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The First Dynasty #1
The First Pharaoh
Throughout antiquity Egypt was a land of hundreds of tiny villages, with constantly warring tribes, loosely divided between Upper and Lower Egypt. Then, in the space of a few extraordinary decades, the impossible happened. An incredible man, King Narmer (also known as Menes), united Upper and Lower Egypt.
The First Pharaoh retells the story of Narmer and his epic journey, seen through his eyes and those of his Chief Scribe, the shaman Anhotek. Book I of The First Dynasty Series, The First Pharaoh gives us an understanding of the culture Narmer lived in and shaped, the battles he fought to unite his people, the woman he loved and nearly lost, the enemies even in his own court who plotted against him, and his many successes and painful failures. Above all, we see how Narmer’s loving relationship with Anhotek defined his personal vision for his country and its people.
Written on a huge tapestry, The First Pharaoh allows us to share Narmer’s far-reaching visions for Egypt’s future that were so compelling and that ultimately proved so enduring. The First Pharaoh tells the inspiring story of the mythic journey of the visionary hero, through obstacles and triumphs, wars and peace, love and hate, to launch the greatest civilization ever to appear on earth.
The First Pharaoh retells the story of Narmer and his epic journey, seen through his eyes and those of his Chief Scribe, the shaman Anhotek. Book I of The First Dynasty Series, The First Pharaoh gives us an understanding of the culture Narmer lived in and shaped, the battles he fought to unite his people, the woman he loved and nearly lost, the enemies even in his own court who plotted against him, and his many successes and painful failures. Above all, we see how Narmer’s loving relationship with Anhotek defined his personal vision for his country and its people.
Written on a huge tapestry, The First Pharaoh allows us to share Narmer’s far-reaching visions for Egypt’s future that were so compelling and that ultimately proved so enduring. The First Pharaoh tells the inspiring story of the mythic journey of the visionary hero, through obstacles and triumphs, wars and peace, love and hate, to launch the greatest civilization ever to appear on earth.
462 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2012
213 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Lester Picker
8 books18 followersAs a journalist, Les Picker has cruised on a nuclear attack submarine deep in the Pacific Ocean and has climbed the highest peak in the Pyrenes. He has withstood -50-degree Fahrenheit temperatures photographing in the Arctic and survived +120-degree Fahrenheit temperatures living with a Bedouin tribe in Egypt's Eastern desert. He was nearly bitten by a sea lion in the Galapagos (never stand between a mother and her pup while photographing!) and was chased by a 16-foot alligator in South Africa. His tripod and camera were carried off into the Arctic tundra by a curious Grizzly.
Les has more than 600 writing and photo credits in publications that include National Geographic publications, Better Homes & Gardens, Forbes, Time, Inc., Money, and dozens of others. In 2011 Les was named Best Travel Photographer in the prestigious Canada Northern Lights Award.
While a well-known travel writer and photographer, Les is also passionate about his fiction writing. He has written two works of historical fiction and two of general fiction.
The First Pharaoh is the lead book in The First Dynasty Series. It follows the life, loves and adventures of the first Pharaoh, King Narmer (also known as Menes), the man who unified Upper and Lower Egypt into one rule that lasted for 3,000 years. Anhotek, Narmer's scribe, Vizier and personal shaman, protects Narmer throughout his early years, even from the destructive influence of Narmer's own father, King Scorpion. Through loves, wars and palace intrigue, The First Pharaoh tells the story of a real-life king who created a dynasty that became perhaps the most admired civilization the world has ever known.
Les has more than 600 writing and photo credits in publications that include National Geographic publications, Better Homes & Gardens, Forbes, Time, Inc., Money, and dozens of others. In 2011 Les was named Best Travel Photographer in the prestigious Canada Northern Lights Award.
While a well-known travel writer and photographer, Les is also passionate about his fiction writing. He has written two works of historical fiction and two of general fiction.
The First Pharaoh is the lead book in The First Dynasty Series. It follows the life, loves and adventures of the first Pharaoh, King Narmer (also known as Menes), the man who unified Upper and Lower Egypt into one rule that lasted for 3,000 years. Anhotek, Narmer's scribe, Vizier and personal shaman, protects Narmer throughout his early years, even from the destructive influence of Narmer's own father, King Scorpion. Through loves, wars and palace intrigue, The First Pharaoh tells the story of a real-life king who created a dynasty that became perhaps the most admired civilization the world has ever known.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 21, 2019
Somehow, this one is endearing in the way that makes it stand out from most Egyptionry novels.
Instead of making the people seems like they have a bunch of pyramids on their backs (or maybe stuck up somewhere uncomfortable) and are hauling them around, it gives character-building and even some tongue-in-cheek lashing in the way of 'O tempora! O mores!'
Some primitivism is skillfully introduced into the read to give us a preview of people who would go to build the pyramids, much, much later.
Q:
writing is nothing less than creating order from the chaos that surrounds us. (c)
Q:
A man needs to hone his strengths and gather about him those whom he can trust to fortify his weaknesses. On the battlefield I would be useless as a swordsman. In matters of administration and statecraft you rely on my strengths. The gods have provided many opportunities in our Land to use our gifts to keep ma’at strong. (с)
Q:
There are times when the evening desert winds blow so cold they chill a man’s very soul. That is how I felt when Scorpion looked at me then, as if his cold stare confirmed the lie that we both knew I had just told. (c)
Q:
I was left with the terrible feeling of helplessness that most of my countrymen must feel every day of their existence, the inability to gauge the direction of things, to detect undercurrents and then to control them to achieve one’s goals. (с)
Q:
If there was one thing I would not tolerate, it was to be held responsible for raising youth like so many I saw in Nekhen and Tjeni today. Far too many were arrogant, thinking they know more than their elders, even bordering on disrespect. Yet, what could we expect? So many of their parents today were absorbed in their pottery and basketry and brewery businesses to the point that they neglected the moral education of their offspring. (c)
Q:
Lessons are best taught in the proper order, starting with learning how to read the picture words. But, sometimes an adult must take advantage of a child’s natural curiosity and answer questions they raise on their own, at the time that they raise them. (c)
Q:
If nothing else, my insistence that the head priest of every temple be literate, while not well received initially, ultimately meant extra income for them as they served as scribes for reading and writing legal documents. Some tutored the children of the wealthy in how to read the increasingly popular picture words and the extra goods they earned in barter for their services did not hurt my position with them. (c)
Q:
She stood, staring at me as if I were asking her to read a scroll of incantations. (c)
Q:
“Father,” Atuti called out, “I have brought home a gift from the gods. Will you accept their blessing?” This was their custom for announcing the return of a hunter or announcing visitors. Sisi once explained that the custom celebrated the fact that visitors nourished the soul of the tribe, just as food nourished the body. (c)
Q:
When Meni was in front of Sisi, his body revealed he was unsure of the protocol. Should he bow or accept the tribute of Sisi? He closed his eyes for just the merest of seconds and then his heart filled with its own answer. (c)
Q:
“Our tribe believes in only one God, not many.” Meni raised his eyebrows.
“On the surface it seems like our beliefs are different,” I explained. “But when you examine them, they are similar. If a man from Me’ka’el’s tribe sees a sledge, he says, ‘There is a sledge.’ But when a Kemian priest sees a sledge, he says, “Look at all the parts that make a sledge. The hardwood rails, the sideboards, the wood dowels, the caning to bind it all together.’ They each refer to the same object. We may have more gods than Me’ka’el’s tribe, but they form the same whole.” (c)
Q:
Often people who are less smart than others hate to be reminded of that fact. Rather than accept their weakness and seek ways to strengthen it, they go to great pains to avoid situations that make them feel stupid and inadequate. (c)
Q:
The dark magic works only in the shadows, for the light of Ra is its enemy. It works only on the weak, for strength of character does not provide it with fertile fields to sow. It works only with small groups of powerless people, for true power requires light to illuminate great visions. (c)
Q:
I felt as if every moist part of me had dried and I was nothing more than a desiccated hide. Only then did I feel a lightness overcome my ba, as if it were freed of a weight that I dragged along behind me for so long.
Images of Neith-hotep flew into my heart, illuminating it, lightening for a moment the burdens of Kingship that weighed upon me. And I thought of all the good that Neith-hotep brought to me and to our land. And I thought of Towi, the Two Lands, the lotus and papyrus, the black and the red. And then, for the first time in many years, I again saw the vision of the wondrous Towi that would someday be. The night winds came then, gentle and cool, like Anhotek’s soft touch upon my face and I knew then that Horus’ wings were spread wide to protect us all.
In that moment, with the shimmering eyes of the gods watching from their perches in the endless night sky, I understood. For the first time, I truly understood. To feel the breath of our loved ones from the next world, to experience the ka of the gods mixing with our own, to illuminate one’s heart with the love of family, that is the Divine, the egg of creation, the purity of ma’at. All else, all the rituals and buildings, priesthood and ceremonies were tools, a means to an end. Anhotek knew this, and that night, when he visited me in the western desert, he taught me that lesson, the most valuable of all. We are not only of the gods, but also part of them.
With my ka centered, I stood and breathed in the sen-sen breaths and felt myself fill with Horus’ loving spirit. I knelt upon the cool sands and together we prayed, I for Hor-Aha and he for the future of Towi. (c)
Q:
Narmer, also known as Menes, lived approximately 3150 B.C. He is buried in Abydos, in a tomb discovered by Gunter Dreyer of the German Archaeological Institute, one of my mentors for this trilogy.
King Narmer was a revered figure throughout Egypt’s long dynastic tradition. However, the historical record is scant. (c)
Instead of making the people seems like they have a bunch of pyramids on their backs (or maybe stuck up somewhere uncomfortable) and are hauling them around, it gives character-building and even some tongue-in-cheek lashing in the way of 'O tempora! O mores!'
Some primitivism is skillfully introduced into the read to give us a preview of people who would go to build the pyramids, much, much later.
Q:
writing is nothing less than creating order from the chaos that surrounds us. (c)
Q:
A man needs to hone his strengths and gather about him those whom he can trust to fortify his weaknesses. On the battlefield I would be useless as a swordsman. In matters of administration and statecraft you rely on my strengths. The gods have provided many opportunities in our Land to use our gifts to keep ma’at strong. (с)
Q:
There are times when the evening desert winds blow so cold they chill a man’s very soul. That is how I felt when Scorpion looked at me then, as if his cold stare confirmed the lie that we both knew I had just told. (c)
Q:
I was left with the terrible feeling of helplessness that most of my countrymen must feel every day of their existence, the inability to gauge the direction of things, to detect undercurrents and then to control them to achieve one’s goals. (с)
Q:
If there was one thing I would not tolerate, it was to be held responsible for raising youth like so many I saw in Nekhen and Tjeni today. Far too many were arrogant, thinking they know more than their elders, even bordering on disrespect. Yet, what could we expect? So many of their parents today were absorbed in their pottery and basketry and brewery businesses to the point that they neglected the moral education of their offspring. (c)
Q:
Lessons are best taught in the proper order, starting with learning how to read the picture words. But, sometimes an adult must take advantage of a child’s natural curiosity and answer questions they raise on their own, at the time that they raise them. (c)
Q:
If nothing else, my insistence that the head priest of every temple be literate, while not well received initially, ultimately meant extra income for them as they served as scribes for reading and writing legal documents. Some tutored the children of the wealthy in how to read the increasingly popular picture words and the extra goods they earned in barter for their services did not hurt my position with them. (c)
Q:
She stood, staring at me as if I were asking her to read a scroll of incantations. (c)
Q:
“Father,” Atuti called out, “I have brought home a gift from the gods. Will you accept their blessing?” This was their custom for announcing the return of a hunter or announcing visitors. Sisi once explained that the custom celebrated the fact that visitors nourished the soul of the tribe, just as food nourished the body. (c)
Q:
When Meni was in front of Sisi, his body revealed he was unsure of the protocol. Should he bow or accept the tribute of Sisi? He closed his eyes for just the merest of seconds and then his heart filled with its own answer. (c)
Q:
“Our tribe believes in only one God, not many.” Meni raised his eyebrows.
“On the surface it seems like our beliefs are different,” I explained. “But when you examine them, they are similar. If a man from Me’ka’el’s tribe sees a sledge, he says, ‘There is a sledge.’ But when a Kemian priest sees a sledge, he says, “Look at all the parts that make a sledge. The hardwood rails, the sideboards, the wood dowels, the caning to bind it all together.’ They each refer to the same object. We may have more gods than Me’ka’el’s tribe, but they form the same whole.” (c)
Q:
Often people who are less smart than others hate to be reminded of that fact. Rather than accept their weakness and seek ways to strengthen it, they go to great pains to avoid situations that make them feel stupid and inadequate. (c)
Q:
The dark magic works only in the shadows, for the light of Ra is its enemy. It works only on the weak, for strength of character does not provide it with fertile fields to sow. It works only with small groups of powerless people, for true power requires light to illuminate great visions. (c)
Q:
I felt as if every moist part of me had dried and I was nothing more than a desiccated hide. Only then did I feel a lightness overcome my ba, as if it were freed of a weight that I dragged along behind me for so long.
Images of Neith-hotep flew into my heart, illuminating it, lightening for a moment the burdens of Kingship that weighed upon me. And I thought of all the good that Neith-hotep brought to me and to our land. And I thought of Towi, the Two Lands, the lotus and papyrus, the black and the red. And then, for the first time in many years, I again saw the vision of the wondrous Towi that would someday be. The night winds came then, gentle and cool, like Anhotek’s soft touch upon my face and I knew then that Horus’ wings were spread wide to protect us all.
In that moment, with the shimmering eyes of the gods watching from their perches in the endless night sky, I understood. For the first time, I truly understood. To feel the breath of our loved ones from the next world, to experience the ka of the gods mixing with our own, to illuminate one’s heart with the love of family, that is the Divine, the egg of creation, the purity of ma’at. All else, all the rituals and buildings, priesthood and ceremonies were tools, a means to an end. Anhotek knew this, and that night, when he visited me in the western desert, he taught me that lesson, the most valuable of all. We are not only of the gods, but also part of them.
With my ka centered, I stood and breathed in the sen-sen breaths and felt myself fill with Horus’ loving spirit. I knelt upon the cool sands and together we prayed, I for Hor-Aha and he for the future of Towi. (c)
Q:
Narmer, also known as Menes, lived approximately 3150 B.C. He is buried in Abydos, in a tomb discovered by Gunter Dreyer of the German Archaeological Institute, one of my mentors for this trilogy.
King Narmer was a revered figure throughout Egypt’s long dynastic tradition. However, the historical record is scant. (c)
April 27, 2014
Meh. What can I say about The First Pharaoh? I just didn’t feel that strongly about it. And in that I think lies its biggest failure. Sure, it’s not a bad book. The premise is excellent. I would love to read a novel set in Predynastic/Early Dynastic ancient Egypt. It’s not a period that has really been done in historical fiction, but it’s a period both fascinating and obscure that has captured my attention as an Egyptologist. Naturally, that’s the reason I picked up this book; the concept was more than strong enough to draw me in. The writing was competent enough; nothing to get angry with. I quite liked the character of Meni as a child, and his relationship with father-figure Anhotek was interesting. Even the antagonists of the piece have some depth and shading to them – at one point a possible setting aside of differences is floated – which of course is very welcome when I think of all the hackneyed moustache-twirling villains I’ve read in historical fiction.
So what’s the problem? It was just okay, that’s the problem. Yes, the writing was competent, but it was also nothing to shout about. Nothing about it really irritated me per se, but it lacked that creative flair, that certain je ne sais quoi, and the characters, whilst not using overtly modern slang, still spoke in an anachronistic general 20th/21st century manner that didn’t feel quite right. The prose failed to excite me, and it felt just pedestrian and mediocre. There were a couple of minor anachronisms; tomatoes (come on people, seriously, two clicks on Wikipedia...), tea, and some of the characters express modern views, but this was only a niggle. Whilst I liked the father-son dynamic between Meni and Anhotek, the characters didn't feel developed enough. Characters felt a little too rigid within confines of stereotype; Anhotek is the typical wise guide, Meni is the child prodigy/wise king (though at least, as he gets older, life’s regrets upset that apple cart), Ihy and Mersyankh are still largely the evil baddies (a good few evil magic rituals complete with cackling and cursing cement them in those roles), and, slightly awkwardly, Meruka's father and El-Or's people felt a little bit like the archetypal African shaman and Aramaic nomads. The characters didn't really feel deep to me, they lacked a certain subtlety and complexity - I couldn't imagine them as existing in real life - and they never really broke out of their "roles" to surprise me. The environment felt thinly sketched; I never really felt like I was immersed in the setting; it all felt frustratingly distant. I longed for some masterful, atmospheric descriptions to drop me right into the thick of ancient Egypt in my mind’s eye, but it just didn’t happen. For me the plot lacked a certain tension or engagement. Even the battle scenes failed to excite me; they felt lacklustre to me, and I found my attention drifting.
What's frustrating about this book is that I really wanted to get sucked in to this era and its story, but it just didn't happen, and that wasn't so much from The First Pharaoh doing anything in particular wrong, it was what it failed to do right. It failed to deliver the fascinating characters, engrossing plot, vivid imagery, and in short all the things that for me make a really good read.
5 out of 10
August 2, 2013
While a decent enough read, I found too many errors and modern day attitudes intruding to make me give this more than 3 stars. And while I enjoyed the first half of the book, told from the POV of the fictional Anhotek, the second half, told from Narmer's POV, at times bogged down.
Glaring errors jumped out at me, especially in the second half of the book.
A minor character's name changed from Siatum to Siamun, and the spelling of Me'ka'el changed to Me-ka-el about two-thirds of the way through the book.
Queen Neith-Hotep's angry reaction to Narmer taking a secondary wife to cement relationships with Lower Egypt following Unification struck me as totally out of place. It was not just routine, but expected, that an Egyptian ruler would have multiple wives and concubines. Neith-Hotep's ideas on why she sees this as insulting to her, and why her people have found that a monogamous relationship works best, sounds far too modern for 3150 BC.
Min, a very ancient fertility god often depicted with an erect phallus, has his sex changed and becomes a fertility a goddess. If Min was ever depicted as a female, I have yet to find reference to it in any of the books I've read on Ancient Egyptian history and culture.
Too many events are relayed to us second hand. We are told, rather than shown, some key events in battle scenes. We learn about the numerous plots hatched by Narmer's step-mother Mersyankh and her shaman, Ihy, after the fact. The same with a key murder. Lost opportunities to build tension, in this reader's humble opinion.
Not a bad book, but certainly not up to the standards of a Pauline Gedge.
Glaring errors jumped out at me, especially in the second half of the book.
A minor character's name changed from Siatum to Siamun, and the spelling of Me'ka'el changed to Me-ka-el about two-thirds of the way through the book.
Queen Neith-Hotep's angry reaction to Narmer taking a secondary wife to cement relationships with Lower Egypt following Unification struck me as totally out of place. It was not just routine, but expected, that an Egyptian ruler would have multiple wives and concubines. Neith-Hotep's ideas on why she sees this as insulting to her, and why her people have found that a monogamous relationship works best, sounds far too modern for 3150 BC.
Min, a very ancient fertility god often depicted with an erect phallus, has his sex changed and becomes a fertility a goddess. If Min was ever depicted as a female, I have yet to find reference to it in any of the books I've read on Ancient Egyptian history and culture.
Too many events are relayed to us second hand. We are told, rather than shown, some key events in battle scenes. We learn about the numerous plots hatched by Narmer's step-mother Mersyankh and her shaman, Ihy, after the fact. The same with a key murder. Lost opportunities to build tension, in this reader's humble opinion.
Not a bad book, but certainly not up to the standards of a Pauline Gedge.
July 31, 2013
Lester Picker has created a skilful weave of fact and fiction to create an enthralling story in ‘The First Pharaoh’. Little is known about the historical King Narmer, but the author has been able to take the few known facts and, with his extensive knowledge of ancient Egypt, create a believable world peopled with sympathetic characters.
Lester’s writing is concise yet descriptive, you can almost see the varied landscapes and feel the heat of the Egyptian sun. He also has an ability to tap human emotions in a way which makes his characters come alive with all their strengths and weaknesses.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am eagerly looking forward to reading the second part of this trilogy, ‘The Dagger of Isis’.
Lester’s writing is concise yet descriptive, you can almost see the varied landscapes and feel the heat of the Egyptian sun. He also has an ability to tap human emotions in a way which makes his characters come alive with all their strengths and weaknesses.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am eagerly looking forward to reading the second part of this trilogy, ‘The Dagger of Isis’.
June 27, 2013
The descriptiveness with which Les Picker gives the reader a sense of life in the Egypt of the earliest Pharaohs is extraordinary. This book will bring you right into the ancient lands along the Nile, as if you are there, yourself. Though the story is fictional, it is so rooted in historically accurate surroundings that you leave feeling as if you've read a factual account. I'm looking forward to reading The Dagger of Isis, the next work in Mr. Picker's series. Highly recommended for Egyptophiles and for anyone who loves a good tale well told.
March 26, 2013
This was the first historical fiction book that I have read and I really enjoyed it! I have always loved ancient Egypt and loved reading about it. The book was really interesting especially with some of the action parts. It is now one of my favorite books and I look forward to reading part two of the book! Even if you aren't really into historical fiction books, this book would be definitely interest you. I am really glad that I had won this book and had the opportunity to read it.
January 26, 2015
Fantastic
In so many ways, the research of the ways, times and dress of that period. The development of characters and story line. I did not feel that the detailed sexual activities were needed, just that there were sexual relations.
In so many ways, the research of the ways, times and dress of that period. The development of characters and story line. I did not feel that the detailed sexual activities were needed, just that there were sexual relations.
April 26, 2017
The First Pharaoh
This was, to me, definitely very well researched. Thanks to this novel and online help, I was able to understand more about the early pharaohs. I'll definitely read the next novel in the trilogy.
This was, to me, definitely very well researched. Thanks to this novel and online help, I was able to understand more about the early pharaohs. I'll definitely read the next novel in the trilogy.
January 19, 2017
The First Pharaoh
Oh my goodness! Could not put this book down. I feel like I was transported to ancient times floating on Mother Nile. Will read everything by this author!
Oh my goodness! Could not put this book down. I feel like I was transported to ancient times floating on Mother Nile. Will read everything by this author!
April 28, 2016
"It has long been said that fools scheme and gods laugh." -- Anhotek
This story is split between narratives by Anhotek and Narmer. I found the Anhotek narrative more engaging than the Narmer one. I felt that Narmer was mostly being advised on things versus actually doing things for himself after the Battle of Dep. He did not have many original ideas for himself. The Battle of Dep was exciting, but afterwards there was not much that the King did. Things were heard of after the fact. I think this book could have been much longer and more engaging. So many things could have been explored.
I liked how Picker would take the time to think through moments that were troublesome for Narmer. I thought his journeys of self-discovery were very insightful and enduring. However, these could have been sandwiched between a little more hands-on action by Narmer (infiltrating one of Mersyankh's schemes or something more of Neter-Maat's marriage -- why was it brought up at all since nothing came up after the mention of it). I also wanted more from the societies. Things were very closely centered around Narmer. One of the last lucid conversations we get from Narmer is with his son and a mistake he must learn to correct. Unfortunately, we never go back to learn how this mistake is fixed. The author gives us the fact that Narmer is now letting things go and trusting his son. And this story is about Narmer's journey, not his son's. I would have liked more however. It was all well-written with an enjoyable narrative that kept you interested.
"Each of our elders lives inside us, reminding us of our past, lighting the path ahead of us with their wisdom." -- Meruka
I saw a few mergings of religious beliefs in the book. While I've never heard of "Anubis' river" as mentioned in one passage, I actually thought of this reference as an early allusion to Hades and the River Stix. And I can imagine how this "Anubis river" developed later into the beliefs of a river journey the pharaoh would take on Ra's boat after death. One of my favorite descriptives, though, was how Anhotek compares Me'ka'el's religious beliefs to Kem's. It was a beautiful way to look at differences as actually being all parts to the same whole.
"One thing you must understand is that no all gifts are easy to bear. The most cherished gifts of all are both blessings and curses." --Anhotek
I did find inaccuracies in the story including the way names were spelled and random characters in front of or behind a word. One inconsistency was Hor-Aha vs. Hor-aha. However, this was e-published through Createspace, which is a self-publishing site and is why there are e-print errors (as there are no professional editors going over things with a fine-tooth comb). So I did not let these minor errors distract me from the story.
"It is an odd thing, raising a child. We go through the difficult process of growing up ourselves and so think ourselves able to turn around and grow our children, as if one had anything to do with the other... Youth believe with all the passions of their ba that they are not mortal. They see with only one set of eyes... eyes that only see forward. Adults have gained the use of the other set, the one that looks backwards at life's experiences." -- Narmer
I thought perhaps a few inventions of the storyline were too modern by ancient Egyptian standards. While they did begin agricultural water management during King Scorpion's time, I believe the taxation of farmers based on water levels was enacted in a much later dynasty.
"... many barriers we face are there only because we choose to see them as such."
In the end, I enjoyed this escape into what life might have been like for the first pharaoh of a united egypt and learning about what might have weighed on his heart, his reign, and his beliefs. There were some beautiful passages in this story. I especially enjoyed reading about Narmer's love for his wife and their thoughtful moments together (not so much their physical exploits). I liked the way the book ended in the final chapter. It was poignant and touching and a good reflection on all Narmer had discovered about his life and himself. He was at peace with not only his life but also at peace with his father. He learned that the good and the bad moments of his life shaped him into the great ruler that he became for his country.
"We are not only of the gods, but also part of them." -- Narmer
This story is split between narratives by Anhotek and Narmer. I found the Anhotek narrative more engaging than the Narmer one. I felt that Narmer was mostly being advised on things versus actually doing things for himself after the Battle of Dep. He did not have many original ideas for himself. The Battle of Dep was exciting, but afterwards there was not much that the King did. Things were heard of after the fact. I think this book could have been much longer and more engaging. So many things could have been explored.
I liked how Picker would take the time to think through moments that were troublesome for Narmer. I thought his journeys of self-discovery were very insightful and enduring. However, these could have been sandwiched between a little more hands-on action by Narmer (infiltrating one of Mersyankh's schemes or something more of Neter-Maat's marriage -- why was it brought up at all since nothing came up after the mention of it). I also wanted more from the societies. Things were very closely centered around Narmer. One of the last lucid conversations we get from Narmer is with his son and a mistake he must learn to correct. Unfortunately, we never go back to learn how this mistake is fixed. The author gives us the fact that Narmer is now letting things go and trusting his son. And this story is about Narmer's journey, not his son's. I would have liked more however. It was all well-written with an enjoyable narrative that kept you interested.
"Each of our elders lives inside us, reminding us of our past, lighting the path ahead of us with their wisdom." -- Meruka
I saw a few mergings of religious beliefs in the book. While I've never heard of "Anubis' river" as mentioned in one passage, I actually thought of this reference as an early allusion to Hades and the River Stix. And I can imagine how this "Anubis river" developed later into the beliefs of a river journey the pharaoh would take on Ra's boat after death. One of my favorite descriptives, though, was how Anhotek compares Me'ka'el's religious beliefs to Kem's. It was a beautiful way to look at differences as actually being all parts to the same whole.
"One thing you must understand is that no all gifts are easy to bear. The most cherished gifts of all are both blessings and curses." --Anhotek
I did find inaccuracies in the story including the way names were spelled and random characters in front of or behind a word. One inconsistency was Hor-Aha vs. Hor-aha. However, this was e-published through Createspace, which is a self-publishing site and is why there are e-print errors (as there are no professional editors going over things with a fine-tooth comb). So I did not let these minor errors distract me from the story.
"It is an odd thing, raising a child. We go through the difficult process of growing up ourselves and so think ourselves able to turn around and grow our children, as if one had anything to do with the other... Youth believe with all the passions of their ba that they are not mortal. They see with only one set of eyes... eyes that only see forward. Adults have gained the use of the other set, the one that looks backwards at life's experiences." -- Narmer
I thought perhaps a few inventions of the storyline were too modern by ancient Egyptian standards. While they did begin agricultural water management during King Scorpion's time, I believe the taxation of farmers based on water levels was enacted in a much later dynasty.
"... many barriers we face are there only because we choose to see them as such."
In the end, I enjoyed this escape into what life might have been like for the first pharaoh of a united egypt and learning about what might have weighed on his heart, his reign, and his beliefs. There were some beautiful passages in this story. I especially enjoyed reading about Narmer's love for his wife and their thoughtful moments together (not so much their physical exploits). I liked the way the book ended in the final chapter. It was poignant and touching and a good reflection on all Narmer had discovered about his life and himself. He was at peace with not only his life but also at peace with his father. He learned that the good and the bad moments of his life shaped him into the great ruler that he became for his country.
"We are not only of the gods, but also part of them." -- Narmer
February 17, 2016
The First Pharaoh is a novel about a man named Menes who became Narmer, King of Egypt. Narmer had no easy time growing up under the disapprovingly harsh scrutiny of his father, King Scorpion. Through the gentle guidance and love of Anhotek, his father 19s chief scribe and shaman, Narmer prepared to ascend the throne when he reached manhood. Narmer dreamt of his future 13 a powerful vision that foretold he would unite lower and upper Kem into one kingdom. And it is this dream that guided him in everything he did or said.
Author Lester Picker weaves a tale full of wonder, intrigue, treachery, and betrayal 13 a limitless power-struggle by a lesser known king of Ancient Egypt. This indie-published novel is a pleasant surprise. I scored it high points for its level of authenticity and amount of research that went into the story to make it not only believable, but one that truly comes alive. It is well written and edited. Easy prose, lush descriptions, and well developed characters truly make the story compelling.
The First Pharaoh is followed by a sequel entitled the Dagger of Isis, which I will review shortly. I highly recommend both books, especially for readers who love tales of Ancient Egypt.
Author Lester Picker weaves a tale full of wonder, intrigue, treachery, and betrayal 13 a limitless power-struggle by a lesser known king of Ancient Egypt. This indie-published novel is a pleasant surprise. I scored it high points for its level of authenticity and amount of research that went into the story to make it not only believable, but one that truly comes alive. It is well written and edited. Easy prose, lush descriptions, and well developed characters truly make the story compelling.
The First Pharaoh is followed by a sequel entitled the Dagger of Isis, which I will review shortly. I highly recommend both books, especially for readers who love tales of Ancient Egypt.
March 22, 2013
Quick note- I received a free 'First Reads' copy of the novel in exchange for my independent review.
'The First Pharaoh' is the imaginative telling of the king who united Upper and Lower Egypt into a single kingdom, eventually giving rise to the era of Pharaohs. It's a quick read, really focused on action and glimpsing the daily life of the people of Upper Kem (Egypt). The characters are likable, although there isn't a lot of depth to them. Told from a first person perspective, I liked that the two different narrators had different 'voices'. I did have a moment of 'what just happened?' at the very end- without going into spoilers, there was some fuzziness about the identity of a couple of characters that I'd have liked to have resolved.
I'd recommend this novel to anyone who likes historical fiction- you won't get lofty prose or detailed character analysis, but a fun, fast read. I will be looking for the next novel in the author's series on Egypt- perfect vacation/beach read.
'The First Pharaoh' is the imaginative telling of the king who united Upper and Lower Egypt into a single kingdom, eventually giving rise to the era of Pharaohs. It's a quick read, really focused on action and glimpsing the daily life of the people of Upper Kem (Egypt). The characters are likable, although there isn't a lot of depth to them. Told from a first person perspective, I liked that the two different narrators had different 'voices'. I did have a moment of 'what just happened?' at the very end- without going into spoilers, there was some fuzziness about the identity of a couple of characters that I'd have liked to have resolved.
I'd recommend this novel to anyone who likes historical fiction- you won't get lofty prose or detailed character analysis, but a fun, fast read. I will be looking for the next novel in the author's series on Egypt- perfect vacation/beach read.
December 15, 2017
An interesting book but nothing that really stands out in the crowd. It tells the story, as you'd expect, of Egypts first Pharaoh, Namer, who unified the upper and lower lands and created a dynasty that survived for millennia, until the invasion of the Greeks with Alexander the Great and the Ptolemy's.
However, the story itself is quiet formulaic and at times I could just as easily been reading about some medieval kings conquests as the life story of the ruler of all Egypt. Indeed the biggest criticism is it's failing to transport the reader to the time and place. It lacks the colour Jerry Dubs painted so successfully in his book, Imhotep.
I did like the first person narrative. And I liked the idea of telling the first third through the eyes of one character before shifting to the main actor. However, the narrative did seem to jump a lot and I ended up flicking back a couple of pages to try and work out what I'd missed. And, I still didn't get the one thing I really wanted from this book - I never found myself immersed in these most ancient of times.
However, the story itself is quiet formulaic and at times I could just as easily been reading about some medieval kings conquests as the life story of the ruler of all Egypt. Indeed the biggest criticism is it's failing to transport the reader to the time and place. It lacks the colour Jerry Dubs painted so successfully in his book, Imhotep.
I did like the first person narrative. And I liked the idea of telling the first third through the eyes of one character before shifting to the main actor. However, the narrative did seem to jump a lot and I ended up flicking back a couple of pages to try and work out what I'd missed. And, I still didn't get the one thing I really wanted from this book - I never found myself immersed in these most ancient of times.
March 29, 2013
The First Pharaoh is a fascinating read of Narmer's ascension to the throne of Egypt. Narmer or Menes as he was called when he was a child lived with the disapproval of a critical father, King Scorpion, and the love of a surrogate father, Anhotek, Chief Scribe and Shaman to the first Pharaoh. When Narmer was a child, he had a vision that would define him for all of history- the unification of the lands of Upper and Lower Kem. This novel immerses the reader into the intrigue, uneasy alliances, treachery and the strain imposed on the young Pharaoh as he sought to fulfill his vision of unifying the two ancient kingdoms. Picker's powerful use of language is both elegant and enlightening, and as I turned the pages I found myself being transported into the land of Kem. The marriage of the Pharaoh to his Queen is a gripping, moving account of the love that the royals shared. This novel wonderfully depicts 3100 year old Egypt, and the man who became its first Pharaoh.
February 8, 2013
I read this book so quickly, it was terrific! It was so good that I picked up the next book in the series, "The Dagger of Isis." The First Pharaoh sets the stage for intrigue in the court of Narmer, who was the first ruler of both upper and lower Egypt. Having always been fascinated with Egyptian art, it was eye-opening to have learned some of the history behind the vases and art objects I've observed in art museums I've visited through the years.
September 30, 2017
This was my first book to read about early Egypt. It was Great. I would get into it at times, forgetting that I was reading a true historical novel and that it was the true history. The author's investigation on the time period was outstanding The book read very smoothly going from one incident to the next without the awkwardness that I have read in other historical novels. I look forward to the next one in this series.
January 27, 2015
A view of life
A great story of the ancient times. We always look at the splendor that lies in ruins. The well told story puts the human element to those items we see that abound the sands. How the farmer toiled,how the soldier trained and died. It brings in also the belief of what gods and spirits can mix to make a man stand out. A great read and look at history.
A great story of the ancient times. We always look at the splendor that lies in ruins. The well told story puts the human element to those items we see that abound the sands. How the farmer toiled,how the soldier trained and died. It brings in also the belief of what gods and spirits can mix to make a man stand out. A great read and look at history.
September 30, 2015
I wish I had a good explained reason for why I liked this book. First, I love any author that know how to write about this time period. In Renaissance time there are so many parts to be aware of when writing this kind of book. I wonder how many research hours went into this book. Did I say I love this book? I would recommend anyone to read it.
June 27, 2015
The First Pharaoh by Lester Picker
This is an easy book to read and I quite enjoyed it. The history of Egypt has always caught hold of my imagination, and left me curious for more. The customs and rituals combined with the myth makes for good storytelling. The characters are interesting and I'm moving on to the next book in the series.
This is an easy book to read and I quite enjoyed it. The history of Egypt has always caught hold of my imagination, and left me curious for more. The customs and rituals combined with the myth makes for good storytelling. The characters are interesting and I'm moving on to the next book in the series.
June 15, 2015
Well written Historical Egyptian Period Novel
I really loved this book. Gives you the flavor of Egyptian Life during the early periods of land of the Nile. Loved the characters and plots.
I really loved this book. Gives you the flavor of Egyptian Life during the early periods of land of the Nile. Loved the characters and plots.
November 23, 2015
Fascinating history
A very good narration of the beginning of Pharaonic Egypt. This is as good as reading a real history. No compromise has been made by the author in portraying the novel of the beginning of the first dynasty of Ancient Egypt.
A very good narration of the beginning of Pharaonic Egypt. This is as good as reading a real history. No compromise has been made by the author in portraying the novel of the beginning of the first dynasty of Ancient Egypt.
January 4, 2016
This is my first time to read about King Narmer. The novel is very detailed, and although interesting, I think it gets in the way if the forwarding of the plot. The author makes a pot to help readers understand the mysticism of the beginnings if the Egyptian religion.
September 8, 2016
Decent book but a little redundant.
May 24, 2018
Interesting
Love Egyptology.. found this to be interesting, in regards to the Scorpion King.. Well written, and worth the time read.
Love Egyptology.. found this to be interesting, in regards to the Scorpion King.. Well written, and worth the time read.
May 24, 2017
A pleasure to read, although a bit confusing
Definitely a book that you need to be in the mood to read,not something you can just pick up and flip through. Well-researched, and rich in historical context, but the writing tends to have quick shifts that aren't quite as noticeable (partly in part to some weird formatting choices, at least as an ebook).
Honestly I'm very intrigued by the sequel and part of the reason I kept going was because of the sequel (since I'm a sucker for historical ladies). I'm exhausted but this book definitely got me through a stressful week!
Definitely a book that you need to be in the mood to read,not something you can just pick up and flip through. Well-researched, and rich in historical context, but the writing tends to have quick shifts that aren't quite as noticeable (partly in part to some weird formatting choices, at least as an ebook).
Honestly I'm very intrigued by the sequel and part of the reason I kept going was because of the sequel (since I'm a sucker for historical ladies). I'm exhausted but this book definitely got me through a stressful week!
July 5, 2017
Even though I liked it, I also think the ending was a bit hurried.
I won't enter in many details to keep this spoiler free but I got a bit lost with the large quantity of names and places.
At the end i got mixed feelings about what the character describes (like I said, hurried) and I can't empathize with his feelings because nothing of importance was described.
The two last chapters are actions and consequences thrown at your face one after the other and you can't handle them because when you come to realize what happened, the book's over.
I won't enter in many details to keep this spoiler free but I got a bit lost with the large quantity of names and places.
At the end i got mixed feelings about what the character describes (like I said, hurried) and I can't empathize with his feelings because nothing of importance was described.
The two last chapters are actions and consequences thrown at your face one after the other and you can't handle them because when you come to realize what happened, the book's over.
September 21, 2017
Entertaining
Somewhat entertaining. Not as good as other books l have read that uses ancient Egypt and her God Kings to weave a story.
This book l feel doesn't reflect enough of the history and glory of Egypt but concentrates on developing the bonds forged in life experiences. It just feels all too nice, everyone having a place and knowing it and being happy with it.
Somewhat entertaining. Not as good as other books l have read that uses ancient Egypt and her God Kings to weave a story.
This book l feel doesn't reflect enough of the history and glory of Egypt but concentrates on developing the bonds forged in life experiences. It just feels all too nice, everyone having a place and knowing it and being happy with it.
October 2, 2020
An experience
Wonderful!! I was transported back in time....3150 BC. The descriptions of life, medicine, culture, war strategies were so believable. I enjoyed this book so much that I purchased the other two of this 3 part series. For lovers of Egyptian history, this read is a must!! Very very very well written. I have become a fan of this author.
Wonderful!! I was transported back in time....3150 BC. The descriptions of life, medicine, culture, war strategies were so believable. I enjoyed this book so much that I purchased the other two of this 3 part series. For lovers of Egyptian history, this read is a must!! Very very very well written. I have become a fan of this author.
February 8, 2017
Full of interest.
Picker has put together an interesting account of the life and times of King Narmer. I enjoy learning more about the culture of ancient times.
I look forward to reading the next installment of this series.
Picker has put together an interesting account of the life and times of King Narmer. I enjoy learning more about the culture of ancient times.
I look forward to reading the next installment of this series.
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