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  • X Marks the Spot

  • The Story of Archaeology in Eight Extraordinary Discoveries
  • By: Michael Scott
  • Narrated by: Michael Scott
  • Length: 10 hrs and 16 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (13 ratings)

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X Marks the Spot

By: Michael Scott
Narrated by: Michael Scott
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Publisher's Summary

A thrilling and adventurous new history of discovery that takes us on a global tour of the most fascinating archaeological finds of all time.

Uncovering the physical remains of our past is a quintessential human itch; the pursuit of every society from the ancients through to today. But the stories behind archaeological exploration and discovery - what we look for when, what we end up finding, and what we then do with it - tell us as much about ourselves today as they do about the past.

Through eight sensational stories of discovery, Professor Michael Scott traces the evolution of modern archaeology from colonial expeditions to today's cutting-edge digs, unearthing traps, curses and buried treasure along the way. We uncover why different periods and places have caught our attention and imaginations at different times. We meet the characters, some celebrated and some forgotten, who found world-famous discoveries like the Rosetta Stone, the Terracotta Warriors and Machu Picchu. We investigate ancient human footprints, stunning shipwrecks, mythical princesses and surprising rituals as keyholes to the wonders of past civilisations. And we unravel how archaeological finds have often become emblems of modern fascinations and dilemmas.

Crossing millions of years, trekking from the jungles of South America to the frozen highlands of Central Asia, X Marks the Spot reveals how much the discovery of our past is intertwined with the concerns of our present and why X never, ever marks the spot.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Michael Scott (P)2023 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: History

Critic Reviews

If you love Indiana Jones, this is the real thing. Michael Scott celebrates the fusion of scholarship and adventure in a book full of both. (DAN SNOW)
Through eight of history's most audacious acts of discovery, Michael Scott tells us the story of archaeology itself. This is a thrilling investigation of humankind's obsession with the physical remains of its past. (SUZANNAH LIPSCOMB)
A fascinating book; both as a greatest hits compendium of archaeological breakthroughs, and as a subtle examination of how "discovery" has evolved. In tracing Archaeology's journey, Professor Michael Scott shows that "discovery" often required more than just courage, persistence, and talent, but also geopolitical pressure, local knowledge, dubious ethical choices, and pure blind luck! (GREG JENNER)

What listeners say about X Marks the Spot

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A Captivating Archaeological Adventure!

From the ‘missing link’ in Africa to a ‘lost’ city in South America, each chapter unveiled a new adventure filled with fascinating artifacts and tales of the past. The vivid descriptions transported me to the archaeological sites and the lives of a diverse group of explorers, representing different genders and cultures.

The author took on the role of narrator and with his engaging voice, clear enunciation and deep connection to the subject matter, he brought the archaeological discoveries to life. This book was an absolute pleasure to listen to.

What sets “X marks the Spot” apart was the perfect blend of historical insights, archaeological techniques, modern developments, personal analysis and anecdotes, and enthralling storytelling. I was thoroughly engaged from beginning to end.

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2 people found this helpful

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Very enjoyable.

This was very fun to listen to. Like others, after watching Indiana Jones or even Stargate, I wanted to look for ancient treasures. My life did not turn out that way but I still thoroughly enjoy reading about 'discoveries' made. I would love for this to be made into a mini-series.

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I wanted to be Indiana Jones when I grew up. Now I understand why this is problematic.

A beautiful blend of great story telling and the retelling of historical events. I was completely drawn in and fascinated.

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Fantastic

Absolutely loved this book.
Binge-listened. Found myself smiling throughout as history I thought I knew was unveiled in greater detail.

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Loved It

I heard Michael discussing his book on a podcast and was delighted when it “popped up” on Audible. It did not disappoint. Maybe we could get volume 2… Just putting it out there.

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