Many current Bible “intro” volumes focus more on theories about the biblical text than on the text itself. They lack the simplicity that has become increasingly crucial as basic biblical literacy has declined. Robert Kugler and Patrick Hartin seek to remedy that problem by turning readers back to the text at hand. Their Introduction to the Bible surveys the content of all the biblical books, section by section, focusing on the Bible’s theological themes.
I realize that this is a Primer on the Literary Genres of the Holy Bible, and not a Liturgical Walkthrough. But I would have preferred more emphasis given to certain books; it is an error that Psalms, for instance, only has as much space devoted to it as any of the Prophets books.
Introduction to the Bible by Robert Kugler and Patrick Hartin is an excellent resource that brings readers back to the heart of Scripture. Rather than focusing heavily on abstract theories, the book emphasizes the biblical text itself, making it accessible and meaningful for readers at all levels.