Women of Faith Study Bible offers a feminine perspective on an age-old text. In numerous places, the editors insert interpretations that celebrate and elevate women's status in the Bible. "Some have said that in times when men are spiritually weak God uses women instead," the editors write in the Book of Samuel. "It is probably more accurate to say the deeds and faith of women are simply more apparent in those times. For the Lord gives gifts and callings to all people." In the opening pages readers will find a "Weekly Studies Index" that references the Old and New Testaments with metaphorical themes such as "Uncharted Waters," "Are You a Bush or a Tree?" and "Jars of Clay." It also offers almost 80 full-page "Character Sketches" that profile women from the Bible, such as "Eve, Mother of Discontent," "Jezebel--Bent on Evil," and "Noah's Wife: Along for the Ride or a Partner in Adventure?" (The latter sketch tries to imagine the thoughts and actions of this almost invisible wife: "Perhaps she resented all the extra work Noah's obsession caused.") Other features include a timeline of women in the Bible, a genealogy of Jesus, and a dictionary of biblical terms. One disappointment is the thin paper stock, limiting its shelf life and making it fragile for a daily reader. Fortunately, the 13-page spread of full-color maps is printed on heavy stock paper. --Gail Hudson