Great Sphinx

Book Review: That Egypt’s iconic monument, lying in wait before the pyramids at Giza, still inspires more questions than answers makes it a perfect subject for the new Odysseys in Mysteries series (5 titles). The polished design and serious approach to the topic confer a mature feel on the book, but let’s not mistake serious for dry. Very readable text incorporates an intriguing mix of history, mythology, Egyptology, pop culture, and, more seriously, politics and the impact of terrorism on Egypt’s tourism economy into this glimpse into the Great Sphinx’s construction, possible purpose, and many unearthings. Full-page photographs of the Great Sphinx and other Egyptian wonders dazzle, while generous margins, large quote boxes, and informational asides keep the main text at a quite manageable four chapters. A selected bibliography and website links conclude.