Along with an overview of the Hebrew Bible, including introductions to each book, Gottwald provides social analysis of ancient Israel and how these books fit into that society. His acute treatment of literary genres, social conflicts, and contemporary scholarship makes this an indispensable textbook and reference work.

The volume contains many charts, study questions, and other aids, now enhanced by the new CD-ROM, which contains copious aids:

"...A monumental volume, combining the very latest approaches to the ancient text with encyclopedic knowledge of the older methods.... One of Gottwald's most helpful tools is a series of charts and tables that add enormously to the value of the text. The next time I teach an introduction to the Hebrew Bible, I will without a doubt turn to Gottwald for my text."

"...This book is perhaps the best general introduction to the mainstream of current critical study of the Hebrew Bible on the market.... At points the discussion is little short of brilliant. Gottwald has made an immense contribution to modern biblical scholarship. A generation of students will be in his debt for pulling it all together...."

"...A significant survey of the OT, which combines the usual literary and theological evaluation with the social-historical approach.... The structure and format is excellent for students. Gottwald's work will become a standard text in OT research for years to come."

"Fair...balanced...judicious. [This volume] would make a good, balanced introduction for college and university students, and a useful reference work for scholars."