A HISTORY OF ANCIENT ISRAEL From the Patriarchs Through the Romans

Professor Cline covers events in The Holy Land from Abraham's covenant with God to the Roman destruction of Jerusalem and the worldwide diaspora of the Jews. Cline speculates on the accuracy of biblical accounts, compares them to the archaeological and extra-biblical records, and fills in the gaps. While always cogent and accessible, some of his conclusions are startling. He identifies the Ark of the Covenant as "made famous by Harrison Ford in RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK." Wasn't the Ark made famous by God? In addition to this lame stab at humor, the professor has an annoying voice, and the publishers haven't bothered to edit out his lip-smacking. He is best heard in small stretches. Y.R. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]