Alexander the Great has been an attractive hero for scores of generations, as evidenced in many artistic representations. He appears frequently in Roman mosaics and sculptures, medieval manuscripts, and Renaissance paintings. The inherent problem in retelling his story is that he should not be made so attractive that readers overlook his cruelty and treachery. The modern world does not need an Alexander.

Mercer handles such moral issues sensibly. Without resorting to didactics, he provides many examples of the less desirable aspects of his subject's personality. The author portrays a remarkably young, incredibly energetic half-genius, half-madman who changed the course of history. Because not all young adults are perceptive enough to understand the subtleties of Mercer's portrayal, this book best suits those of above average maturity. Readers should be reminded that the social outlook of Alexander's time was very different from that of today. Warfare for its...