From Word to Book - by Nancy R Heisey

Book Synopsis

From Word to Book addresses questions that the author's students frequently raised about how the Bible was inspired, written, and passed down through the millennia. From the first storytellers to contemporary researchers working with digital technologies, the Bible's story reveals fascinating interactions between the divine and the human. The book's chapters offer insights both for those who find the Bible central in their life of faith, and for those who are skeptical about its claims or even wonder why the Bible matters. Brief illustrative texts from readers and scholars ranging across generations and geography enhance understandings about how the Bible as we know it was shaped.

Review Quotes

"Nancy Heisey's From Word to Book is a comprehensive, accessible account of how the Bible came to be and its significance for contemporary readers. Heisey addresses questions that many Bible readers have by providing clear explanations that interact with scholarly works without being pedantic or confusing. From Word to Book should be in the hands of students, pastors, laypersons, and anyone else curious about the Bible's story--not just the stories in the Bible."

--Dennis R. Edwards, dean, North Park Theological Seminary



"A remarkable achievement drawing upon decades of classroom instruction, Nancy Heisey reflects on student-raised questions about the Bible. Spanning numerous research disciplines, Heisey shows how 'God has been willing to use humans in sharing God's love story.' As an Anabaptist/Mennonite pastor, I appreciated the scope and stunning originality of this wonderfully engaging book. I will consult From Word to Book as I join my church community in its love for scriptural study and discernment."

--Jason Gerlach, pastor, Community Mennonite Church



"Rooted in her multicultural experience and immense knowledge of Christian and Jewish traditions, Nancy Heisey offers a fascinating compendium of the Bible's formation, history, translation, and interpretation in this work. From Word to Book is a recommended introduction and resource for those who want to approach the study of the Bible seriously."

--César García, general secretary, Mennonite World Conference



"The history of the Bible remains opaque to many, despite much recent ink spilled on the subject. Heisey's attention to Scripture's translation, transmission, and interpretation in diverse global contexts sets apart her wise and accessible account. She invites readers to reflect on how the God who is renewing all things continues to speak to God's people through the written word. Anyone interested is sure to profit from reading this splendid volume!"

--Andrea Saner, associate professor of Sacred Scripture, Augustine Institute Graduate School of Theology

About the Author

Nancy R. Heisey is professor emerita of biblical studies at Eastern Mennonite University. She grew up among the Navajo people and lived in Democratic Republic of Congo and Burkina Faso.