Chu Hsi (pronounced like "jew shee") is almost unknown in the West. However, he is widely recognized in East Asia as one of the most brilliant and influential Confucian philosophers of all time. Chu Hsi's interpretation of Confucianism became the basis of the civil service examinations in China in the early 14th century A.D., and remained so until the examinations were abolished in the early 20th century. Consequently, generations of intellectuals memorized Chu Hsi's views.

Gardner has done a terrific job translating selections from "The Conversations of Master Chu, Topically Arranged," a collection of Chu Hsi's sayings recorded and organized by his disciples. Gardner has translated a part of the massive "Conversations" dealing with methods of ethical cultivation. Gardner supplements these selections with excerpts from Chu Hsi's metaphysical comments. This is very helpful, since Chu Hsi's views on cultivation are connected to his metaphysical views. Gardner is a well respected scholar of Chu Hsi, and his introduction helps situate Master Chu historically.

People who are interested in Chinese philosophy usually go to the obvious places: the sayings of Confucius, the Tao Te Ching, or the Yi Ching. Why not read something by a figure as influential as Confucius, but less well known, and perhaps more accessible?

This slender volume provides a good basic account of the three primary kingdoms of ancient Africa. We have heard much in recent years from Afro-centric revisionist historians about the alleged wonder of ancient Africa. This book puts some of those myths into perspective. While obviously intended for a young reading audience, this book has some useful information. The maps and pictures have an ameturish quality to them, but will doubtless appeal to high school students and less sophisticated readers. The text is simple and a bit over-stated at times.

The three African kingdoms discussed here were certainly impressive for their time and place, but seem to have left little lasting influence. They were primarily trading empires, with some literature (Islamic Koranic writing and study) some archectecture and medicine. Music, art and higher forms of literature that would be found in Europe in the Renissiance appear to be non-existent. It is interesting to note that all three Kingdoms were heavily influenced by Islam, a non-indigeneous religion. Thus it seems Africa's greatest kingdoms were due more to the influence of Islam than anything else. Much about these kingdoms remains obscure and will likely remain so, thus providing numerous revisionist historians the means to make all sorts of outrageous statements. The perfect atmosphere for invention and fabrication. Still, this book provides a clearer look at the early history of Africa more so than recent ethno-centric studies like those compiled by the dubious Louis Gates. Young and older readers alike can certainly find some merit in this work

I have used this book to teach both fifth graders and college students about the basics of African history. This book effectively tells the tales of the Sundiata epic, Sonni Ali, the rise and fall of Timbuktu in a way that is entertaining, but also educational. If you want a basic foundation into African history while avoiding the political minefield of "Afrocentrism," read this, learn, and enjoy.