Lost Worlds

From the world of Aratta and Mohenjo-Daro to Atlantis and Camelot, this visually stunning book is a window with a view that takes readers on an historical, archaeological, and mythological journey through lost worlds, those abandoned in time, buried and forgotten, and the ones that live in the imagination. Attempting to put the most plausible pieces of history together, John Howe, concept artist for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, begins the journey that will move readers to explore these lost worlds even further.

From the world of Aratta and Mohenjo-Daro to Atlantis and Camelot, this visually stunning book is a window with a view that takes readers on an historical, archaeological, and mythological journey through lost worlds, those abandoned in time, buried and forgotten, and the ones that live in the imagination. Attempting to put the most plausible pieces of history together, John Howe, concept artist for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, begins the journey that will move readers to explore these lost worlds even further.

Publishers Weekly

Comprehensive context complements effulgent illustrations in this survey of 24 legendary worlds. Some, like Thebes and Pompeii, existed, while others, such as Shambhala or Asgard, are speculative. Historical details (“In 539 B.C., the Persian king Cyrus the Great conquered Babylon”) and occasional photographs of ruins and ancient art objects help place the locales in history or in the imagination. Howe, who was a conceptual artist for Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings movies, often strikes a pensive tone: “Atlantis is beyond our reach, beyond our most wishful thinking... under the restless waves of myth and legend.” Reflective readers and those with an interest in ancient civilizations will appreciate this exciting and carefully crafted book. Ages 9–12. (Nov.)

John Howe is best known for his work based on JRR Tolkien’s worlds. He was one of two lead artists working on The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. This is his first book for children.