The 5,000-Year Old Puzzle: Solving A Mystery of Ancient Egypt

Author: Logan, Claudia
Title: The 5,000 Year-Old Puzzle: Solving A Mystery of Ancient Egypt
Book Genre: Historical Fiction
Publishing Info: Melane Kroupa
Books, 41pp.

Summary: This book presents historical information about ancient Egypt through the accounts and letters of “Will Hunt.” Although this character is fictitious, the information given is based on the actual records of archeologist, Dr. George Reisner. The setting for this mystery is late 1924, until the summer of 1927, in Egypt. Will’s father, a member of Dr. Reisner’s archeological team, is traveling to Giza, to help with the expedition. Luckily for Will, he and his mother are able to travel with him. After a month of travel just to get there, Will finally arrives at the Great Pyramids, and the journey begins. He witnesses the team accidentally finds the remains of an unknown tomb, which is later revealed as Queen Hetep-heres, the mother of King Khufu. Will becomes more consumed by his adventure each day, only to learn that some of the greatest mysteries may never be solved. Because the historical content is presented from the viewpoint of a child, it becomes very interesting for its readers. The book also contains a wealth of background information, which helps readers learn and understand various Egyptian cultures.

Personal rating: ****

Rationale: Information presented in letters, personal accounts, and historical information in a manner that a reader can enjoy; well-written; exceptional illustrations and photographs of the real expedition; presents ancient history in a way that all learners can enjoy

Reading level: 3.2 Interest level: 2nd -6th

Thematic Areas: Exploration; adventure; Egyptian culture

Content Areas: History; Art

Potential Problems or Difficulties: Terminology may be too advanced for those unfamiliar with Egyptian history; some things described may be too graphic for young readers
Possible use in classroom: In a thematic unit about ancient Egypt; have students research various people and elements of Egyptian culture, and compile these findings in a report; using a mock journal entry, students will write from the viewpoint of an ancient Egyptian boy or girl