Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5)
Genre: Biography, History, Children's Non-Fiction, Ancient History

Book Review:
Alexander the Great is one of the most legendary figures in all of history. A king who, by the age of thirty, had created one of the largest empires in the ancient world, he has fascinated people for over two thousand years. Doug Wilhelm's Alexander the Great: Master of the Ancient World, part of Scholastic's ''A Wicked History'' series, is a perfect introduction to this iconic figure for young readers.

The ''Wicked History'' series is known for its engaging, accessible, and slightly irreverent approach to biography. It presents its subjects as complex, often flawed human beings, rather than as dusty figures from a textbook. This volume lives up to that promise. Wilhelm tells the story of Alexander's life with energy and pace, from his childhood as the son of King Philip of Macedon, tutored by the great philosopher Aristotle, to his dramatic rise to power and his incredible military campaigns.

The book covers all the key events: the battles against the Persians, including the epic victories at Issus and Gaugamela; the founding of Alexandria; the conquest of Egypt, where Alexander was crowned pharaoh; and the long, difficult campaign into India. Wilhelm also explores the legends that grew up around Alexander, such as the story of the Gordian knot and his claim to be the son of the god Zeus. He doesn't shy away from the darker side of Alexander's story, including his ruthless ambition and his moments of violence.

The book is written in a lively, conversational style that will appeal to its target audience. It is filled with illustrations, maps, and sidebars that provide additional context and information. It also includes a glossary, a timeline, and suggestions for further reading.

Alexander the Great: Master of the Ancient World is an excellent choice for any young reader with an interest in history. It is a book that will inform, entertain, and inspire, and it may well spark a lifelong fascination with the ancient world. It is a ''wicked'' good read.