AFRICAN BEGINNINGS

Beginning with the pre-dynastic Nubian culture, Haskins (see review, above) covers the successive rise and fall of Saharan and sub-Saharan empires and major cities between 3800 b.c. and a.d. 1665, then veers away from the political and economic history for three paragraphs (actually a long caption accompanying an unidentified performer) about ``Music and Dance,'' a similar essay on ``Art and Religion,'' and a lengthier, broad account of ``Slavery and Colonization.'' The bibliography is better than perfunctory, but neither the map, which has no political boundaries, nor the timeline, which refers to people and cultures not covered in the text, are particularly helpful. This sumptuously packaged first volume in a projected series makes a strong first impression, but those seeking very specific interpretations of the text won't find it in Cooper's golden-hazed paintings, which are strongly atmospheric but less rewarding on cultural and historical details. (Nonfiction. 9-11)