Theology for Beginners: Napkin Theology

As my work sometimes involves teaching theology in non-university settings and marking higher education essays at UK qualification levels four to six, I’m always on the lookout for helpful introductions to theology that may benefit students new to the discipline – see here for some recommendations. I’ve just come across a newly published book that should prove worthwhile reading not only for students, but also for ‘ordinary churchgoers’ (define that as you will), including teenagers, who want to wade towards the deeper end of the theology pool.

Tyler Hansen and Emily Lund, Napkin Theology: Small Drawings about Big Ideas, illus. Jodie Londono (Eugene, OR: Cascade, 2023)

The uniqueness of Napkin Theology lies in its use of simple drawings to illustrate doctrines and theological ideas; the chapter on the Trinity, for example, features one not dissimilar to the shield of Athanasius and another depicting a chord on a stave. Napkin Theology shows effectively how even basic scribbles* on a napkin can supplement theological discussion. Thus the book communicates complex theological ideas well and is likely the first one I’d recommend to people who want to know what theology tastes like without committing themselves to a full course.

* I should make it clear that Jodie Londono’s pictures typically transcend the ‘basic scribbles’ category!