Children's Classic Books discussion

Shadow Hawk by Andre Norton
Published: 1960


Summary: "This story is based on a little-known period in Egyptian history when the Egyptians lay under the rule of the Hyksos, a nation from Asia Minor who traveled westward and conquered a large area using a new innovation--The horse-drawn chariot. These ruthless invaders were so loathed by the Egyptians, that when they finally revolted and drove them out, the Pharaoh ordered all traces of the occupation obliterated. Therefore, there is a hole in the historical records.

The modern Egyptian government was so impressed with this book that they had it translated into Arabic to use a a reference textbook in their school system.

Captain Rahotep, son of the Viceroy of Nubia, betrayed by his half-brother, goes north to join the Pharaoh in Thebes where he is planning to revolt against the Hyksos and take back the Nile valley. Court intrigue, unscrupulous priests, and attempted assassinations, frame-ups are obstacles Rahotep has to deal with on order to help fight the Hyksos ....." (fan write-up from Norton's website)

Access to read online: https://www.scribd.com/document/18429...

Thanks, Cleo!

I'm really enjoying this so far. Rahotep is already a strong character and I like the introduction of the baby leopard into the story. His father, the Viceroy, has just died and I can't wait to see what happens when his older brother takes over. Probably not good for Rahotep.

Nubian Nature

Much of the ancient Egypt historical fiction I have read seems very similar, and those are not bad for solidifying knowledge of how things were back then. Even some of the more YA books don't get beyond the historical basics.

This, however, has quite a different setting and seems to not duplicate those others. Based on just what I've read so far, I would probably not use this book on a first go-round for the history, but instead would slot in in for fifth grade, when the foundations have been established.

Like you, I'm finding this book rather unique. However, I agree that it's not a book for first exposure to Egypt and the area. Even though I've taught it myself, I found I had to dig back in my mind to solidify the setting, etc. as the book dives right into the story, without much background. I suspect reading the character descriptions gives you background but it's not the best way to introduce it. Fifth grade sounds just about right!

Nubian Archers

Finished chapter 6 - it's shaping up to be a good military story, with political aspects and intrigue.

Michael wrote: "Finished chapter 6 - it's shaping up to be a good military story, with political aspects and intrigue."

I'm probably a little behind you but I just finished another read so now I can give my attention to this one. I'm enjoying this story very much. Norton's characters really come alive and their behaviour adds a nice tension to the story. And the descriptions bring that time of Egyptian history to life.

So ..... we have a number of different cultures in this book. There are the Nubians and the Egyptians and the Hyksos and the Kush. Michael, if you're out there, it's my understanding that Rahotep is part Egyptian on his mother's side and part Nubian on his father's? Is that right? And his nome (if he could claim his inheritance) would be in Egypt.

Yes, that's how I read the information on p. xi.

I'm up to chapter 17 and am enjoying this greatly - there is less of the history and geography and more of the intrigue and action.