The Last Egyptian

L. Frank Baum wrote The Last Egyptian (1908) under a pseudonym. The story follows English Egyptologist Winston Bey, who encounters Kāra, a descendant of Ahtka-Rā and the grandson of Lord Roane. Kāra seeks revenge on the man and his family, and his grandmother reveals the way to their ancient treasure. The novel is a classic of adventure fiction for fans of the Oz series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Graphic Arts Books

L. Frank Baum, the renowned author of the iconic Land of Oz series, ventured into the realm of conventional fiction for adults under various pseudonyms. One such work is The Last Egyptian, which was published anonymously in 1908. This captivating tale unfolds a tapestry of corruption, betrayal, romance, and adventure.

Adapted into a silent film in 1914 by Baum and J. Farrell MacDonald, a prominent figure in early American cinema, The Last Egyptian captivates with its rich storytelling. The film follows the journey of English Egyptologist Winston Bey, who travels alone across Egypt. Along the way, he encounters an intriguing local named Kāra, who claims to be the descendant of Ahtka-Rā, a powerful advisor to Rameses II. Despite initial doubts, Winston enlists Kāra's help in his quest.

Back home, Kāra cares for his ailing grandmother, Hatatcha, who reveals a life-changing secret upon her deathbed: Kāra is the grandson of Lord Roane, an Englishman who abandoned his pregnant wife. Fueled by a burning desire for revenge, Kāra vows to seek retribution against Lord Roane and his family. Before she passes away, Hatatcha guides Kāra to their family's ancient treasure, a horde of jewels and priceless artifacts that will serve as the foundation for his revenge plot.

While The Last Egyptian may differ from the fantasy and fairy tale style that Baum's readers have come to love, it remains an entertaining and captivating work of adventure fiction. With its beautifully designed cover and professional typography, the book showcases Baum's storytelling prowess and his ability to captivate readers across different genres.

For fans of the Oz series and those seeking a thrilling adventure into the world of ancient Egypt, The Last Egyptian is a must-read. It offers a unique blend of mystery, intrigue, and romance, providing a captivating glimpse into the lives of its characters and the treacherous journey they undertake.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513211756