With more than 3,500 indexed references, over 2,000 full-color maps, illustrations, and photographs, plus key dates and biographies. With its simple chronological and thematic arrangement, this encyclopedia makes it easy for children to find the answers to their questions about the past. Divided into ten clearly defined time periods, beginning with The Ancient World and ending with the Modern World, it covers every major empire, civilization, revolution, and war, as well as the technological and cultural advances that have left their mark on history. The open layout, bold headings, and timelines that run across the top of many of the pages, will help children locate a period of history (Middle Ages, Renaissance, Classical World) or a particular theme (slavery, the Great Depression) that interests them. In-depth articles divided into informative paragraphs, at-a-glance summaries of each period, and illustrated biographies of important historical figures, make this a valuable resource for children. Hardback, 491 pages, ages 8 and up. (Replaces the former Kingfisher Illustrated History of the World.)