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Egyptian Mythology #1
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals
Enjoy Captivating Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals From what we know of history, Egypt, along with Sumer, were the foundations of civilization. The Fertile Crescent, which stretched from the Nile Valley to the twin rivers in Mesopotamia, gave us our earliest glimpse of organized man. But organized how? For one, both locations gave us writing--hieroglyphics in Egypt and cuneiform in Sumer. There is still some debate about who was first. In this book, we will start by looking at the gods and goddesses of Kemet--Ancient Egypt. Then, we will turn our attention to the monsters which likely gave them nightmares and humbled them in their quest to bring order to the world around them. Finally, we will look at the mortals which shaped their civilization and made Egypt the bedrock of our own history. Though Egypt today is only a third-world nation, struggling with terrorism and poverty, their heritage remains vital to the understanding of who we are as a species. Just some of the topics covered in this book Get the book now and learn more about Egyptian Mythology
84 pages, Hardcover
First published June 24, 2017
1014 people are currently reading
1229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 25, 2021
Wife, Sister, Mother, Father, Uncle, Aunt, Son, Daughter, Brother?
Another great historical book from Captivating History!
Much of the information in the book is old news, but I am happy to say that I have definitely learned something new.
I don’t believe that the book is as in-depth as it could be, but then again most people are familiar with the history of Egyptian mythology and culture.
A lot of the topics are about war with other countries and as a serious map lover l would have greatly enjoyed seeing some maps.
This book would be a great stepping stone for a young person who would love to read about the culture and get a brief knowledge of their civilization.
The book doesn’t contain a bibliography in the back, and that would have been a good idea.
So a pleasant book altogether, but I sincerely wish that maps would have been provided. So...four stars ⭐️.
Another great historical book from Captivating History!
Much of the information in the book is old news, but I am happy to say that I have definitely learned something new.
I don’t believe that the book is as in-depth as it could be, but then again most people are familiar with the history of Egyptian mythology and culture.
A lot of the topics are about war with other countries and as a serious map lover l would have greatly enjoyed seeing some maps.
This book would be a great stepping stone for a young person who would love to read about the culture and get a brief knowledge of their civilization.
The book doesn’t contain a bibliography in the back, and that would have been a good idea.
So a pleasant book altogether, but I sincerely wish that maps would have been provided. So...four stars ⭐️.
January 14, 2018
Since I was a youngster I have been fascinated with Ancient Egyptian mythology, hieroglyphics, history, photographs and art. The first room I would want to visit at the DIA (Detroit Institute of Art) was the Egyptian (although in recent years I do believe some of the artifacts should be returned to Egypt but that's a personal point of view). I have watched so many documentaries and movies pertaining to Egypt. When I saw this book I was thrilled and thought this is going to be great, however I was somewhat disappointed in the work. The parts about the myths, legends and etc was interesting but overall the work read like a book report, therefore sadly I have to admit I did not enjoy it. I think I would have given an extra point if the author had listed some sources for where the information he used came from, I am ever the skeptic.
April 7, 2024
It wasn't boring, at least.
Matt Clayton has a pretty good writers voice and i found myself caught up in the history he was telling a tale about.
I have always enjoyed books and information about Egypt. Perhaps not as much as prehistory, but pretty close.
This book was a little short and i found the lack of personal detail and opinion really disappointing. And i am pretty hard to disappoint when it comes to history.
I did enjoy reading about the Gods and important people of Egypt. I do wish there was more information about Cleopatra and/or Tuts family, but I know the latter is impossible since that family was wiped from history, basically.
Thanks for the interesting read.
Matt Clayton has a pretty good writers voice and i found myself caught up in the history he was telling a tale about.
I have always enjoyed books and information about Egypt. Perhaps not as much as prehistory, but pretty close.
This book was a little short and i found the lack of personal detail and opinion really disappointing. And i am pretty hard to disappoint when it comes to history.
I did enjoy reading about the Gods and important people of Egypt. I do wish there was more information about Cleopatra and/or Tuts family, but I know the latter is impossible since that family was wiped from history, basically.
Thanks for the interesting read.
January 12, 2020
I notice a lot of people complaining about the author’s style of writing however I rather enjoyed it. This was written in a simple and easy to understand manner. Yes, I agree it was rather short, but that just made me want to read more!
October 27, 2019
This read like a lazy college kid’s essay.
January 10, 2021
The author sees ancient history through ancient perspective, not our modern point of view.
(Kindle Ed. p. 2)
While all attempts have been made to verify the information provided in this publication, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter herein. This book is for entertainment purposes only...
Not a good attitude for a history writer. Off the beginning, the book suffers losing one star due to the author’s lack of enthusiasm and sense of respons’ibil-it’y & con-fed’/ fid’ence.
However, I gotta say that the author tries his best to see the history through the ancient Egyptians' perspective, not through our modern point of view. So the first statement might be just the author being humble and careful since all these perspective and names of the entities must be “new” to the readers, and it might make old fans of Egyptian history and mythology feel uncomfortable.
I hope the world is now maturer and ready for the uncomfortable truth.
Look. What a great entr-/ intr-o-duct'ion:
(Kindle Ed. p. 6)
In this book, we will start by looking at the gods and goddesses of Kemet—Ancient Egypt. Then, we will turn our attention to the monsters which likely gave them nightmares and humbled them in their quest to bring order to the world around them. Finally, we will look at the mortals which shaped their civilization and made Egypt the bedrock of our own history. Though Egypt today is only a third-world nation, struggling with terrorism and poverty, their heritage remains vital to the understanding of who we are as a species.
What’s Ne’weya? Nile River in ancient Egyptian? I know that Nile was how the Greeks called the river. These lines need more explanation for the readers:
(Kindle Ed. p. 8)
As they had done for all the ages of man, the priests of the great city of Iunu had crossed over the Ne’weya during the twilight hour after dawn and before sunrise. But this morning vigil at the temple plateau was more somber than usual. All of Kemet was in mourning for their dead ruler, Auser.
We are not like the author who knows enough about Egyptian myth and history to write a book about them. A publication is definitely for the author, but also for the readers.
(Kindle Ed. p. 8)
...Sett had hacked up Auser’s body and flung the parts all up and down the great Ne’weya and its life-giving waters.
So Ne'weya is Nile in ancient Egyptian tongue? But where is that ever mentioned for the readers? I've had to figure it out myself. Again, a book is for author AND the readers who don't know as much as the author does, and that's why most readers pick up a book and read it.
BTW, I think Ne'w-ey-a = being now/ new/ nouv/ nov/ nob as in noble (nob-ur), which means rising, high or great in our modern European tongues like French and English, so it was called a great or sacred river among the ancient Egyptians.
It is just like Ra became roi (ro'i = king in French), Roy as in viceroy, Royal (Ro-y-al) and ray (ra'y = sunlight).
“...which was denied us?” It must be a typo:
(Kindle Ed. p. 9)
...They are to bring them together so that I may perform sacred rites and to consummate the union which was denied us...
“...to consummate the union which was denied...”
(Kindle Ed. p. 18)
And Ptah was long associated with the sun after it set. During each night, the sun replenished itself, preparing for the new day. Besides his skills as a craftsman, Ptah was also a god of the arts and biological creation (fertility).
Not really happy with these lines because they cause confusion between the Sun and Ptah. Need to make them clearer by reshuffling the lines, or...
A simple editing like this will make it much better:
“...And Ptah was long associated with the sun after it set as, during each night, the sun replenished itself, preparing for the new day. Besides his skills as a craftsman, Ptah was also a god of the arts and biological creation (fertility)...”
(Kindle Ed. p. 31)
A man named Imhotep assisted the pharaoh and proved to be so indispensable that he had earned the right to be called “first in line after the king.”
And later the man was even worshiped as god: Act'ual cap'ability overcame the "innocent" faith! See how ridiculous the North Korean regime today really is? Lol
(Kindle Ed. p. 32)
Outside his darkened bedroom, the stars filled the sky with a warm glow. Unlike most men, Imhotep looked at every part of existence as a resource and as a source of solutions. While the field of stars held the world...
There the answer lies in these lines! The difference between successful leaders and those who keep failing is the different angles looking at the same ones or things. People who are not happy with their lives tend to see negative side of a person or a thing and enjoy criticizing it to compensate their insecurity and fragile emotions (some of the readers of this review will be the same), whereas the successful people see the bright side of the same one or thing and rather “do” something by using that strength of him, her or it, than criticize the other side of them.
(Kindle Ed. pp. 32-33)
...he held his wife and drifted off into a deep sleep. During his dreams, he remembered the concern discussed by his king earlier in the day—that the grain harvest this year was noticeably less than that of the previous year. Then, as dreams so easily do, he turned once and found himself seven years into the future, after as many years of plenty. The people were becoming fat with prosperity. He turned once more and found himself another seven years into the future, but this time many of his people were dead or dying. Those who remained were thin from starvation.The next moment, he found himself sitting upright in bed. The bedding was cold and clinging. Sweat dripped down his face from the anguish he had felt moments before. “What is it, my love? Asked his wife. “Is something wrong?” “No, my beloved. Go back to sleep. Everything is as it should be.” The chancellor got up and crossed the room to the outer hall. So as not to awaken his wife, he called quietly to his slave, “Fetch a flame for my lantern. I need to write some notes for the coming daylight.” In moments, the slave had returned and lit Imhotep’s lantern and the chancellor then went to his study to write down the thoughts that were coming to him. For a moment, he sat there merely looking at the papyrus and the reed pen he held, ready for ink. “Look at the problem,” he whispered to himself. “What exactly is its nature? What is there behind the feeling I have?” He nodded. “Famine. Prevention.” Quickly, he opened the small clay jar and dipped his reed pen into it, drawing into it some of the ink. Deftly, he stroked the papyrus surface, combining the symbols which grew in meaning to match the thoughts in his mind. In moments, he had captured the gist of his concerns and had made a list of possible solutions. The most promising such solution seemed to be that of storing surplus in years of plenty and rationing that storage when needed. When done, he held the papyrus sheet up and admired its contents. Such a simple idea, it’s a wonder no one had considered it ever before. He half laughed at the ironic thought that this brilliant idea may have come too late. What if next year’s harvest begins years of famine?
You see how easy it is for our people’/ popul’ar social media, which were fiction stories read back in the days, to make a great man in real history an other Richelieu, a ultimate and popular villain?
(Kindle Ed. p. 37)
...Very little is know about him...
...is known...
(Kindle Ed. pp. 37-38)
After the crowning ceremony, the vizier whisked the young boy into council chambers. Surrounding the boy were a host of counselors, scribes, and junior viziers. All of them were adherents of Amun, the one true god of Egypt—the most supreme god which had no form. Compared to him, all others were mere angels or divine servants. Even Aten was merely a part of the immortal hosts, but he was nothing compared to the father of all creation. “Lord,” said the grand vizier, “as you know, a pharaoh is divinity on Earth. You are the current divinity. Praise be to King Tutankhaten whose name means ‘living image of Aten.’ Three short years ago, your father ruled this land. As divinity on Earth, he failed his primary charge to support Maat on Earth to maintain order in the face of chaos. As we know, chaos is death—death for Kemet, death for all life, and death for all creation. Even Lord Aten—your namesake—would appreciate these facts.”
I have learned three facts from these lines:
1. So Amun-Ra, the eye and Sun, had no form now? Ancient imaginations...Always so incoherent, just like all different branches of Judaism, Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Protestantism. It is embarrassing that many of us are willing to die for these imaginations in our mind'/ ment'ality. If we Christians laugh at this Egyptian myth for its incoherence, it will tell that we don't even really know our own religion and faith, which is sadly the case for most of us.
2. So the faith in Aten and Amun, classified as polytheistic, were both monotheistic after all lol
3. The King was the Son of Heaven, but it was these author'ity led by the "wis[e]" wiz'ards and viz'iers who told the people that the King had indeed a member of the family of the supreme god, and so he [or sometimes she] had the legitimacy to rule over the people'/ popul'ation.
(Kindle Ed. p. 45)
Cleopatra VII was the last of her dynasty—the last ruler of a sovereign, Ancient Egypt. After her, Egypt was merely a province of one empire after another—the Roman Empire(30 BC-AD 400), the Byzantine Empire (400-628), the Sasanian Empire of Persia (628-639), the Fatimid Caliphate (c650-c1250), the Mamluks (c1250-1517), the Ottoman Empire (1517-1867), and finally as a British protectorate (1882-1952).
These lines need to be edited: Look at the years and missing spaces. For example, make it like 31 BC-AD 395, or at least put another circa (c.) before 30 BC-AD 400.
This is the real reason why we should learn history.
(Kindle Ed. p. 50)
Modern Egypt looks nothing like its ancient self. It has become a pawn in a far larger game. But if history teaches us anything, we need to remain aware of the patterns of history itself, lest we repeat past mistakes.
There are some typos and errors to be re-vised, but all-in-all the book is almost complete and ripe with very helpful new in-form’ation.
The excellent con-clos’/ -clus’ion alone earns two stars = So, Five stars, anyway ;)
(Kindle Ed. p. 2)
While all attempts have been made to verify the information provided in this publication, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter herein. This book is for entertainment purposes only...
Not a good attitude for a history writer. Off the beginning, the book suffers losing one star due to the author’s lack of enthusiasm and sense of respons’ibil-it’y & con-fed’/ fid’ence.
However, I gotta say that the author tries his best to see the history through the ancient Egyptians' perspective, not through our modern point of view. So the first statement might be just the author being humble and careful since all these perspective and names of the entities must be “new” to the readers, and it might make old fans of Egyptian history and mythology feel uncomfortable.
I hope the world is now maturer and ready for the uncomfortable truth.
Look. What a great entr-/ intr-o-duct'ion:
(Kindle Ed. p. 6)
In this book, we will start by looking at the gods and goddesses of Kemet—Ancient Egypt. Then, we will turn our attention to the monsters which likely gave them nightmares and humbled them in their quest to bring order to the world around them. Finally, we will look at the mortals which shaped their civilization and made Egypt the bedrock of our own history. Though Egypt today is only a third-world nation, struggling with terrorism and poverty, their heritage remains vital to the understanding of who we are as a species.
What’s Ne’weya? Nile River in ancient Egyptian? I know that Nile was how the Greeks called the river. These lines need more explanation for the readers:
(Kindle Ed. p. 8)
As they had done for all the ages of man, the priests of the great city of Iunu had crossed over the Ne’weya during the twilight hour after dawn and before sunrise. But this morning vigil at the temple plateau was more somber than usual. All of Kemet was in mourning for their dead ruler, Auser.
We are not like the author who knows enough about Egyptian myth and history to write a book about them. A publication is definitely for the author, but also for the readers.
(Kindle Ed. p. 8)
...Sett had hacked up Auser’s body and flung the parts all up and down the great Ne’weya and its life-giving waters.
So Ne'weya is Nile in ancient Egyptian tongue? But where is that ever mentioned for the readers? I've had to figure it out myself. Again, a book is for author AND the readers who don't know as much as the author does, and that's why most readers pick up a book and read it.
BTW, I think Ne'w-ey-a = being now/ new/ nouv/ nov/ nob as in noble (nob-ur), which means rising, high or great in our modern European tongues like French and English, so it was called a great or sacred river among the ancient Egyptians.
It is just like Ra became roi (ro'i = king in French), Roy as in viceroy, Royal (Ro-y-al) and ray (ra'y = sunlight).
“...which was denied us?” It must be a typo:
(Kindle Ed. p. 9)
...They are to bring them together so that I may perform sacred rites and to consummate the union which was denied us...
“...to consummate the union which was denied...”
(Kindle Ed. p. 18)
And Ptah was long associated with the sun after it set. During each night, the sun replenished itself, preparing for the new day. Besides his skills as a craftsman, Ptah was also a god of the arts and biological creation (fertility).
Not really happy with these lines because they cause confusion between the Sun and Ptah. Need to make them clearer by reshuffling the lines, or...
A simple editing like this will make it much better:
“...And Ptah was long associated with the sun after it set as, during each night, the sun replenished itself, preparing for the new day. Besides his skills as a craftsman, Ptah was also a god of the arts and biological creation (fertility)...”
(Kindle Ed. p. 31)
A man named Imhotep assisted the pharaoh and proved to be so indispensable that he had earned the right to be called “first in line after the king.”
And later the man was even worshiped as god: Act'ual cap'ability overcame the "innocent" faith! See how ridiculous the North Korean regime today really is? Lol
(Kindle Ed. p. 32)
Outside his darkened bedroom, the stars filled the sky with a warm glow. Unlike most men, Imhotep looked at every part of existence as a resource and as a source of solutions. While the field of stars held the world...
There the answer lies in these lines! The difference between successful leaders and those who keep failing is the different angles looking at the same ones or things. People who are not happy with their lives tend to see negative side of a person or a thing and enjoy criticizing it to compensate their insecurity and fragile emotions (some of the readers of this review will be the same), whereas the successful people see the bright side of the same one or thing and rather “do” something by using that strength of him, her or it, than criticize the other side of them.
(Kindle Ed. pp. 32-33)
...he held his wife and drifted off into a deep sleep. During his dreams, he remembered the concern discussed by his king earlier in the day—that the grain harvest this year was noticeably less than that of the previous year. Then, as dreams so easily do, he turned once and found himself seven years into the future, after as many years of plenty. The people were becoming fat with prosperity. He turned once more and found himself another seven years into the future, but this time many of his people were dead or dying. Those who remained were thin from starvation.The next moment, he found himself sitting upright in bed. The bedding was cold and clinging. Sweat dripped down his face from the anguish he had felt moments before. “What is it, my love? Asked his wife. “Is something wrong?” “No, my beloved. Go back to sleep. Everything is as it should be.” The chancellor got up and crossed the room to the outer hall. So as not to awaken his wife, he called quietly to his slave, “Fetch a flame for my lantern. I need to write some notes for the coming daylight.” In moments, the slave had returned and lit Imhotep’s lantern and the chancellor then went to his study to write down the thoughts that were coming to him. For a moment, he sat there merely looking at the papyrus and the reed pen he held, ready for ink. “Look at the problem,” he whispered to himself. “What exactly is its nature? What is there behind the feeling I have?” He nodded. “Famine. Prevention.” Quickly, he opened the small clay jar and dipped his reed pen into it, drawing into it some of the ink. Deftly, he stroked the papyrus surface, combining the symbols which grew in meaning to match the thoughts in his mind. In moments, he had captured the gist of his concerns and had made a list of possible solutions. The most promising such solution seemed to be that of storing surplus in years of plenty and rationing that storage when needed. When done, he held the papyrus sheet up and admired its contents. Such a simple idea, it’s a wonder no one had considered it ever before. He half laughed at the ironic thought that this brilliant idea may have come too late. What if next year’s harvest begins years of famine?
You see how easy it is for our people’/ popul’ar social media, which were fiction stories read back in the days, to make a great man in real history an other Richelieu, a ultimate and popular villain?
(Kindle Ed. p. 37)
...Very little is know about him...
...is known...
(Kindle Ed. pp. 37-38)
After the crowning ceremony, the vizier whisked the young boy into council chambers. Surrounding the boy were a host of counselors, scribes, and junior viziers. All of them were adherents of Amun, the one true god of Egypt—the most supreme god which had no form. Compared to him, all others were mere angels or divine servants. Even Aten was merely a part of the immortal hosts, but he was nothing compared to the father of all creation. “Lord,” said the grand vizier, “as you know, a pharaoh is divinity on Earth. You are the current divinity. Praise be to King Tutankhaten whose name means ‘living image of Aten.’ Three short years ago, your father ruled this land. As divinity on Earth, he failed his primary charge to support Maat on Earth to maintain order in the face of chaos. As we know, chaos is death—death for Kemet, death for all life, and death for all creation. Even Lord Aten—your namesake—would appreciate these facts.”
I have learned three facts from these lines:
1. So Amun-Ra, the eye and Sun, had no form now? Ancient imaginations...Always so incoherent, just like all different branches of Judaism, Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Protestantism. It is embarrassing that many of us are willing to die for these imaginations in our mind'/ ment'ality. If we Christians laugh at this Egyptian myth for its incoherence, it will tell that we don't even really know our own religion and faith, which is sadly the case for most of us.
2. So the faith in Aten and Amun, classified as polytheistic, were both monotheistic after all lol
3. The King was the Son of Heaven, but it was these author'ity led by the "wis[e]" wiz'ards and viz'iers who told the people that the King had indeed a member of the family of the supreme god, and so he [or sometimes she] had the legitimacy to rule over the people'/ popul'ation.
(Kindle Ed. p. 45)
Cleopatra VII was the last of her dynasty—the last ruler of a sovereign, Ancient Egypt. After her, Egypt was merely a province of one empire after another—the Roman Empire(30 BC-AD 400), the Byzantine Empire (400-628), the Sasanian Empire of Persia (628-639), the Fatimid Caliphate (c650-c1250), the Mamluks (c1250-1517), the Ottoman Empire (1517-1867), and finally as a British protectorate (1882-1952).
These lines need to be edited: Look at the years and missing spaces. For example, make it like 31 BC-AD 395, or at least put another circa (c.) before 30 BC-AD 400.
This is the real reason why we should learn history.
(Kindle Ed. p. 50)
Modern Egypt looks nothing like its ancient self. It has become a pawn in a far larger game. But if history teaches us anything, we need to remain aware of the patterns of history itself, lest we repeat past mistakes.
There are some typos and errors to be re-vised, but all-in-all the book is almost complete and ripe with very helpful new in-form’ation.
The excellent con-clos’/ -clus’ion alone earns two stars = So, Five stars, anyway ;)
May 6, 2021
Because this book is on Egyptian mythology, I expected a bit more. There was very little written about the myths and gods. I mean, I also expected information about hieroglyphs, faces of Gods, and especially that of the main Gods other than Seth and Ra - about Shu, Teftut, Horus, Nut and Geb.
I think this information would have been given if the author didn't waste the last pages of the book writing about ancient Egyptian history. I was fine with the history given, but as the name suggests, I think the book should have been more cornered towards the mythology.
I think this is a good read for understanding the brief mythologies of Egypt, but not all.
I think this information would have been given if the author didn't waste the last pages of the book writing about ancient Egyptian history. I was fine with the history given, but as the name suggests, I think the book should have been more cornered towards the mythology.
I think this is a good read for understanding the brief mythologies of Egypt, but not all.
April 2, 2022
Easy to read. Good, quick intro to Egyptian myth and history.
June 22, 2022
I think Matt Clayton does a good job of blending world history with narrative prose.
August 6, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and even found some information that I didn't know, which is awesome!
November 7, 2021
This is most definitely the weakest of the three "A Fascinating Guide..." books. I believe it is the shortest of the group, but it took me the longest to get through. Its title would lead you to believe that this book is primarily about well, mythology, but it really just felt like a quick roll-call of some gods and their various names, then an abridged summary of some of the area's actual historical rulers. It felt a bit like alphabet soup at times with how many names were thrown around with fleeting explanations. For someone brand new to those names, a bit more context and time to gain familiarity with them to actually absorb any of the information presented.
June 18, 2023
Not what I expected.
It touched on mythology, yes, but not for long. In the end it devolved into historic facts, rather than continuing on with the mythological stories. The author also does not list his sources. I'm no writer, but I don't think this was very well written.
Perhaps I'm being too harsh in my judgement, but why did he decide to add in the "imagining x" segments? As mentioned before, he adds very few sources, so it reads like he needed to stick something into this book to beat a word count. The "imagining x" sections seem like pure conjecture.
However, it did give a very brief overview of a few things that happened in Egypt. Points on that part, I suppose.
It touched on mythology, yes, but not for long. In the end it devolved into historic facts, rather than continuing on with the mythological stories. The author also does not list his sources. I'm no writer, but I don't think this was very well written.
Perhaps I'm being too harsh in my judgement, but why did he decide to add in the "imagining x" segments? As mentioned before, he adds very few sources, so it reads like he needed to stick something into this book to beat a word count. The "imagining x" sections seem like pure conjecture.
However, it did give a very brief overview of a few things that happened in Egypt. Points on that part, I suppose.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2019
Frankly disappointed...The book is nothing but a short synopsis of characters from Egyptian mythology...
Dint feel much for the writing style either, which shifts between storytelling format and fact presentation.
The books feels very rushed with no chapters or portions getting enough attention to warrant further readings on the subject
Regards,
Sri
Dint feel much for the writing style either, which shifts between storytelling format and fact presentation.
The books feels very rushed with no chapters or portions getting enough attention to warrant further readings on the subject
Regards,
Sri
March 5, 2020
This book didn’t inspire me at all. I found it difficult to follow the main points that were being made, as they were all explained rather quickly and in little depth. The style of writing was...immature. I’m certain that Rameses, when faced with a peace treaty, didn’t say, “You have got to be kidding me!” This line took away all of the author’s credibility for me.
May 23, 2021
This seems like a half-hearted work abandoned without care. The content lacks substance and the author very conveniently ventures into history without concluding his take on mythology. There is barely any connection between chapters. Honestly, this book was just blah.
October 16, 2023
Terrible
This wasn't even a book, more like a book report. I didn't learn much more than I already knew about the Egyptian pantheon except some closer approximation of their names. Poorly done and misrepresented.
This wasn't even a book, more like a book report. I didn't learn much more than I already knew about the Egyptian pantheon except some closer approximation of their names. Poorly done and misrepresented.
January 28, 2018
A fun introduction to Egyptian Mythology presented as fictionalized short stories rather than a cut and dry scholarly retelling. Good casual-reading appetizer, but really left me wanting more meat.
July 21, 2017
Kindle Unlimited {a couple are permafree or the like} NOTE: this is based in part on the trilogy {singles making up the 4th set} for Captivating Stories Of -- Norse, Egyption, Greek -- but these although appear bascially the same {some overall minor differences in content} are basically the same book/s.
Discover the captivating beliefs of the ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Vikings in this book on Mythology that contains three manuscripts. Manuscript 2: Egyptian Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals, This part is jam-packed with fascinating facts and stories. For instance, it covers perhaps the most popular of all the Egyptian stories - the myth of Osiris. Pieces of this story have been found throughout Egypt. One of the most appealing aspects of the Osiris myth is the human-like behavior of the gods within the story. Many of the other gods of the Egyptian pantheon were rather emotionless and their stories far less interesting. With the Osiris story, the gods display a broad range of emotions that made them more real to mere mortals.
{Please note that the numbering is different in the single books, Norse is 1, Egyptian is 2, Greek is 3} -- noticed a review that said too simplistic, but thought to myself, just how detailed should books such as this be, since I don't want to have needed a Doctorate or some sort of higher degree to read these, so some things do need to be 'simpler' so a layman can actually understand them.
Norse Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Sagas and Heroes (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 1)
Egyptian Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 2)
Greek Mythology: A Captivating Guide to the Ancient Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 3)
Mythology: A Captivating Guide to Greek Mythology, Egyptian Mythology, and Norse Mythology (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 4
Greek Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Ancient Greek Religion with Its Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 1)
Norse Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Sagas, Gods, Heroes, and Beliefs of the Vikings (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 2)
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 3)
World History: Captivating Stories of Events That Shaped Our Planet (Forgotten History, History of the World, History Books)
Winston Churchill: A Captivating Guide to the Life of Winston S. Churchill
Franklin Roosevelt: A Captivating Guide to the Life of FDR
Haitian Revolution: A Captivating Guide to the Abolition of Slavery
Others as well of these type books, please see the the writer's amazon page.
Discover the captivating beliefs of the ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Vikings in this book on Mythology that contains three manuscripts. Manuscript 2: Egyptian Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals, This part is jam-packed with fascinating facts and stories. For instance, it covers perhaps the most popular of all the Egyptian stories - the myth of Osiris. Pieces of this story have been found throughout Egypt. One of the most appealing aspects of the Osiris myth is the human-like behavior of the gods within the story. Many of the other gods of the Egyptian pantheon were rather emotionless and their stories far less interesting. With the Osiris story, the gods display a broad range of emotions that made them more real to mere mortals.
{Please note that the numbering is different in the single books, Norse is 1, Egyptian is 2, Greek is 3} -- noticed a review that said too simplistic, but thought to myself, just how detailed should books such as this be, since I don't want to have needed a Doctorate or some sort of higher degree to read these, so some things do need to be 'simpler' so a layman can actually understand them.
Norse Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Sagas and Heroes (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 1)
Egyptian Mythology: Captivating Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 2)
Greek Mythology: A Captivating Guide to the Ancient Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 3)
Mythology: A Captivating Guide to Greek Mythology, Egyptian Mythology, and Norse Mythology (Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology - Greek Mythology Book 4
Greek Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Ancient Greek Religion with Its Gods, Goddesses, Monsters and Mortals (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 1)
Norse Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Sagas, Gods, Heroes, and Beliefs of the Vikings (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 2)
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals (Greek Mythology - Norse Mythology - Egyptian Mythology Book 3)
World History: Captivating Stories of Events That Shaped Our Planet (Forgotten History, History of the World, History Books)
Winston Churchill: A Captivating Guide to the Life of Winston S. Churchill
Franklin Roosevelt: A Captivating Guide to the Life of FDR
Haitian Revolution: A Captivating Guide to the Abolition of Slavery
Others as well of these type books, please see the the writer's amazon page.
September 29, 2025
3/5
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals by Matt Clayton was a decent read.
It wasn’t boring, at least.
Matt Clayton has a pretty good writing voice, and I found myself caught up in the story of Egypt’s history while reading. I’ve always enjoyed books about Egypt - maybe not as much as prehistory, but still pretty close - and this book scratched that itch a little.
That said, it was definitely on the short side. I was disappointed by the lack of depth and personal detail, especially since I’m not that hard to please when it comes to history.
Because this book is marketed as Egyptian Mythology, I expected more focus on the myths and gods themselves. For example, I would have loved to read more about deities beyond the usual Ra and Seth - like Shu, Tefnut, Nut, Geb, or Horus. Instead, the last portion of the book felt more like a general history of ancient Egypt, which was interesting, but not really what I came for.
On the positive side, Clayton’s writing style is simple and easy to follow. Some readers might find it too plain, but I actually enjoyed the clarity. The book’s brevity also made it a quick and accessible read, though I was left wishing there had been more substance.
Overall, this is a decent starter book if you want a brief introduction to Egyptian mythology with some history thrown in. But if you’re looking for detailed myths, comprehensive coverage of the gods, or richer storytelling, you may need to look elsewhere.
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals by Matt Clayton was a decent read.
It wasn’t boring, at least.
Matt Clayton has a pretty good writing voice, and I found myself caught up in the story of Egypt’s history while reading. I’ve always enjoyed books about Egypt - maybe not as much as prehistory, but still pretty close - and this book scratched that itch a little.
That said, it was definitely on the short side. I was disappointed by the lack of depth and personal detail, especially since I’m not that hard to please when it comes to history.
Because this book is marketed as Egyptian Mythology, I expected more focus on the myths and gods themselves. For example, I would have loved to read more about deities beyond the usual Ra and Seth - like Shu, Tefnut, Nut, Geb, or Horus. Instead, the last portion of the book felt more like a general history of ancient Egypt, which was interesting, but not really what I came for.
On the positive side, Clayton’s writing style is simple and easy to follow. Some readers might find it too plain, but I actually enjoyed the clarity. The book’s brevity also made it a quick and accessible read, though I was left wishing there had been more substance.
Overall, this is a decent starter book if you want a brief introduction to Egyptian mythology with some history thrown in. But if you’re looking for detailed myths, comprehensive coverage of the gods, or richer storytelling, you may need to look elsewhere.
August 9, 2020
Egyptian Mythology: A Fascinating Guide to Understanding the Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, and Mortals
Author: Matt Clayton
Publisher: KDP
Year: 2017
This book is a bit of a difficult read because of the content and vast quantity of times captured but in saying that I very much enjoyed this book. I found this book most informative and a wonderful read for Egyptian history and mythology lovers.
It helps if you have a little bit of prior knowledge of the Egyptian era. If you love Egyptian documentaries you will love this book. It is a nice length of 163 pages that's including an insight into the other books in the collection.
My favourite section is during the reign of Caesar in Chapter 9 — Cleopatra, End of an Epoch:
"Caesar took over the Egyptian capital and decided to end the feud between Ptolemy and his sister, Cleopatra. When Cleopatra heard of this, she returned to Egypt and had her agents roll her up in a carpet so that she could be taken past Ptolemy’s guards into the midst of Julius Caesar. Once there, she used her charms to win Caesar’s affections. Nine months later, their son, Ptolemy Caesar (47–30 BC), was born."
Matt has captured the stories of the gods, goddesses, monsters, and mortals most beautifully in this book with several more books of mythologies available to buy, you can catch up on the wonderful world of mythology.
Author: Matt Clayton
Publisher: KDP
Year: 2017
This book is a bit of a difficult read because of the content and vast quantity of times captured but in saying that I very much enjoyed this book. I found this book most informative and a wonderful read for Egyptian history and mythology lovers.
It helps if you have a little bit of prior knowledge of the Egyptian era. If you love Egyptian documentaries you will love this book. It is a nice length of 163 pages that's including an insight into the other books in the collection.
My favourite section is during the reign of Caesar in Chapter 9 — Cleopatra, End of an Epoch:
"Caesar took over the Egyptian capital and decided to end the feud between Ptolemy and his sister, Cleopatra. When Cleopatra heard of this, she returned to Egypt and had her agents roll her up in a carpet so that she could be taken past Ptolemy’s guards into the midst of Julius Caesar. Once there, she used her charms to win Caesar’s affections. Nine months later, their son, Ptolemy Caesar (47–30 BC), was born."
Matt has captured the stories of the gods, goddesses, monsters, and mortals most beautifully in this book with several more books of mythologies available to buy, you can catch up on the wonderful world of mythology.
March 4, 2023
Had some time to kill today while working so I threw this on to dig a little deeper into Egyptian Myth. First half was fine, but also, made clear how good Scott Lewis' book actually is at finding what I find interesting about Egyptian myth and drawing it out. And while this has more context, especially the historical and geographical, it doesn't feel as fleshed out with the myths. And then the second half gets really weird and unhinged and basically makes it seem like Clayton wrote this book to complain about people not being willing to discuss outlandish theories about Atlantis and ancient technologies that could explain the fantastical elements of these myths. Once the comparison of dragons to airships came up, I was only continuing to read on from that point out of morbid curiosity. Read something else.
August 13, 2021
It's not bad, but it could have included a lot more. Illustrations would have been a great addition - I read the kindle edition, though, and don't know if the paperback might have a few.
If you don't know anything at all about Egyptian mythology and want a basic introduction, this is it. I don't know a great deal, and this sadly hasn't added much. It also changes from mythology to history about halfway through, so you also get an (again very basic) introduction to some of the pharaos.
It's far from complete--I wouldn't call it 'a fascinating guide' as the title claims--*but* if all you want is a basic starting point, then this could be it. If you've already read a few things about Egyptian mythology, it's unlikely that you'll find anything new in this book.
If you don't know anything at all about Egyptian mythology and want a basic introduction, this is it. I don't know a great deal, and this sadly hasn't added much. It also changes from mythology to history about halfway through, so you also get an (again very basic) introduction to some of the pharaos.
It's far from complete--I wouldn't call it 'a fascinating guide' as the title claims--*but* if all you want is a basic starting point, then this could be it. If you've already read a few things about Egyptian mythology, it's unlikely that you'll find anything new in this book.
April 30, 2025
Author uses old Egyptian names for the gods and monsters not their better known Greek variant which, fair enough, it is a book about Ancient Egypt, after all. But at the same time, he goes for an uncommon spelling of some of them like Sett instead of Set to differentiate it from the English word "set" and so on. So, why not use the Greek variant in the first place, especially since this is a book for people who know absolutely nothing about Old Egypt?
Also, I do wish he hadn't mixed fact and fiction, actual non-fictional passages about the gods followed by short fictional stories about this or that god or monster or farao. Because on the one hand, he goes with the old spelling of names, on the other hand he uses phrases like "maintenance crew" or "bitch queen". I mean, what?!
Also, I do wish he hadn't mixed fact and fiction, actual non-fictional passages about the gods followed by short fictional stories about this or that god or monster or farao. Because on the one hand, he goes with the old spelling of names, on the other hand he uses phrases like "maintenance crew" or "bitch queen". I mean, what?!
June 30, 2022
Precise and condensed history of Egyptian Myths
This book is very helpful for providing a very brief introduction to Egyptian mythology. The best feature of this book is its readability and size. If you are pressed for time but find myths interesting, this would be a good place to start brushing up your history. The language is really simple and accessible, there are all the important and notable figures mentioned according to the chronological timeline. Wonderful guide for children and adults alike.
This book is very helpful for providing a very brief introduction to Egyptian mythology. The best feature of this book is its readability and size. If you are pressed for time but find myths interesting, this would be a good place to start brushing up your history. The language is really simple and accessible, there are all the important and notable figures mentioned according to the chronological timeline. Wonderful guide for children and adults alike.
February 3, 2021
It was a quick and easy read, but it left me wanting more.
The title is a bit misleading because only the first half of the book is about mythology. The latter half is about the chronicles of the Egyptian dynasties filled with dramatized portrayals of important historic events.
Although it serves as a good introduction to ancient Egypt in general, for those wanting to learn more about Egyptian mythos and rituals should look somewhere else.
The title is a bit misleading because only the first half of the book is about mythology. The latter half is about the chronicles of the Egyptian dynasties filled with dramatized portrayals of important historic events.
Although it serves as a good introduction to ancient Egypt in general, for those wanting to learn more about Egyptian mythos and rituals should look somewhere else.
April 7, 2021
I've always loved anything having to do with Egypt and the Kings and Queens. This book made me more interested due to the way the author formed the sections together. It's not really that your leaving something behind once a chapter finishes. But, you're continuing on a section into further explanation of a person or scenario. I apologize for being really vague but I don't want to give any spoilers. Overall, this book was amazing!
May 4, 2021
Felt rushed
It was helpful at the beginning with some of the mythology being explained and the basic meanings were very helpful. Going along it has some interesting stories but I felt it getting rushed when all of a sudden it went into actual history. Centuries were suddenly passed over and then there were no more myths. Too quickly it was over, like the point of the book was lost.
It was helpful at the beginning with some of the mythology being explained and the basic meanings were very helpful. Going along it has some interesting stories but I felt it getting rushed when all of a sudden it went into actual history. Centuries were suddenly passed over and then there were no more myths. Too quickly it was over, like the point of the book was lost.
May 8, 2022
Ho Hum
I don't know if I liked it or not.
The Author has done a splendid job of embracing the personality traits between the gods & goddesses as well as the archetypes. It seems to be more an introduction for the common American. However, the introduction was a little too modern and liberal for my palate. Would not suggest to say my grandmother due to language: but I will give it a general thumbs up.
I don't know if I liked it or not.
The Author has done a splendid job of embracing the personality traits between the gods & goddesses as well as the archetypes. It seems to be more an introduction for the common American. However, the introduction was a little too modern and liberal for my palate. Would not suggest to say my grandmother due to language: but I will give it a general thumbs up.
July 28, 2022
I am always fascinated with Egyptian mythology and this book surely gives a brief insights into the same.since it's my first book legit book on Egyptian mythology apart from comics,cartoons and documentaries,i was able to assimilate a lot of knowledge that I am not aware of.Its an easy read and you can skim through it and it's not a deep book.its an easy read as all the figures are chronologically listed.Go for it if you are looking for a easy read on Egyptian mythology.
March 31, 2019
While the myths themselves, the stories, were interesting, I found this book to be much too light and too short to really be worth it. I felt like it wanted to cover a lot of topics, but never took the time to really explain any of them, giving us no more than a cursory glance. And I was hoping for more than that.
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