Digging for the Truth: The Complete Season 1

This top-rated History Channel series makes archaeology downright exciting, thanks to a shrewd choice of subjects and the enthusiastic hosting by explorer Josh Bernstein, who flavors the show with a dash of Indiana Jones here and a pinch of Lara Croft there. The episodes take place in a variety of exotic and challenging locations, including the Amazon jungles, the volcanic Mount Vesuvius, the Egyptian desert, and the mountainous Andes, as Bernstein searches for clues to ancient mysteries. Whether he's looking for the Holy Grail, the tomb of Nefertiti, or the Ark of the Covenant, Bernstein is a personable host who always shares interesting historical information while giving the series some much-welcome theatrical flair. Nothing dry or dreary about these history lessons; in fact, this four-disc, 13-episode boxed set from the 2005 first season offers plenty of entertainment for the whole family. DVD extras include a “History in the Making” featurette and text biography of Bernstein. Aud: P. (E. Hulse)