- Ancient Egypt conquers a nearby nation and enslaves the king’s son, who is to serve a kind family
- an honest accident results in chaos, violence and ultimately fleeing for their lives
- convo: talks of gods throughout, war descriptions (fighting, killing, injuries), wine/drinking mentioned, a lady drinks poison to kill herself
- language: faggot (as in a bundle of sticks)
Type: historical fiction chapter book
Ages: 10-14
Author: G.A. Henty
Friendly warning right now! If you have never read a Henty novel, prepare your mind and adjust your expectations. Henty is the very definition of verbose, yet, if you begin with this in mind, the story is likely to be quite enjoyable.
A few brief times, Biblical elements present themselves–either in discussing the true God of the Israelites or mentioning characters we know, such as Joseph. A high priest earnestly seeks this true God yet maintains his position in a temple of an Egyptian god. He makes a case for why he does this that should stimulate a good conversation with your family, regardless of which side you fall. Much of this will be found in chapter 10. It’s likely most readers won’t agree on every point with the high priest, but it’s a safe way to explore this viewpoint that very possibly could have happened.
Overall, I’m glad it was in my children’s curriculum plan, as I probably would never have picked it up on my own. Henty may be more descriptive than most authors, but I feel enriched having read it.