Lionel Casson was a classicist, professor emeritus at New York University, and a specialist in maritime history. He earned his B.A. in 1934 at New York University, and in 1936 became an assistant professor. He later earned his Ph.D. there during 1939. In 2005 he was awarded the Archaeological Institute of America Gold Medal.
The Pharaohs is beautiful, fascinating, and an all-around amazing book!! I had some slight quibbles with little things, and the writing could be a bit dry sometimes, but it was overall wonderful.
It really transports you to across the ages to different dynasties and lets you see their gorgeous art and architecture. Loved it!