Comments for Diary of the Boy King Tutankhamen

Diary of the Boy King Tutankhamen: 06/17/08

I've been interested in Tutankhamen and more broadly the 18th dynasty since my senior year of high school. So when I saw this 1978 historical novel, Diary of the Boy King Tutankhamen by June Reig, I had to read it.

Diary of the Boy King... covers roughly a year, starting just before the coronation and through the first few months of Tutankhamen's reign. Reig's entries include common every day events along with historically significant moments. Some of the entries have little drawings to illustrate some of the items found in Tutankhamen's tomb. The diary helps to put these pieces of treasure into a more human context.

From the dozen or so historical fictions I've read where Tutankhamen is a character, Reig's depiction is the most genuine. She manages to walk the line between little boy and powerful monarch.

The book ends as it must with a brief note from Ankhenesamen mourning her husband's early death and wondering about her future and the kingdom's future. I knew the ending was coming but it still left me feeling a little sad.

books | childrens | historical fiction | 1978 | june reig

Comments (8)

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Comment #1: Wednesday, June, 18, 2008 at 12:28:36

Linda R. Moore

This sounds like one I would enjoy. :) I think I was about 7 or 8 when his tomb was opened and our primary school teacher did a fantastic painting of the mask. That was it. Hooked!"

Comment #2: Wednesday, June, 18, 2008 at 10:46:11

pussreboots

I checked the book out from my local library, otherwise I'd RABCK it to you."

Comment #3: Wednesday, June, 18, 2008 at 21:09:54

Linda R. Moore

I have almost finished Mt. TBR so I'll be starting your travel RABCK soon. :)

I'll join the library here and see if they can get it for me :)"

Comment #4: Wednesday, June, 18, at 19:48:10

pussreboots

Wow. I am trying to work my way through mount TBR too. "

Comment #5: Wednesday, June, 18, 2008 at 23:51:02

Shaunesay

I'll have to keep an eye out for this one! Thanks for "discovering" it for me! :) "

Comment #6: Wednesday, June, 18, 2008 at 23:23:30

pussreboots

There are copies available for purchase online or maybe your library will have a copy like mine did."

Comment #7: Saturday, June, 21, 2008 at 11:42:18

Carrie, Reading to Know

I also find this particular time in history a bit fascinating. How can help it? It's magical and unlike anything we know in the modern world.

This book sounds like something I would definitely enjoy so I'll be looking for it! Thanks for the review!"

Comment #8: Saturday, June, 21, 2008 at 16:38:34

pussreboots

Try your local library. That's were I found the copy I read. If they don't have it, try the online used book sellers like Alibris. Happy reading."

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