About the author: source Wikipedia, [Mel Thompson] was educated at King Edward VI School, Chelmsford and King's College London where he received a BD in 1969 (Shelford Prize for Philosophy of Religion; Tinniswood Essay Prize), M.Phil (as an external student) in 1973, and a Ph.D. in 1979. He worked for some years as an ordained minister within the Church of England before resigning to work within Religious Education and as a freelance writer." About the book: source, Wikipedia. The 'Teach Yourself' books are an imprint of Hodder Education, first published in Great Britain. Chapter headings in this work are clearly marked with subheadings every few pages. Included are suggestions for further reading, helpful websites, a glossary, and an index.