PYRAMIDS & MUMMIES

1. Bibliography

Simon, Seymour. 2003. PYRAMIDS & MUMMIES. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. ISBN 1587172402

2. Plot Summary

This book, intended for readers in grades 2-4, uncovers the mystery behind Egyptian pyramids, mummies, and burial rituals. It explains in detail the architectural masterpieces that are the largest of the Egyptian pyramids, the power and importance of the Pharaohs, and even the science and religious beliefs behind mummification. It also provides a brief introduction to pyramids form other parts of the world including those built centuries later by the Mayan Indians in Mexico.

3. Critical Analysis

This work provides a scientific look at the process of mummification as well as the architectural feat of building the great pyramids, however, it does so in a simplified writing style appropriate for young readers. For example, Simon states that "the process of preserving a body is called embalming" (Simon, 2003). But he does not stop there. He goes on to explain, step by step, the process that the Egyptians used to prepare a Pharaohs body to be entombed. This fascinating and fairly complex process is summed up in a two page spread that makes the information understandable while, at the same time, not talking down to the reader.

The accuracy of this work, while not cited within the work itself, is reliable and completely verifiable by other sources. Simon uses specific dates, names, and statistics within this book, which adds not only interesting details, but also adds credibility to the simple writing. Also, Simon uses comparisons to make the scale of these colossal pyramids understandable to young readers. For example, Simon tells the reader that "the square base is 756 feet on each side. That's about as big as seven city blocks" (Simon, 2003). These comparisons allow the reader to personally connect with the information about these ancient people.

Lastly, every page of text within this work has an accompanying photograph. Pictures include those of pyramids, mummies hieroglyphics, statues, and treasures uncovered from deep within the buried tombs. These photographs are large and detailed, although somewhat monochromatic. Laughingly, everything is the color of sand. These photos, however, do add life to the otherwise bland and simple text.

4. Review Excerpts

Horn Book Guide: An interesting, well-researched text is supported by appealing color photos. The book focuses mainly on Egypt but also mentions the pyramids of the Aztecs and Mayans.

Criticas: Pyramids and Mummies explores the Egyptian Empire using a considerable amount of information and details that will captivate the more experienced readers. The photos are crisp and pertinent.

5. Connections

* Other Books About Egypt
THE PHARAOHS OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Barron's Educational Staff
LAND AND PEOPLE by Salima Ikram
ART AND RELIGION IN ANCIENT EGYPT by Leslie Kaplan
THE GODS AND GODDESSES OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Leonard Fisher

* Other Books About Pyramids
PYRAMIDS AND TEMPLES by Jane Parker
PYRAMIDS: TOMBS FOR ETERNITY by Mildred Pace
PHARAOHS AND PYRAMIDS by Tony Allan

* Other Books About Death Rituals
ENCYCLOPEDIA OF AFTERLIFE BELIEFS AND PHENOMENA by James Lewis
BURYTHE DEAD: TOMBS, CORPSES, MUMMIES, SKELETONS, AND RITUALS by Christopher Sloan