The SCM Press A-Z of Patristic Theology offers a valuable resource to students of Church history and historical theology. Combining accessibility with erudition, the expansive essays neither assure prior knowledge of the field nor fall prey to the dangers of oversimplification. A coherence of voice and vision is sustained, largely due to the fact that this volume is the work of one author, John Anthony McGuckin, whose deep learnedness and passion for ancient Christianity is evidenced on every page. Covering topics from East and West, the range of reference is from architecture and its liturgical implications, through to succinct explorations of persons, councils and controversies, definitions of faith, doctrine and the Christian life.