Join Dr. Richard Redding—renowned archaeologist, professor, and field researcher—as he shares stories from a life spent uncovering the past. Leading large excavations demands not just scientific skill but resilience, quick thinking, and the ability to navigate both logistical hurdles and unpredictable dangers. Whether escaping a volatile situation or managing a team in extreme conditions, Redding’s tales reveal the real world of archaeology. Through sharp insight and compelling storytelling, he shows us that archaeology is as much about the adventure as it is about the discovery.

Dr. Richard W. Redding was a world-renowned researcher, professor, author, teacher, and a devoted humanitarian. He left those whose lives he touched with indelible memories of his inquisitive nature, astonishing intellect, and profound kindness and generosity. Dr. Redding received his bachelors, masters, and bi-departmental PhD in anthropological archaeology and biological sciences at the University of Michigan.  In addition to his devotion to the University of Michigan as a professor and as a research scientist at the Kelsey Museum establishing the Zooarchaeology Laboratory, Richard was a principal investigator on archaeological projects in North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. His investigations, excavations, and surveys focused on the origin of food production and the evolution of complex societies.

Dr. Alexis Redding is Richard’s daughter. She is a developmental psychologist and professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She helped with this manuscript while her father was alive and then edited his memoir posthumously with the goal of maintaining his voice and humor. She hopes that this book will help continue her late father’s legacy and impact.