In this first volume of a new paperback set of three (derived from the 2002 National Jewish Book Award-wining hardcover edition), Biale (Jewish history, U. of California, Davis) introduces seven essays on the origins of Jewish culture. US and Israeli scholars explore issues of national identity and the relations of Israelites to other peoples of Canaan, Greco-Roman Palestine, Babylon, and early Moslems. Artifacts pictured illustrate cross-cultural influences. The original preface is included. Annotation 2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
