Hieroglyphs: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions Series)

Although not a practical 'how to' book to deciphering and reading hieroglyphs, it is a good introduction to the subject and a good place to start. From the origins of the script and Egyptian language to its decipherment, Penelope Wilson discusses how hieroglyphs were used, where they appeared, the work of the scribes and artists, and how hieroglyphs are understood and studied today.