Miriam

Though brief biographies of biblical characters abound, young readers are rarely provided with fully realized portraits of key religious figures. Gormley's (Ellie's Birthstone Ring) innovative work of historical fiction offers an accessible look at the life of Miriam, Moses' older sister. The author weaves the contemporary political and geographical setting into her story and explains the tension between the Egyptians and the Hebrews during the reign of Ramses the Great. In this entertaining expansion of biblical events, Gormley describes Miriam's feisty spirit and resourceful, respectful ways. The heroine's emotions are nearly palpable when she saves her baby brother's life by sending him sailing among the rushes and into the arms of Pharaoh's daughter, Princess Bint-Anath. Gormley's novel not only imparts many interesting details but may well send children back to the original Bible passages that were its inspiration. Ages 9-14. (Feb.)