The NEW Book One and Book Two of Buddhist Meditation history
I have recently come across two very substantial, encyclopedic books written by people with both long-term Meditation Experience as well as Academic Accomplishment. The first is a historical overview in 11 essays called "Meditations of the Pali Tradition - Illuminating Buddhist Doctrine, History and Practice by the late L.S. Cousins and edited by Sarah Shaw 299 pages, 2022, Shambhala Publications .
The second is “Breathing mindfulness - An exploration of the history and methods of breath meditation from the Earliest Suttas to contemporary Insight Practice,” written by Sarah Shaw. 342 pages, 2025, Shambhala Publications
It is hard not to see them as companion volumes covering the same ground, The first by aerial reconnaissance and satellite taking in social political and economic forces and their effect on Buddhist meditation. The second is like A series of weekly National Geographic Programs following explorers tracing Tribes and languages through the jungles and the mountains and the deserts.
They are both so much! My take is that They are academically sound and even-handed.
But I like the older and grayer [shaved] heads here to say what they think and expand a little in orientation. 
