Egypt

Library Journal

The entire pageant of Egyptian culture unfurls in this compilation of essays by noted scholars from around the world under the general editorship of Egyptologist Malek. The format is similar to the National Geographic Society's Ancient Egypt: Discovering Its Splendor (1978); however, it differs greatly in its expanded scope. The work treats Egyptian history from its prehistoric beginnings through the Pharaonic, Ptolemaic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras right down to the present day. Aimed at the general reader, it offers an overview of Egyptian geography, archaeology, history, the arts, religion, and daily life. The text is richly illustrated. While the ultimate value of an introduction like this hinges on the quality of its bibliography and index (not seen), based on the excellent quality of the essays, this book is highly recommended for public and academic libraries. Anyone preparing for a trip to Egypt will find it informative.-- Edward K. Werner, St. Lucie Cty. Lib. System, Ft. Pierce, Fla.

Booknews

In essays by international scholars, accompanied throughout by color photographs, maps, diagrams, and sidebars, this handsome volume for non-specialist readers considers Egypt's natural environment, culture, leadership, economy, religious beliefs, and everyday life during the last 5,000 years, from ancient times to the present. 9.75x12.5" Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)