I'm giving this 5 stars because I know that I LOVED it as a kid. But maybe I should I try to find it and read it again now, lol.

I first read this book when I was in third grade, and it sparked my own interests in archaeology in general and Egyptology, specifically. (Ok, and Indiana Jones helped with that interest too.) I have read this book multiple times, even reread it within the last year, and it never fails to entertain.

One of the things that I admire most about this book is that the story and its characters are still so relatable. (Marshall is probably my favorite.) I'm sure part of that has to do with the variety in ages, personalities, and ethnic backgrounds. It's really rare to read a book that features a nice balance between all of those factors.

The slang used in the book is a little dated, so if you give it to a younger reader, be available to answer questions, but otherwise, it's a great little book!

This was one of my favorite books in elementary school, we had to read it for class. It encourages children to look at history and also to use their imaginations. It has been challenged in some school districts because it supposedly promotes “the use of black magic by children.” I don’t know if I’ve ever heard anything more ridiculous. You may not agree with ancient Egyptian mythology, however, you cannot say it has not had an effect on the modern day world. There is something to be said for collective cultural memory. It’s also a superbly written book. It is one that I would definitely read to my own children, if I had them.

Challenge our children, not the books!

*Reread in 2014.

i love books that say "weird little girl rights"

Some years ago, one of my sons read The Egypt Game by Zilpha Keattey Snyder, a 1968 Newbery Honor Book. He has been begging me for literally years to read this book, but he and I both have extensive lists we think I should read, so it's taken me awhile to get to it. However, I'm glad that I finally did!

This story has strong Bridge to Terabithia vibes, but without the sobbing tears at the end. It's about two friends with a rich, imaginative private life, it's about the power of play, it's about the magic in that final summer of childhood, and it's about friendship.

April Hall is a child who is sent from her glamorous showbiz mother to live with her grandmother away outside of the Hollywood life. April doesn't really fit in with her froofy hair and fake eyelashes, but her neighbor Melanie Ross gives her a chance. The two girls bond over their love of books and over their avid imaginations. Over a period of time, they develop an entire play world of rituals and language and characters.

Unfortunately, their world is put at risk by nosy classmates who might break the magic and put at risk even more seriously by a murderer in the neighborhood who keeps them from their play.

I don't want to spoil anything, but I had some mixed feelings about the conclusion of the story. However, overall, it was a well done tale. I know it swept my son up into the magic of their world and inspired him to get creative, too.