The Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan

Bloomsbury, 2018. ISBN 9781408889930
(Age: 10+) 'Set your sails east with this stunningly original new history of the world. Peter Frankopan, number one bestselling author and historian, explores the connections made by people, trade, disease, war, religion, adventure, science and technology in this extraordinary book with a remarkable voyage at its heart - the journey along the Silk Roads. From ancient world laws laid down by Kind Hammurabi and the mighty Persian empire, to terrifying Huns, the rise of Europe, two world wars and politics today, The Silk Roads moves through time and history sewing the threads from different peoples, empires and continents into a phenomenal history of the globe.' (Publisher)
This book is absolutely exquisite. The illustrations are to die for and the detailed accounts of the times in history are informative and easy to read. The book centres around Europe and the Middle East, with other countries being mentioned briefly. It begins with Medieval times and passes through centuries finishing in the 2000s. Each chapter is divided into an historical period and the significant events that influenced it. The book does not provide indepth information about each time, but it does entice the reader to seek more information. The book is unique in that it delivers the historical content from an Asian perspective, rather than the traditional USA and English.
This would be a welcome addition to the collection for readers 10 and up or it would make a beautiful coffee table book.
Kathryn Schumacher