The Illustrated Hebrew Bible: 75 Stories [Hardcover]

Ellen Frankel (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 2002

Designed to bring the wisdom of centuries to a wide audience, this illustrated Hebrew Bible includes 40 selections from the Torah and 35 from Prophets and Writings. It collects compelling stories from this ancient text which are retold in lyrical, accessible language. The volume is illustrated with reproductions of illuminated manuscripts, ancient artefacts, synagogue mosaics and paintings by Renaissance masters an others, including William Blake and Marc Chagall.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

The Illustrated Hebrew Bible is a massive, elegant edition of 75 powerful stories, parables, and prophesies from the Torah and the rest of the Hebrew Scriptures, adapted by Ellen Frankel. A fresh translation, based on the translation of the Jewish Publication Society, brings familiar stories lurching to life: "In the very beginning, God created a world--the heavens and the earth--out of nothing. But this world was without rhyme or reason. Darkness covered the face of the deep, and the breath of God glided over the waters. Then God said, 'Let there be light!'" More than 100 color illustrations add drama and texture to this Bible--from Michelangelo's vision of Adam and Eve expelled from Eden to Marc Chagall's rendering of Jacob's Ladder. This is a book that many families will keep, with reverence, for years. Even young children will be drawn to its vivid language and brilliant pictures. Just make sure they wash their hands before you settle down on the sofa to read together. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"Not just another translation of the Bible . . . culls 75 of the most compelling stories . . . and pairs them with lush art." -- Jewish Monthly

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 240 pages
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams (October 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0810982242
• ISBN-13: 978-0810982246
• Product Dimensions: 12.2 x 9.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #984,196 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Dr. Ellen Frankel currently works as a freelance writer, editor, and lecturer. In 2009, she retired after 18 years as CEO and Editor in Chief of The Jewish Publication Society, and now serves as its first Editor Emerita. She is the author of nine published books, including The Classic Tales, The Encyclopedia of Jewish Symbols, The Five Books of Miriam, The Jewish Spirit, The Illustrated Hebrew Bible, two collections of contemporary stories for Jewish young people, and most recently, The JPS Illustrated Children's Bible, which won a National Jewish Book Award. In addition to her books, Frankel wrote the libretto for Andrea Clearfield's oratorio "The Golem Psalms," and is currently at work on two commissioned opera libretti. Frankel travels widely, speaking at synagogues, schools, and conferences.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A picture is worth a thousand words., April 20, 2000

By 

Ron Zhiss (United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Illustrated Hebrew Bible: 75 Selected Stories (Hardcover)

The thing that I liked most about this book is that the artwork was exceptional. The stories have been told again and again, but the visual images bring the stories to life. The geneology chart in the front is a nice touch for anyone interested in passing the book down as an heirloom. Overall, it is a priceless purchase for any Jewish family.

4 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Highlights of the bible but leaves one longing for more., December 4, 2006

By 

Robert Lipsitz "study but doubt, question and... (Washington D.C.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Illustrated Hebrew Bible: 75 Stories (Hardcover)

75 of the most famous Old Testament stories. Some with great illustrations, others...not so exciting. I'm not a religious person and do not know much about the bible, I found this book is a great starter for the older learner interested in reading the 'classics' of the bible. The stories have been adapted to our modern 'tongue' allowing smooth reading. An additional benefit of this version is the illustrations give an interesting (the artist's) perspective on the various themes. The print is easy to read and the paper quality is excellent.

Still, with a text of this sort, I would have expected more. Their is only the briefest of commentary by the author. I find commentary the most interesting aspect of the bible as each story has layers of meaning and multiple interpretations. Additionally I would have enjoyed more about the work of art being displayed, historical context, bio of the artist, etc; some tangible information to bring further meaning to the subject matter art and artist.

In short, for those with an eye for art, it's a great for read of the classics of the bible.