Enjoying this book? Help it get discovered by casting your vote!
This is a high caliber addition to libraries for middle grade readers.
Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt!
Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever.
For readers graduating from the Magic Treehouse series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.
John Tidewell has mixed emotions about the school year drawing to a close; while he is happy to have a break, he is not looking forward to his family’s impending move from Colorado to Maryland. His sister Sarah, however, is always looking for adventure and is excited about what the future holds. On a farewell family hike in their mountainous backyard, Sarah stumbles upon a secret that flings the two siblings across space and time to ancient Egypt, where they befriend the son of Imhotep, who is constructing the famous Saqqara pyramid. Not only must they find their way home, but Sarah and John are also key witnesses to a criminal defacing the pyramid itself. Together, Sarah and John learn about family, friendship, and survival in the captivating land of ancient Egypt.
Well-written and action-packed, this book is an excellent selection for middle grade readers who enjoy historical fantasy. Though the idea of being transported through space and time—and being able to understand the people once there—is far-fetched, the author does a good job explaining away any questions and allowing the story to move forward. This book is an excellent transition from the Magic Treehouse series to Percy Jackson, and is especially interesting to readers who enjoy learning a bit of history through the lens of an engaging story. Sarah and John have a strong relationship, and the emotions they display are believable and recognizable. The speaker alternates between the two siblings, allowing the reader a deeper look into each one’s unique feelings. A recipe is a delightful addition to the end of the book to extend readers’ engagement once the story draws to a close. This is a high caliber addition to libraries for middle grade readers.
Grades 5-7
I review books for kids, tweens, and teens and blog about them on my website. To date, I have over 500 published reviews. Sign up for my monthly newsletter at www.maryrlanni.com to get recommendations straight to your inbox! I primarily write reviews, but will create video reviews upon request.
or
Or sign up with an
Or sign up with your social account