83 pages • 2 hours read
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248
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Egypt • Antiquity
1961
Middle grade
9-12 years
930L
Young Ranofer’s dreams of becoming a goldsmith seem impossible because of his abusive half-brother’s influence unless he can prove the man is a thief in Eloise Jarvis McGraw’s esteemed middle-grade historical mystery, The Golden Goblet (1961). As Ranofer struggles to escape from Gebu’s evil control, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of doing the right thing.
Adventurous
Mysterious
Inspirational
Suspenseful
Challenging
10,143 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Golden Goblet by Eloise McGraw is praised for its vivid depiction of ancient Egypt, engaging story, and well-developed characters. However, some readers found the pacing slow and the prose antiquated. Nevertheless, the novel's educational value and ability to capture the reader's imagination were widely appreciated.
Ideal for middle-grade readers aged 9-12 who enjoy historical fiction. Fans of Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia will appreciate the rich storytelling and ancient Egyptian setting of The Golden Goblet by Eloise McGraw. Comparable to The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for its adventurous spirit.
10,143 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gebu
Ranofer's cruel and exploitative half-brother, who controls Ranofer's life and involves him in illegal schemes, using his stonecutting skills for tomb robbing.
Heqet
A good-natured and clever apprentice at the gold shop, Heqet is one of Ranofer’s first friends who helps break through his reserve and stands by him during difficult times.
The Ancient
A wise and humorous elderly man who befriends Ranofer, offering guidance and friendship, and works by cutting and delivering papyrus.
Rekh the Goldsmith
Ranofer’s master at the gold shop, a gentle and compassionate craftsman who recognizes Ranofer’s talent and allows him to work with gold despite not being an apprentice.
Zau the Master
A renowned and skilled goldsmith in Thebes and a friend of Ranofer’s father, Zau offers Ranofer a mentorship opportunity, recognizing the boy's potential.
Qa-nefer of Abydos
A clever and conceited dwarf favored by Queen Tiy, Qa-nefer plays a crucial role in validating Ranofer's concerns about tomb robbing, leveraging his position to aid the situation.
Queen Tiy
The powerful wife of Pharaoh, Queen Tiy investigates Ranofer’s claims about tomb robbing, her engagement revealing her regal authority and influence.
Wenamon
A silent and observant mason who collaborates with Gebu in illegal tunneling and tomb robbing, often perceived as threatening by Ranofer and his friends.
Ibni
A Babylonian porter at Rekh’s goldsmith shop involved in stealing gold, he tries to appear ingratiating but is ultimately self-serving and untrustworthy.
Setma
A Nile boat captain who assists in smuggling stolen gold out of Thebes, later pushed out of the operation for seeking greater profit.
248
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Egypt • Antiquity
1961
Middle grade
9-12 years
930L
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