Your ShelfYour Projects

The Bible the Most Popular Book

14%

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 31, 1913

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 90, No. 31.

Read the full edition

The Bible the Most Popular Book

By K. C. Russell

K. C. RUSSELL
WITH three large head-lines there appeared a remarkable statement in the Chicago Examiner of June 17, 1913, regarding the popularity of the Bible as compared with other books. The article stated that the information was obtained at the annual book fair which opened Monday, June 16, in Chicago. The following were some of the striking statements made:—
“For every volume of the six best sellers that is issued each year, a car-load of Bibles is manufactured.”
“The public taste changes from time to time,” said Arthur J. Saalfield, president of the Saalfield Publishing Company of New York, “but the Bible continues to be the most popular book printed. Where other books are turned out by the volume, it is turned out by the car-load.”
These statements, coming from those who are interested in its sale from a commercial standpoint, emphasize the fact that the Bible possesses a virtue that is unparalleled by other books. The facts are that its author is divine, and it is a living book, for, says the Lord, “The word of God is quick [living] and powerful.” Its increasing popularity and sale, especially in these times when skepticism, higher criticism, infidelity, and atheism are increasing to such a great extent, are certainly a noticeable evidence of its inspiration.
Chicago, Ill.