The first book of Samuel is a historical account of the life and times of the prophet Samuel, the last of the judges of Israel, and the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. It is a story of faith, obedience, and the consequences of disobedience. The book begins with the birth of Samuel to Hannah, a barren woman who prayed for a child. Samuel was dedicated to God from birth and served as a prophet and judge for all of Israel. During his lifetime, he anointed Saul as the first king of Israel, but Saul's disobedience led to his rejection by God. Samuel then anointed David as the next king, and David became one of the greatest kings in Israel's history.