**This engaging book by one of today’s best-known Christian writers explores the history of heaven, from its origins in biblical writings to its most recent representations.** * A short, accessible book on the history of heaven. * Draws together representations of heaven by a wide range of writers, theologians, politicians and artists. * Covers literary works such as Dante’s *Divine Comedy* , Bunyan’s *Pilgrim’s Progress* , and the poems of George Herbert. * Considers discussions by Marx and Freud of heaven’s role in society. * Based on serious scholarship but is ideal for the non-specialist who wants to learn more about the idea of heaven. * Alister E. McGrath is one of today’s best-known Christian writers.