Good as New: A Radical Retelling of the Scriptures

This version of the New Testament certainly lives up to its title and is described by the Archbishop of Canterbury as 'a presentation of extraordinary power'. It is not simply another translation but a recreation of the original power and immediacy of the Gospels and Epistles. There is a glossary of terms at the beginning that updates names in a way that some people may find initially offputting - Simon Peter as 'Rocky', John the Baptist as 'the Dipper', Gamaliel as Liam, disciples as friends, followers, the team or the gang, the Pharisees as 'the strict set', God the Father as 'The Parent'. The narrative is set out in paragraphs and reads both fluently and idiomatically, breathing new life into texts that are almost too familiar. In addition, the Gospel of Thomas is included, with an introduction to its context and billed as 'thought-provoking sayings of Jesus'. Here is an example: 'Jesus said about the strict set, "I wish those Holy Joes would get lost!" They're like the dog in the manger. They don't eat what's there and don't let the cows eat!'