The story of Gideon

Illuminated book

When I learned that my first grandchild was named Gideon, I resolved to go back and re-read that Biblical story again. What was once a fun story full of colourful scenes revealed itself to be a deep tragedy—a true ‘hero’ who lost his way and became violent and revengeful, with repercussions that lasted for generations. I became determined to tell the story of Gideon to my grandson, and warn him of the dangers.

I decided to write out the story—from the book of Judges, chapters 6–8—and make an illuminated book of it as a present to him. It took over a year of fragmented experiments to get it right. He may not appreciate it until he’s 40, but he’ll have this to guide him.

The book is written on A4 Conqueror paper, using Platinum Carbon Ink. It is bound into a hand-painted cover of my own making, using a modified Japanese binding. It is stored in a firm case made to match the cover. Chapter illuminated caps are relatively simple and adjust throughout the story to reflect the close-then-distant relationship Gideon had with God.