I reviewed John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress in 2013, having just finished reading an edition in the original 1678 language. I have read the book several times over many decades and enjoy reading from a variety of editions, just as I enjoy reading through the Bible using different translations or study Bibles. I purchased a newer edition of The Pilgrim’s Progress last year because of its features. This review focuses on the features and benefits of this edition. For an introductory overview of the content of this timeless allegory of the Christian life, see my earlier review.

The Pilgrim’s Progress has never been out of print since its original publication. There have been hundreds of editions published. If you search for it online, you will be inundated with a host of options, both printed and electronic. There is a reason why, besides the Bible, it is the most widely distributed and read Christian book in history. The reason I have read it several times and will continue to do so is that its biblical truths and insights into the Christian journey hit me at different points in my own pilgrimage each time I read it. This has proven true once again, as I just completed reading The Pilgrim’s Progress: Legacy Edition, published in 2023 by Lithos Kids. Don’t let the publisher’s name fool you into thinking this is just a kid’s edition. It’s a wonderful choice for adults also.

Here are some of the reasons I appreciate this edition:

• The Language has been modernized by Lauren Ducommun to help readers understand and read the text more naturally than the original 1600s English.
• There are over 100 illustrations throughout the book, drawn from previous editions.
• The print is larger, spaced out, and easier on the eyes than in editions with smaller, cramped text. (My 69-year-old eyes appreciate this!)
• There is a chapter, “Introducing John Bunyan,” by Michael A. G. Haykin, that informs the reader about Bunyan’s life and the circumstances under which he wrote the book while imprisoned for his faith.
• “The Legacy of Pilgrim’s Progess” is summarized in a chapter by Tyler Van Halteren.
• The book measures 6.75 inches by 8.75 inches and has an heirloom-quality cloth cover with gilded edges, Smyth-sewn binding, and a ribbon page marker, which makes holding it, looking at it, and reading it a pleasure.
• Lastly, and significantly, the wide margins contain Bible verses alluded to in the text, as well as occasional definitions of terms that might not be familiar to modern readers.

If you have never read The Pilgrim’s Progress, I encourage you to do so. You will be moved, challenged in your faith, and instructed in the practical application of God’s Word regarding your daily spiritual journey. I find it impossible to read the final pages of this amazing work without being brought to tears.

Regardless of what other editions you have access to, I encourage you to get this Legacy Edition for its many features listed above. This is an edition you’ll be proud to have on your shelf, re-read time and again, and gladly pass on to others.

And, as a reminder, for more of an explanation of what The Pilgrim’s Progress is about, see my earlier review.