Often referred to as “the cradle of civilization”, ancient Mesopotamia and its inventions continue to influence our world today. Encompassing modern-day Iraq, northeastern Syria, southeastern Turkey and western Iran, its legacy abounds from Nebuchadnezzar and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon to the invention of the wheel to the introduction of a writing system (cuneiform). Often eclipsed in schools by learning about ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, these books offer a beginning insight into this fascinating time period and its peoples.
On a different yet related note, take a look at this video introduction to ancient Mesopotamia by Learn Bright. Suitable for primary-aged students, I am sure plenty of older learners will learn something from this video too. Alternatively, older students and adults may enjoy watching this brief introduction by National Geographic.
Who Built The First Civilization
by Baby Professor
Review: Coming in at 64 pages, this edition of the Baby Professor books introduces ancient Mesopotamia with plentiful photographs and easy-to-understand text. Having geographically located ancient Mesopotamia, the book begins by introducing the Sumerian people. It goes on to explain what comprises a civilization and raises readers’ awareness of the legacies left by the Mesopotamians. This is a superb introduction for young readers just starting to learn about ancient civilizations. The video by Learn Bright above would serve as a perfect complement when reading this book.
Suggested Reading Age: Kindergarten upwards. In my opinion, this is best suited to students in the 5 to 7-year-old bracket.
You Wouldn’t Want to Be A Sumerian Slave
by Jacqueline Morley (Author), David Antram (Illustrator)
Review: This book series has stood the test of time for a reason. Highly engaging and entertaining You Wouldn’t Want to Be A Sumerian Slave! enables readers to immerse themselves in life in the past. The reader “you” is the protagonist in the book. This technique helps learners to step into the shoes of a Sumerian slave and develop greater empathy and understanding for their plight. David Antirm’s illustrations, a mixture of humorous interpretations and more factual representations, echo the tone of the writing. A fun, eye-opening read, this gives readers an informative introduction to the Sumerian people and their lives.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 years and up.
DK Eyewitness Books: Mesopotamia
by Philip Steele (Author), John Farndon (Author)
Review: Full of photographs, drawings, maps and colourful illustrations, DK Eyewitness Books: Mesopotamia provides a wonderful introduction to this period in history. A perfect reference book, readers will be absorbed for hours dipping in and out of its pages. Following the rise of the civilization to its eventual downfall by the Persians, chapters focus on the Mesopotamian people’s way of life, art, architecture and their many inventions. The epic of Gilgamesh gets its own chapter whilst two informative A to Z sections at the end highlight significant figures and sites. This book is a must-have resource when learning about Mesopotamia, whetting the appetite to find out more.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 12 years old. In my opinion, older readers would also enjoy this book.
Smart Green Civilizations: Ancient Mesopotamia
by Benita Sen
Review: The Smart Green Civilizations books series by The Energy and Resources Institute highlights “green” measures used in ancient times. The books simultaneously introduce the history and daily life of the citizens making for an interesting read. Smart Green Civilizations: Ancient Mesopotamia is a well-paced book filled with vibrant illustrations. Teri, a young girl learning about ancient Mesopotamia in school, steps back in time. As she explores Mesopotamia, she learns about ancient homes, farming and science and knowledge. Along the way, green practices such as irrigation are explained. The book is dotted with “Green Gem” and “Then and Now” footnotes throughout, presenting interesting facts and comparisons with the past and the present day. Available on Kindle, this is a super book to download to support children’s learning at home and school.
Click here to see a preview of the book.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 14 years old. In my opinion, this would be most appealing to the pre-teenage bracket.
Gilgamesh The Hero
by Geraldine McCaughrean (Author), David Parkins (Illustrator)
Review: Dating back to ancient Mesopotamia, the epic of Gilgamesh is believed to be the oldest written story in existence. Pieced together from a series of cuneiform tablets, it tells the tale of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk. The story explores themes such as friendship, bravery and immortality. We follow Gilgamesh and his friend Enkidu as they battle with beasts, monsters and natural disasters. Olden but golden, this award-winning version written by Geraldine McCaughrean brings the tale to life for younger audiences, enhanced by David Parkin’s rich illustrations. This is a real treat when learning about Mesopotamian culture.
Suggested Reading Age: 10 – 13 years old. In my opinion, slightly older teenagers would also enjoy this version. The American Historical Association poses some great questions regarding the text and its origins which would make interesting discussion points for older readers.
N. B. The stunningly illustrated Gilgamesh Trilogy by Ludmila Zeman (see below) would also make a perfect introduction to this epic tale for younger audiences.
Happy Reading!
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Please leave a recommendation below if you know of any other great books about ancient Mesopotamia.