In the Beginning: the Art of Genesis by Chuck Fischer

An ingenious series of three-dimensional spreads with fold-outs and narrative booklets, In the Beginning shows how the timeless narratives of the Book of Genesis have inspired artists for thousands of years and continue to do so today.

This spectacular gift book features Fischer's original artwork on intricate pop-ups created in collaboration with paper engineer Bruce Foster, which represent the classic stories from the first chapter of the Bible. With spreads that range from a medieval-inspired Garden of Eden to an stunningly tall tower of Babel to a magnificent diorama depicting Jacob's dream of a stairway to Heaven, this volume is destined to become a treasured keepsake and perennial favorite on every family's shelf.

My Review:
When I first opened this gorgeous volume, I thought that it was a special book for an older child--someone who would understand how to treasure such a piece of art. However, upon closer inspection, I realize this is no children's book. This is for adults who can properly appreciate not only the artwork--which is breathtaking--but also value the art history included. For centuries, the book of Genesis has been told by artists through their work. Copies of those masterpieces are used to illustrate the text, giving the reader much more than they would expect from a pop-up book.

Details are amazing. The Tower of Babel measures 16" in height. Jacob's dream is like a stained glass window (inside a book!). Hold it up to the light for a breath-catching treat. There's a time line of Joseph's life.

More than a children's book, I can see this as a special gift for an art history enthusiast, a lover of the Bible, or as a coffee table volume. What a conversation piece!