1: Pyramids for young readers
DK Publishing created the "Eyewitness Books" series for young readers. This volume does a fine job presenting information about pyramids for the stated audience. The writing is pitched appropriately for younger readers. As with all entries in the series, the illustrations and photos are wonderful.
Pyramids from a variety of geographical locations are explored here: from Egypt to Mexico (Mayan and Aztec), as well as more contemporary manifestations. The first entry serves to provide context, by asking "What are pyramids?" The focus here is largely the Egyptian and Sudanese pyramids, although one photo of a Mayan pyramid allows some comparison between Egypt and the Americas. These structures were normally used for tombs of the elite (e.g., the Pharaohs in Egypt) or as temples (in Central America).
The first several sections of the book focus on the Middle East, with special emphasis on Egypt. We see the first pyramid of note, for Pharaoh Djoser about 2680 BC; then, the next stage in the evolution of pyramids under the Pharaoh Sneferu, to celebrate major military victories. Next, we see the famous pyramids at Giza (with the Sphinx as an auxiliary structure) (Pages 16-21).
Many subjects that would interest young readers are presented--from what is inside the pyramids to how they were built to tools used.
The book closes by noting that "The pyramid lives on" (Pages 62-63). The Transamerica Building in San Francisco and I. M. Pei's entrance to the Louvre in Paris illustrate contemporary manifestations of this ancient structure.
Again, another neat entry in the Eyewitness Books series. Young readers interested in the subject will enjoy this a great deal.
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