The rather idiosyncratic section headings in this book are: The disappearance of pharonic Egypt; Travellers in ancient times; Crusaders, monks and sightseers on the banks of the Nile; Treasure hunters and thieves; The era of the scholars; Archaeolgists to the rescue; and Documents. It should be noted that the section on documents does not discuss papyrology or famous documents such as the Egyption mathematical leather roll (EMLR), The story of Sinuhe, or anything else of original documents! Having said that, the book as a whole is richly illustrated and is excellent value for money. Every oppportunity has been taken to reproduce colour photographs and black and white illustrations on the full gamut of subjects, not just confining the scope to the best known images. Most of the expected topics are covered: the Rosetta Stone, hieroglyphics, Tutankhamun, the pyramids, the early Egytologists, something of modern research. There is also a useful chronology at the back, and a few interesting technical articles, eg on the preservation of the mummy of Ramesses II, and gravimetric analysis of the Great Pyramid. Rekindles the interest if you have read one too many dry textual work on Egypt. Recommended.
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The review of this Book prepared by Michael JR Jose
