Alexander: The Boy Soldier Who Conquered the World

by Simon Adams

Overview

Now in paperback: This concise, visual biography of one of the world's most fascinating historical figures, engages kids by using colorful photographs, illustrations, maps, and archival objects, as well as lively narrative.

Using period artwork, primary source accounts, photographs, artifacts and a lively, engaging text, this book examines the life of Alexander the Great, from his childhood to his major achievements and victories in battle.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781426314490
Publisher:	National Geographic Society
Publication date:	07/09/2013
Series:	National Geographic World History Biographies Series
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	64
Product dimensions:	6.80(w) x 9.78(h) x 0.23(d)
Lexile:	1040L (what's this?)
Age Range:	8 - 12 Years

About the Author

Author SIMON ADAMS worked as an editor of children's reference books before becoming a full-time writer. He was written and contributed to more than 60 books on subjects like the Tudors, American history, the Titanic, and more. Consultant PAUL CARTLEDGE is Professor of Greek History at the University of Cambridge, England. He has written widely on Alexander the Great and Greek history and served as chief historical consultant for the BBC series The Greeks.

Table of Contents

The Boy from Macedon

Birth of a Prince 8

Macedon 10

The Royal Parents 12

Bucephalas 14

Two Tests of Manhood 16

The Young King

Alexander the Man 20

Aristotle the Teacher 22

Becoming King 24

Wives and Friends 26

The Lord of Asia 28

Conquering the World

Into Asia and Africa 32

Alexander's Campaigns 36

Becoming a God 38

Into Persia 40

Into India 44

The End of his World

Return from India 50

Death of a Conqueror 54

Where Is Alexander Buried? 56

The Legacy of Alexander 58

Glossary 60

Bibliography and Index 62

Editorial Reviews

"Featuring extrarodinary people throughout history, this series presents information in an easy-to-read, well-organized format." —Library Media Connection

From the Publisher

This is the story of Alexander the Great's incredible journey across the known world and his extraordinary legacy as a founder of cities, a soldier, and a king. His life is explored in the four sections: The Boy from Macedon; The Young King; Conquering the World; and the End of the World. The contents page defines the information in each chapter. Color photographs and other illustrations complement the text. Sidebars and maps provide relevant data in each chapter. These visuals and data greatly enhance the readability and subsequent comprehension of each respective topic. Dates at the bottom of some pages provide a timeline to depict key events. The scrapbook-style layout will increase the interest of young readers. A glossary defines relevant historical terms in the text. The bibliography includes websites for further information. An index allows easy navigation through the text. The acknowledgements page credit the illustration sources. This book is part of the "National Geographic World History Biographies" series. Reviewer: Annie Laura Smith

Children's Literature - Annie Laura Smith

Gr 5-7-These handsomely designed books present the lives and accomplishments of powerful leaders of the ancient world. Each one begins with a description of the world in which these figures lived. Family life, education, and early experiences are summarized briefly-much of it surmised from historical records. Both volumes are illustrated with maps and many color photographs of art and sculpture that give substance to eras long past. A simple time line runs along the bottom of each page. Small, informative sidebars decorate most pages while several illustrated boxes add substance. Adams does not downplay Alexander's brutality or all-consuming ambition and includes examples of both. Peter Chrisp's Alexander the Great (DK, 2000) is a heavily illustrated work that reveals more details of the techniques Alexander employed in planning campaigns and battle strategy. Hatshepsut brought one unique quality to the office-her gender. This female who declared herself king ruled one of the most powerful nations in the world for over 20 years. The few facts known about her life and reign are woven into Galford's interesting account. Catherine M. Andronik's Hatshepsut, His Majesty, Herself (S & S, 2001) offers more colorful illustrations and pronunciation guides. As in Miriam Greenblatt's Hatshepsut and Ancient Egypt (Benchmark, 1999), general details of the everyday lives of Egyptians, particularly royalty, are used to complete the picture. Libraries owning either of those titles can rely on them to provide basic information. Others will Galford's biography useful.-Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

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