The National Curriculum for history states that pupils in Key Stage 2 should learn about the achievements of the earliest civilizations, including an overview of the first civilizations and a depth study of one of the following: Ancient Sumer; The Indus Valley; Ancient Egypt; or The Shang Dynasty of Ancient China.
While many schools are familiar with the topic of Ancient Egypt (see our separate booklist here), the other ancient civilizations listed tend to be less well-known to teachers. We’ve put together a list of recommended children’s books to support the topics of Ancient Civilizations, with a focus on the Ancient Sumer, the Indus Valley and the Shang Dynasty.