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Mara, Daughter of The Nile

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1953

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Book Brief

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Eloise Jarvis McGraw

Mara, Daughter of The Nile

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1953
Book Details
Pages

279

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Egypt

Publication Year

1953

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

910L

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Super Short Summary

Mara, Daughter of The Nile by Eloise Jarvis McGraw is a historical fiction novel set during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut in ancient Egypt. It follows Mara, an enslaved and resourceful young woman who is leveraged as a spy by opposing political factions. Posing as a freedwoman and interpreter, she navigates dangerous court intrigues and her loyalties waver as she becomes entangled in a revolutionary plot. Descriptions of violence, including the beating of enslaved persons, are present in the book.

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Romantic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.5

13,628 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Mara, Daughter of the Nile by Eloise Jarvis McGraw offers a thrilling historical adventure with a strong, clever heroine. Readers praise its vivid portrayal of Ancient Egypt and engaging plot. Some critique it for occasional predictability and character stereotypes. Overall, it’s celebrated for its action and historical richness, captivating both young and adult readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mara, Daughter of The Nile?

Readers who savor historical fiction with strong female protagonists will relish Mara, Daughter of the Nile by Eloise Jarvis McGraw. This novel captivates fans of The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan and Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray, blending ancient Egyptian intrigue with adventure and romance.

4.5

13,628 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Mara

A 17-year-old enslaved girl with a talent for reading and writing, who aspires to gain her freedom and involve herself in the political intrigues of the Egyptian court. Her intelligence and beauty play significant roles in her tasks as a spy.

The son of a wealthy Egyptian, who leads a rebellion against Queen Hatshepsut while leading a double life as an apprentice scribe. Known for his charisma and deep bond with fellow insurgents.

A kind-hearted princess from Canaan, brought to Egypt for a potential political marriage. Her perceptivity and empathy make a strong impact on Mara, fostering a close friendship.

A straightforward river captain who becomes Sheftu's confidant and a steadfast supporter of Mara. His unique perspective as a commoner offers insights into the sentiment of the Egyptian populace against the queen.

The queen of Egypt, portrayed as the story's main antagonist, whose reign is marked by grand projects and an iron grip on power. Her conflict with the rebels is central to the story's tension.

Book Details
Pages

279

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Egypt

Publication Year

1953

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

910L

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