Venice and Its Merchant Empire

Children's Literature

Part of the "Cultures of the Past" series, this reference describes the origins, development, height, and decline of Venice as a military and cultural power. Hinds organizes her work into five chapters focusing on the history of the republic, cultural contributions of the Empire, religious values that defined Europe at the time, how Venice adopted, altered, and rejected these beliefs, and, finally, the lasting legacy of the Venetians. The text is engaging and easy to read without being overly simplistic. The narrative is supplemented by beautiful paintings of the greatest artists produced by Venice—Gentile and Giovanni Bellini, Vittore Carpaccio, and Titian—as well as other visually appealing paintings and maps of Venice, her streets, her buildings and her people throughout history. Each chapter is also enhanced by at least two "highlight" pages that more deeply explore, often with a visual aid, a special topic mentioned in the chapter. These include descriptions of warfare on water, the Venetian system of governance, a typical home of a nobleman in Venice, Marco Polo's adventures, the myths of Saint Mark, the varying lives of young males versus females, and items from Venetian culture that have made their way into our homes today. The text concludes with a colorful timeline, useful glossary, suggestions for further readings, online resources, a bibliography, and an index. Well-written, visually appealing and packed with fascinating information, Hinds' text would be a welcome addition to the school library or humanities classroom. 2002, Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, $28.50. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Wendy Glenn AGES: 10 11 12 13 14 15