As the recent Lambeth Conference has so compellingly demonstrated, Anglicanism is a global communion. In Europe, Asia, Africa and America, it is not simply the Church of England overseas or Anglo-Saxons, anglophones and Anglophiles at (Common) Prayer. Important as these English origins are to Anglicanism, numerical growth and spiritual vitality are most evident in the Two-Thirds World. But who will tell us tales of distant lands?

The Centre for Anglican Communion Studies, established at Selly Oak in 1992, brings together in England Anglicans from throughout the Communion to share their experiences, issues and concerns. Wingate, a centre director, using contacts made there, has solicited essays to provide a "kaleidoscope" of personal viewpoints and geographical settings. The authors were encouraged to respond as individuals rather than as "representatives" of their respective provinces.

The result of this cooperative effort provides a wealth of material, ranging from funeral customs in Zimbabwe to outcast latrine cleaners in Pakistan and 'untouchables' in India, from polygamy in Kenya to Tenno ideology (emperor as divine ruler) in Japan.

Where else would we meet Wichi Indians in Argentina, bringing iguana lizards home for supper, Northern Irish youngsters who have learned to wave at each other across the "Peace Wall" rather than throwing rocks, and a craftsman in war-ravaged Sudan fashioning pectoral crosses from downed MIG bomber parts?

One problem for some readers will be the seemingly relentless sociopolitical and socioeconomic emphases of many of the essays. Conservatives may also detect a leftward tilt that raises a serious question of balance. For example, there is little or no sympathy expressed for the opponents of women's ordination (Bishop Penny Jamieson's essay being an exception). To this observation the editors would, however, presumably reply that the contributors were invited to write as individuals.

Perhaps this book will inspire further collections with different emphases and perspectives. Meanwhile, readers around the world can compare notes and ponder the church's struggles against cultural captivity in a truly pluralistic and international context.

Susan Skelton

Dallas, Texas