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Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids
Discover amazing true stories and breathtaking myths from ancient Egypt in this book by TikTok Egyptologist Hugo Cook, featuring stunning illustrations from Sona Avedikian.
Everyone knows the story of Tutankhamun, but the ancient Egyptian civilization lasted for more than 3,000 years – which means there are loads more amazing tales to be told! Egyptologist and TikTok star Hugo Cook (aka Hugo the Egyptologist) has scoured ancient texts and translated hieroglyphs to bring readers stories of love, betrayal, and royal scandal featuring pharaohs, priests, gods, and goddesses.
The book combines historical stories, including the time Cleopatra hid in a sack to be smuggled into a palace to meet Julius Caesar, with rip-roaring myths, like the Cinderella story of a peasant girl who married the pharaoh when he found her slipper.
Told with great fun and impeccably researched, readers will slip into a tomb at night with a band of mischievous tomb robbers and witness epic battles featuring elephants and ostriches. Interspersed through the stories are pages explaining the history of ancient Egypt on the banks of the Nile, from how pyramids were built to a step-by-step guide to wrapping a mummy.
With a beautiful cloth-textured cover featuring shiny foil, Tales of Ancient Egypt is the perfect gift for kids interested in ancient Egypt.
Everyone knows the story of Tutankhamun, but the ancient Egyptian civilization lasted for more than 3,000 years – which means there are loads more amazing tales to be told! Egyptologist and TikTok star Hugo Cook (aka Hugo the Egyptologist) has scoured ancient texts and translated hieroglyphs to bring readers stories of love, betrayal, and royal scandal featuring pharaohs, priests, gods, and goddesses.
The book combines historical stories, including the time Cleopatra hid in a sack to be smuggled into a palace to meet Julius Caesar, with rip-roaring myths, like the Cinderella story of a peasant girl who married the pharaoh when he found her slipper.
Told with great fun and impeccably researched, readers will slip into a tomb at night with a band of mischievous tomb robbers and witness epic battles featuring elephants and ostriches. Interspersed through the stories are pages explaining the history of ancient Egypt on the banks of the Nile, from how pyramids were built to a step-by-step guide to wrapping a mummy.
With a beautiful cloth-textured cover featuring shiny foil, Tales of Ancient Egypt is the perfect gift for kids interested in ancient Egypt.
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Published October 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 15, 2024
4 Stars ✨
Middle Grade/Elementary Mythology
Audio Version 🎧
Narrator 5/5
Ancient Egypt has always been a fascinating topic for kids and adults to dive into. The myths and legends opens portals to the imagination of an unknown time. From the Pyramids,civilization, gods and goddesses- there’s so much lore surrounding it. This is a great primer for those wanting to learn more about the mystery that surrounds Egypt. While I don’t follow their mythology or practice it, I have always loved finding and learning more about other cultures, traditions and myths. This was a fun book for adults and kids told in an exciting way through audio to keep the reader engaged. I do think having a hard copy on hand would have been nice , as I would have loved to see the illustrations laid out while reading. Regardless, I would definitely recommend it for curious readers.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced audio copy of Tales of Ancient Egypt, in exchange for an honest review.
Middle Grade/Elementary Mythology
Audio Version 🎧
Narrator 5/5
Ancient Egypt has always been a fascinating topic for kids and adults to dive into. The myths and legends opens portals to the imagination of an unknown time. From the Pyramids,civilization, gods and goddesses- there’s so much lore surrounding it. This is a great primer for those wanting to learn more about the mystery that surrounds Egypt. While I don’t follow their mythology or practice it, I have always loved finding and learning more about other cultures, traditions and myths. This was a fun book for adults and kids told in an exciting way through audio to keep the reader engaged. I do think having a hard copy on hand would have been nice , as I would have loved to see the illustrations laid out while reading. Regardless, I would definitely recommend it for curious readers.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced audio copy of Tales of Ancient Egypt, in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to listen to TheTales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids by Hugo D. Cook in exchange for my honest feedback.
I have been fascinated by Egypt since I was a child. I remember doing book reports and research projects centered on Egypt and its people. This book just ignited all of that passion again.
Here you will learn about rulers and gods, foods and medicines, astronomy and fossils.
There were so many interesting stories and facts that I hadn't heard before in addition to information I was already familiar with. I was rather excited that my favorite goddess, Meretseger, was even mentioned!
I think this will be a fun learning experience for children and adults alike.
I have been fascinated by Egypt since I was a child. I remember doing book reports and research projects centered on Egypt and its people. This book just ignited all of that passion again.
Here you will learn about rulers and gods, foods and medicines, astronomy and fossils.
There were so many interesting stories and facts that I hadn't heard before in addition to information I was already familiar with. I was rather excited that my favorite goddess, Meretseger, was even mentioned!
I think this will be a fun learning experience for children and adults alike.
September 13, 2024
ARC received from Libro.fm for educators. This is an interesting quick introduction to Ancient Egyptian mythology and history for young readers.
November 20, 2024
Love that it is written by someone who lives in this world. They study Egypt for a living and because of that the stories were all new to me. There so many stories and the narration was great.
4 stars
4 stars
September 30, 2024
Packing myths and facts side by side, these pages dive into ancient Egypt and bring familiar as well as little-known aspects to light.
Already the cover gives a sense of something special as it works a bit of shiny gold into the mix. From there, the book is divided into four sections, covering myths, tombs, kings/queens, and the 'magic'...and these are stuffed full with information. To help guide through everything, there is a pretty detailed index at the end of the book. So, it can be used as reference material or to search out a few facts as necessary, too.
Unlike many Egyptian history dives, these pages allow myths and historical tidbits to work together side-by-side. The myths reveal well-known and lesser-known stories surrounding the gods or certain personalities. They flow smoothly, grab, and remain concise, sticking pretty much to a two-page spread each. These are boldly marked at the top of the page with the words 'Egyptian Myth', which helps keeps confusion away since there are also more historical tales included in these pages, too. Between the myths, Egyptian facts and history build a deeper understanding of the culture, people, ideas, and daily life. These include more familiar themes such as mummies and the pyramids but also add lesser visited topics such as the Kushites, defense/attack capabilities, ships, and dinosaur fossils (which was a big surprise).
The text stays very age appropriate, sticking to quick paragraphs while working all the details in. The heavy and colorful illustrations add visual support to make everything clear, while also working in just a touch of humor to bring a smile or two. I was surprised how many individuals are mentioned, and each one gains personality as the author weaves the facts into a story-like format. This creates a fun read, which draws in and helps the information to stay in the head. More difficult and important terms are highlighted through-out the read and can be found in a glossary at the end. There is also a list of the gods and goddesses in the last pages.
It's an enjoyable read and not just for Egyptian fans. I do recommend this one to homeschoolers, as a classroom extra, or simply for those who want to learn more about Egypt...myths, gods, facts, and all.
Already the cover gives a sense of something special as it works a bit of shiny gold into the mix. From there, the book is divided into four sections, covering myths, tombs, kings/queens, and the 'magic'...and these are stuffed full with information. To help guide through everything, there is a pretty detailed index at the end of the book. So, it can be used as reference material or to search out a few facts as necessary, too.
Unlike many Egyptian history dives, these pages allow myths and historical tidbits to work together side-by-side. The myths reveal well-known and lesser-known stories surrounding the gods or certain personalities. They flow smoothly, grab, and remain concise, sticking pretty much to a two-page spread each. These are boldly marked at the top of the page with the words 'Egyptian Myth', which helps keeps confusion away since there are also more historical tales included in these pages, too. Between the myths, Egyptian facts and history build a deeper understanding of the culture, people, ideas, and daily life. These include more familiar themes such as mummies and the pyramids but also add lesser visited topics such as the Kushites, defense/attack capabilities, ships, and dinosaur fossils (which was a big surprise).
The text stays very age appropriate, sticking to quick paragraphs while working all the details in. The heavy and colorful illustrations add visual support to make everything clear, while also working in just a touch of humor to bring a smile or two. I was surprised how many individuals are mentioned, and each one gains personality as the author weaves the facts into a story-like format. This creates a fun read, which draws in and helps the information to stay in the head. More difficult and important terms are highlighted through-out the read and can be found in a glossary at the end. There is also a list of the gods and goddesses in the last pages.
It's an enjoyable read and not just for Egyptian fans. I do recommend this one to homeschoolers, as a classroom extra, or simply for those who want to learn more about Egypt...myths, gods, facts, and all.
August 31, 2024
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Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the digital copy of this audiobook; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am anxious to add this children’s book to my physical library–it sounds like a lot of work and effort went in to making this a physically appealing book that kids would want to pick up. Like many children, I became fascinated with the ancient Egyptians when learning about them in school. I was sure that when I grew up, I’d be an archeologist. As an adult, I went to Chicago to see the touring King Tut exhibit and devoured the Elizabeth Peters’ Amelia Peabody Mysteries. So, to find a modern children’s book that offers the kids of today the same excitement I felt as a kid learning about this civilization was a treat. There are tales that are based on fact, and then there are some of the most popular and lesser-known myths set in Egypt.
Narrated by Melinda Sewak–Excellent narration! I can see how her voice would appeal to middle graders no problem. She made the myths and stories very interesting and engaging. The addition of a musical background in sections made this a delight to listen to.
Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the digital copy of this audiobook; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am anxious to add this children’s book to my physical library–it sounds like a lot of work and effort went in to making this a physically appealing book that kids would want to pick up. Like many children, I became fascinated with the ancient Egyptians when learning about them in school. I was sure that when I grew up, I’d be an archeologist. As an adult, I went to Chicago to see the touring King Tut exhibit and devoured the Elizabeth Peters’ Amelia Peabody Mysteries. So, to find a modern children’s book that offers the kids of today the same excitement I felt as a kid learning about this civilization was a treat. There are tales that are based on fact, and then there are some of the most popular and lesser-known myths set in Egypt.
Narrated by Melinda Sewak–Excellent narration! I can see how her voice would appeal to middle graders no problem. She made the myths and stories very interesting and engaging. The addition of a musical background in sections made this a delight to listen to.
August 28, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version of Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids by Hugo Cook, and I enjoyed it immensely with my kids, who were just as captivated as I was.
This audiobook brings ancient Egyptian myths to life in a way that is both engaging and accessible for listeners of all ages. Cook did an excellent job of retelling these ancient stories with a narrative that is clear, vivid, and filled with a sense of adventure. The audiobook's narration adds a dynamic layer to the storytelling, making it easy for young listeners to follow along and stay engaged.
My children were particularly fascinated by the tales of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, and the audiobook although we couldn't see them, they seemed to come alive through the narration.
Tales of Ancient Egypt is a fantastic way to introduce children to the wonders of mythology and history. The audiobook version, in particular, is a great tool for family listening, sparking curiosity and discussions about the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. Highly recommended for both kids and adults alike!
This audiobook brings ancient Egyptian myths to life in a way that is both engaging and accessible for listeners of all ages. Cook did an excellent job of retelling these ancient stories with a narrative that is clear, vivid, and filled with a sense of adventure. The audiobook's narration adds a dynamic layer to the storytelling, making it easy for young listeners to follow along and stay engaged.
My children were particularly fascinated by the tales of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, and the audiobook although we couldn't see them, they seemed to come alive through the narration.
Tales of Ancient Egypt is a fantastic way to introduce children to the wonders of mythology and history. The audiobook version, in particular, is a great tool for family listening, sparking curiosity and discussions about the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. Highly recommended for both kids and adults alike!
September 25, 2024
I read this book as an audio and I loved how immersive it was. The sound effects and music were really fun touches, though there were some places where the pauses between sections were so long I thought the book may've stopped playing.
I absolutely loved this book. The stories/myths were told in an interesting and easy to follow way. I also enjoyed how the stories were broken up with factual sections about Ancient Egypt. I learned so much while reading this one. (Did you know the ancient Egyptians had a *reliable* pregnancy test?!)
At times I got a bit lost with all the information and names the narrator threw at me and felt like I'd have been able to retain more of the information in this book if I'd have read it in print. As I listened I felt like the print version was likely illustrated, and when I looked it up I was delighted to see I was correct- I will be buying a print edition immediately.
I absolutely loved this book. The stories/myths were told in an interesting and easy to follow way. I also enjoyed how the stories were broken up with factual sections about Ancient Egypt. I learned so much while reading this one. (Did you know the ancient Egyptians had a *reliable* pregnancy test?!)
At times I got a bit lost with all the information and names the narrator threw at me and felt like I'd have been able to retain more of the information in this book if I'd have read it in print. As I listened I felt like the print version was likely illustrated, and when I looked it up I was delighted to see I was correct- I will be buying a print edition immediately.
August 4, 2024
A terrific primer on Ancient Egypt that’s fun and digestible for kids and sharp enough to keep the attention of adult readers.
This is the work of a popular TikTok historian, and it translates surprisingly well into book form. This is accessible enough that kids can understand it without being dumbed down so much as to be insulting or pandering, and it’s not a bad way to go for adult readers either, especially if you have little knowledge of Egypt coming in or are looking for a quickie refresher.
I read this in audio format, which gels nicely with the material and the pacing, though I would have liked the accompanying visuals that are included in the print book as an accompanying PDF.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This is the work of a popular TikTok historian, and it translates surprisingly well into book form. This is accessible enough that kids can understand it without being dumbed down so much as to be insulting or pandering, and it’s not a bad way to go for adult readers either, especially if you have little knowledge of Egypt coming in or are looking for a quickie refresher.
I read this in audio format, which gels nicely with the material and the pacing, though I would have liked the accompanying visuals that are included in the print book as an accompanying PDF.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
August 9, 2024
This was an awesome introduction to ancient Egypt that I believe is great for both kids and adults. The book is divided into multiple short sections with each introducing the reader/listener to a different topic that covers everything from real history to mythology. I also very much appreciated that the book doesn’t solely focus on the pharaohs and the gods and gives the tales of ordinary Egyptians a chance to shine. This turned ancient Egypt from an abstract concept to a real place where people actually lived which helped me connect with the information the book was trying to teach me.
The audiobook was great and I loved Melinda Sewak’s narration.
Tales of Ancient Egypt is a great book for kids who want to learn about ancient Egypt in a fun and unique way but even adults will find so many things to enjoy and appreciate.
The audiobook was great and I loved Melinda Sewak’s narration.
Tales of Ancient Egypt is a great book for kids who want to learn about ancient Egypt in a fun and unique way but even adults will find so many things to enjoy and appreciate.
September 20, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this audiobook for free, in exchange for my honest review which I listed below.
When evaluating this book, I had to consider it's application - I wish I had the illustrations in front of me, but I think as a former homeschooling parent this could have great value in a classroom. The stories and history are brief and engaging, and the material was interesting. I was a kid that loved folklore and mythos, so this would have been right up my alley.
The background music was fine - didn't bother me or add to the story.
Overall entertaining and educational, would recommend for kids into ancient history and myths!
When evaluating this book, I had to consider it's application - I wish I had the illustrations in front of me, but I think as a former homeschooling parent this could have great value in a classroom. The stories and history are brief and engaging, and the material was interesting. I was a kid that loved folklore and mythos, so this would have been right up my alley.
The background music was fine - didn't bother me or add to the story.
Overall entertaining and educational, would recommend for kids into ancient history and myths!
September 23, 2024
**I RECEIVED A FREE ARC OF THE AUDIOBOOK FROM NETGALLEY. THANK YOU A TON. THIS HAS NOT IMPACTED MY REVIEW IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM. **
This was a really cute and enjoyable read! I loved the 'writing'. It expressed potentially complex ideas in an easy to understand and retain manner. The narrator did a lovely job at going through all the different myths and historical accounts of ancient Egypt. Although I was familiar with quite a bit of the myths, I learned some new things! I did not know that was how Egyptians accounted for the phases of the moon or how they could 'foretell' a woman was pregnant. I loved how even though it was educational, it was also fun and engaging. I honestly wish this had been longer!
Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, listen/read the book when it releases!
This was a really cute and enjoyable read! I loved the 'writing'. It expressed potentially complex ideas in an easy to understand and retain manner. The narrator did a lovely job at going through all the different myths and historical accounts of ancient Egypt. Although I was familiar with quite a bit of the myths, I learned some new things! I did not know that was how Egyptians accounted for the phases of the moon or how they could 'foretell' a woman was pregnant. I loved how even though it was educational, it was also fun and engaging. I honestly wish this had been longer!
Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, listen/read the book when it releases!
September 30, 2024
Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids is an intriguing and thought provoking book for middle schoolers to learn more about Egyptian mythology. One thing I really enjoyed was that each section/chapter was it's own mini story/subject.
In this audiobook version, the narrator's voice and the music were enchanting which accompanied the theme perfectly. I look forward to seeing the illustrations in the printed version.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
In this audiobook version, the narrator's voice and the music were enchanting which accompanied the theme perfectly. I look forward to seeing the illustrations in the printed version.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 21, 2024
Tales of Ancient Egypt was an intriguing children’s book created by an Egyptologist. My children love learning new things, and my daughter loves learning about Ancient Egypt. They loved listening to this book, with each chapter sharing something new. The audiobook was a great listen, with a fantastic narrator and fun background sounds. If you have a child fascinated with Egypt, this audiobook is for you!
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this advanced audiobook copy!
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this advanced audiobook copy!
August 26, 2024
Tales of Ancient Egypt is a great introduction to Ancient Egyptian history. I loved how engaging the stories were. The author did a great job of making the history feel relevant and not dry. I listened to an advance copy of the audiobook, and thought the narrator did a fantastic job in making it exciting and fun.
Thanks to NetGalley, Hugo Cook, Melinda Sewak, and Macmillan Audio for the chance to read and review! My opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley, Hugo Cook, Melinda Sewak, and Macmillan Audio for the chance to read and review! My opinions are my own.
September 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. I liked the format of short little stories you could read one or two at time and come back to a new story. I even learned a few things!
Very well narrated by Melinda Sewak.
I will be adding this one to my library collection!
4 stars
I received this audiobook from the publisher Macmillan Audio | Macmillan Young Listeners and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
Very well narrated by Melinda Sewak.
I will be adding this one to my library collection!
4 stars
I received this audiobook from the publisher Macmillan Audio | Macmillan Young Listeners and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
October 20, 2024
Listened to this one with my 7yo as a supplement to our Ancient Egypt study and we both really enjoyed it. The stories are well told and engaging, although my 7yo thought some bits were a little sad (he is VERY sensitive). I appreciated that there were loads of myths AND facts in this which kept us engaged and allowed us to tie into other learning.
This will probably be an audiobook that I buy and transfer to a YOTO card for easy, independent listening by the kids. Educational and fun!
This will probably be an audiobook that I buy and transfer to a YOTO card for easy, independent listening by the kids. Educational and fun!
September 13, 2024
Short and easy to read and understand chapters with many tales of alm gods and Egypt knowledge, culture, and lore. We learned that the Egyptians managed to do with less technology what many countries tried later and didn't do correctly ( for example, aligning to true north). Perfect for classroom but also to gift and collect to learn more about Egypt.
September 24, 2024
I received a copy of this audiobook from netGalley for a honest review.
I loved this collection of stories from ancient Egypt, both folktales and days in the life tales that brought to life these ancient times. I especially loved the creation story which I had never heard- many of these stories I had never been told before. A great introduction to ancient Egypt!
I loved this collection of stories from ancient Egypt, both folktales and days in the life tales that brought to life these ancient times. I especially loved the creation story which I had never heard- many of these stories I had never been told before. A great introduction to ancient Egypt!
October 1, 2024
Discover amazing true stories and breathtaking myths from ancient Egypt in this book by TikTok Egyptologist Hugo D. Cook, featuring stunning illustrations from Sona Avedikian.
Thank you Macmillan Audio for sending me an audio ARC of this book! I enjoyed reading this book. I learned a lot about Egypt.
Thank you Macmillan Audio for sending me an audio ARC of this book! I enjoyed reading this book. I learned a lot about Egypt.
September 8, 2024
This was a fun book with lots of good information. My kids enjoyed listening to it as well. The only thing I could have done without was the background music. I don’t think it added anything and was distracting at times. Over all good book.
August 29, 2024
Very informative and easy to understand for children and adults alike.
October 6, 2024
Sensational book, truly educational.
November 30, 2024
3.75 stars
February 11, 2025
Very informative for kids and preteens learning about Egypt! I I’ll be using in my 6th grade class!
March 7, 2025
Fantastic to read some stories that have never been translated or published for the public before. They were full of wonder and excitement - definitely a must-read for any young Egyptologists.
June 16, 2025
Good introductory book for kids interested in Egyptian mythology, but don't expect lengthy tales. A little short.
August 10, 2024
Interesting short book of stories/myths from ancient Egypt. The audiobook was well narrated. Some of the stories and facts were quite fun and educational.
September 9, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley, for granting me a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Traversing millennia, Hugo Cook's Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids provides a comprehensive, accessible look at Egyptian history and mythology for all ages. More of an introduction than an overview, this quick, clear, musically-enhanced audiobook succeeds as a fascinating entry into Egyptology for kids and adults alike.
Traversing millennia, Hugo Cook's Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids provides a comprehensive, accessible look at Egyptian history and mythology for all ages. More of an introduction than an overview, this quick, clear, musically-enhanced audiobook succeeds as a fascinating entry into Egyptology for kids and adults alike.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews