What are your thoughts on Philip Pullman's new book? Why do some people find it offensive?

Philip Pullman’s new book The Good Man Jesus and the Scoundrel Christ is a modern retelling of some of the stories from the Bible. It seems to be creating quite a stir, despite a clear inscription on the back cover stating that it is a story and nothing more. What are your thoughts on the book? Why do some people find it offensive?

You can read a short extract here