The Ancient Chinese

Children's Literature - Kathleen Karr

From "Look into the Past," a British import series, the history, geography and culture of China from the Middle Kingdom period are competently covered in this basic introduction. Illustrations are bright and well-chosen, and the brief section on Confucius, Buddha and Lao-tsu is particularly welcome.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Maya takes an interesting if somewhat simple look at this early civilization. Due to the cursory nature of the presentation, some information lacks clarity. However, the book will at least familiarize students with daily life, gods, and warfare. The chapter on writing, which shows how Mayas formed words by joining sound symbols, is especially intriguing. Ancient Chinese provides a basic overview of early civilization and philosophies. Informative double-page spreads cover rulers, farming, trade, pastimes, and beliefs. Factual tidbits, such as the workings of the first earthquake detector, are sure to appeal to readers. Both titles are enlivened by numerous illustrations, most of which are in full color. Simple, useful glossaries tie into bold, italicized terms that appear throughout the texts. Students seeking in-depth knowledge should be directed to such works as Carolyn Meyer and Charles Gallenkamp's The Mystery of the Ancient Maya (McElderry, 1985) and Peter Nancarrow's Early China & the Wall (Lerner, 1980; o.p.).-Anita Palladino, Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, NY