Paul of Tarsus is widely regarded as the founder of organised Christianity. There have been many previous biographies of this elusive but vitally important Christian but none have so clearly emphasised the relevance of his experiences of conversion, strength of belief and faith to the contemporary political and social climate in such a fundamental way. The reader is taken in St Paul's footsteps from his birth in Tarsus in the first decade of the first century AD to his martyrdom in Rome more then 60 years later. Difficult though it is to get behind the interpretations and embellishments to find the real man, Edward Stourton achieves a fascinating exploration of this historical figure and the land in which he lived.  

Stourton's detailed research and lively, enthusiastic writing style provide insights into the experiences, education and background which helped shape this most pragmatic and inspirational of biblical figures. St Paul is developed from a shadowy New Testament figure to a truly flesh and blood personality, and shown to be as influential in shaping the cultural and political climate of our times as Jesus himself.

Edward Stourton is a Presenter of Radio 4's Today programme and the weekly religious affairs programme Sunday. This book is based on the Radio 4 series, In the Footsteps of St Paul.