Synopsis
Examines ancient methods of communication in the Middle East, India, China, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Mesoamerica.
Children's Literature
In these days of e-mail, cell phones, and instant gratification it is easy to take communication for granted. This well-researched guide looks at several ancient civilizations and examines the contribution each made toward our ability to communicate effectively. From Stone Age man came pictographs and from the Semites came the model for the alphabet. The Egyptians contributed papyrus and pens for writing and the Greeks gave us books and libraries. Ancient Rome gave us the universal language of Latin. Some of the things we view as modern such as the telegraph and photocopying had their roots in Ancient Greece and Rome. It is refreshing and comforting to note that sometimes there is nothing to improve on the ancient ways. In determining what language to choose to write a message to extraterrestrial beings that might encounter Pioneer 10, the scientists decided upon pictographs! Very readable, well-organized, and filed with fascinating tidbits, this well-designed book is an example of nonfiction at its best. It would be a welcome addition to any middle school or public library. 2000, Runestone Press, Ages 10 to 14, $25.26. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey