Young adult books are essential for beginning a life-long journey of reading.
“You are both daring and unscrupulous, and you think fast. I have been looking for a person with those particular characteristics. Also I noticed you speak Babylonian.”
Eloise Jarvis McGraw, Mara, Daughter of the Nile
Young adult books provide relatable characters and situations that resonate with readers in this age group. These books often address important issues such as identity, relationships, and personal growth, which can help young adults navigate their own experiences. These books are written in a way that is accessible and engaging, making them an ideal starting point for those who are new to reading or looking to develop their reading and critical thinking skills.
Join Sarah and Rebecca as they travel back in time to Ancient Egypt to discuss the books that started their love of reading.
Mara, Daughter of the Nile by Eloise Jarvis McGraw – The Book Dialogue
“…The queen’s mocking laughter cut in. “This is your treasure, Lord Sheftu?”
“Aye. The greatest treasure in Egypt—a maid whose loyalty cannot be bought. Whatever bargain we make, Daughter of the Sun, must include her freedom.”
Eloise Jarvis McGraw, Mara, Daughter of the Nile
The Book Dialogue 
This sounds like a wonderful read!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It was a wonderful read, with an engaging plot, well-developed characters, and historical setting. I lost my hardcover copy in one of my moves, but I was delighted when it was introduced as an e-book. The other book that influenced me was “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle. Thank you for listening in, Colleen – very much appreciated.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh yes, I remember a Wrinkle in Time! 💜
LikeLiked by 2 people
What a fascinating and multi-layered post, Rebecca and Sarah. I enjoyed the way you approached and pulled all this together. Plus, I’ve been intrigued by ancient Egypt for as long as I can remember. Hugs on the wing.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you so much for listening in, Teagan and for your comments. You and I share a love of Ancient Egypt. There is so much to explore and learn about the ancient world. We forget how much influence they have on our current reality. Sarah and I are truly grateful to writers who give us amazing worlds and stories. Thank you for being a writer! Hugs!!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Wonderful conversation, Sarah and Rebecca — fun and enlightening! There are indeed many great YA novels that get young people interested in reading, while directly or indirectly educating them and exposing them to life’s positive and painful elements. (The horrendous system of slavery being one of the latter, as you noted in the podcast.) Among my favorite YA books are “Anne of Green Gables,” “The Yearling,” “Tom Sawyer,” “Holes,” and “The Hate U Give.”
LikeLiked by 2 people
Many many thanks for listening in. Sorry for the late response – isn’t it interesting how life seems take us in many directions. The Yearling had a huge impact on my life. The themes of family, nature, and growing up, is poignant and compelling. I still have tears when I think of the story. I recall his father saying: “I wanted to spare you, long as I could. I wanted you to frolic with your yearlin’. I knowed the lonesomeness he eased for you. But ever’ man’s lonesome. What’s he to do then? What’s he to do when he gits knocked down? Why, take it for his share and go on.” I have never read of “The Hate U Give.” Just tracked it down, Dave. As always you give me gold nuggets!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ooh, I loved your reading of the excerpt. I would have really enjoyed that book when I was in grade 7. What a coincidence that you discuss the Newbery Award; I mentioned it in my blog post this week.
My immediate thought upon seeing your post come across my email was “Ozymandias.” The video reminded me of how much I enjoyed studying ancient Egypt in the art history course I took in college.
My answer to Sarah’s final question is Winnie the Pooh, which I read in first grade–the original A.A. Milne version, NOT the Disneyized version.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Have you noticed that we have synchronicity as well as serendipity on our side, Liz! I had goosebumps when I read “Ozymandias” which is one of my most favourite poem. I just looked up the background and found that in antiquity, Ozymandias was a Greek name for the pharaoh Ramesses II. (I did no know this until now) Now, I’m off to recite “I met a Traveller from an antique land…..”.
Thank you, Liz for reminding me of this poem. There is something about Ancient Egypt that ignites our adventurous spirit.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, I have noticed our synchronicity and serendipity, Rebecca! I’m so glad my comment send you to one of your favorite poems! I remember the big spread on the King Tut exhibit in National Geographic. I was fascinated, I and decided I would be an archaeologist–until I learned, to my chagrin, that archaeologists spend the majority of their time sifting dirt through sieves in the hot sun.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi both, this sounds like a fascinating book about Egypt. I also remember being fascinated by everything Ancient Egyptian when I was young. I remember watching Raiders of the Lost Ark with complete interest and amazement. Books that influenced me as a girl. Gosh, I was such a prolific reader but I will give you a few series I read: Laura Ingalls Wilder Little House books, The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis, Anything by Enid Blyton but in particular, The Enchanted Wood series, the Famous Five series, and The Land of Far Beyond, All the Anne and Emily Moon books by LM Montgomery, The Secret Garden, The Borrowers series, all things Roald Dahl, all things Beatrix Potter, I am David, The Diary of a Young Girl, Dr. Doolittle. I am sure there were many more, but these are off the top of my head. Oh, and Little Women.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Robbie – what a wonderful diverse reading journey. This reading had a profound influence and provided a strong foundation for your writing. You have given your children a wonderful reading legacy. Reading is a gift and you have opened the gift over and over again. Thank you for being a writer.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Hi Rebecca, thank you, I love reading and it has always been my companion.
LikeLiked by 2 people