When Oxford published J. M. Roberts's History of the World last year, it was immediately acclaimed as a classic. Writing in The Observer , A. J. P. Taylor called it "a stupendous achievement...the unrivalled world history of our day." The Christian Science Monitor greeted it as a "landmark book....Highly readable...intelligently organized, insightful, and balanced." And The Sunday Telegraph declared, "There is nothing better of its kind." Now we proudly present the new, conveniently sized, and remarkably affordable Concise History of the World . Vividly written and beautifully illustrated, it brings the outstanding breadth of scholarship and international scope of the larger History of the World within the grasp of every home, school, and library. Completely up-to-date, comprehensive yet succinct, it accompanies readers on an amazing journey from the first appearance of the species Homo sapiens up to the bloodshed in the former Yugoslavia and the latest chapter in the exploration of space. Informative, beautifully rendered maps, photographs of key archaeological finds, and stunning reproductions of important artwork (some in full color) bring the past to life as Roberts surveys the major events, developments and personalities that have shaped the civilizations of the world. From the arts, politics and religion to scientific and technical breakthroughs, Roberts tells the story of the growing power of humans to remake their world and control their own destiny. Effortlessly drawing together the great themes of civilization with details from everyday life, he brings readers face to face with the exciting, dramatic, often tragic story that is the history of the world. Following in the international success of Roberts's History of the World , the highly readable Concise History of the World is an indispensable reference that will inform, enlighten, and entertain readers for many years to come.