Author Description

In scope, accuracy and soundness of judgement, this is one of the best general ancient histories in print. The best single thing about the book is the breadth of coverage. Now for the first time, the student of non-Western history is presented with some account of the ancient history of India and China in context with the ancient Near Eastern and classical cultures. The critical bibliographies are another praiseworthy feature. The best sections cover a wide range, illustrating the breadth of the author's competence. General excellence like this cannot be achieved without mastery of detail. This is an excellent book.