Archaeological introductions are generally for specific classes or groups of people, and so they vary considerably in scope of coverage. Some are specific to a region or state; some are specifically for field work experience or obtaining theoretical background.
1. Death by Theory
Altamira Press, 2000
Adrian Praetzellis has provided an entertaining way to survive that "killer course" in college called "Theory and Method of Archaeology."
2. Virtual Dig
A simulated archaeological excavation of a Middle Paleolithic site in France; uses a workbook and accompanying CDROM to teach archaeological methods, using the site of Combe-Capelle as a starting point. By Harold L. Dibble, Shannon P. McPherron, and Barbara J. Roth.
3. The Archaeology Coursebook
Subtitled "An Introduction to Study Skills, Topics, and Methods," this book (December 2001) is a welcome addition to the ranks of field survey text books.4. The Past in Perspective
Mayfield 2000
An introduction to prehistory by Kenneth L. Feder; has a global perspective.
5. The Practical Archaeologist
The second edition of Jane McIntosh's archaeological methods text.6. Excavation
One of the first field manuals to include discussion of excavation methods on deeply buried sites. A Cambridge Manual in Archaeology, written by Steve Roskams.7. Discovering Our Past
An introduction to the method and theory of archaeology, now in its third edition, by Wendy Ashmore and Robert J. Sharer.8. Dug to Death
What Praetzellis has crafted in this yakkety little murder mystery is an entertaining exaggeration of what field work can really be like.9. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Prehistory
Alpha Books (2004)
Although I'm not crazy about the title, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Prehistory is well-written and well-grounded in science, and provides interested non-professionals with a painless way to learn about what is, after all, a fascinating subject--human prehistory.
10. Introducing Archaeology
Robert J. Muckle
Introducing Archaeology is attractively formatted, with many black and white photos and drawings. The text is clearly meant for use with an introductory archaeology course in college, but certainly could be used for upper level high school courses. All in all, it is an excellent addition to the selection of introductory texts on the market today.
