Book excerpt: The book of Joshua has many inconsistencies and tensions. The author's analysis of the two plots in the book of Joshua challenges the reader to consider the tensions between dogma and life as it was experienced when the book was written. L. Daniel Hawk draws upon contemporary theories of plot (Kermode, Ricoeur, and especially Brooks) to understand Joshua. He pays special attention to the dynamic quality of the text and of the act of reading. He uncovers patterns of coherence and dissonance that work through and develop the primary concerns of Joshua: the obedience of Israel and the integrity of its land and people. In this valuable book, new ground is broken in the study of the book of Joshua.