The Ancient Chinese World (World in Ancient Times)
Grade 9 Up–Readers seriously interested in history, in archaeology–or in China–will be well served by this engrossing book. Its 23 chapters progress chronologically, but each has a focus (e.g., the Shang, warfare, Buddhism, crafts, the role of women), and several of them engagingly retell the story of a memorable person, like Shensheng, Lady Hao, Laozi, and Wang Mang. A pronunciation chart is provided, along with phonetic versions of each name in a short "Cast of Characters." Primary-source material used throughout is identified in situ. Fascinating sidebars, superb maps, and color photos and reproductions with informative captions add utility and appeal. Women are as much a part of the story as possible (considering their generally low status). A time line covering 700,000 B.C.E. to 589 C.E. helps to sort out reigns, but some dates differ from those on a dynastic sidebar. Further-reading suggestions are organized under subject heads and include 17 annotated Web sites. Unfortunately, there are some glitches in the index. Nonetheless, this book contains a wealth of information, even if it isn't entirely accessible.–Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George's School, Newport, RICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.