Exploring the Past: Ancient Egypt

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. (Oct.)