The book of Joshua continues the history of the children of Israel following Moses' death - when the Lord placed Joshua in charge of His people. The book of Judges records the downward spiral of the children of Israel as they transitioned from the leadership of Joshua, through various judges, to anarchy! The book of Ruth is a lovely little book which tells the story of Ruth, a Moabitess who was redeemed and brought into the family of the Lord God of Israel by a near kinsman, Boaz. Joshua and Judges are chronological history books. The events in Ruth occur about 100 years after the time of the judges. There are many similarities between life in the days of these books, and life in 21st Century society. These three books present many valuable lessons applicable to people today!