I’m an atheist who wants to learn more about the Bible. I’m interested in understanding the major stories, history, and context, but I don’t necessarily want to study the entire Bible cover-to-cover right away.

Is there a good study Bible you’d recommend for a beginner? Or maybe a Bible storytelling/overview book that’s accurate and written for adults? I’d love something that explains the context and major stories without assuming I already know anything.

Basically, I want to learn about the Bible without necessarily approaching it from a religious perspective. Help!

Wasn't sure how to title it, but essentially I would like to buy my husband 2 books. I know I'd like to get him a King James or ESV Bible and maybe a study journal. The purpose of the 2nd book is just to bring him closer with understanding (i see that he is interested, but doesn't always understand everything said). Id like for him to feel free to write his thoughts if he chooses to. Maybe a book where each chapter is on a specific life topic? I'm open to suggestions.

Also. As i do have a King James book in mind for him, but it would be nice to see other ESV versions.

A reminder about how Looking back at our past can be quite disturbing and regretful, but with our new lives in the hands of Jesus, we're going to be ok. There's plenty of good things yet to come !

Does anyone have any favorite resources on this?