'Teachings of the Torah' (Ed Kent Dobson, Zondervan, 283 pages, available from the publisher for £17.99)

This is extracted directly from the NIV First-Century Study Bible (reviewed last week) and, as its title suggests, is simply the first five books of the Old Testament covered in the same manner as the complete Bible. This means it is not necessary to buy it as a separate book unless you want this portion of Scripture in a more portable form.

Although the content is the same it does have some features of its own. The pages are glossier and slightly thicker, and there is a preface dedicated to the Torah. It also has a plastic wrap-around cover, with its own strap for holding it closed, giving it extra protection. And it comes in a box which makes it more presentable. The overall effect is that this would make a welcome gift.

The claim of this volume is that it weaves Jewish history with the Christian faith. This it certainly does, but of course being only the opening section of the Tanakh (Old Testament) it can only do this in a partial fashion. Perhaps it is intended as a tempter to buy the full Study Bible!