Essayist and biographer Alan Jacobs introduces us to the world of original sin, which he describes as not only a profound idea but a necessary one. As G. K. Chesterton explains, "Only with original sin can we at once pity the beggar and distrust the king."Do we arrive in this world predisposed to ev[...]

Is reading under threat? No, says Alan Jacobs--but people do need help iand encouragemnt to enjoy it to the full. Jacobs's experience as a lecturer and many-time author suggests that many readers lack confidence; they wonder whether they are reading well, with proper focus and attentiveness, with du[...]

If the whole of the Christian life is to be governed by the "law of love"--the twofold love of God and one's neighbor--what might it mean to read lovingly? That is the question that drives this unique book. Jacobs pursues this challenging task by alternating largely theoretical, theological chapters[...]

The message of this book is simple but powerful; we have a short time on earth, we don't know what is going to happen, and it doesn't matter. It is the best defense available agains the problems and stresses of out time.[...]