Discover Ancient Persia

April 1, 2014

Gr 5-8-Going into more depth than similar titles for this age group, these books describe the origins, organization, culture and religion, daily lives, and declines and falls of ancient civilizations. The extra detail is a welcome change from many recent sets that emphasize illustrations over text, and the format allows for ample background; readers will be encouraged to develop their knowledge of each culture, its importance, and contributions to world civilization. Large maps and full-color photos of locations and artifacts enhance the text. The strengths of these titles are partially offset by occasional dryness, and these civilizations have been widely covered in many extant titles, factors that make this set a supplemental report choice rather than a first purchase.

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2014
Grades 4-7 This volume of the Discover Ancient Civilizations series explores the lands, people, and cultural heritage of Persia, the civilization that once occupied modern-day Iran. The empire of Cyrus the Great is discussed through the end of the Achaemenid Dynasty and the invasion of Alexander the Great. The historical narrative follows the enlargement of the Hellenic League, wars with Rome, and the eventual rise of Islam. Bramwell emphasizes Cyrus' tolerance and respect for the different languages and religions of his vast empire, which at its largest was the size of the continental U.S. The illustrations place a heavy emphasis on the material culture of the Persian Empire, with copious full-color photographs of artifacts and heritage sites. An engaging introduction to the many contributions of the Persians to the modern world.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)