The Mongol Warlords: Ghengis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulegu, Tamerlane (Heroes & Warriors)

This is a wonderfully illustrated book. Not only does it have many full-page illustrations, but it's chock full other great material: photographs, drawings, portraits, diagrams and loads of amazing maps. Even the margins are put to good use, diagramming pottery, artifacts, weapons, etc.

The histories and biographies themselves are honest, well-researched and complete. And there is so much supplementary material that the book guarantees something for everyone. And while it's true that you won't find anything in it that can't be found elsewhere, the book does a great job of putting together a wide variety of material in a useful and entertaining format. The content in this book will appeal to the casual reader as much as to someone who's topically oriented.

Great for reading or for reference, The Mongol Warlords provides a lot of bang for the buck. While it's not currently in print, I found my copy in a used bookstore at an attractive price. Look around; this book is worth the search.


Tons of great pictures and drawings   February 24, 2002
 10 out of 12 found this review helpful

There is a lot of information about Mongolian culture, politics, and conquests as well as other aspects of their history, in particularly the Mongolian rulers (obviously). This book has a great deal of information about the way that they waged war and what they used to do it. There are details of what happened in particular campaigns as well as the battle tactics that were used.
Of course, that is what you would expect from the books title. However the biggest strength of this book are the tons of pictures and drawings of Mongolian clothing, weapons, and armour; as well as maps and other illustrations. It also includes breakdowns and explanation of their weapons and armour (I particularly like the part on why the Mongol bow is better than the English Longbow).
This is one of about 20 Mongolian related books that I have and it is one of the best.


Great reference with outstanding illustrations   January 10, 2001
 21 out of 21 found this review helpful

Although its chapters focus on the four most prominent Mongol leaders of the 12th through 15th centuries, this book is much more than a collection of short biographies. Centered around the life and times of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan, Hulegu, and Timur are excellent descriptions of Mongol culture, archaeology, military tactics, and campaign strategies. David Nicolle's writing style is a pleasure to read, and while not as detailed and comprehensive as a textbook would be, still hits all the major campaigns and accomplishments of these men. The book (191 pages) is also interspersed with photographs of ancient artifacts and modern day ruins, as well many beautiful works of art. The illustrations by Richard Hook are very, very well done and breathe a life into the personalities and combat actions described in the text. It is a fine addition to any library of Central Asian steppe history and culture.


Great Book   July 17, 1998
 11 out of 14 found this review helpful

This book is very good and informative. It contains interesting details on many of the key figures of the mongol conquest. My only complaint is its not long enough and doesn't have alot on the European exploits or the Golden Horde. However it does have details about the world at the time and many surprising details as well. All in all a great history book. To bad its out of print,but check your local library