Discoveries: Search for Ancient Rome (Discoveries (Abrams))

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful book!
Review: A French friend gave me the English version of this book for Christmas along with an outstanding recommendation. I have to agree with her now that I've read it too. The book is not a typical travel guide or history book. It is about the rediscovery of Roman civilization from the ruins and the birth of modern archeology. The story telling writing style and many beautiful illustrations really bring the past to life again. I have many books on Roman history, but this was the first to help me see Rome in a completely different way. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in history and archeology. It would also be a wonderful companion book for anyone planning a walking tour of ancient Rome. Happy reading!

Rating:
Summary: Nice treatment if a bit sketchy
Review: This is a small, inexpensive book, and a case of getting what you pay for. Most of the space is taken up with illustrations, generally well selected for their interest and beauty. The text is a too-brief survey of the long history of archaeology in Rome; for example, the whole story of the fascist efforts in the 1930s is covered in a page or two. An addendum contains some historical texts of interest. As an introduction to an aspect of the city's history that many visitors may wonder about, this is could be a good little book to slip into the suitcase; but it is apt to leave the really curious unsatisfied.