"This is an important book because it recognizes that the Synoptic Problem is not unimportant rather it is vital. Christopher Tuckett's article 'Synoptic Problem' in the ABD gives a good succinct survey in the issues. This book can be regarded as being important to the commonly held view on the development of early Christianity as much as a rebuttal to the fames Oxford-Streeter two-documented hypothesis. The book is a magisterial achievement in hat it explains how Mark's gospel could be understood and explained from the perspective of its being dependent upon Matthew and Luke." -Restoration Quarterly

"An outstanding success. The authorshows a capacity for writing and arguing clearly and concisely, a skill and confidence in translation, a familiarity with both central and out of the way Leibniz texts and sophistication in interpretation and a good knowledge of other optimists The book is a pleasure to read: everything is perspicuous and the work is well-structured. " Professor Stuart Brown (Open University)

Blurb from reviewer

"Strickland has trawled through all of the works available so far and given the best account to date; writing with verve and polish, he makes it a thoroughly enjoyable experience." -Patrick Madigan, Heythrop Journal, March 2009

Patrick Madigan, Heythrop Journal

'a fitting introduction for the reader unfamiliar with Leibniz's optimism.' ~ Laurence Carlin, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews, February 2007

Laurence Carlin, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews