Bible Review: KJV Large Print Center-Column Reference Bible

This beautiful King James Version of the Bible released by Thomas Nelson would make a lovely gift for the Bible student who loves this translation. The Bible features red-letter text for Jesus’ words, an excellent center-column reference, and a brief introduction to each book of the Bible.

Pros

Beautiful Exterior. This bible features a nicely embossed cover with gold edging on the pages.

Typeface. This large-print edition uses the Thomas Nelson KJV Typeface–a beautiful serif font designed by 2K/Denmark. At 10.5-point, the text is very legible whether you are reading over someone’s shoulder or reading it yourself. Although there is some show-through, I don’t find that it makes it difficult to read. The typeface is excellently set and spaced. I also like the chapter headers being very clearly distinguished, centered above the column in a small-cap sans serif font.

Center Reference Column. The center reference column is nice and wide, with sufficient spacing for legibility. It includes cross-references to related scriptures and notes about measurements, alternate wording, etc.

Full-Color Maps. This edition features 7 full-color maps, including a map of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus and a map of the patriarchal period.

Lays Flat. This edition does a fairly good job of laying flat. When I get to the concordance or try to read the preface, it isn’t always wanting to stay completely open, but it doesn’t slam close either.

Concordance. This bible contains a fairly thorough concordance. It’s easy to find your reference as long as you know one of the key words you’re seeking.

Cons

Preface. When I was still fairly young, a teacher of mine encouraged us to read the preface of any Bible we wanted to use in order to understand the decisions made by the translation committees as to including certain sections, manuscripts, the reason Lord might be small caps or arranged with a capital ‘L’ followed by lowercase. This edition contains only the original translators’ address to King James of England. Although I appreciate the historicity of this, my aim in studying the Bible has more to do with learning about God than studying the history associated with various translations. I want the preface to inform me about those things mentioned above.

Lack of space for notes. As this is not a journaling bible, it’s not entirely fair to label this as a “con.” However, if you do like to make even small notes in your bible, there is only a small amount of room in the center column or you will have to write very small in the margins.

Overall:

This would make an excellent choice for someone looking to replace their King James Version, particularly as a gift. If you need larger print, I highly recommend this particular edition.

This Bible is available for purchase at Amazon.com and Christian Book. You can customize color and binding at Thomas Nelson’s Website.

Disclaimer: The opinions in this review are my own. I received a copy of this Bible free of charge for review purposes.