Discusses the origins and folklore of forty-five animals mentioned in the Bible.

I had the pleasure of running over my first copy as library sell-off and I fell in love with its introduction to a world that isn't really covered in the Bible and the beautiful artwork that can be found within the pages. And as soon as I was able to find another copy I was quick in adding this back to my library.

The author's Preface is just as interesting as the rest of the book for it gives you some basic information about the Bible and the people who first composed it. From there he explains why there is such confusion and little knowledge of the actual animals mentioned in the Bible versus the knowledge of modern times as well as what the animals may have represented when they were used - 1. Important Possessions, 2. Part of Elaborate Instructions and 3. Lessons to Human Beings. And even though you can tell he isn't a believer he also takes care to emphasize that different versions of the Bible may hold different translations arguing the same animal that is used in a particular verse thus if reading different versions you may come upon what seems to be the wrong information.

From there the book starts into a beautiful bestiary. The animal is mentioned in bold characters so you know what animal is being talked of, a paragraph is given with some actual factual information and trivia as well as its location during the times of the Bible. The best part for me is that Isaac Asimov even goes as far as to mention the chapter and a verse (there is no verse number) where the said creature may be found.

And as if this wasn't good enough the pictures painted by Howard Berelson are gorgeous sepia-toned. Some of the animals seem to have some rough faces but the pictures are set in a medieval tone with beautiful detailing and represation.

A great book for the child or animal-lover who is wanting to get a start on the studies of Biblical animals although not an actual definitive guide. ( )