Review
'The Ancient Civilizations series for young readers offers an exciting and accessible window into the past, bringing long-ago cultures to life through vivid storytelling and rich visual detailThe series stands out for its bright, vibrant illustrations that capture readers’ attention and support comprehension. The carefully leveled text makes the content approachable while still challenging young readers to stretch their vocabulary and understanding. A Day in Ancient China will lead readers through 691 AD China, from a laborer’s work day on the farm to the rich in their home where they paint, write poems or play weiqi (games with white and black stones). Readers will learn about student’s education, the lantern festival, their religion, their food, and more. A Day in Ancient Egypt will take readers on a journey to 1220 BCE when pharoahs ruled. They will learn about the process of wrapping a mummy and how they were laid to rest. The end of each book includes a timeline of important events, a map featuring the civilization, and a glossary of key terms—all of which help students build historical knowledge and practice important nonfiction reading skills. Overall, the Ancient Civilizations series delivers an immersive and historical experience for young readers. Through lively artwork, clear text, and well-designed learning tools, it invites young readers to step into the past and discover the people, places, and events that shaped our world.', Alana Jara, District Librarian, Clear Lake Community School District,'In this volume of the Ancient Civilizations series (6 titles), it’s summer in the year 1470, and the Inca Empire is flourishing. Double-page spreads, with short, descriptive paragraphs and large, colorful digital illustrations, depict some of the people one would have encountered in Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire. From a llama herder to a craftsman to a woman who cooks and cares for her baby to a noble family who hunts deer alongside the emperor, the individuals represent a range of trades and socioeconomic statuses. Following these presentations of home and work life is an engaging portrayal of the Festival of the Sun, in which crowds gather to observe the emperor, musicians, dancers—and even royal mummies. A concluding time line and map provide more context to this influential time period.', Angela Leeper, Booklist
