Lost Cities

Shows and describes the archaeological exploration of ancient cities

YA-Bahn provides information on familiar "lost" cities such as Alexandria, Troy, and Machu Picchu, but the strength of this book lies in introducing readers to lesser-known but fascinating rediscovered sites such as Sagalossos in Turkey, Tiwanaku in Bolivia, and Biskupin in Poland. The author has selected towns and cities of differing types from a variety of time periods and focuses on "major settlements which were abandoned for one reason or another." The book contains five sections divided, roughly, by continent. Maps at the back of the book help orient readers. Entries include an overview of when and why the city arose, how each strata of society lived while the site was occupied, and what caused the people to leave. Stunning photography, the majority of which is in color, complements each narrative. Short bibliographies on each city are appended, although availability may be limited by the fact that many of the sources listed are not U.S. publications. The book will appeal to young adults with an interest in archaeology, history, or sociology, but its subject matter, layout, and beauty will attract general readers as well.
Dori DeSpain, Herndon Fortnightly Library, Fairfax County, VA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.