Ellen White. Layer by Layer: A Primer on Biblical Archaeology. Winona, MN: Anselm Academic (www.anselmacademic.org), 2019. Pages, 120. Paper $19.95.

The Bible Today

This useful little primer offers the beginning Bible student an accessible, informative introduction to the nature and value of archaeology for biblical studies. The author, who has a doctorate in Hebrew Bible from the University of St. Michael’s College (Toronto), has both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the field. The first chapter, called “Mythbusters,” addresses common misconceptions about archaeology and its relationship to biblical studies (e.g., Myth #6: Archaeology Disproves the Bible). The subsequent chapters offer a historical overview of “biblical archaeology,” lessons in Archaeology 101, a presentation of exegesis, and a discussion of how exegesis and archaeology can be mutually enriching. Each chapter ends with review and discussion questions, a list of key terms, and a short selection for further reading. All of this, plus a glossary at the end, makes this a valuable resource for the classroom or personal study.