Each book in Great Civilisations approaches its subject through a scene-setting spread Who/where were the... then introduces the achievements of the chosen civilisation through 12 structures or objects, each of which illustrates a key aspect or theme. Writing, architecture, industry, warfare, transport and learning are all covered in the same simple, colourful and engaging way. Fact boxes and panels present incidental information and point the reader to the importance of parallel developments in other parts of the world.

Benin Empire looks at one of the most fascinating and advanced ancient civilisations. Through structures as imposing as a vast walled city built on trade or objects as beautiful as a bronze plaque, readers gain a picture of who was whom in ancient Africa and how the civilisation in which they lived really worked.