The Art of Biblical Narrative
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From the celebrated translator of the Hebrew Bible, Robert Alter, the classic book on the Bible as literature, now updated with a new preface.
“A groundbreaking study that encourages us to look beneath the theological surface of the biblical text to glimpse its beating heart.” —Los Angeles Times
Winner of the National...
Published By Basic Books
Format Paperback
Number Of Pages 272
Publication Date 11/03/2026
ISBN 9781541609273
Dimensions 5.5 inches x 8.25 inches
Winner of the National Jewish Book Award for Jewish Thought
"A groundbreaking study that encourages us to look beneath the theological surface of the biblical text to glimpse its beating heart."—Jonathan Kirsch, Los Angeles Times
"An admirable book....It is truly extraordinary that such familiar tales as those of Joseph and David should acquire so much detail and color, as if perfectly restored."—New York Times
"The results of [Alter's] work give the Bible a fresh voice for a new generation of readers."—Christian Science Monitor
"This clearly written book should please anyone interested in the fundamentals of storytelling."—The Washington Post
"In its day, “The Art of Biblical Narrative” was subversive. … The book was — and remains — a surprise hit; it opened up an old, mysterious and often maligned text for the first time to many readers. And though academic critics have argued with Alter’s approach, they have never been able to ignore it."
—New York Times