The story of Israel's political and religious decline after Joshua's death. "There was no king in Israel; every man did that which was right in his own eyes." A history of the Judges from death of Joshua.
Ruth
The link connecting the period of the Judges with the Monarchy, giving David's genealogy, and furnishing many instances of faith, and of the bringing of good out of evil.
1 and 2 Samuel
A continuation of the history of the Judges, telling of Eli and Samuel, and the story of Saul's anointing and reign, and the rise and reign of David.
1 and 2 Kings
The history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah from the death of David to the captivity. The story of the conflict between Jehovah and Baal. The life-stories of Elijah and Elisha.
1 and 2 Chronicles
Giving matter supplementary to the preceding books; the temple ritual under David and Solomon; restoration of church and nation after captivity.