This insight into ancient Asian and Oriental culture is packed with information and projects. Discover how the Sumerians, Assyrians and Babylonians developed writing, mathematics and the science of astronomy, or examine the glory of ancient India and its influence on cultural and religious developments today. The reader can also explore palaces, temples and humble dwellings to gain a sense of the everyday lives of these remarkable cultures. 60 practical projects - from finding out how to tie a sari, to flying your own Chinese dragon kite - plus over 800 colour illustrations, including cross-sections, historical maps and pictorial timelines, help to recreate the past and make history come to life.