This book replaces Kingfisher Illustrated History of the World. Although similar, there are differences in this new book. Curriculums that refer to the original book may not correspond to the replacement version. The book does not have as many pages as the original but the pages are larger. Features that we found helpful in the original have been dropped from the replacement version. Most noticeably, the continuing textual timeline that appeared in a colored box on most pages has been removed. In its place is a pagetop timeline with dates only to put each page’s text in context. The text has been completely reworked. Some of the topics from the earlier book have been deleted altogether or have been combined with others into a more general topic. This new version also has some topics not included in the original.

We looked at several different alternatives before selecting this volume as a basic world history reference book. As with any secular product, we contend with the “dating” problems (the book dates the beginning of history at 40,000 B.C.), and possibility of evolutionary references. However, the book is an excellent reference with many outstanding features:

- It’s all in one book (491 pgs) making it a handy reference for studies of any and all time periods.

- The paper is nice and thick, designed to tolerate years of “wear and tear”.

- Chronologically-arranged and cross- referenced articles.

- Over 2000 colorful illustrations, including photographs and charts as well as annotated maps.

- A handy reference section at the back of the book that has lists of national leaders throughout history; wars; and explorations/discoveries.

- The comprehensive indexing makes it easy to quickly find the information or related articles you need.

We think this will be a volume you will use again and again, not just for world history studies, but for unit studies of all kinds.

Customer Review

 
Andrea R. from Baker, LA wrote the following on 08/27/2008:
This is a wonderful book. I majored in history at college, and I've referred to this book again and again over the years. I even designed a world history unit study for my children using this as a resource, which they enjoyed more than traditional textbooks. It works for K-8 and as a supplement for high school. The contents are in chronological order (very helpful for history), and it is easy to find information on the major civilizations.