So it pays to actually read those e-flyers from publishers and respond fast. It pays $45 US dollars retail, plus shipping, to be precise. I got this email from Random House a couple weeks ago. I happened to be in class and saw the email pop up on my screen. Being the responsible student that I am, I waited to check it on my break. I just like looking at the books and reading the descriptions in case I miss anything from the piles of paper catalogs that come to me via snail mail. Then I noticed that little bit in small but bold print that said: “Click here to receive a free copy of The Gospel of Judas: Critical Edition (available to the first 25 responders).”

I thought I might have a fightin’ chance . . . after all, how many people really receive these e-bulletins for Academic religious titles, actually read them, and are motivated enough to respond in the first hour or so? But I didn’t hear anything, so I thought I didn’t make it. Until yesterday evening, when The package arrived at my door. The dust jacket got a little tattered in the mail, but otherwise a beautiful copy with great photos and everything else. Thanks, Random House! Now I just have to learn how to read Coptic!