(4) YA Ancient World Leaders series. These books delve into historical, social, and political theories specific to each ancient world leader. The texts, though informative, can be dry, and some speak more generally about the ancient cultures than about the leaders themselves. Archival photographs and sidebars break up the pages; additional maps and/or illustrations would have been helpful. Most volumes include glossaries and website resources. Reading list, timeline. Bib., ind. Review covers these Ancient World Leaders titles: Nefertiti, Hammurabi, Queen of Sheba, Ramses the Great, and King David.

Reviewer: T. Borregaard

(3) YA Rulers of the Ancient World series. Well written and engaging, each of these biographies paints a complete portrait of a pivotal historical figure and places him securely in the context of his time. The lucid prose receives further support from an uncluttered design (including black-and-white illustrations and photos, sidebars, and maps) and well-placed subheads. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Rulers of the Ancient World titles: Julius Caesar and Ramesses II.

Reviewer: Amy Lois Cohn