(4) 4-6 Foreword by Jean-Pierre Isbouts. Old and New Testament Bible stories--accessibly adapted from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) and illustrated with European masterworks--are connected to archaeological discoveries and theories that explain life in the ancient Middle East. While chock-full of information (perhaps of more interest to adults), the busy format and a variety of type sizes are distracting. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(3) YA This handsome volume, extensively illustrated with clear photographs and some architectural drawings, gives a personalized account of the career of the Chinese-born superstar architect. The informative text focuses on Pei's major projects including Boston's Kennedy Library; the National Gallery of Art, East Building, in Washington, D.C.; and the subterranean addition to the Louvre, with its distinctive pyramid entrance. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Barbara Bader

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Sarah S. Brannen. Rubalcaba and Cline first discuss the myth surrounding Troy's downfall, then examine major phases of the storied city's excavation. Evolution of excavation techniques is detailed as well as the change in thoughts surrounding the possible reality of a Trojan War and how science could reconcile history and myth. Illustrations and archival photographs throughout help support the thorough text. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(3) YA This book covers four famous cases of human fossil remains: Turkana Boy, Lapedo Child, Kennewick Man, and Iceman. The engaging text first reconstructs each individual's death then describes the eventual discovery of his bones; debates surrounding the analysis of evidence are telling in regard to the scientific process. Some photographs and maps are included. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Thom Barthelmess

(3) 4-6 National Geographic Investigates series. This series discusses how archaeologists' work helps us learn about ancient cultures. Each volume highlights major sites and finds; the text touches on the impact of modern history (the Iraq war, pollution) on priceless artifacts and discusses controversies (Elgin marbles). Sidebars and well-captioned photos expand on the information, as does an interview with a working archaeologist. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these National Geographic Investigates titles: Ancient Inca, Ancient Iraq, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, and Ancient Africa.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(4) 4-6 When Damon's mother dies, he and his best friend Artemas travel from Alexandria to Spain in order to inform Damon's father, a centurion in Caesar's army. In an unlikely series of events, the boys survive a shipwreck and a shark attack, watch gladiators at the Circus Maximus, and meet Cleopatra, Cicero, and Julius Caesar. Although set in 45 BCE, the story does not seem firmly grounded in the past. An author's note adds some historical information. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: Anne St. John