[A] well-researched and amiable account ... If you want to know how to quarry, carve and erect a huge block of granite, then Brier is your man. He meticulously reconstructs the steps taken by the Egyptian stonemasons ... turning then to document the later transportation of obelisks to foreign places.

The Spectator

Obelisks were one of the greatest technical achievements of Ancient Egypt, but they are also a tribute to the skills of the Romans, the Renaissance, and the modern world. Here is a readable and urbane account of both these works of art.

Times Literary Supplement

Mr. Brier tells these stories with panache and with authority. His cast of characters-pharaohs, emperors, popes, engineers, Egyptologists and millionaires-can hardly be beat. And he restores wonder to these enigmatic objects created so long ago.

Wall Street Journal

Brier brings an Egyptologist's perspective, a fascination with engineering, considerable storytelling skills, and a conversational tone honed by professional broadcasting. Together, this makes for a generally enjoyable read.

Andrew Robinson, Science

Recaptures obelisk mania anew ... [It is] the unexpected illustrations that ultimately provide this book's captivating originality.

History Today

This work contains much fascinating and obscure detail that makes for an entertaining and informative read.

Ancient Egypt