The ancient Egyptian civilization is known for its exceptional achievements in various fields. The remarkable buildings in and around Cairo are a testimony to the vibrant life that the Egyptians lived. The Egyptian civilization that blossomed on the banks of Nile was among the earliest in world history. The more you know about the Egyptians, the more intrigued you are to know even more! They were definitely a mysterious bunch of people. No wonder they’ve been the topic and inspiration for so many books. So, we’ve curated a list of books to read if you’re also as interested in the history of this transcontinental country and its inhabitants as we are! Here we go!
1. The Daughter of the Gods: A Novel of Ancient Egypt by Stephanie Thorton
Daughter of the Gods is an epic story that unfolds the story of Hatshepsut, the second daughter of Pharoh Thutmose I. She married her own brother Thutmose II and the book is set in 1400’s BCE Ancient Egypt. This fast-paced, entertaining read will pull you along from an action-packed beginning through some surprising twists and turns as it explores the early life and some key bits of Hatshepsut’s reign.
2. The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George
Cleopatra is one of the best-known women in history, famed for her beauty and intellect. We have all heard and read about her which is why this book is an important read. Told in Cleopatra’s own voice, this book is about a mesmerizing tale of ambition, passion, and betrayal. It all began when the twenty-year-old queen seeks out the most powerful man in the world, Julius Caesar. It also goes on to talk about how she survived the assassination of the second man she loved – Marc Antony and then eventually planned her own death. One thing we can promise you, you won’t be able to put this down. Ta-ta social life!
3. Nefertiti by Michelle Moran
Love, betrayal, plague, political unrest, religious conflict, this book brings ancient Egypt to life in vivid detail. Nefertiti is the story of two unforgettable women Nefertiti and her sister Mutnodjmet living through a remarkable period in history. An engrossing page-turner, this will bring ancient Egypt to life as these two royal sisters struggle to find fulfilment and happiness- one craving ultimate political power, the other desiring only to follow her heart.
4. The KIYA trilogy by Katie Hamstead
With a mix of history, love and a smart heroine, we recommend you pick this one up for sure! This is without a doubt one of the best historical trilogies you’ll ever read. Akhenaten, Tut, Horemheb, Kiya, all come to such life in these stories. You’ll feel like you have been transported to their world feeling their love, hate and despair. Palace politics and intrigue. Murder and justice. You’ll fall in love with the characters and even feel the hurt when something happens to them. Trust us when we say this, the KIYA trilogy is one of the best ways to go back in time with these historical figures of ancient Egypt.
6. Cairo: Histories of a City by Nezar AlSayyad
From its earliest days as a royal settlement overlooking the pyramids of Giza to its current appearance as the largest city in Africa. In Cairo: Histories of a City, Nezar AlSayyad narrates the many different Cairos that have existed throughout her lifetime, offering a panoramic view of the city’s history. So if you, like us you have an interest in know about the biggest and the capital city of Egypt, get your hands on this book ASAP.
Get your copy here.
7. Tutankhamun Speaks (Tales and legends for reluctant readers) by Cheryl Carpinello
Nearly wiped from the pages of Egyptian history for his father’s faults the story of Tutankhamun intrigues many. If you’re one among those, you must check this book out. Long ago, Ancient Egyptian texts told of the time the Boy King spoke from the Land of the Dead and the scribes wrote down his story. But Tutankhamen Speaks isn’t a story about the lost scrolls that his story was written on. It’s about the actual story written down on that age-old papyrus: Tutankhamen’s story! The one where he shares his life growing up & ruling in turbulent times, his loves, his heartaches, and his family history. Definitely worth a read!
8. Cleopatra’s Moon by Vicky Alvear Shecter
Selene has grown up in a palace on the Nile with her parents, Cleopatra & Mark Antony the most brilliant, powerful rulers on earth. But the jealous Roman Emperor Octavianus wants Egypt for himself, & when war finally comes, Selene faces the loss of all she’s ever loved. Forced to build a new life in Octavianuss household in Rome, she finds herself torn between two young men and two possible destinies until she reaches out to claim her own.’This stunning novel brings to life the personalities & passions of one of the greatest dramas in history, & offers a wonderful new heroine in Selene!
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