Visual History of the King James Bible, A: The Dramatic Story of the World's Best-Known Translation

by Donald L. Brake, Shelly Beach

For 400 years the King James Version of the Holy Bible has been the most influential book to be published in the English language. Now Bible collector and expert Donald L. Brake brings to life the fascinating story of its creation and proliferation throughout the English-speaking world. With beautiful and informative photos, illustrations, charts, and sidebars, Brake invites readers to explore the KJV's mysterious beginnings, the men who translated it, the manuscripts upon which that translation was based, the important people and places that influenced its production, and even Shakespeare's involvement
in it.

In an age where a new translation of the Bible seems to come about every few years, discover what has made the King James Version endure for four centuries.

Genres: Church History

283 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2011

Reviews

[Anson Cassel Mills · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to the translation of the King James Version, presumably written for the educated general reader by an evangelical scholar and collector of early English Bibles. As the title indicates, the book contains many images. Brake also provides personal anecdotes from his career-long interest in the physical characteristics of old books and manuscripts.

[Paul Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative. Written for the general public, not specifically Bible scholars. The sidebars contain personal stories by the author about some of his experiences with the KJV. I would recommend reading the book "Visual History of the English Bible" first, but each book stands on its own.

[Cricket Muse · Rating 5 out of 5]

With 2011 marking the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible, it is clearly expected a tribute would be forthcoming, and Donald Brake and Sally Beach do so with A Visual History of the King James Bible. This attractive and informative account of how the KJB came into existence and its subsequent impact on the world is definitely a special commemoration to this all-important translation of the Bible. Brake’s passion and knowledge as a Bible scholar and collector resonate throughout the book and his sidebars of personal anecdotes offset the almost overwhelming voluminous textual detail, creating a balanced reference which blends warmth and expertise. The inclusions and variety of the many photographs, drawings, verse comparative charts, appendices, and indexes create a resource and reference serious bible scholars will no doubt want to add to their bookshelf offerings. One impression after reading this book is having experienced an armchair course in bible history, complete with an appealing slide show. Readers wanting to know the background of one of the most influential and inspiring Bible translations will be more than satisfied with this timely edition.

As a side note, it is encouraged for readers to check out KJB: The Book That Changed the World, a documentary with John Rhys-Davies as the host, narrator, and guide. This docu-drama available on DVD from Lions Gate, gives more illumination to the King James Bible history and proves to be a worthy complement to Brake and Beach’s book.

[Bob Hayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Today is the 400th Anniversary of the printing of the King James Bible. In honor of that, I tried my hand at my first video book review. Below, you'll find a link to my video review of A Visual History of the King James Bible by Donald L. Brake. While there are a few audio glitches, the stunning visual beauty of Brake's book is put on full display. I hope you'll consider picking up a copy of this book as a way of celebrating this momentous occasion.

Click here to see the video on Vimeo, or go to my blog for the full review.

Disclaimer: this book was provided by Baker Books. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.

[Libby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written and researched. The middle got a little slow for me because I'm not a scholar. But I'm glad I read it though I did borrow it from the library so I did skim through the last chapters

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book - helping me teach a class on the creation of the King James Bible.

[Mhagenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent introduction to the history of the King James Bible. Insightful and interesting.