Protodynastic Egypt (Shire Egyptology) (ISBN 0747803579)

great intro to a lesser-known Egyptian historical period:
Written by two of the leading experts in the field of early Ancient Egyptian history and prehistory, this book surveys the current theories surrounding the state formation process. It details the major sites which have been excavated and are under investigation, as well as the theorised contact with the inhabitants of the Western Desert and the Near East. It is a typical well written excellent little Shire book, with much compact information and many illustrations. All in all, it is an excellent source of information about Protodynastic Egypt for scholars and interested laypeople.