The Egypt Game (original 1967; udgave 2009)

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I have read this book many times, though I don't actually remember when any of them were. I remember loving it. I'm pretty sure it influenced my Halloween costumes in the past. Beyond that, though, I don't remember much about it.

Ugh. This book is not nice. I mean I did like the last two chapters, but the rest of the time I was thinking I should just quit and never re-start. The characters are doing idol worship. ( )

A wonderful story for middle grades and advanced younger readers. Superbly written with an authentic voice that reflects the children's perspective. In the narrative, a great deal of imagination on the part of the characters translates into an elaborate game, secret from the adults. The plot is a nifty, natural-teaching moment which engaged readers might find very inspiring for their own purposes.

In re-reading this novel (with a 20+ year gap), I was struck by a particularly adult realization: the story never dips into a conversation about the dangers of playing secretively or admonishing the kids about sneaking out at night. I think that's because Snyder wrote the story in 1967, so it's very much a narrative of 'back in the day'. Kids are still loving this tale so I was delighted to find a reprinted copy. ( )

Another book brought out of hiding for my nephew's benefit, another book impossible to ignore.

The great thing about Snyder's books is that the only magic around is the magic you make yourself. Her books gave her protagonists control over their often difficult lives and insecurities, gave them happiness and friendship, armed only with books from the library and their wild imaginations.

I've found out by browsing many bookstores that most of Snyder's books appear to be out of print, or simply not stocked. This is a shame, because even if such details like money and fashion are extremely dated (April, in imitation of her absent mother, sports a beehive hairdo and large, false eyelashes to appear glamorous), her writing is still strong and her characters' situations and emotions are still relevant. Snyder wrote simply, but did not patronize her audience. Often very real and frightening elements come into play.

'The Egypt Game' seems to have been one of her few that have remained in print and is an entertaining adventure. Books like this are what keep up my hopes about rereading my childhood favorites. ( )