Member Reviews
3.5
I always find it interesting to read introductory books on a topic I’m quite well versed in, Ancient Egypt— is my favourite topic so I’d say I’m familiar. The text is well written if not a little repetitive in the structure and tone, not unexpected given the subject and the massive timeline, but it made it harder to stay engaged.
The highlight of this book is the stunning images placed throughout, Ancient Egypt was a culture filled with art not only as decoration but also as a form of communication.
The image descriptions were concise and offered a time frame (during whose reign) and the current location of the subject (I found it fascinating to see which museums held each piece of history). I thought the ratio of writing to images was done well and it was hard not to skip ahead to enjoy the pictures.
It’s an introductory look into the Ancient Egyptian timeline, understandable considering one couldn’t possibly hope to encapsulate this magnificent culture in 226 pages but it’s a book I’d recommend if someone is interested in the timeline of Pharaohs and important political events. I don’t think it would be my first recommendation for a well-rounded and basic introduction to the subject of Ancient Egyptian Civilisation but it also wouldn't be a bad place to start.
A coffee table book worth every penny. From the first picture, the art and photography in Treasures of Egypt are truly breathtaking. I thought (arrogantly) that I was familiar with the sight of a lot of Egyptian treasure. I was wrong. The clarity, vibrancy and artistry of these treasures speak of a world of artists dedicated to their Pharaoh's, their Gods and their spiritual destinies.
I am in awe of the craftsmanship, of Egypt, and of this book.
Most people are familiar with ancient Egypt. Our introduction to this civilisation might have taken place at school, in a museum, or through television and film. There are many images or symbols that are instantly recognisable – the pyramids, mummies, the Sphinx, and the death mask of Tutankhamun. When, in 1922, Howard Carter first peered into Tutankhamun’s tomb, he was asked, “Can you see anything?” to which Carter responded “Yes, wonderful things!” He was of course referring to the treasures that filled the space in front of him. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that when one thinks about ancient Egypt, we think of treasure. Treasures of Ancient Egypt by Nigel Fletcher-Jones is a photographic celebration of the bountiful treasures of ancient Eqypt. A huge thank you to Amber Books and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
Treasures of Ancient Egypt provides a fabulous overview of the ancient Egyptian civilisation. It is written chronologically, and the style of writing is highly accessible. The more than 160 colour photographs throughout this book emphasise the sheer beauty and magnificence of ancient Egypt. For history lovers, or individuals with an interest in ancient civilisations, this book is the perfect introduction to ancient Egypt. It will whet the appetite of its readers; enticing readers to jump straight on a plane to Egypt, or to delight in some more armchair travel. As such, I recommend picking up a copy of Treasures of Ancient Egypt by Nigel Fletcher-Jones.
Treasures of Ancient Egypt is a fascinating read if you are interested in knowing more about ancient Egypt. My son and I enjoyed reading through some of this book and looking at the wonderful photos while learning about Egypt during homeschool.
A fantastic overview of every period of anicient Egyptian history. This book gives a breif overview of each period in order to provide context for the stars of the show a collection of FULL COLOUR pictures.
Each of the pictures has a small blurb attached to them telling us what exactly we are looking at. They are brief enough to not be boring, but still providing enough information.
Every picture is just stunning and you are able to properly see the detail of each item. There is such a range included from mummies & tombs to temples & jewellery, there truly is something for everyone.
Most importantly as someone who has a very basic knowledge of Ancient Egypt I found this to be a really nice and accessable overview and introduction. I learned a lot, and noted some areas to further look into - which is always what I want to come away from books like this with!
This is a lovely book for anyone keen on finding out more about Ancient Egypt. Wonderful photographs with brief descriptions of well and lesser known artefacts and locations. This is an excellent guide to the history of Egypt with just enough information to inform without being boring.
Treasures Of Egypt is a stunning introductory book to the history of Ancient Egypt, or coffee table book for those who are already familiar with it (and adore Ancient Egypt like me)
The images are the major draw card for this book, they are stunning, high quality images that include both well known objects and places, as well as lesser known (but just as amazing) subjects. Each has an appropriate description as well as a little label with all of the appropriate details (which can prompt your research if you would like to know more)
The chronological structure of the book makes for a logical reading experience and while there is certainly less text than images, what is there is fitting for those new to Ancient Egypt or budding Egyptologists. I like how many of the subject specific terms are included, but have a brief definition in brackets after.
The end of the book includes a map and timeline to further anchor the reader into the time and place. I thought the timeline was stylised in a really aesthetic manner.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Amber Books Ltd. for giving me access to this book, these thoughts are all my own
Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt, this visually stunning book features 160 color photos showcasing iconic landmarks like the pyramids and Tutankhamun’s tomb. With images of artifacts such as jewelry, statues, and wall paintings, the book brings this mighty civilization to life. While it briefly covers the history of Egypt, the focus is on the art and architecture. It includes many gorgeous artifacts I’ve never seen before, displaying an unexpected realism.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Thank you Netgalley and Amber Books Ltd for this arc.
This is the second book by Fletcher-Jones I've read and I enjoyed it just as much as "Ancient Egypt: A Photographic History." Much like that book, in this one the author gives a short but informative history of the country. Lovely photos illustrate key points and people. There are a fair number of photos of places and temples but this time around I was drooling over the jewelry, statues, and furniture as well. The craftsmen of Egypt were amazing and this book will show some of their signature work. He includes picture credits and a list of museum locations for some of the items.
This was a really interesting overview of the cultural history of Ancient Egypt. The book is broken down into four main sections, each with an overview of important political events and cultural practices. The reading covered various topics, including clothing, art and government structure.
The writing was fairly brief and I think this book is a great jumping-off point for readers who are interested in the history of ancient Egypt! The photos are also beautiful and had helpful captions.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Amber Books for the eARC!
This is one of the most visually charming books published on Ancient Egypt.
Because the focus is on the treasures, the photos play a large role, and the accompanying text is informative.
Fascinating book.
What a delicious book of treasures! Spanning 3000 years of Egyptian history, with a very helpful concise timeline and map and over 160 stunning photographs, this is a coffeetable book that you will find yourself dipping into time and time again.
A definite for my Christmas wishlist.
This book was so interesting and featured many different treasures of Ancient Egypt across various time periods. I love reading about ancient Egypt and seeing the beautiful photographs included in this book made me feel connected to the culture of those time periods in Egypt. I learned so many new things about pharaohs and ancient Egypt in general, and I am impressed with the way the photographs captured all of the ancient treasures featured in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
Treasures of Ancient Egypt is a masterpiece of a book!
I rated it 5 stars because it really is that good! I loved every single page of it.
During the tour of Tutankhamun in the late 70’s my mother went with my stepfather on a date before they were married and she brought home a hardcover copy of ‘Treasures of Tutankhamun’ , so from the time I was a very little girl, I would pore over the photos in that book and be awed. As a result, perhaps, I’ve always been very interested in ancient Egyptian history.
Having the opportunity to read this, I will say that the photos included are among the most wonderful I’ve seen. History is interspersed between the vivid photographs and engaging to read.
Would be an excellent choice for history lovers as well as homeschooling unit studies.
Thank you to Amber Books and NetGalley for the PDF