The Incan Empire

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10-A history of the Inca civilization from its beginning to its demise at the hands of the Spanish conquistadors. Nishi begins with a discussion of the geography of the empire and its impact on the people, thus giving readers a solid understanding and appreciation of the rise of this culture. The author's descriptions are evenhanded; he notes the fairness in the system to determine tribute and comments on the jealousy between brothers of the ruling dynasty. Both primary and secondary sources are skillfully incorporated into the text and sidebars, enhancing the narrative and providing a vivid account of daily life. Quechua words provide students with a better feel for the culture; their meanings are given with their first-time usage only, and there is no glossary. Black-and-white reproductions, photographs, and maps also help to give a more complete picture of this civilization.-Lana Miles, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|