[Read the Introduction to this 31 Days series here.]
[Read a little more about our analysis process here.]
Seeker of Knowledge: The Man Who Deciphered Egyptian Hieroglyphs is the perfect length for reading aloud at a Book Detectives meeting. It’s a fascinating biographical story, blending history (ancient and modern) and literature with wonderful illustrations. If you’re wanting to add a craft to your Book Detectives meeting, this story is begging for a hieroglyph art project!
Crime Scene [Setting]
Where?
Paris, France [house, roof]
Egypt (Rosetta), Nile River
Real world
When?
Champollion’s whole life (40 years)
Born 1790 (George Washington, French Revolution, Napoleon) [Fair warning: CC students will be breaking into song…]
True historical story
Suspects [Characters]
Who?
Jean-Francois Champollion—seeker of knowledge, loved ancient languages, obsessive, passionate, young
Brother—encouraging and helpful
Englishmen
Napoleon—wanted to dominate world, fascinated by Egypt
