Richard Holloway, former Bishop of Edinburgh and Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, is an internationally popular writer and broadcaster. His more than twenty books include the best-selling Leaving Alexandria: A Memoir of Faith and Doubt. He lives in Edinburgh, UK.
This is a well-written book, from which most of us will come away knowing more about the religions of the world than we knew before. . . . In its own way this engaging book might be seen as a period piece. --John Charmley, Times Holloway's account is brimful of arresting facts. --Ian Thomson, Financial Times As an informed reflection on the state of faith in the western world in the 21st century, written by someone who has plenty of experience, it is insightful and intelligent. --Tim Whitmarsh, The Guardian In an age of religious tension, this is an important contribution to understanding different beliefs. . . . A straightforward, well-written introduction to religion and its various manifestations. --Library Journal For readers in search of a thoughtful, thorough, and approachable survey of the history of religion, this book is an excellent place to start. --Booklist [Holloway] deftly makes his knowledge accessible to the public. . . . A great service for students of religion. This is no dry textbook: With its conversational prose and density of information, it is a pleasure to read. --The Weekly Standard It is difficult to name anyone more qualified to write on this topic than Richard Holloway. His own journey of faith has encompassed so many experiences that he writes with an admirable combination of detachment, knowledge and affectionate engagement. --Diarmaid MacCulloch, author of A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years 'It is difficult to name anyone more qualified to write on this topic than Richard Holloway. His own journey of faith has encompassed so many experiences that he writes with an admirable combination of detachment, knowledge and affectionate engagement.' - Diarmaid MacCulloch, author of A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years