The Book of the Ancient World: For Younger Readers - An Account of Our Common Heritage from the Dawn of Civilization to the Coming of the Greeks

The ancient civilizations of Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, plus the Hebrews, Hittites, Persians and the Phoenicians are examined in this well-researched and illustrated history.

A comprehensive overview of each country is given; the greatest accomplishments, the societal structure and the religious and cultural life. Firstly there is Egypt's hieroglyphic system of writing, its colossal architectural builds such as the Pyramids of Giza, and its elaborate religious beliefs in the afterlife and honoring the dead. Following this is an examination of ancient Assyria and Babylon; the code of laws implemented by Hammurabi, and the use of cuneiform to write and maintain records. Triumphs of construction, notably the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, are also mentioned alongside the advancements of civic education and early astronomy.

Next is the story of the Hebrew people, who founded their lands under the leadership of Moses following their exile from Egypt. The vast religious literature the Hebrews produced is collected in the Holy Bible. The author turns her focus to Ancient Persia, whose military conquests under Cyrus and his descendants changed the face of the ancient world. Finally, we turn to the Phoenicians; a coastal people living on the banks of the Mediterranean, who pioneered seafaring, crafted many of the most ancient artifacts, and created colonies and trading outposts to further their prosperity.