Cleopatra and Ancient Egypt for Kids

June 1, 2018

Gr 5 Up-This multifaceted look at the life and times of Cleopatra includes 21 interdisciplinary activities that bring a fascinating era to life. In clear and engaging prose, Carr describes the complicated political machinations that defined the life of Cleopatra beginning with her murderous, conniving relatives and their struggles to gain power. Shrewd and intelligent, Cleopatra absorbed many important political lessons from an early age and went on to rule Egypt. Her strength and determination in dealing with Rome, and her relationship with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, are explored in detail, punctuated with fascinating tidbits and insight into the individuals and their unique relationships. While much of the information provided is not new, Carr does an admirable job reminding readers to consider the way Cleopatra's life has been described by different recorders of history and to consider the implications of the contrasting accounts. Her legacy has been appropriated by ancient historians and in popular culture, while many of the actual facts of her life can only be surmised. Photographs of Egyptian art and artifacts, maps, and frequent sidebars punctuate and enhance the text, while the 21 activities provide varying levels of related fun (creating a writing tablet, making breath fresheners and an Egyptian-style wig, writing an ancient Egyptian love poem). VERDICT A well-rounded portrait of Cleopatra and a fine approach to learning about her culture. Consider where Egyptian history is in demand.-Kristy Pasquariello, Westwood Public Library, MA

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