Daily life in Maya civilization /

In this update to the 1996 edition, Sharer (Quirigua) includes scholarship from newly deciphered Maya writings and from fresh archaeological discoveries in the lowland, highland, and Pacific Coast areas. Special attention has also been paid to the Early Maya segment, reflecting an upsurge in relevant scholarship. The book's 13 chapters move through the Maya civilization's 13,000-year social, economic, and cultural development. Also offered is a thought-provoking consideration of Maya civilization and the lessons it can impart to contemporary Western society. An absorbing read. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 8 Up‘This thorough study of Mayan culture begins with a history of the development of this civilization over several thousand years. The author explains the effects of climate and terrain on population shifts and how archaeologists study sites and reconstruct societies from their findings. Following chapters discuss the rise and fall of royal dynasties, economic growth, social roles and strata, daily life, political organization, and religion. An in-depth examination of Mayan writing and numerical systems and the development of a complex calendrical record demonstrates the sophistication of this culture. An extensive bibliography is included. Black-and-white photographs of art, artifacts, excavations, and contemporary Mayan life as well as charts and a map extend the well-written text, but the book's overall appearance is bland and utilitarian. Carolyn Meyer and Charles Gallenkamp's The Mystery of the Ancient Maya (McElderry, 1994) is less detailed, but provides some colorful background information about earlier archaeological expeditions. Libraries needing comprehensive material about the Mayans will welcome Sharer's new title.‘Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukee, OR (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.