"Archaeology has a human face: Every piece of pottery ever found was once touched by someone's hands; every structure unearthed once rang to the sounds of laughter or tears; every jewel from an ancient burial once made an individual more important or alluring." These words from the jacket express obvious and well-spoken insights, and are typical of the text.

For those of us who like to be swoon-fed, an invaluable Atlas. Chapters begin with maps organized by Region with material presented chronologically. Includes Index and very fine photographs of the significant artifacts and sites.

The photographs are WONDERFUL. The Maps are entirely inadequate and missing entire cities (Petra ! Alexandria! during time of Christ). And the archeology is awful. ( )

attractive book bought for the office by my boss, but I've never found it useful. Coffee-table material. ( )