Overview
Does atheism really explain everything? Can reasonable people take Christianity seriously? During the early twenty-first century, New Atheism was busy producing best-selling books and plastering adverts on the sides of buses. Its loud scepticism is not as popular these days, but many of its arguments live on. Yet, what if some of its common claims like, ""science has buried God"" and ""religion is the cause of most wars"" are not just incorrect, but demonstrably wrong? What if Richard Dawkins and the other New Atheists were not merely barking up the wrong tree, but were in the wrong forest entirely? Andy Bannister brings you this fully updated and revised book, with new chapters, new resources and new comedy. The Atheist Who Didn't Exist is designed for curious people to tug at the loose threads of atheism and see if it unravels.
Full Product Details
Author: Andy Bannister (Director of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity)
Publisher: Inter-Varsity Press
Imprint: Inter-Varsity Press
Edition: New edition
ISBN: 9781789745221
ISBN 10: 1789745225
Pages: 272
Publication Date: 17 July 2025
Audience:
General/trade
,
General
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming
Availability: Not yet available
This item is yet to be released. You can pre-order this item and we will dispatch it to you upon its release.
Reviews
'The Atheist Who Didn't Exist is a unique and brilliant book, tackling questions that really matter but in a disarmingly funny and winsome way that will make you laugh out loud. It is honest, expertly argued and compelling. I thoroughly recommend this book!' -- Sharon Dirckx, speaker, author and broadcaster 'I am thrilled that Andy has updated his classic book. This new edition is just as insightful and funny - maybe even more so! Whether seeker or believer, The Atheist Who Didn't Exist will be both an enjoyable and interesting read. The final chapter alone is worth the price of the book.' -- Sean McDowell, author, speaker and professor at Biola University, USA 'Belief, trust, and faith are some of the liveliest conversations of our generation. What does it mean for us to simply exist? Why do we exist? In his typically playful and engaging style, Andy Bannister tackles many of the significant ideologies of the West and brings us to a place of thoughtful consideration for the atheist, who may not exist, and the God who is stronger than our doubts. Helpful for anyone engaged with intelligent, witty conversation on the highly likely existence of God.' -- Sarah Yardley, Head of Evangelism, Emmaus Road, UK 'Like a fine wine, Andy Bannister's writing ages remarkably well. This revised and updated edition of The Atheist Who Didn't Exist is as intelligent, relevant and funny as it was the first time round. However, the arguments feel even more persuasive today. Atheism has been tried and found wanting and Andy is not alone in noticing a positive shift in attitudes towards faith. There has never been a better time to invite people to consider the case for Christianity, and Andy Bannister shows how to do it with wisdom, grace and plenty of humour too.' -- Justin Brierly, speaker, writer and broadcaster 'Andy Bannister's The Atheist Who Didn't Exist is a blend of sharp reasoning and pointed humour, offering a critique of popular atheist arguments. With a storyteller's flair, Bannister presents complex ideas in an engaging and accessible way, reflecting the author's energetic and personable style. Beneath the light-hearted tone lies a thoughtful engagement with the claims of atheism and scepticism. Whether you agree or disagree, this book will entertain and provoke meaningful reflection.' -- Krisztina Mair, lecturer at Oak Hill College, UK 'This is not your typical book on atheism. With a combination of humour, knowledge and wit, Andy Bannister provides practical tools in engaging with common atheist discourses. As Bannister notes (via the poetry of Matthew Arnold) the sea of faith ebbs and flows. The irony of this illustration is, as Andy points out in his conclusion, tides have a funny habit of returning to where they started. We're seeing the surprising return of spiritual thinking and faith for a reason... it is entirely reasonable.' -- Wesley Huff, Central Canada Director for Apologetics Canada 'We all have an inner sceptic - a ""watchful dragon"", as C. S. Lewis called it. And the best way for faith to steal past such watchful dragons is with a story. Step forward Andy Bannister, armed to the teeth with stories and illustrations that are always thoughtful and often laugh-out-loud funny. A delight to read, ponder and pass on.' -- Glen Scrivener, author, speaker and Director of Speak Life
Author Information
Dr. Andy Bannister is the Director of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity, speaking and teaching regularly throughout the UK, Europe, Canada, the USA, and the wider world. From universities to churches, business forums to TV and radio, he regularly addresses audiences of both Christians and those of all faiths and none on issues relating to faith, culture, politics and society.
