Books matching: ancient scrolls
13 result(s)
- #1
Save:A solid, faith-friendly portal fantasy packed with action and adventure - perfect for tweens, teens, and anyone who appreciates allegorical world-building, though it might not dazzle those looking for more nuanced themes or subtle storytelling.
'The Door Within' by Wayne Thomas Batson is a Christian fantasy novel that tells the story of Aiden Thomas, a young boy who discovers ancient scrolls in his grandfather's basement and is transported into a fantastical world. In this realm, Aiden must embark on a quest to save his friends from the evil knight Paragal, who betrayed and killed King Eliam. Through battles and challenges, Aiden learns about loyalty, sacrifice, and the power of faith. The book is written in a way that presents Christian themes subtly, allowing both secular and Christian audiences to appreciate the story's depth and meaning.
The writing style of 'The Door Within' is captivating, with fast-paced action sequences that are interspersed with moments of reflection and character development. The author, Wayne Thomas Batson, weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and Christian allegory to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
Grampin told me you had another one of those dreams,” Aidan’s dad said. He tentatively put his hand on his son’s shoulder and gave a firm, reassuring squeeze. Aidan shrugged it off as if it were a was...2005•369 pages - #2
Save:The Third Grave by David Case is a gripping tale that follows archaeologist Thomas Ashley as he is invited by Lucian Mallory to translate ancient Egyptian scrolls. As Ashley delves deeper into the translation, he uncovers a sinister plot involving murders in the area, ghostly phenomena, and a collection of ancient relics that hint at dark secrets. The story seamlessly transitions from a supernatural mummy thriller to a chilling exploration of human nature and morality, all set in an atmospheric and suspenseful narrative reminiscent of classic horror tales.
Knowing Mallory but slightly, I was surprised when his letter arrived at the cottage. The day had been foul: the sky was drab with undefined clouds, and the rain careened wildly in the wind. The unhap...1981•184 pages - #3
Save:Heartfelt, inspiring, and easy to digest, this book remains a beloved motivational staple - even beyond the world of sales. Perfect for anyone needing encouragement, but maybe not for hard-nosed cynics or those looking for practical, step-by-step sales techniques.
The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino is a captivating narrative that offers ten principles for sales, salesmanship, and personal growth through the story of Hafid, a young camel boy who receives the keys to success after a generous act. The book highlights the basic principles of sales in a compelling story, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, ambition, love for others, and taking immediate action to achieve success. Mandino's writing style combines eloquence with impactful storytelling, drawing readers into Hafid's world and making the lessons relatable to various aspects of life.
The book structure, presented as ten ancient scrolls, adds a unique touch to the storytelling, revealing principles that, when embraced, can transform one's life. The simplicity of the message makes it accessible to readers from all walks of life, inspiring action and encouraging readers to apply the principles in their daily lives. The Greatest Salesman in the World is not just for sales professionals but a profound journey for anyone seeking personal and professional growth, with each reading unveiling new layers of insight and inspiration.
1968•132 pages - #4
Save:A fast, action-heavy historical horror romp with a cool premise - but if you crave depth or subtlety, it might leave you wanting more.
'Abomination' by Gary Whitta is a historical horror fiction set in the dark ages after the fall of the Roman Empire. The story revolves around the discovery of ancient scrolls detailing rituals that transform animals and humans into hideous abominations, leading to death, destruction, and tragedy. The plot involves a chain of events triggered by these rituals, creating a lovecraftian feeling with visceral gore, action, and heartbreaking situations that suck the reader in at every turn. The narrative features two protagonists engaging in yammering dialogues, an unconvincing double cross, and a soft conclusion, keeping readers engaged despite some pacing issues.
Alfred was tired. It had been a long, hard war, and though he had won it, he had barely rested since. He knew that the peace would not last long. For an English king, he had learned, it never did. The...July 2015•366 pages - #5
Save:A rollicking romantic adventure with all the fun of a classic treasure hunt - perfect for anyone who loves a heroine with brains, brawn, and a knack for finding trouble (and maybe love) along the way.
In The Book of the Seven Delights by Betina Krahn, readers are taken on a historical adventure romance set in the late 19th century. The story follows librarian Abigail Merchant as she embarks on a journey to Marrakech in search of lost volumes from the famed Library of Alexandria. Along the way, she encounters Apollo Smith, a former French Foreign Legionnaire, and together they navigate through the Moroccan desert, facing hazards and challenges while falling in love. The book cleverly combines elements of historical accuracy, strong female protagonists, and thrilling escapades, making it a delightful read for fans of the genre.
Betina Krahn's writing style shines in The Book of the Seven Delights, as she vividly brings to life the Moroccan desert, Berber tribes, Legionnaires, and the challenges of travel in the late 19th century. The plot unfolds at a captivating pace, blending elements of romance, adventure, and suspense seamlessly. Readers are introduced to a headstrong and intelligent protagonist in Abigail, whose interactions with Apollo add depth and intrigue to the story. With a mix of historical accuracy, engaging characters, and a touch of humor, this book offers a captivating and entertaining read for those who enjoy historical romantic suspense.
Abigail gripped the edges of her narrow bunk aboard the storm-battered Star of Persia—and fought the urge to hurl herself across the cabin to the chamber pot once again. Clearly, Maude Cummings was fu...June 2005•336 pages - #6
Save:A lively, thought-provoking love letter to the drama and resilience of libraries; a bit rambling, but an engaging read for anyone who finds libraries enchanting - or essential.
Matthew Battles' book 'Library: An Unquiet History' explores the evolution of libraries through the ages, from ancient times to the present day. The book delves into the history of libraries in various regions such as Alexandria, China, Rome, and England, highlighting their significance and the challenges they have faced. Battles discusses the role of libraries as repositories of knowledge, their impact on society, and the individuals who have shaped the world of literature and libraries. The writing style is described as engaging, informative, and at times whimsical, making it an intriguing journey through the history of libraries.
The book is not a comprehensive history but rather a collection of anecdotes and reflections on libraries, literature, and biblioclasms. It covers a wide range of topics, from the deliberate destruction of books in different eras to the changing role of libraries as intellectual institutions. Battles weaves together stories of ancient scrolls, the Dewey Decimal system, and the struggles faced by libraries throughout history, offering a varied and fascinating exploration of the world of books and libraries.
When I first went to work in Harvard’s Widener Library, I immediately made my first mistake: I tried to read the books. I quickly came to know the compulsive vertigo that Thomas Wolfe’s Eugene Gant, p...2003•274 pages - #7
Save:A fascinating, fast-paced account of the true-life treasure hunt for Silk Road wonders - equal parts adventure, history lesson, and cultural debate. Well worth your time if you love forgotten cities and the stories behind museum treasures.
Foreign Devils on the Silk Road by Peter Hopkirk is a historical documentation of the expeditions and adventures undertaken by explorers and antiquarians in Central Asia between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book delves into the competition among various countries to explore and acquire treasures from the ancient Silk Road routes, particularly focusing on the conflicts and ethical dilemmas faced by these adventurers. Through vivid storytelling and thorough research, the author brings to life the challenges faced by these men as they searched for buried civilizations and cultural artifacts in the desolate landscapes of the Taklamakan Desert.
The narrative of Foreign Devils on the Silk Road is a captivating blend of scholarly research and adventurous anecdotes, presenting a compelling insight into the historical significance of the Silk Road and the impact of Western exploration on the cultural heritage of Central Asia. With a focus on the race to uncover ancient Buddhist civilizations and the moral implications of acquiring these treasures, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the interactions between European powers, local inhabitants, and the artifacts that shaped modern international relations.
‘The Chinese complain, and the foreigner cannot well deny it, that caravan-loads of priceless treasures from the temples, tombs and ruins of Chinese Turkistan have been carried off to foreign museums...1980•280 pages - #8
Save:'Virgin' by F. Paul Wilson is a supernatural thriller that combines Christian mythology with the author's unique writing style. The story follows Father Dan Fitzpatrick and nun Carrie Ferris, who embark on a journey to Israel in search of the body of the Virgin Mary after discovering ancient scrolls. The plot unfolds with a mix of mystery, religious fantasy, and supernatural elements, leading to unexpected events that challenge the characters and keep the readers engaged.
Achmed swatted the donkey's flanks with greater vigor as he and his brother pulled and drove the reluctant beast up the incline into the craggy foothills of the Judean Wilderness. Behind him the parch...1996•339 pages - #9
Save:A challenging but deeply rewarding read for fans of experimental fiction and big ideas. Approach with patience and an open mind - it's not your typical novel, but it just might become one of your favorites if you click with McElroy's unique style.
Cannonball by Joseph McElroy is a novel that delves into the complexities of human connections and interactions amidst a backdrop of war-torn Iraq. The narrative follows Zach, a war photographer with a past intertwined with high diving, and his friendship with Umo, a high diving savant facing challenges of documentation and stability. Through a cubist command of time, McElroy seamlessly transitions between present-day Iraq and Zach's tumultuous high school years, exploring themes of identity, purpose, and belonging.
McElroy's writing style in Cannonball is characterized by intricate sentences that push the limits of storytelling, reminiscent of modernist masters like Gertrude Stein and Samuel Beckett. Despite the complexity of the prose, the novel maintains a gripping pace that reads like a thriller, offering a close examination of a society in conflict while highlighting the nuances of human experiences and relationships.
It is my brother I would speak of—I will call him that—though I begin with the Scrolls. How they made it through by water, as our people, a sect of them, said they would who reportedly at their peril...July 2013•312 pages - #10
Save:A swift, satirical poke at religion, academia, and publishing - funny, clever, and full of bite, but not for those seeking depth or comfort. Best enjoyed by readers with a taste for smart, dark humor.
'The Fire Gospel' by Michel Faber is a modern retelling of the Prometheus myth, where Canadian academic Theo Griepenkerl discovers a set of scrolls in Iraq written by Malchus, an eyewitness to the Crucifixion of Christ. Theo translates these scrolls, which become known as the Fifth Gospel, and leads to fame and fortune. The book delves into the impact of this discovery on Theo's life, the conflicts between faith and facts, and the satire on modern culture and publishing industry.
The museum curator swung open another antique door and, as if on cue, a lion's head fell off its body. A big stone lion's head, carved centuries ago: smack on the floor. Splinters of ceramic tile jump...
