The Gnostic Gospels

This book is widely regarded as a landmark work that significantly popularized the study of Gnosticism and early Christian diversity among a broader audience, moving these topics beyond purely academic circles.

The Gnostic Gospels established Pagels' reputation for accessible scholarship on early Christian history and texts, a theme she continues to explore in subsequent books like 'Adam, Eve, and the Serpent' and 'Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas'.

The book was awarded the National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction and the National Book Award for Religion, recognizing its significant contribution to religious scholarship and its impact on public understanding.