PHARAOHS AND FOOT SOLDIERS

“If you cry easily and enjoy causing a scene, you might like being a [hired] mourner.” Or perhaps a Charioteer—“If you like excitement and can drive a chariot.” From Tattoo Artist to Pharaoh him (or her) self, Butcher suggests a plethora of career possibilities (not actually options, since most jobs were inherited) for ancient Egyptians. Arranging occupations in general types (“Temple Jobs,” “Personal Appearance Jobs”), the author briefly describes required skills, tools and hazards for each, along with bits of historical background for context. Newbigging echoes the lighthearted tone with lots of dark-skinned, bulb-nosed cartoon figures demonstrating each occupation and adds a handy map and timeline. A few minor flubs aside (no, the Mayan pyramids aren’t as old as the Egyptian ones), this joins its series mates Archers, Alchemists and 98 Other Medieval Jobs (2003) and the rest in presenting an unusual, cross-sectional view of a commonly studied historical society. The annotated list of recommended further reading, though far from exhaustive, includes both fiction and nonfiction choices. (index) (Nonfiction. 8-11)