These Guide-recommended books provide reference information, a chronology of discoveries, an understanding of where the modern fascination for Egyptology comes from, and the possibility to learn a new language. A must for any budding Egyptologist.
1. How To Read Egyptian Hieroglyphs
Mark Collier and Bill Manley have created the ideal 'teach-yourself' text for Egyptian Hieroglyphs. The chapters come complete with exercises to test your knowledge and developing skill (the answers are at the back). There is also a comprehensive list of hieroglyphs, a vocabulary, notes on grammar, and a bibliography for further reading. It is the ideal book for budding Egyptologists.
2. The British Museum Dictionary Of Ancient Egypt
This 2002 pocket edition is a revised and updated, but 'miniaturised', version of the original 1995 book – widely recognised as THE classic reference book on Ancient Egypt. The text includes over 600 cross-referenced entries, 170 colour and 250 b&w illustrations, several maps and plans, and is fully indexed. The only possible quibble is the extremely small font size.
3. Ancient Egypt: The Great Discoveries
This magnificent book provides a chronological overview of archaeological discovery in Egypt. Starting with the Rosetta Stone, discovered in 1799, through to the excavation of sites during the golden years at the start of the 20th century, to the scientific analyses of today. The wealth of information is astounding - especially the short biographies and descriptions of the treasures unearthed.4. The Keys Of Egypt
The finding of the Rosetta Stone in 1799 and Jean-François Champollion's subsequent deciphering of Egyptian Hieroglyphs was the archaeological breakthrough which sparked the world's fascination with ancient Egypt. The tale, as recounted by Lesley and Roy Adkins, is one of hardship, politics, and eager competition, set against the background of Revolutionary France. It is a compelling read.