Book Review: The Whole Bible Story

The Whole Bible Story by Dr. William H. Marty

Paperback and ebook (Kindle, Nook)

300 pages

ISBN: 978-0764208294; ASIN: B004NNV9UU

Publisher: Bethany House

The Whole Bible Story: Everything That Happens in the Bible in Plain English by Dr. William H. Marty is an attempt to give a straightforward account of the Bible. It does not cover the Epistles (letters), the books of poetry (such as Proverbs, Psalms), or the laws (Leviticus). It did do what was intended, and that was make me want to turn to the Bible.

It was not a page turner. Honestly, I enjoy reading the Bible itself over reading this. The 'plain English' seems to take away from the reading experience of the Bible. It is drab and dull. The writing is strictly relating a story without feeling almost. Not a 'story' even but it is almost just a recap. Perhaps it is because I have the Bible to compare it to. 

I'm not sure what I thought this was going to be. Perhaps I've read too many fiction stories lately...

In the first thirteen chapters and the last chapter you can see (in the table of contents) where the accounts are in the Bible. Chapters fourteen through eighteen simply refer to the Four Gospels. It is interesting to have them meshed together into one account, but I would liked to have a reference to turn to in the Bible.

I think this would be good for those studying the Bible as a historical document because it doesn't have very much commentary throughout. Marty tried to not include that in this book. It doesn't ask any questions nor does it attempt to sway the readers one way or another (at least I didn't feel a pull). It is just the facts. It is quite impersonal. In a very small way this reminds me of Church History in Plain Language by Bruce Shelley. But only because it is straight forward. Shelley's book is much more enjoyable to read. 


**Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review from Bethany House Publishers.