National Geographic Investigates: Ancient China: Archaeology Unlocks the Secrets of China's Past - Hardcover

Levey, Richard H.; Ball, Jacqueline

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 079227783X ISBN 13: 9780792277835

Publisher: National Geographic Kids, 2006

Synopsis

In 1974, farmers uncover the terra-cotta army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. Satellite technology reveals about 8,000 soldiers at the tomb complex. Only 1,000 have so far been excavated. In 1976, archaeologists uncover a Shang Dynasty tomb in the Henan province. They recover artifacts bearing the name Fu Hao. Could this be the same person whose name is found on oracle bones unearthed elsewhere in China? Bodies encased in suits of jade, and a pristinely preserved mummy are among the other treasures from China's tombs that continue to provide us with clues to her rich, complex past. Ancient China includes an interview with Dr. Zhichun Jing, University of British Columbia, and working archaeologist at Anyang, the last capital of the Shang Dynasty. National Geographic supports K-12 educators with ELA Common Core Resources. Visit www.natgeoed.org/commoncore for more information.

About this title

About the Author

Jacqueline Ball is the award-winning author and producer of more than 100 books for children and young adults, including the Dino School series and Step Back Science. She lives in New York City. Richard H. Levey is a business reporter and weekly columnist. His first children's book, Dust Bowl! The 1930s Black Blizzard, was published in 2005. He lives in New York City.

Reviews

From the new National Geographic Investigates series, this volume spotlights archaeological finds from ancient China. The book opens with an introduction to the land and the dynasties that ruled it, accompanied by a time line of Chinese history and several maps. After a discussion of how archaeologists work and what they hope to accomplish, each of the next four chapters features a major find and explains its significance. The final chapters offer information about the lives of servants and artisans as well as the damage done by tomb raiders. Sidebars carry related information and appendixes include a glossary and short lists of books, articles, and Web sites. While the discussions of archaeology will hold readers' interest, the accompanying illustrations steal the show. The publisher's reputation for exceptionally fine photography is on display here. Adding value are dramatically lit photos, including some memorable shots of artifacts and mummies, useful maps, and clear diagrams. One other book in the series will be available this fall: Jill Rubalcaba's Ancient Egypt. Carolyn Phelan
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Edition details

• Publisher: National Geographic Kids
• Publication date: 2006
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 079227783X
• ISBN 13: 9780792277835
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 64