Do You Need God? - Exploring different paths to spirituality even for atheists by Rory J.Q. Barnes (2014-10-31) Paperback

A book on religion which is accessible!'Do You Need God?' is an engrossing and informative read which is structured clearly and simply. I found that the first chapter, introducing the basics of religions, along with their similarities, differences and defining characteristics, could stand alone as an introductory essay to philosophy and theology. The book then goes into greater depths for the main religions in turn. The chapters are therefore excellently set for use as a reference book as well as a cover-to-cover read.The book is remarkably easy to read, using analogies to demonstrate ideas so that the intricacies of each religion are more clearly defined. This is not only useful but entertaining! Furthermore, I found it a relief to read a factual, detailed book on spirituality which was not trying to reason away religion nor convert me to it.I am currently in lower 6th form and I read this book purely for curiosity (I don't study Theology or Philosophy), however I would also recommend this to any Philosophy or RS students at any level. I am already lending it to friends studying Theology. I would stress that this book is not dry nor age-specific, but accessible to all ages and all levels of philosophical study. Definitely worth the read!

I bought this book for my mum Hilary Ellis and here is her 5 Star review!‘Do You Need God?’ is not only informative and readable. it is completely even handed. It describes the beliefs, disciplines and obligations of each religion with knowledge and clarity and gives a clear insight into complex cultures and unknown doctrines. I would thoroughly recommend it. This well researched book should in my opinion be part of the national curriculum, helping children to grow up with a curious and tolerant view of each other’s beliefs .Every religious leader and community worker would benefit from its information and gain a deeper understanding of these major religions. This would enable them to promote greater integration in our very diverse society.Hilary Ellis

Good book

This is very much a book for our times when people question their faith. It represents a comprehensive view of religions, and is full of interesting detail while at the same time being very accessible. It is written in a clear, sometimes humorous, style. It will be of particular interest to those searching for meaning in their lives, and to the young

This is a book written for YOU. I say this because the word ‘you’ is core to the text. Mr Barnes’s extensive knowledge and impressive scholarship are lightly worn; they are deployed not to overwhelm you, but to inform you and, if you want, to guide you towards an appropriate spiritual home. The author has scoped his target readership in the opening page, and anyone interested in ideas and/or religion will see that they have been included here. After setting out some basic abstract premises, Mr Barnes proceeds to describe and analyse some of the world’s great religions, and it is fascinating to see his objective approach applied to Christianity (which most of us think we know well) and to Islam (where we may be prejudiced by current concerns). A word of advice: don’t try to read this book in one go. Some sections are difficult, but repay a second reading, with the author always making encouraging noises in the background. Mr Barnes does not see his book as an academic textbook, and so there is no index, and the bibliography, such as it is, occurs in the course of the text. Written with humour and compassion, this book is a delight, and you will feel the better for having read it.

This book was a 'God' send for me, literally. I am at present studying for a degree in Childhood Studies and have just finished writing a 4000 word essay on 'Christianity and Childhood'. I needed a clear explanation of what Christianity is and this book had just that. I was able to use and reference the work of Rory.J.Q.Barnes within my work and found it to be very supportive. Rory has succeeded in writing a book about religion which is clear, precise and accurate. The contents explains in detail the complex and sometimes unclear structure of the worlds religions. This book could easily be used to support you in understanding religion.

This book is for people like me who want the facts and not the fiction about the world's religions. Rory Barnes certainly knows his stuff, and he sets it out simply and clearly. He begins his chapters with bullet points, a really helpful feature, and he does it all with a light touch and a twinkle in his pen. If you want to get some clarity about all these religions and beliefs, get this book.