Miriam

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-6-Just as the animated film The Prince of Egypt brought new life to the story of Moses leading the Hebrews to the Promised Land, Gormley reinvents the story of Moses's older sister. It is 11-year-old Miriam who dreams of her infant brother's salvation in a basket on the river. And Miriam, too, who suggests to the Egyptian princess Bint-Anath that she find a wet nurse for him. Ironically, Miriam arranges for their mother to come live at the palace to care for her own son. The story is told alternately by Miriam and by a narrator observing the thoughts and actions of Nebet, the princess's lady-in-waiting, thus enabling readers to understand and appreciate both the Hebrew and Egyptian points of view. Nebet is a wise, sympathetic character, loyal to the princess, while cautious and cunning in maintaining her and her mistress' favor with Pharaoh. Miriam is far more than a biblical retelling. Gormley gives readers the universal struggle between mother and daughter. In order to please the princess and hide her Hebrew heritage, the girl adopts Egyptian costume, hairstyle, and jewelry, prompting her mother to denounce her. In the end, Miriam must choose between her people and the enticing life she has found at the palace. The author provides rich insights into the characters' motivations, as well as a vivid portrait of Hebrew and Egyptian religious and daily life.