The Egyptian Pyramids: A Comprehensive, Illustrated Reference

Facts on each of the 42 pharaohs and the monuments they constructed (and commentary from the author who has extensively explored them) include all elements of each pyramid complex that have been discovered, and whether a sarcophagus and mummy have been located. Cross-sectional diagrams and floor plans are provided for all pyramids so far uncovered, as well as photographs where available. Longer essays discuss in painstaking detail the unusual features of such as the Bent Pyramid of Pharaoh Sneferu and the Great Pyramid of Pharaoh Khufu. Eight appendices include a comparison of Egyptian to Aztec and Mayan pyramids; and notable pyramid authors and explorers. The resulting book offers solutions to many of the intriguing mysteries long associated with the pyramids in addition to tantalizing suggestions of discoveries yet to be made.

This generously illustrated work is the most complete reference book ever published on these fascinating and compelling structures of the ancient world.

Facts on each of the 42 pharaohs and the monuments they constructed (and commentary from the author who has extensively explored them) include all elements of each pyramid complex that have been discovered, and whether a sarcophagus and mummy have been located. Cross-sectional diagrams and floor plans are provided for all pyramids so far uncovered, as well as photographs where available. Longer essays discuss in painstaking detail the unusual features of such as the Bent Pyramid of Pharaoh Sneferu and the Great Pyramid of Pharaoh Khufu. Eight appendices include a comparison of Egyptian to Aztec and Mayan pyramids; and notable pyramid authors and explorers. The resulting book offers solutions to many of the intriguing mysteries long associated with the pyramids in addition to tantalizing suggestions of discoveries yet to be made.

Library Journal

Lepre, who has spent 15 years studying the pyramids through written sources and on-site investigation, is not an Egyptologist. His renditions of Egyptian chronology, kings, hieroglyphics, and other staples of the study of ancient Egypt are pieced together from numerous sources at his own discretion. For example, following Greek historian Herodotus rather than modern scholarship, he names Beby (not Djoser) as first king of Dynasty III and goes on to assign him ten pyramids with the caveat, `` . . . although it is unlikely that Beby built all ten of these pyramids, we include them in his portfolio for lack of a better arrangement.'' The subject would be better served had he written his observations of the structures as journal articles, rather than this version of what began as personal reference material. Laypersons should be directed to such standard references as I.E.S. Edwards's The Pyramids of Egypt (Penguin, 1987. reprint). Skip this one.--Joan W. Gart land, Detroit P.L.