This book mostly focused on interpretations of a few key stories (especially the creation narratives) throughout the last two millennia or so. Since this is a short book, that only leaves space for brief vignettes and summaries of broader controversies. So for those who are interested in biblical studies, there isn't really anything new (which isn't the purpose of this series, anyway). On the whole, it's fascinating all the same, especially as we reach the more or less contemporary era, when Hendel focuses on literary interactions with Genesis from Dickinson, Kafka, and Mahfouz, among others. ( )

Ho-hum. More of the same. If you have studies and Bible criticism, then there is nothing new here. If you haven't then this is as good a place to start as any. ( )

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