"Attractive book takes an objective look at the Aztecs. ...Nine highly pictorial chapters cover Aztec and Toltec history and the excavations that expand understanding of these civilizations. Lourie also outlines the process of archaeology and the methods used to uncover and preserve artifacts. ...The writing style is clear, informative, and interesting. The text features numerous observations made by archaeologist Leonardo López Luján, which are illuminating, especially concerning the blood sacrifice aspect of the Aztec religion. ...Verses of Aztec poetry being each chapter, presenting a more rounded look at a complex and sophisticated society. This sound volume...is especially good for viewing a culture as it is re-created through excavation."
     —School Library Journal

"Unique photographs, brightly reproduced on crisp white pages. ...There are some interesting new bits here. For instance, Lujan insists that human sacrifice was not nearly so common as history as made it out to be. Report writers will need to go elsewhere for a full treatment of Aztec life, but this book brings it into the present."
     —Booklist

"A generous array of big color photos range from pictures of modern cityscapes to huge preserved ancient structures, from vivid manuscript illustrations and stone carvings to engaging scenes of scientists engrossed in their careful work. Writing with contagious enthusiasm, the author will kindle in readers the same wonder he feels at the way clues to our shared past are being found in these places nearly every day."
     —Kirkus Reviews

"Will be great for classroom use both on the subject of archeology and on the world of the Aztecs."
     —Voice of Youth Advocates

"Fascinating. ...This well-researched book examines the ancient Aztec civilization from an archeological perspective. ...This well-written and visually interesting book would be a welcome addition to the elementary or middle school library as supplementary material to titles focused primarily on the history of the Aztec civilization. It will appeal not only to students researching the ancient Aztec civilization, but also to those with a keen interest in archeology."
     —Library Media Connection