The Complete Idiot's Guide to Angels

by Jay Stevenson

Book Overview

This guide explains the role and symbolism of angels from ancient times to the present day.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0028629418
• ISBN13: 9780028629414
• Release Date: December 1998
• Publisher: Alpha Books
• Length: 414 Pages
• Weight: 1.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 7.4" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Angels

Jay Stevenson, Ph.D., M.A. says that "everyone wants to know if angels are real." His book, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Angels, answers every imaginable question about angels, except whether they're real. He says he isn't psychic nor has he had direct experience with angels--he simply finds angels to be "a fascinating and uplifting subject." He adds that "angel stories and angel theology include some of the most beautiful and profound notions around." Dr. Stevenson starts with an overview of what people think about angels in general. He then discusses the Jewish angels, citing references from the Old Testament and related writings. From there, he moves to the Christian angels and the angels of Islam. He also discusses the role of angels in many other religions and philosophies. He finishes with "New Age" concepts of angels and their function in contemporary society. Artists have long portrayed angels in their work. Dr. Stevenson has chosen the angel art of William Blake, Gustave Dore, and Albrecht Durer to illustrate his book. Appendices include a reading list for those wanting more information, a list of movies about angels, a glossary of angelic terms, and a "Who's Who in Heaven," which provides a brief description of each angel. As Dr. Stevenson says, "angels have been, and still are, a part of all faiths and cultures." The Complete Idiot's Guide to Angels is an excellent reference for readers interested in the origins of angel lore and the interactions between angels and humans, whether historical or contemporary.

An excellent, informative introduction and reference.

Jay Stevenson, Ph.D., M.A. says that "everyone wants to know if angels are real." His book, The Complete Idiot's Guide To Angels, answers every imaginable question about angels, except whether they're real. He says he isn't psychic nor has he had direct experience with angels--he simply finds angels to be "a fascinating and uplifting subject." He adds that "angel stories and angel theology include some of the most beautiful and profound notions around." Dr. Stevenson starts with an overview of what people think about angels in general. He then discusses the Jewish angels, citing references from the Old Testament and related writings. From there, he moves to the Christian angels and the angels of Islam. He also discusses the role of angels in many other religions and philosophies. He finishes with "New Age" concepts of angels and their function in contemporary society. Artists have long portrayed angels in their work. Dr. Stevenson has chosen the angel art of William Blake, Gustave Dore, and Albrecht Durer to illustrate his book. Appendices include a reading list for those wanting more information, a list of movies about angels, a glossary of angelic terms, and a "Who's Who in Heaven," which provides a brief description of each angel. As Dr. Stevenson says, "angels have been, and still are, a part of all faiths and cultures." The Complete Idiot's Guide To Angels is an excellent reference for readers interested in the origins of angel lore and the interactions between angels and humans, whether historical or contemporary. Sandra I. Smith Reviewer