Which river is the world's longest, the Nile or the Amazon? Is the Beautiful Blue Danube really blue? How did the untamed Colorado make its way through the rocky Grand Canyon? And what makes the Nile the lifeline of Egypt? Rivers have always had a special importance for humanity - whether as political or cultural boundary, trade route or religious symbol. This richly illustrated compendium, created in a modern collage style, introduces 18 legendary rivers from all five continents. It shows the rivers' outstanding features and their diverse flora and fauna, and highlights historical events and personalities associated with each waterway. There is much to discover - including astonishing facts and important dates- in this masterful and stimulating assemblage of text and image. Features a four page gatefold: The Nile from the Pharaohs until Today