June 1, 2004
Gr 3-5-Credible but very brief overviews of these ancient cultures. The books are eye-catching with good-quality color photographs of artifacts and ruins, maps, and art reproductions. Texts are large and easy to read but vary in writing quality, often utilizing short, choppy sentences. Appendixes include a list of famous people from each culture and an excellent Internet resource. Readers are given instructions and a code number to access Web sites through Fact Hound, an Internet portal. The sites are good sources for information and activities related to each title. The books plus the Web sites provide enough information for reports. Additional purchases if books on these topics are needed.-Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukie, OR
Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
April 1, 2012
Gr 3-5-Four sequential chapters outlining the history of each civilization are introduced by a "you-are-there" anecdote: a chariot race at the Olympic Games, the opening of King Tut's tomb, a caravan traveling the Silk Road. Short sections, informative captions, fact boxes, and highlighted definitions offer readers a variety of access points. Illustrations are from a variety of sources and eras, and photographs of objects and sites give readers an idea of what has endured from each ancient culture.-Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, Towson, MD
Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.