Ancient Israel

[David_2010]

I was wondering, does anyone have any recommendations on what to read to learn about ancient Israel, as I'd like to learn a bit more about its history, but, I'm not sure on what to read, or what authors are considered good.

I've seen some books, both online and in various shops, but, while some of them seem good, I've then looked them up on Amazon, where they get negative reviews, which puts me off a bit. I've noticed that there seems to be a range of views and opinions, when it comes to ancient Israel, like, some seem to suggest that none of the Biblical descriptions match or aren't historical, others seem to suggest the Bible is 100% description of ancient Israel, and others a more middle of the road approach, so, I was wondering, if anyone had any good recommendations for me at all.

Thanks again for any help at all.

 

[Nooj]

Everyday Law in Biblical Israel: An Introduction by Raymond Westbrook

I read it a while back, it had some useful info on what the legal system may have been like. Academic books are pretty expensive, so I recommend just going to the nearest university library.

 

[esmith]

I have just finished a book by Cyrus H. Gordon and Gary A. Redsburg titled:
The Bible and the Ancient Near East. Third Edition
I found it to be very informative in a historical venue. Cover price was $16.95

 

[David_2010]

Thanks very much for both your suggestions .