A Customer Finds the ESV Reader's Bible, Six-Volume Set Stunning Yet Practical

Been using this for the past few weeks and I'm a believer in the "Reader's Bible" concept. It has lived up to the hype and more. Here is what I like about this set in summary: -This looks and feels like a premium book set. From the feel of the cloth to the quality of the paper. I expected the paper to be slightly thicker, but it is certainly adequate without much bleed. The off-white cream color of the paper is perfect. -Excellent text layout. The font is pleasing to the eye, the font size is just right, the margins and spacing spot on. They do not put too much text on one page, so it does not take forever to get to the next page. The total reading experience is pleasing with less reading fatigue. I am surprised how much faster I am able to read through the Bible. I can easily see myself reading through this set twice a year. I think there is great value in being able to get through the entire Bible with greater frequency as it allows one to see the big picture while also discovering new insights each time. Reading through more frequently also takes the pressure off having to understand every single detail while focusing on the overall theme the author is trying to convey. -There really is something to not having verses and chapters. It makes reading the Bible less overwhelming and fatiguing while being more flowing. But most importantly it encourages reading everything within context. I've found that having chapters and verses (which were not placed by the original Biblical writers) creates the tendency to see verses and chapters as isolated units rather than seeing the big picture. Not knowing where the chapters begin and end facilitates better sequential and contextual reading and I end up reading larger amounts effortlessly. I can honestly say that the improved reading experience has enriched my spiritual life. -If you want to start at a particular place or chapter however, there is an index at the back of each volume to indicate where each chapter begins. -Binding lays flat and comfortably in the hand. It might be a bit stiff out of the box, but it settles quickly. -ESV is an excellent translation all around and one of my favorites. Pleasing to read, yet faithful to the original. For a set like this I can't think of a version I would want more. -Slip case is very sturdy and it has grooves for each individual book to fit in its proper place. Negatives: -One criticism I have is that the gold on the binding will fade in no time especially since I hold the book in my hand. In just a few weeks I am noticing a slight fade in mine. I'm not bothered too much by this, and I don't expect my set to look pristine through the years. The best Bibles are the ones that are worn from extensive use. This set probably isn't for everyone. Those who NEED to know what the verses and chapters are will not like this set. But for those who want to be able to just sit and get lost into the text without worrying about making references, taking notes, etc. will really enjoy this. I have a separate time for doing more in-depth study where I even translate from the original languages and only read a handful of verses at a time, but otherwise I really like having the ability to just pick up this book and jump right into it without the distractions.