The Byzantine Empire

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9Concise, clearly written, and easy to read, this history of the Byzantine Empire will be useful to students in need of quick quotes and a fast source for an impending paper. It lacks the charm and readability of Isaac Asimov's Constantinople (Houghton, 1970; o.p.), but it includes many visuals, making it nonreader friendly. Primary- and secondary-source quotes, clearly separated from the main text by boxes, are accompanied by brief explanatory citations. Overall, the text is informative and at times engrossing. Clear black-and-white reproductions (with the exception of a few blurry mosaics) add drama to the story. However, the illustrations are not always helpful. For example, the text leading up to a map discusses the split of the Roman Empire, but instead of showing that division, readers are given a map of "Constantinople and Surrounding Area." The maps in Asimov's book are less sharp and less graphic, but much more informative. Still, readers should find Corrick's title an accessible introduction to a mysterious and exciting period in world history.Herman Sutter, Saint Pius X High School, Houston, TX