In this special series, we asked writers we admire to share a book they're giving to their friends and family this holiday season. Check back daily to see the books your favorite authors are gifting.÷ ÷ ÷
If you know someone who likes to laugh and enjoys learning a few things at the same time, this layman's guide to the Christian Bible is a stellar gift choice.
Mr. Russell's sharp, funny retellings of bible stories alongside Mr. Wheeler's sly New Yorker-ish cartoons will help anyone see the Bible in a new, irreverent way — without all that old-style language to confuse you. Plus, the production on this book evokes the look of a classic Bible: stitched-in red ribbon bookmark, silver-edged pages, etc.
The event for God Is Disappointed in You at Powell's was one of our best and most entertaining readings of the year, and I was able to get a couple of signed copies, making these gifts even more special.