The Encyclopedia of Christian Literature seeks to “identify the canon of Christian literature, the core books that have fertilized, irrigated, and nurtured the Christian mind over the centuries” (xv). Unlike other collections of Christian writers that serve as collection development or readers’ advisory tools, this two-volume set focuses on the authors and texts in Christian literature’s staggering scope that the editors deem essential. The work seeks to “call attention to historic texts of quality and influence, the ideas and lives of those instrumental in their creation, and those who in practice and print have embraced this legacy as a gift” (xi). Because Christian literature is so vast, and there are no other reference sources that specifically address Christian literature in this manner, the Encyclopedia of Christian Literature is a worthy addition to the world of reference.

Volume 1 contains essays on genres and types of Christian literature, arranged alphabetically—“Apocalyptic” through “Women’s literature”—as well as the first half (A–G) of the more than four hundred biographical essays on Christian writers. Each genre essay attempts to summarize a major facet of Christian literature and contains notes and a bibliography. Those working in libraries in theological schools or seminaries may not need a glossary to navigate the entries, but a general reference librarian assisting a patron may have to consult an outside source, such as The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (Oxford, 1997) for further edification on some of the concepts.

The biographies fare better for the general reader, and each includes a biography with emphasis on its subject’s religious history and education, along with a bibliography of works by and about the subject. Volume 2 comprises the rest of the biographies (H–Z).

Separating the genres and the biographies proves to be a bit awkward for the user, and as previously mentioned, a glossary—not unusual for this type of reference work—would further assist the user. Despite issues with organization, this title is recommended for academic libraries, especially those that support religious studies curricula.