An extraordinary guide to the world's most intriguing and mystical religious places captures their myths, legends, and continued importance, while journeying to places such as the Egyptian pyramids, Mayan and Aztec sites, and the religious centers of Jerusalem and Mecca. YA. This attractive series entry explores the bond between the Earth and the world's various religious and belief systems. Double-page treatments replete with full-color photos and sidebars are devoted to topics such as Stonehenge, Easter Island, and the Druids. Sacred sites in second- and third-world countries also appear. The first section provides a geographical breakdown by area. The second section is a gazetteer consisting of 16 maps with over 1000 sacred sites. Information in this section includes location, whether the site is still in use, and historical periods when it was first used or built.?Frances Reiher, Fairfax County Public Library, VA Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc. At first glance, this book is very similar to The Atlas of Sacred Places [ RBB N 15 94], though that book covered only 33 sites and this new one treats 100 sites around the world, ranging from Ur to Machu Picchu. The one-half-to two-page entries are beautifully illustrated with color photographs. The last quarter of this volume, however, makes it more than just another pretty coffee-table book. A gazetteer plots the location of more than 1,000 sites on 20 color maps. A list keyed to the maps notes the founding date of the site, the country where it is located, and a brief note as to its importance. The entries in the first part of the book also refer to the gazetteer. A glossary and bibliography are followed by an index. Readers interested in archaeology, religion, or travel will enjoy this attractive book. Public libraries will want to include it in their circulating collections. Sandy Whiteley This illustrated guide to the location and history of the world's most revered holy sites is loaded with color photos and religious and historical detail alike: an excellent and involving blend of facts and color which invites leisure browsing. Unlike many titles with similar topics, this is arranged in such a manner so as to be accessible to both leisure browsers and students alike. -- Midwest Book Review Used Book in Good Condition