Exploring the Past: Ancient Egypt

Presents an overview of life in ancient Egypt discussing such topics as the Pharaoh, religion, mummification and afterlife, the role of scribes and craftsmen, home and family, and common occupations.

Grade 5-8-- So much has been written about Egyptian civilization that it is hard to imagine a book which breaks new ground. This one doesn't. Most of the standard areas, including pyramid construction, mummification, temples and religion, pharaohs and hieroglyphics, are covered in brief, two-page, illustrated layouts. Daily life of average people is given less attention than that of nobles, kings, and the upper class. Sections on family, women, and leisure, as well as farming help to give readers a sense of daily activities. The illustrations are the book's strength. Lively, colorful representations of people as well as buildings and objects are found on every page. Scenes of scribes and craftsmen, farmers and nobles convey a feeling of movement and animation that is lacking in the text. Worthwhile as a supplement to other books on the subject. --David N. Pauli, Northern Waters Library Service, Ashland, WI
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Few children can resist books about ancient Egypt, and this oversized, heavily illustrated title cannot fail to appeal. The brief yet information-packed volume includes discussions of the pharaohs, ancient Egyptian religion and mythology, hieroglyphics and homelife, as well as mummification and beliefs about the afterlife. Hart, an Egyptologist at the British Museum, conveys excitement and appreciation for his subject; Biesty's full-color pictures are similarly informative, always well matched to the text, and clearly captioned to expand the reader's understanding. The well-designed package includes a full-page map of ancient Egypt, a table of contents, a useful index and a timeline. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.