Book excerpt: The ancient civilizations that form the basis of our modern world first sprang up in the Eastern Hemisphere, in an area of the Middle East known as the Cradle of Civilization. Through project-based learning, this insightful book examines the history of the Eastern Hemisphere and how it was shaped by trading, wars, and colonialism. Readers can model their own exit projects on those provided in the book, and colorful photographs and special sidebars enhance their understanding of this important region of the globe.