Selections from the Book of Psalms: Authorized King James Version (Pocket Canons)

Rating:
Summary: Nice
Review: A very nice size booklet which you can carry with you anywhere; and a very good selection of the Psalms. Also I really like Bono's introduction, I kind of liken him to a modern day St. Paul. The Psalms are so important in reminded us to seek God and HIS will in days of trouble, like today; and really at all times. I think giving these as gifts to friends and family would be a good way to get people to get interested in the Bible.

Rating:
Summary: Bono Sings a New Song
Review: I'll fess up right here. I love the Bible, and am moved by the Psalms. But I bought this translation just for Bono's forward, and if you've got a few bucks to spare, I'd recommend doing the same. It's easy to dismiss him as an opionated, ego-centric rock star, and lump him with the self-important and empty-headed lugs that are his peers. But anyone who has capacity enough to not only read, but internalize, these ancient, high-minded texts is impressive. And anyone who can give voice to those internalizations, who can take a personal prayer written by a stranger and see himself, see his contemporaries, see his heroes and enemies in his own modern world, has a gift. The man writes more than songs, he examines his soul, and ours as well. If you think the Bible has nothing for you, read Bono's little introduction. You'll change your mind, and have your eyes opened to the possibilities.

Rating:
Summary: Handy & classic, even if you're buying it for the intro
Review: Though the title above says "Psalms," actually it's just a selection from the Biblical book by that name. The translation is the King James, which is classic and gorgeous in the literary sense but not so reliable in a scholarly sense. The size is convenient and can easily fit in a glove compartment or or a CD carrying case. But, let's be honest: most of us are only here because Bono of U2 wrote the introduction, aren't we?

The thing I like best about the introduction is the way it shows how someone can personally think over words from the Bible and use them to understand their own profession. Bono writes idiosyncratic musings on King David as the Biblical Elvis, on what worship means, on how music relates to religion, and on why people with shortcomings get included in the Bible. It's unique, and it's more of a personal essay than an introduction. But if you are interested in the spiritual aspect of U2's work, this book (along with Walk On, Race of Angels, and Get Up Off Your Knees) is a must-read.