Review: NIV Bible Clutch

At first glance the NIV Bible Clutch has the appearance of an elegant evening bag combined with the simplicity of black leather. This edition features all of the aspects one looks for in a clutch purse such as: a removable strap that allows the clutch to be carried over the shoulder or warped around the wrist, an exterior pocket, a protective zipper closure, and an enclosed pocket for storing cards and other essentials. Only upon closer inspection does one realize that this clutch is in fact a compact Bible. Unlike many other Bibles this edition is designed to be convenient and easy to carry. The compact size and lite weight makes the NIV Bible Clutch a good choice for traveling, and everyday use.

Binding and Cover:
This edition is bound in black Italian duo-tone, a soft artificial leather that is flexible and somewhat supple to the touch. Italian duo-tone is a quality artificial leather that is close in durability to bonded leather. The cover of this edition features feels more durable and supple then other artificial leathers I have encountered. The NIV Bible Clutch is available in a variety of colors and cover options to match your personal style. Size:4.8 wide x 8.3 high x 1.5 deep in. | 122 wide x 211 high x deep 38 mm Weight: 0.94 lb | 426 gms

What's Inside:
The text of this Bible is presented in double-column format and includes subject headings that divide each paragraph (aspects which I personally find to be very useful). This edition includes references to similar Bible verses presented within the text. Footnotes are located at the bottom of each page and are not distracting. The text size of this edition is 6pt, with the words of Christ in red. This size text is small for some readers making it difficult for them to read. The paper this edition is printed on is thin paper and has a semi-transparent quality. The use of highlighters is not recommend in this Bible. For those who enjoy highlighting passages crayola color pencils are recommend (through personal experience I have found that they highlight very well on thin paper).

Table of Contents
Preface to the New International Version
Books of the Old Testament
Books of the New Testament
Table of Weights & Measures
Perspectives from the Bible

Translation Info:
The New International Version is one of the most popular and trusted modern translations within the Evangelical Christian Community. This translation speaks to the reader through common language, yet strives to maintain the original meaning of Scripture.

My Personal Opinion:
Personally I find this edition to be very practical and useful. Unlike other compact Bibles this edition is designed to multitask, featuring internal pockets that are similar to those found in a wallet. I was more than a little surprised to find these pockets next to the front pages (though this is a good surprise). The pockets are designed to easily fit an I.D, credit cards, or money, with a total of seven pocket for these items. I have never seen a Bible that combines multiple uses for both church and everyday use the way the NIV Bible Clutch does. This is a very interesting edition.

Pros
Lite weight, Easy to carry, Compact size, Stylish cover, Durable zipper that also protects the Bible's pages from being damaged, Removable strap, Inside compartment that can hold up to six I.D size cards behind which is a 7^th compartment that is large enough to hold paper prayer cards or money. Cover: The cover has a soft feel that is reminiscent of leather.

Cons
Text size: The text is somewhat difficult to read for an extend period of time, Clasps: The clasps that attach the strap to the Bible seem fragile, and rather small.

If you are searching for practical Bible that is the perfect size to fit in your purse - or better yet carry instead of your purse- then I highly recommend considering this edition.

Where to Buy
The edition feature in this review can be purchased at http://www.christianbook.com/. The new updated edition can be purchased here

Check out my review blog- Review Time at http://reviewtime365.blogspot.com/ for more detailed Bible reviews.