Good old Time-Life. Large format book packed with outstanding photographs of artifacts and excavations.

Surveys what is known about the ancient Babylonian civilization, looks at ruins and artifacts, and describes the work of archaeologists in the region

Life in ancient Sumer is depicted on shards and vessels, and from the earliest records reveal a life of musicians and lively creatures drinking beer together. Older than 4000 BC, beer was an essential part of Sumer's economy, culture, and religion, and its making was presided over by two female goddesses. Women played the predominant role in the industry as brewers, chemists, and tavern keepers. [100]

The first King Lists were never intended to provide "history", but were meant as propaganda to show a divine mandate to rule.