that we recognise today. It offers help for reading the bible, explains how it came from the Apostles to us, and why it is such an important collection. I highly recommend this book to St Paul's customers, especially for people aged 15 + and for those who have found other editions difficult. (Posted on 14/12/2008)