This volume investigates the historical and theological significance of the deuterocanonical books excluded from the standard Protestant canon. The New English Bible translation committee, comprised of scholars from various British denominations, sought to provide a contemporary, readable version of these texts. By utilizing modern linguistic scholarship, the work aims to bridge the gap between ancient manuscript traditions and the vernacular of the mid-twentieth century.

Scholars and clergy frequently cite this translation for its literary fluidity and commitment to academic rigor in linguistic interpretation. It remains a standard reference for those seeking a modern English rendering of the deuterocanonical texts.