The Epic Bible

The Epic Bible tells the entire story of the Bible in graphic format and dramatic style, with some embellishment.

The Epic Bible: God’s Story from Eden to Eternity edited by Art Ayris. Wander (an imprint of Tyndale), 2020, 840 pages.

Reading Level: Middle Grade, ages 10-12

Recommended for: ages 12-up

Readers of Kingstone Comics’ The Book of God will recognize the scholar who introduces The Epic Bible. In the first 8 pages he summarizes the scope of the Bible, the influence of the Bible, and why the Bible is different from any other book. Then on to the story itself, beginning in Genesis and the six days of Creation. There’s plenty of drama in just reading the text as originally written, and the classic comic-book style of this presentation, with its exaggerated physiques, swirling draperies, and startling angles, adds much more. Five writers contributed to the text, including Randy Alcorn, Michael Pearl, and editor (and Kingstone founder) Art Ayris. Dozens of artists and colorists participated also, including Marvel artist Sergio Cariello (see Emily’s interview with him).

Though the style is reasonably consistent, readers will notice differences in coloring, contrast, and physical representation. In most cases this won’t be distracting, though I wondered why golden-boy David was pictured as blond as a youth and dark-haired in middle age. Since The Epic Bible collects three earlier softcover volumes, which in turn derived from individually-published stories, the differences in art styles are understandable. The story styles differ also; some authors tell by extrapolation (e.g., in the story of Noah, told from the perspective of his three sons with some material added). Many add small amounts of imagined dialogue, but most stick closely to the biblical narrative, with references at the bottom of the page.

A lot of material must necessarily be cut, such as the stories of the Tower of Babel, Absolom’s Rebellion, and—surprisingly—Samson. But losses in the narrative are made up by dramatic expositions of several prophets, as well as Romans, Hebrews, I Peter, and I John. Two historical interludes depict the 400 years between the testaments and the persecution under Nero and Domitian.

At 840 pages and almost four pounds, The Epic Bible is a chunk, but for visually-oriented teens, it could be a valuable investment in a church or home library. Tightly bound between durable covers, it should last through many readings, and readers.

Overall Rating: 4.5 (out of 5)

• Worldview/moral value: 5
• Artistic/literary value: 4

Consideration:

• Due to graphic representations of violence and prophesy, and allusions to illicit sex, it’s not for the very young or the very sensitive.

Also at Redeemed Reader:

• The Book of God is one of our favorite publications from Kingstone Media, as it gives valuable background to the authors, themes, significance, and history of the Bible.
• See our reviews of other Kingstone books: 2048, Echoes of Eden, and Babylon. Plus our interview with Kingstone founder and editor Art Ayris.

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