Examines the history of ancient China and how their inventions, like gunpowder and movable type, have shaped the modern world.

Pulitzer Prize-winning historians, diplomats, music legends and sports giants explore the grand American experiment in democracy, culture, innovation and ideas, revealing the setbacks, suffering, invention, ingenuity, and social movements that continue to shape our vision of what America is and what it can be.

Describes different aspects of the ancient Maya civilization, including its history, politics, religion, and intellectual achievements. Includes color illustrations, a timeline, a glossary, and additional resources.

Many different people have lived in India for thousands of years. Readers will learn about some of the people who have lived there and influenced the Indian religions, culture, and way of life. Featuring vivid photos, maps, stunning facts, supportive text, and an accessible glossary and index, this book allows readers to explore such topics as The Mauryan Empire, The Gupta Empire caste systems, The Mughal Empire, King Ashoka, Aryans, Buddha, Mohandus...

The ancient city of Mesopotamia was located in the Middle East and was made up of empires such as the Babylonian Empire, Assyrian Empire, Persian Empire, and Phoenician Empire. Readers will explore these incredible empires and discover how each made contributions and influenced the world as it exists today. The fascinating sidebars filled with captivating facts work in conjunction with the vibrant, alluring images to engage and excite readers as they...

"From acclaimed author Ursula K. Le Guin, and with an introduction by Karen Joy Fowler, a collection of thoughts--always adroit, often acerbic--on aging, belief, the state of literature, and the state of the nation. Ursula K. Le Guin has taken readers to imaginary worlds for decades. Now she's in the last great frontier of life, old age, and exploring new literary territory: the blog, a forum where her voice -- sharp, witty, as compassionate as it...

Trade routes gave rise to the ancient kingdoms in Africa, providing a rich history in culture, trade, and tradition. This appealing book will allow readers to explore the civilization, people, culture, religion, history, and traditions of Sub-Saharan Africa through plenty of colorful photos, fascinating facts, a helpful glossary and index, and supportive text. Other highlighted topics include the Kush civilization, Askum Kingdom, Zagwe dynasty, Ghana,...

Presents an overview of ancient China, covering topics such as rulers, religion, social organization, and the lasting influence of ancient Chinese culture. Includes a timeline, color illustrations, and a list of additional resources.

Discusses major themes and deities of the religion of ancient Egypt, and discusses ways that this religion informed other cultures' beliefs as well as modern ideas and architecture. Includes reading comprehension questions, a glossary, photographs, and a list of additional resources.

Readers will explore some of the biggest issues that have happened in the Middle East and learn about the impact that these happenings have effected people all over the world. The vibrant images, stunning and engaging sidebars, accessible glossary and index, and easy-to-read text make this book a perfect introduction to such topics as the Yom Kippur War, The Oslo Accords, Saddam Hussein, and religious extremism. Readers will be fascinated and captivated...