While systematically scrutinizing and analyzing all accounts of Shalmaneser III's western campaigns, Yamada (areas studies, University of Tsukuba) not only discusses the historiographical problems encountered (together with their impact on the jigsaw of ninth-century Ancient Near East history), but also offers new results and an original historical reconstruction. Attention is given to the campaign's economic and ideological aspects, with an emphasis on ceremonial and commemorative acts. Appendixes consider the inscription from Tel Dan, the Black Obelisk and the Calah Statue, the later inscriptions of Shalmanesar III, the edition of Annals 1 and Annals 3, and collations of the Kurkh Monolith Inscription. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)