A reduced edition of this outstanding reference book, which follows the dramatic history of the world's early civilizations, from the first farmers of the Middle East to the rise of the mighty empires of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome. This lavish encyclopedia is absolutely packed with stunning photographs and dramatic original reconstructions that present a vivid picture of life in the ancient world. The fact-filled text is authoritative, informative and hugely absorbing. It includes Internet links that can be accessed through the Usborne Quicklinks website, which take you to approved websites that provide an extra level of fun and information. It contains a time chart, who's who and comprehensive glossary.