Contributing to the series on Christian missionary efforts around the world, Eber (east Asian studied, Hebrew U. of Jerusalem) examines the life and times of Schereschewsky, and his translation of the Hebrew Old Testament into northern vernacular, Mandarin, Chinese. Drawing largely on archival material, missionary records, and letters, she explores his Jewish youth in eastern Europe, conversion, American seminary study, journey to Shanghai and Beijing, mission routine, the translating committee's work, his tasks as Episcopal bishop in Shanghai, and the founding of St. John's University. She also analyzes the Chinese text of his translation, the Chinese reception to it, and its role in subsequent translations of the Bible. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)