James VanderKam's Introduction to Early Judaism is a fascinating survey of Jewish history during the Second Temple period (516 B.C.E.--70 C.E.). Based on the most recent archaeological research, this illustrated volume provides scholars and students with a thorough exploration of important literature, groups, institutions, practices, and events of that period. Of particular interest are depictions of Masada and the Kokhba revolt and commentary on texts from Elephantine and Qumran. Expert and accessible.
