(3) 4-6 Enduring Mysteries series. Karst digs into the history of--and the many mysteries surrounding--Egypt's Great Sphinx with a linear narrative that will engage upper-elementary and middle-school readers; it begins with speculation about the ancient wonder's construction and meaning and moves through history to modern-day tourism and preservation efforts. Abundant glossy photographs break up the text. Websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen

(4) 4-6 Egypt's Ancient Secrets series. This series about ancient Egyptian culture focuses on things related to death: tombs, mummies, and monuments. While that may sound morbid, color photographs and illustrations in bright, eye-catching layouts offer an enticing entry point into this part of the culture. However, the repetitive nature of the topic and reuse of some graphics and information across the series are drawbacks. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers the following Egypt's Ancient Secrets titles: Ghost Ship, The Great Pyramid, King Tut, The Sphinx, Tomb Robbers, and Valley of the Golden Mummies.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(4) 4-6 Mysteries of History series. For thousands of years, many have tried to understand the mysterious Great Sphinx of Giza: mainly, who built it and why? This volume presents a concise narrative history, including major archeological developments and theories. With frequent inserts (and an appendix) of comprehension activities, publisher's links, and writing prompts, the series is more focused on core standards than general research. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: David Elzey

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. Giblin discusses the construction of and accruing knowledge about the Sphinx, including the cultural and architectural forces at work from the prehistoric periods through the Fourth Dynasty, the newly formulated hypotheses concerning workers at Giza, and the legend surrounding Prince Thutmose's first restoration of the Sphinx. The illustrations concentrate on the structure and depend on perspective to impart drama. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2004