The Forgotten Kingdom: The Archaeology and History of Northern Israel: 05 (Ancient Near East Monographs)

A clear, concise and very readable overview of our current understanding of Biblical archaeology written by a hands on expert. It should be required reading for any who still try to warp and corrupt the Ancient History of the Near East by an irrational belief in the literal truth of Solomon and all his glories. There is also a message for Egyptologists that Shishak does not necessarily equal Shoshenk I. I was particularly impressed by a rationalisation of the person of Saul, it was an object lesson in how the Hebrew Myths and Legends can be legitimately allied with archaeology.

Fascinating book. It is a shame the maps are not better, it would make things easier for the non-expert reader. For anyone who has puzzled over the origins of the Old Testament this book is a very enlightening read, as is 'The Bible Unearthed'. Quite amazing how much diligent archaeology, science and intelligent and knowledgeable interpretation can discover.