A concise, scholarly history of the region that includes modern Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kirghizia, and Xinjiang. In presenting the complex and competing ethnic groups in the region, the author draws on sources in local languages, archaeology, art history, linguistics, ethnography, and folklore. With chapters on the Zoroasters, Alexander the Great, Nomadic empires, Silk Road, Buddhist East, Sogdians, Caliphs and Kaghans. With excellent maps and illustrations throughout.  (CAS91, $22.95)