In preparation for this project I've been reading up on Egypt, just to become a little more familiar with the timelines and archaeological materials likely to be encountered. In order of what I've read recently, here's the list.

	The Fayoum: History and Guide A relatively little book, this offers both essays and gazeteer to the area. Interesting reading when in the essays sections, but not so much when covering things to see and do in the area. Probably most useful to have on hand while there.
	Egypt After the Pharaohs: 332 BC-AD 642 from Alexander to the Arab Conquest A dense book, worth reading again some time. Enjoyable the first time through, but hard to absorb everything on the first go.
	Cultural Atlas of Ancient Egypt Essentially a book that takes the reader downstream along the Nile, stopping to visit all the important places along the way. Not interesting to read at all. Might be nice to take on a trip, but too big for that.
	The Oxford History of Ancient Egypt Definitely a textbook, not for the faint of heart. Seems to cover the topic well, but a different scholar authors each chapter so writing quality and perspectives vary greatly.
	Insight Guides: Egypt (2000 edition) After searching through the various travel books, I selected this one for its coverage of history (from ancient times through the present), great photos and color maps, and style and attitude. Apparently I like this series a lot -- I chose the same one for my last trip (to Iceland) after comparing all of the ones put out by the various publishers. Some travel books just cover things to do and see without providing the background like this one does -- definitely check out this series if you're planning to travel.