This engaging and even-handed 256-page graphic novel, written by renowned historian Vincent Lemire and illustrated by cartoonist and animator Christophe Gaultier, is an excellent choice for the classroom and for anyone who wants to explore the fascinating story of Jerusalem.

The story of Jerusalem is in many ways the story of the development of Western civilization-religions were born on its streets, famous conquerors laid siege to it, and great empires clashed over it.

Four thousand years ago, Jerusalem was a small, isolated village perched on a ridge line between the Mediterranean and the desert. Today it is a bustling metropolis with almost one million inhabitants, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Considered the cradle of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam-the three major monotheistic religions-and a spiritual capital for more than half of humanity, Jerusalem's history gives us a unique perspective into the histories of these different religious identities.