I wish I had read this as a child. I know I would have been into it. It's a heartfelt and intelligent story of friendship, imagination, and adventure. Published in 1967, it's a little bit dated - but only in that the kids are allowed to roam free without adult supervision in their urban neghborhood. Today's sheltered kids might be really jealous! There are some heavy parts involving the murder of a neighborhood girl and the way it impacts the characters's play, so I'd say this isn't for any kid under 9 or 10. But I do recommend it for kids who are into Egpyt or who want a good story of friendship and mystery.