The Tomb of the Boy King: A True Story in Verse

By John Frank

Book Overview

The mummy's curse? A gold moon rose beyond the cliffs and lured the robbers from their lair, as sunset's last light bled upon the sacred desert grave site where the boy king, Tutankhamen, lay surrounded by his treasure hoard, protected by a curse, some say, as dangerous as a sharpened sword. Thus begins the strange unfolding of events encompassing one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries of the twentieth century -- the tomb of King Tutankhamen. The breathtaking combination of John Frank's narrative poem and Tom Pohrt's illustrations brings a new dimension of suspense and excitement to this astonishing true story.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0374376743
• ISBN13: 9780374376741
• Release Date: April 2001
• Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
• Length: 30 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 7.8" x 11.3"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Incredible Writing and Illustrating

I was so impressed with this book that I've shared it with many children and adults. Like me, they are captivated by the rhythm, history, and eloquent details. Before reading they doubt a poem could present an engaging story. However, once they begin reading they are hooked and often tell me they read it again. It really is a rare book. The author is obviously a talented poet. His smooth and captivating use of language is accessable as well as articulate. You can picture the events so easily, as if you were there. The illustrations are remarkable, as well. I was quite certain it would win awards, but have heard the publisher doesn't tend to promote their children's books. In these times of poorly written celebrity children's books (which, sadly are the best sellers) it would be so refreshing to have a book of this caliber receive the attention it deserves. If you appreciate quality children's literature, this book is a must to read and own. How often do you get to enjoy an extremely well written historical poem that captivates children and adult imaginations? Tomb of the Boy King is a treasure on our family bookshelf. It's an often requested read-aloud. I highly recommend it to all.

Great!

This is an awesome poem, and I can't believe that someone can weave a story like King Tut into a book like this. You should buy it because it's historically correct, and the verses are simply great (sorry, I'm not the best with adjectives at 11:15 at night).