Stones, Bones, and Ancient Cities

by Lawrence H. Robbins

Describes the explorations, excavations, and triumphs of the men and women responsible for forty great archaeological discoveries--from Schliemann's Troy, to the Rosetta Stone, to Leakey's finds at Olduvai Gorge

Genres: Archaeology, Nonfiction, Anthropology

267 pages, Hardcover

First published December 12, 1978

Reviews

[Jay Pascacio · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read, even for people who may not be well-versed in archaeology. In this book, Lawrence Robbins details many of the most significant and interesting discoveries in archeology, ranging from the skeletons and cave arts of prehistoric humans, early forms of writings, astonishing architectures, lost cities, and even the seemingly insignificant finds that allowed researchers to determine how and where our ancestors lived. As he detailed these discoveries, the author recounted the stories of the curiosity, resilience, luck, and at times selfishness, of the people who led these great discoveries and who pioneered archeology as a discipline.

Even more interesting, from the perspective of social anthropology, is the similarities between different societies that developed separately. For instance, the similar myths that developed in different cultures. There is something, I think, about these similarities that is indicative of the universal human condition, as Robbins himself points out. It is an interesting thought to entertain that, despite our differences, many of the principles that underlie our thinking and action remain universal and indeed, intimately human.

[Harvey Dias · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a survey of some important archaeological finds and advances. The author, an anthropologist, does a good job of conveying the thrill of discovery. If you have an interest in King Tut, the Anasazis, Vikings, the Incans, Noah’s Ark, Neanderthals, the Rosetta Stone and other such ancient people and things, you will find this an interesting read.

[Netty Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little dense and slightled outdated now but thats what happens with science books so i got myself into this. Although i did learn a ton and this made me wanna pick up my other archeology book. So job well done