Ancient West African Kingdoms

Provides an overview of the culture and civilizations of the ancient West African Kingdoms of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai.

Gr 3-5-Two overviews, presented in straightforward and easy-to-read formats. Both titles use simple, clear language to cover the basics such as housing, trade, families, food, government, etc. Each topic is covered in a spread that includes full-color photos, maps, or illustrations. West African Kingdoms covers the rise and fall of the kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. While there isn't enough information here for a report for the older age group, this book is much clearer than Kenny Mann's Ghana, Mali, Songhay: The Western Sudan (Dillon, 1996; o.p.). Information about the Indus Valley people is largely from archaeological findings, so there are fewer facts and dates and more speculation in this book. With so few titles available on the topic for this audience, this one will serve as a basic introduction.-Genevieve Gallagher, Orange County Public Library, VA Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.