This fact-filled encyclopedia takes a thematic rather than a chronological approach to the past. By enabling complete topics to be reviewed and assessed at a single stroke, this fascinating but all too often dry and opaque subject is brought to life and made easily accessible for today"s young reader.Divided into four sections, the authors cover Ancient Civilizations, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Exploration and Discovery, and Prehistoric Peoples. The result is a broad overview of life in times of peace and war, from the ancient worlds of the Sumerians and Egyptians right up to the present day. Each spread gives a broad overview of a particular topic, whilst reference panels at the bottom pick out interesting detail and include specially commissioned maps, artefacts and icons.An invaluable reference source for all the family, this is a book that will be returned to again and again.