A simple, somewhat fictionalized narrative introduction to the life of King Tut with beautiful illustrations and an author's note. This would pair well with "Tutankhamun" by Demi for further detail and context on Tutankhamun's life. ( )

With astonishing artwork created from cut paper and inks on papyrus, this simply written account of one of Egypt's most fabled kings follows Tutankhamen from his frail childhood through his brief but magnificent reign. A New York Times Notable Children's Book. Full color.

The illustrations in TUTANKHAMEN'S GIFT are simply beautiful and reminiscent of the art of ancient Egypt. The story follows Tutankhamen's life from birth to being crowned as Pharaoh and summarizes his achievement as Pharaoh of Egypt. I found it to be an interesting depiction/opinion of society in general- seeing that the people of Egypt after his father's death utilized the weakened state of the monarchy and used it as an opportunity to rebel and rip Egypt apart. Consequently, I learned that the reason Tutankhamen is so famous is that he is remembered for restoring Egypt. It was a new lesson for me. I knew of him, for the most part, just as one of the intact mummies and "great pharaohs" discovered by anthropologists in the last few decades. I think this book would serve as a great supplement and read aloud for a SS lesson on Egypt. ( )

With pretty illustrations on simulated papyrus paper, this simplified story of King Tut's childhood and rise to power may be a fun way to introduce the culture of ancient Egypt to very young readers. It is a very simplified story and does not offer any biographical notes or references. I would only use as a fun read for young children. I did use it as an example to my 5th graders on how they could write their own stories about an ancient culture. ( )