“A solid and very readable work. It should prove most useful in college and seminary courses, but scholars will also appreciate its balanced presentation of issues and the insights found throughout.” — Religious Studies Review “One of the finest introductions to Old Testament study. From text to theology, Schmidt leads the reader into the Old Testament with ease and interest.” — Interpretation “One of the finest compendiums of contemporary scholarship.” — The Bible Today “An excellent work—judicious, dependable, scholarly, but accessible to the ordinary reader… . Schmidt’s work is highly recommended.” — The Living Church “Students will appreciate Schmidt’s concise review of the history of interpretation, the clear and cogent summary of dominant trends in contemporary biblical scholarship, the analytical outlines of the content of individual books, and a competent exposition of the significant ideas or theological intentions. Introductory courses will be enhanced by the addition of this pedagogical tool… This introduction is recommended.” — The Catholic Biblical Quarterly Now the best available introduction to the Hebrew Scriptures.” — Currents in Theology and Mission