The Aztec Empire

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8Three useful, well-written, and attractive titles about ancient cultures. Good-quality, full-color photographs and drawings depict artifacts, monuments, and domestic or historical scenes, thus providing information as well as enhancing the books. Marston offers a clear explanation of the rise and demise of the Egyptian dynasties and of the culture's complex religious beliefs. Schomp provides a succinct look at the history of ancient Greece and the importance of its pantheon of gods and goddesses. The inclusion of quotes from period literature and stories in these titles gives further insight into these two civilizations. Stein examines the Aztecs' history, beliefs, and life styles. An added source of interest is a chapter revealing the influences of this ancient culture on contemporary Mexico and the discoveries of the ancient ruins of Tenochtitlan in Mexico City. Lois Warburton's Aztec Civilization (Lucent, 1995) is equally useful but dry and bland in comparison.Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukee, OR