I've always found the archaeology in Palestine fascinating. I'm a self confessed armchair Biblical archaeologist. I just can't get enough. Its not only just plain interesting, it repeatedly confirms our Christian faith. So, if you want to get started in digging into our Christian past (pun intended) let me suggest two books, by the same author.
Doing Archaeology in the Land of the Bible: A Basic Guide by John Currid is the best place to start.
Within this slim and fact filled volume the reader will discover, a brief history on Biblical archaeology, definitions of basic archaeological terms, how archaeologists determine where and why to dig, what is a tel, why is stratigraphy and pottery so important, and much more.
If you want to go further, grab Currid's, The Case for Biblical Archaeology: Uncovering the Historical the Record of God's Old Testament People.
Though another introduction, this work is far more in depth (and worth every penny). Currid breaks down time periods (Bronze Age, Iron Age, etc.), definitions of terms are expanded, there are numerous maps, color photos, diagrams, and much more, all to assist the reader with a broader understanding of the subject. Many digs from north to south and east to west are detailed in their findings and each is given a "For Further Reading" section for the reader to explore much more.
Dig in friends, there is so much to learn!
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