This scholarly resource has much to offer researchers. Roberts begins with a discussion of the prehuman past and continues up until mid-1990. The text is divided into eight 'books' each of which is organized around a central focus and begins with a brief overview. These books are then subdivided into shorter chapters. 'The First Civilizations' covers several centers of complex, early urban civilization-including Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China-and discusses areas, such as sub-Saharan Africa, which (for reasons the author explains) did not develop in the same way.
He relates how factors such as climate and location affected the development of some cultures. 'The Age of Diverging Traditions' investigates medieval European civilization as well as others that thrived at roughly the same time-the Islamic world, Imperial China, India, and Byzantium. Perhaps the biggest challenge the author confronts is 'The Latest Age' which offers insightful commentary on recent events. A chapter detailing the early steps that resulted in the dissolution of the Soviet Union is followed by an epilogue discussing current trends and dangers facing civilization in the future. Numerous black-and-white illustrations, some full-color plates, well-drawn maps, and an extensive index are included.  
One of the most extraordinary history bestsellers on the "Penguin" list, John Roberts' book has now been updated by Odd Arne Westad to make sure it keeps its amazing appeal to a new generation of readers. 'A stupendous achievement...the unrivalled World History for our day. It extends over all ages and all continents. It covers the forgotten experiences of ordinary people as well as chronicling the acts of those in power. It is unbelievably accurate in its facts and almost incontestable in its judgements'