"I wish I knew more about Western history." Adult, parent, student, and traveler: Who of us hasn't had this thought? Sara Drogin, a veteran high-school history teacher, addresses this wish with "Spare Me the Details ," a "refresher text" for adults and students. Written in a lively and conversational style, "Spare Me the Details " provides a concise overview of Western civilization. "Spare Me the Details " begins with Ancient Greece and concludes with the twenty-first century. The book describes the key periods, events, and luminaries of Western history, provides cause-and-effect analysis, and establishes historical connections across time periods. Additionally, "Spare Me the Details " develops two major themes central to Western civilization: the evolution of humanism and the growth of democracy. It also pays special attention to the role of women throughout history and to the connection between the arts and history. Now you, too, will know the essentials of Western civilization.