Introduction to Textual Criticism

Following on from Pete Williams's question about the best introduction to textual criticism, Stephen Carlson offers his opinion. Debate is between the Alands and Metzger. But I'd start anyone off with David Parker, The Living Text of the Gospels (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1997). Amazon have it on "Search Inside" so you can get a good taster before buying. And there are limited previews on Google Books too, like a lot of CUP's stuff. I recommend this book because it introduces you not just to the discipline of textual criticism but also to why it matters and why it is interesting.