Pyramid
Fast forward Series
What’s inside...
Provides a look at the changes at a spot along the Nile as it becomes the site of a pyramid housing the tomb of an ancient pharaoh, suffers damage over the centuries, and eventually becomes a battlefield and an attraction for sightseers. This account starts around 2700 B.C. showing a site on the banks of the Nile River. The vivid illustrations cover a period of some 30 years, as a pyramid undergoes successive stages of construction, finally serving as a pharaoh’s tomb. Final illustrations bring the story forward to the present day. The pyramid is now a site visited by tourists and archaeologists. Original pictorial treatments of places and events in history make these books as entertaining as they are informative for young readers. Each title covers a single theme with a series of time-sequence illustrations that show how one location has changed over the course of history. Each illustration covers a large two-page spread. Tabs on page edges provide identifying historical dates for each picture, and have labels to explain details in the illustration. A Glossary at the back of each book defines relevant terms.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for people who built the pyramids?
Can you imagine how the builders felt seeing the pyramid completed for the first time?
Why do you think the pyramids were so important in ancient Egyptian culture?
What would you build if you had the chance, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use visual aids or additional books about ancient Egypt to enrich the discussion.
Encourage your child to draw their version of a pyramid or an ancient Egyptian scene.
Ask your child to think about what teamwork skills the pyramid builders would have needed.
Consider building a small model pyramid together using blocks or other materials to make the learning experience interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'Pyramid', the construction of the pyramids showcases how ancient Egyptians worked together, combining their skills and efforts.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together to achieve common goals, whether in group projects at school or during team sports.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and problem-solving
Explanation: The book illustrates the challenges faced by the builders and their determination to find solutions, like transporting heavy stones.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming obstacles and the significance of innovative thinking in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Historical knowledge
Explanation: Through the detailed depiction of the pyramid-building process, children gain insights into ancient Egyptian culture and architectural techniques.
Real-World Application: This knowledge can spark a child’s interest in history and cultures, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the past.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for ancient engineering
Explanation: The book highlights the architectural marvels of the pyramids, explaining the complexities involved in their construction.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an appreciation for ancient innovations and understand how these foundational techniques have influenced modern engineering.