The Golden Goblet
by Eloise Jarvis McGraw · Grade 5-8 · Ages Ages 10-14
In ancient Egypt, a boy named Ranofer dreams of becoming a skilled goldsmith like his father. But he is trapped working for his cruel half-brother, and when he notices something suspicious, he must find courage and clever friends to help him.
Key vocabulary
A goblet is a special drinking cup, often with a stem. It can be made of metal, glass, or even gold.
An apprentice is someone who learns a job or craft by working with a skilled person. Ranofer wants to learn the craft of making beautiful things from gold.
A goldsmith is a person who makes jewelry, cups, and other objects out of gold. It takes careful hands and lots of practice.
A pharaoh was a ruler of ancient Egypt. People treated the pharaoh like a king with great power.
A tomb is a special place where a person is buried after death. In ancient Egypt, tombs often held treasures and important objects.
Papyrus is a plant that ancient Egyptians used to make a kind of paper. People wrote messages and records on it.
Alabaster is a smooth, pale stone that can be carved into bowls, jars, and statues. It often looks soft and creamy.
An amulet is a small charm people wear or carry for good luck or protection. In ancient Egypt, amulets were often shaped like animals or symbols.