Three Stones Make A Wall by Eric Cline

Over the years I've always loved reading about the early archaeologists: Schliemann, Evans, Petrie, Layard and more.

But I've also learned in recent years how their work during those formative years in archaeology often did tremendous much damage to sites that can never be repaired.  Although I believe their hearts were in the right place (for the most part), their actions sometimes appear closer to looting than to academic pursuit.  

The earlier the discoverer, the truer that turns out to be the case.

Separately, so much time has passed since their work that new finds and discoveries often render their writings obsolete.

So this leaves me with a desire to learn more about modern archaeology.  I scratched that itch with this work by Cline.

The book represents a history of archaeology that tells the stories of the early discoveries, but followed up with newer updates and findings that follow through to present day.  

Interestingly, Cline indicates that most modern archaeological digs include many "amateur" volunteers, including retirees wanting to fulfill a bucket-list entry.

Hmmm.  Maybe that's something I need to explore.