There are many pitfalls for those embarking on studies in theology. The most obvious is that such studies become solely an academic exercise. This unusual book aims to help students see and avoid such traps. This book sounds dull but it is not. The editors have drawn together the thoughts of 11 Christians who have either experienced the trials of theological study or who have wise words to say on the subject. Each chapter has an interesting introduction written by the editors. The first 6 chapters are devoted to the thoughts of famous Christians from the past – Augustine, Luther, Spurgeon, Warfield, Bonhoeffer and Lewis. The importance of experience is stressed by Martin Luther; maintaining the spiritual life is emphasised by B.B.Warfield. I particularly liked the chapter about the dangers of inner circles based on the writings of C.S.Lewis. As these contributions were not written for this book many have a wider application than just the student. The final 5 chapters are by theologians active today and were written specifically for this book. They cover the trials of theological college, Biblical studies, church history, systematic theology and ethics. These essays have different styles, but all are lively and thought provoking particularly the last on ethics. This is a book that would be a good gift to give a student about to go to Bible College. Christians who love to study God’s word in depth will also find many pearls of wisdom within its pages.