The answer is: 66

The standard Christian Bible contains 66 books, the Catholics have an additional 7 books which are mostly historical accounts of events that took place before the time of Jesus and are contained in the Old Testament.

The Bible, in its most common form, consists of 66 books, a fascinating compilation that spans historical narratives, poetry, teachings, and prophetic writings. It's a library of texts written over many centuries, stirring curiosity and debate to this day.

The Old Testament includes 39 books that chronicle the creation, history, and laws of the Israelite people, from Genesis to Malachi. Then, the New Testament—27 books—shifts its focus to the life and teachings of Jesus and the early Christian community. You might think of it as two sizeable acts in an unfolding play.

Interestingly, many scholars believe that the various authors of these chronicles often had messages tailored for their own communities. For example, while vexing cultural and religious questions often echo through the pages, they also invite readers to claim personal interpretations today, further broadening the scope of understanding.

One trivia nugget: the assigned order of books varies among different traditions. The Hebrew Bible groups the texts by type: the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings. In addition to the Catholic tradition featuring the deuterocanonical books—like Tobit and Judith, thought to carry unique historical insights—other versions may include various apocryphal letters, further underscoring the collage of human worship and experiences documented within these sacred texts.

Each page teems with the enduring quest for meaning, humanity's turmoil, and aspirational stories – properties that compel believers and seekers alike, making it an ongoing conversation through the ages!