Selections from the Book of Psalms: Authorized King James Version

by Bono (Introduction)

The publication of the King James version of the Bible, translated between 1603 and 1611, coincided with an extraordinary flowering of English literature and is universally acknowledged as the greatest influence on English-language literature in history. Now, world-class literary writers introduce the books of the King James Bible in a series of beautifully designed, small-format volumes. The introducers' passionate, provocative, and personal engagements with he spirituality and the language of the test make the Bible come alive as a stunning work of literature and remind us of its overwhelming contemporary relevance.

Genres: Spirituality

96 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1999

About the author

Paul David Hewson, also known by his stage name Bono, is the main vocalist of the Irish rock band U2. Bono was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, and attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School where he met his wife, Ali Hewson, and the future members of U2. Since that time he has been referred to as Bono, his stage and nickname, by his family and fellow band members. Bono writes almost all U2 lyrics, often using political, social and religious themes. During their early years, Bono's lyrics contributed to U2's rebellious tone. As the band matured, his lyrics became inspired more by personal experiences with members of U2.
Among his non-U2 endeavors, he has collaborated and recorded with numerous artists, sits on the board of Elevation Partners and has refurbished and now owns a hotel with fellow band member, The Edge. Bono is also widely known for his activism concerning Africa, for which he co-founded DATA. He has organized and played in several benefit concerts and has met with influential politicians. He is the co-founder of EDUN, the ONE Campaign and Product Red. Bono has been praised and criticized for his activism and involvement with U2. Bono has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, was granted an honorary knighthood by the United Kingdom, and was named as a Person of the Year by Time, among many other awards and nominations.

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can only give 5* to the book of psalms in any edition BUT of special interest here is the introduction by Bono. Having seem U2 in their early days when Bono was very open and direct about his Christian faith over the years their faith has become less frequently so explicit. Bono's thoughts as to the life of David - his sin and dependence on God's grace for forgiveness - are fresh and encouraging.

[Skip · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Psalms have always been one of my favorite books of the Bible, and from which I have drawn much wisdom and strength during my life. However, this is extra-special to me because the Foreword was written by none other than Bono, lead vocalist of U2, in which he speaks about his Christian faith and his belief that David, the acknowledged author of the Psalms, was one of the first blues writers.

[Chilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't read much KJV but the Psalms are just fun in "old english" - also, this little guy is worth it just for the introduction by Bono!!