The Treasured Thief

February 13, 2012
This graphic novel offers an entertaining tale of adventure and redemption set in ancient Egypt. A beautiful princess searching for a worthy husband sets the plot in motion, and soon a mysterious suitor tries to win her heart by telling her a story full of twists and turns as well as greed and love. At its heart is a question of morality, pitting a family’s survival against the rule of law and the betrayal of the pharaoh. Nagar floods his striking artwork with a rich palette of ruby, sapphire, and gold; the jewel tones underscore the critical role of riches in the plot and conjure up the sizzling heat of the day and star-filled grandeur of the night. Foley does not steer away from grisly details of Egyptian life, including slavery and violence, although the illustrations are circumspect on these points. Ages 12–up. (Jan.) ■