Lithic Analysis (Manuals in Archaeological Method, Theory and Technique)

George Odell has certainly done his homework with this book. He is already a well respected author of many significant lithic studies contributions such as the ever important "Lithic Technology" manuals, but this book serves as his best yet.He explains all of the main sourcing techniques for lithic materials in great detail, and how they benefit archaeological interpretation. This facet is a growing concern for archaeolgical debate, which will most certainly guide us into the near future of critical debates for human behavior mobility patterns and trade routes. Many authors have already contributed to the topic of sourcing, e.g. Shackley, Luedtke, but it is nice to see a coherent, comprehensive work done mentioning this topic in one volume, as well as with all the important available references.Many other topics are also discussed relevant to the analysis of lithic materials necessary for achaeological understanding. I highly recommend this read for any lithic analyst / student studying lithics and archaeology.

Odell's manual on lithic analysis is a "must" for anyone working in archaeology, particularly in any culture or region where stone tool technology was a part of cultural practices. Odell very clearly outlines and defines all major types of stone tools, provides examples of the forms of production waste, usewear, and other archaeological traces left by specific forms of tool manufacture and use, and covers a wide range of time periods and cultures worldwide. I find this book extremely helpful in understanding lithics in archaeology, and recommend it to any professional working with lithics.

Good technical book

a good book to have (along w/ others on the topic) for those interested in or actively doing lithic analysis. he covers the basics, but spends a bit too much space describing use-wear-- but that is one of his specialties, so it is too be expected. also, i was pleased to see the addition of an organization of technology section in this book; though not thorough it is a good start and a rarity within most lithic analysis books.

A good basic introductory text to lithic analysis covering basic analysis from source material, manufacture, to behavior.

found book most informative

just what I needed for the completion of my analysis. great delivery time.