Hatshepsut and Ancient Egypt

Children's Literature - Betty Hicks

Over three thousand years ago, Hatshepsut became the first female pharaoh to rule Egypt--yet no one knew she existed until the late 1800's. This engaging book, in the "Rulers and Their Times" series, reveals the intentional cover-up and other historical details of her reign as well as information about everyday life. Did you know that men spent hours on hair care? Or that baldness was treated with a mash made of date pits, dog toes, and donkey hoofs? Toys, however, sound familiar enough to be in your own closet: dolls, tops, balls, jacks, and a crocodile that opens its jaws with the pull of a string. This mixture of the seemingly modern and ancient inspires fresh thinking about early civilizations, while entertaining with fascinating facts. One section, Egyptians in Their Own Words, contains excerpts of actual unearthed letters from complaining school children and angry wives. Numerous inclusions of painting and sculpture illustrate this well-organized and very readable text. There is also an index, reading list, glossary, and even online links for readers who are sure to want to know more.