Archaeology: Down to Earth

Archaeology: Down to Earth, 5th Edition, offers a brief overview of archaeology with an emphasis on fieldwork. Co-authored by Robert L. Kelly and David Hurst Thomas, the textbook introduces students to how archaeologists investigate past human activity through research and material analysis.

The volume highlights field and laboratory investigations using examples from sites around the globe. These cases illustrate the ways researchers navigate and resolve actual challenges during projects.

Personalized accounts and "What Does It Mean to Me?" feature boxes help students connect archaeological work to everyday life. These discussions demonstrate both the practical applications of archaeological practice and the contemporary value of understanding the past.