The Bible has played an important role within the Western world, often functioning as a mirror to the assumptions and prejudices of those who seek to interpret it. Any history of interpretation therefore serves also as an introduction to different patterns of thought and contrasting understandings of Christianity. Wansbrough has not sought to deliver an extensive consideration of the changes of Biblical interpretation, but has rather chosen a number of individuals. He is, to quote the introduction, “working eclectically, but chronologically” and inevitably there are gaps to be found. That said, this approach is an engaging one and brings the reader into contact with a number of significant authors. The book opens with a chapter considering the interpretation of the Old Testament by the New Testament writers, and finishes with a consideration of Lectio Divina. In between, there is a consideration of 13 figures who are of lasting importance and interest. The broader socio-political effects of Biblical interpretation are also explored by means of the Seventeenth century debates in England - a time of Civil War - and also the modern State of Israel. The book is an enjoyable and profitable read. The chapters can be read singly, but one suspects any reader will wish to read them all. Wansbrough has provided tools for engaging in scripture and has shown how the text can be abused. Most of all, he has shown that the Bible is not some dead document, but rather one which lives in the imagination of the reader.