DESIRE OF THE EVERLASTING HILLS

Thomas Cahill's newest book is subtitled "The World Before and After Jesus." In truth, it's his commentary on the New Testament, the way his THE GIFTS OF THE JEWS was his take on the Old Testament. Using language lay readers will find highly accessible, he discusses the historic and social context of the period. Then, in turn, he examines each of the New Testament authors, showing how they were shaped and how they shaped later Christianity. Cahill's writing is straightforward and translates well to audio. Brian F. O'Byrne's Irish accent gives a flavor to the reading without interfering with the material. And when O'Byrne reads passages from different Bible translations, especially the King James, one is glad to be listening, rather than merely reading. R.C.G. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 00]