The Ancient Maya (Exploring the Ancient World) - Softcover

Fretland VanVoorst, Jennifer

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0756545846 ISBN 13: 9780756545840

Publisher: Compass Point Books, 2012

Synopsis

The civilization of the ancient Maya reached its peak about 2,000 years ago. The Maya held a complex religious view of the world. In an effort to maintain order by pleasing their many gods, they built imposing stone temples, developed a written language, and played a ball game with life-or-death consequences.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Gr 6-8-These handsome volumes provide broad overviews of each civilization. The long spans of time make depth impossible, but the authors attempt to give a balanced look at the lives of both the nobility and the common people. Topics vary according to the civilization but include advancements in science and knowledge, the arts, social structures, religious practices, and the causes for the civilization's eventual demise. Ancient China covers the dynasties beginning with Xia and ending with Qing. VanVoorst emphasizes the critical role the Byzantine Empire played in protecting Greek and Roman knowledge and the advancement of Christianity in Western Europe and ultimately North America. Maya notes the gradual restructuring of Mayan society leading up to its destruction by the Spaniards. Occasional topical pages provide background information. The design includes tinted pages, border art, and photo frames. Each title includes maps, a table listing periods or rulers, and well-chosen photographs and art reproductions. (Unfortunately most captions fail to identify the actual location of the artifact or artwork.) A concluding time line encapsulates major events from the text. The straightforward presentations will leave curious readers wanting to know more.-Carol S. Surges, Longfellow Middle School, Wauwatosa, WIα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

About this edition

• Publisher: Compass Point Books
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 0756545846
• ISBN 13: 9780756545840
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 48