World Encyclopedia of Archaeology: The World's Most Significant Sites and Cultural Treasures

Edited by archaeologist Cremin (The Celts in Europe), this encyclopedia comprises the entire history of humankind from the earliest fossil hominids 30 million years ago to the Kingdom of Hawaii in the early 19th century. After a concise overview of the history, issues, problems, and techniques of the field, the main atlas, which covers 150 archaeological sites, is arranged semichronologically within broad geographical areas. The A-to-Z entries are clearly written for a general audience by practicing archaeologists who are specialists in the subject areas covered. Many entries have inset boxes that further explore some aspect or issue related to the main article, and an archaeological time line, a glossary of terms, and a list for further reading are also included. Lavishly illustrated in full-color throughout, the volume belies its modest price and could be mistaken for a coffee-table book were the informational aspects of the work less impressive.