Which bible, if any?

[Labrat72]

I am an atheist, as far as I can remember I've never believed in any God or religion, I was sent to Sunday school as a child & remember even then thinking that the stories I was learning were just that, stories.
However, I've recently been thinking about the Christian Bible and thinking I'd like to read it again, partly to re-familiarise myself with it (my DSD is 8 & at a catholic school, she often has RE homework which I'd like to help with), and partly because it is a very good book.
Is this disrespectful? To just read a holy book because it's a 'good read'?
If not, which version of the book should I get? I want to read both testaments, but I'm clueless about which book to buy, are there lots of versions? Are some easier to read than others?
I really hope I haven't offended anyone with my questions, I don't want anyone to think I'm belittling a holy book.

But you don't believe it combust. So what does it say about the human psyche? And following on from this, what does the shift in focus and evolution of message in the New Testament suggest?

Still interesting themes to think about..

The KJV is good for written English. So is the Hobbit, and about as believable.

Some lovely messages in The Hobbit. Not least the ones about the importance of breakfast.

The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings both written by a staunch Catholic of course.

amicissimma the message is old and new testament.

Let's not feed the off topic trolls. We're talking about translations, not content.

You can download a free app called JWlibrary it has the New World Translation plus 5 others (king James etc..) it's really easy to use, also has maps that are great! And lots of other useful features ??

Whereas the King James bible is beautifully written, and nice to hear the 'traditional readings from in Church, it's not the easiest language to sit and read as a series of different books - something like The Message would be better for that.

Yes it is very interesting to read as a historical book not just of the Biblical times, but thinking of all the generations of people who have been influenced by it since, a bit like visiting old churches.

But late to the thread but I'm another who recommends the King James version.

I believe there are online Bible reading/study plans aswell, which may help you

Not remotely disrespectful!

New Living Version is modern and readable.