The Jesus Encyclopedia

This book presents the story of Jesus in its setting.

The episodes from Jesus’ life are told through extracts and adaptations from the gospels, carefully selected and arranged to present his birth and boyhood, the start of his ministry, his teachings, parables and miracles, his friends and enemies, the events leading up to his death and the impact of the resurrection. These are all linked to information about where the events took place, the historical background and how the gospels came to be written. Throughout the book are numerous insights into how Jesus’ teaching and example are reflected in the life of the Christian church today.

The result is a refreshing, appealing and accessible one-stop guide to learning about Jesus.

LOIS ROCK is mother of three children and experienced helper in church children’s groups. Amongst her many books for children are Festivals of the Christian Year, Discovering Churches and the First Look series. She has also written and compiled a number of children’s prayer books.

Reviews

‘This superb new book seeks to bring the person of Jesus alive for the youngsters of today. All the key incidents of his life are related and... these moments are beautifully illustrated by Peter Dennis, bringing the stories colourfully alive. However, the real selling point of this book is its extras. With each story is given historical details that place Jesus within the context of the Roman empire and the traditions, history and faith of the Jewish people. Moreover, numerous photographs are used to supply archaeological evidence of Jesus’ life, as well as ones that show how the places look today. Thus, Jesus and his disciples are shown as living real figures... A truly essential purchase for any home, school or library that really does make learning about Jesus interesting. More than that, it also makes him resoundingly relevant.’
The Universe, 30th January 2005

‘Beautifully designed and illustrated, suitable for sharing with a wide age-range, this would be a treasured addition to the family library.’
Methodist Recorder, 3rd February 2005

‘This is an excellent resource for Key Stage 2... The author Lois Rock tells the story of Jesus and the early church while skilfully weaving in background information... There is plenty to capture the variety of interests among young readers. An encyclopedia usually exists to provide answers. This one should encourage Junior pupils to ask more questions and discuss issues... The author and illustrator present the material from a very human point of view, pointing to the feelings and experiences of the characters in a way that can help pupils imagine themselves in the narrative and wonder about its deeper meaning for them.’
Cathy Davie, Southwark Diocesan Board of Education, February 2005

‘This is an excellent book for Christian education and also for general knowledge: it invites browsing in a most enjoyable way and will, I think, prove an important reference book for schools and libraries for all children, whatever their backgrounds and beliefs.’
School Librarian, Volume 53 Number 2, Summer 2005

• View other titles by Lois Rock