Rise of the Golden Cobra

First of all, let me say that I really enjoyed this book. The characters grabbed me and I just wanted to find out what was going to happen to them, and I wasn't disappointed in the least. I had never heard of this part of history, since it seems that the book is based on sort-of real events, and it is, well, far in the past, but it really made me think about the way things are today. Kind of not Harry Potter, but in a good way. Any kid interested in a good story ought to read it.

Rise of the Golden Cobra by Henry T. Aubin is a historical novel based on the military and political campaign of Kush King Piankhy and his goal to unify Egypt in eighth century BCE. The story unfolds through the adventures of a young slave boy, Nebi, who through fate is the sole survivor of a political assassination attempt and must deliver an important message to the King to save the kingdom. Nebi befriends Sheb, the King's nephew, and the two encounter situations where they are introduced to concepts of honor, loyalty, and respect. The reader also gets a sense of Piankhy's renowned moral character which is demonstrated in his military engagements, merciful treatment of prisoners of war, and love of horses. The wisdom behind his decisions indicates extreme intelligence and cunning. Both Nebi and Sheb grow into manhood under a veil of nobility and learn positive life lessons under the King's tutelage. Although targeted for young adults, this "mature" adult learned from the book. Via his notes, the author reminds the reader of the tense political climate of Egypt (separation of Upper and Lower Egypt) at the time of the novel. He layers in the spiritual/religious beliefs of the era and combines many interesting, factual tidbits, e.g. ascension to the Pharaoh's throne was not automatically passed to the eldest child but any nephew, cousin, brother, or other heir could ascend if the council of priests (with the "gods" consent) considered him/her worthy. Also worth noting are the illustrations - they were extremely well done and proved very helpful in orienting the reader to the geographical layout of ancient Egypt and events in the story. Although the author admittedly took some mild liberties in the novel, he based the plot on historically documented conflicts and actual persons while staying true to the time line of events and key characters involved in the campaigns. I recommend this to young adults interested in history, adventure, and ancient Egypt. Reviewed by Phyllis APOOO BookClub