The Gnostics Sean Martin Pocket Essentials, 160pp, £9.99 ISBN 1904048560

This pocketbook is an insightful guide to Gnosticism, the branch of early Christian thought that believed in reincarnation and preached equality between women and men. Tracing the movement's origins from the first century, The Gnostics is either a gratifying read or an irksome one, depending on your view of organised religion and of Dan Brown-style intrigue.

Gnosticism does not encourage literal readings of faith, seeing allegory and myth as greater purveyors of truth. According to the Gnostic Gospels, a set of biblical texts not recognised by mainstream Christianity: "Truth did not come into the world naked, but in types and images." They teach that God is within us, and that knowledge – or gnosis – of our divinity is more important than prayer. Gnostic interpretations of Eden differ from Christian orthodoxy, seeing Eve as guided by Sophia (God's wisdom) to enlighten Adam – a welcome diversion from the "rampant" misogyny of the Church fathers.

This book sets itself up as an argument for Gnosticism's continued relevance. A pity, then, that the author only broaches this subject in the last four pages.

More could be made of his comment that Gnosticism provides an antidote to those that insist on the literal truth of their faith at the expense of others.

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