"A thoroughly researched political and cultural history. The writing is lively, often using humorous titles for chapters and sidebars: Always Look a Gift Horse in the Belly: The Trojan War, Everybodys Got a Sore Spot (referring to Achilles). Extensive quotes from primary sources, attractive page layouts, numerous good-quality color photographs of ruins and artifacts, plus the infusion of humor make for a palatable, solid resource for any collection. Included are a time line, a lengthy list for further reading, and Web sites." -- School Library Journal, August 2004 "In the wake of Joy Hakim's fabulous A History of US, the publishers are pairing historians and novelists for similarly readable, meaty tours of more ancient cultures. Here, paying particular attention to the roles of women and repeatedly noting that the cultural and economic achievements of the Greek citystates rested solidly on the backs of farmers and slaves, the authors trace the rise and fall of Crete, Mycenae, Classical Greece, and Alexander's empire, interspersing topical chapters, illuminating side notes, and even an interview with a working archaeologist. Photos of artifacts and ruins, plus an admixture of carefully identified Renaissance art, support it all nicely.For clarity, scholarship, and readability, it rises easily past the general run of assignment titles.

" -- Kirkus Reviews "With the continuing discoveries of archaeologists and researchers, history is constantly changing.and so is learning about history thanks to this series." --Growing Minds "For fans of Joy Hakim's wonderful History of US series, Oxford University Press is publishing The World in Ancient Times, the multi-volume world history equivalent.This series is a great idea." -- Home Education.