Under Jerusalem: The Buried History of the World’s Most Contested City

Science writer Lawler (The Secret Token) begins his history of nearly two centuries of European, American, and eventual Israeli archaeological exploration beneath the sites of Jerusalem revered by the world’s monotheistic religions with a note on the political implications of the names and words an author uses when writing about the “Holy City.” The author continues to trace the national and international political impact of amateur and professional explorers trying to discover physical evidence in support of scriptural stories. In the process, Lawler summarizes thousands of years of the history (even the geology) of the city and explores the motives and missteps of the diggers. He begins each chapter with a quote from a poet, politician, or partisan focused on Jerusalem and a map locating a specific dig. His writing is clear and engaging, whether detailing colorful characters seeking fame and fortune or recounting the history of the West Bank, and supported by research. Included is a long list of publications for further reading.