ANCIENT EMPIRES BEFORE ALEXANDER

Rather than speaking extemporaneously or from an outline, Professor Dise seems to be reading his lectures. The resultant quality of language, mixed with an experienced delivery style, provides a worthwhile experience. The names and geographical locations from the Ancient Near East may overwhelm some listeners, but lecture outlines and abundant course materials on the publisher's Web site reinforce the audio. His ability to pronounce the foreign vocabulary with fluency confirms that the lecturer has abundant experience with the ancient empires discussed. His speaking voice can be easily understood, but he occasionally drops the volume of some words to near inaudibility. Overall, listeners interested in history can expect to become well informed. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2009]