From Egypt to Babylon: The International Age 1550-500 BC by Paul Collins (2008)

[warriorofworry]

It's easy (for me, at least) to forget that Ancient Egypt was not the only powerhouse in the mideast, and of the rich and busy trade between nations in the region (and beyond).  Not to mention the rise and fall of nations, including the Minoans, Chaldeans and Persians, and the endless wars.
This comprehensive overview is eminently readable, with illuminating photographic exemplars of the cultures discussed.  This has gone onto my "need to own" list.
4 stars.