Increasing scholarly attention to Cicero's philosophical works is creating interest in modern translations of these texts for students and general readers. Walsh (emeritus, Univ. of Glasgow) has produced a fine new translation of one of Cicero's most important dialogues that will serve this audience well. The Nature of the Gods is cast as a learned debate between prominent Romans, which Cicero heard as a young man. Epicurean and stoic theories about the nature of the gods are presented by their spokesmen and then refuted by one of Rome's chief priests, representing the Academy. The dialogue raises still-important questions about the compatibility of philosophy and religion and the applicability of one culture's reason to another's practice. Walsh's introduction to Cicero's philosophical books is excellent and accessible to anyone who wants to learn more about these works. Especially interesting is the section on the dialogue's later history as it was appropriated by Christianity and used to exemplify the evils of paganism. The price of this book is outlandish; it should be issued in an affordable paperback edition in order to reach the large audience it deserves. General readers and all undergraduates. R. W. Cape Jr.; Austin College