Beneath the Sands of Egypt

Adventures of an Unconventional Archaeologist

By: Donald P. Ryan

Narrated by: Paul Boehmer

Length: 10 hrs and 16 mins

Publisher's summary

A real-life "Indiana Jones", Donald P. Ryan, PhD, offers a breathtaking personal account of his adventures in archaeology in Beneath the Sands of Egypt. Fans of The Lost City of Z will thrill to the exploits of this "unconventional archaeologist" as he retrieves the remains of Egypt's past - including his breakthrough discovery in the Valley of the Kings of Egypt's famous female pharaoh, Hatshepsut.

©2010 Donald P. Ryan, PhD (P)2020 Tantor

What an adventure!

In the case of Beneath the Sands of Egypt by Donald P Ryan, the subtitle of Adventures of an Unconventional Archaeologist is pretty much spot on. This fascinating book serves Ryan's memoir, as he recounts the winding path that brought him to Egypt and the many adventures he had there, not only digging in the sands but also participating in the filming of documentaries. As an added bonus, he also shares how he came to cross paths with the legendary explorer Thor Heyerdahl and ended up helping this legend with his own research. That's quite a career, and Ryan himself shows that not only does he possess a lively curiosity, but he delivers the account of exploits in an engaging fashion with somewhat wryly humorous observations.

In listening to this audiobook, beautifully narrated by Paul Boehmer, I also inadvertently also learnt a lot more about the importance of fibre technology in ancient Egypt than I expected I would (!!!) – and I love it when books deliver such seemingly inconsequential factoids. Yes, there is an Egypt Papyrus Museum, and yes, I want to go there one day.

Ryan offers a perfect blend of archaeological research and amusing anecdotes, so there is never a dull moment in this book. I was quite sad when I reached the end, and I'm happy to report that I've since picked up two copies of his other publications. Perhaps one of the highlights for the read was Ryan describing how they staged the scenes where he and a television presenter encountered bats in old tombs. Ryan also reminds me why although I love all things Egypt, I'm rather glad that I'm able to indulge in my passion without trying to monetise it. While many people may have a desire to embark on careers in Egyptology, the opportunities to make a career of it are far and few between.

Adventure and History - A True Win!

When you think of Egypt, one thinks of pyramids. However, there is much more to this country than just pyramids.
Donald P. Ryan dives into some of the adventures that he has undertaken during his years excavating in Egypt.

I absolutely loved this book! It was full of great stories, wonderful history, and even a few chuckles along the way. If you want to look at history a bit differently, check out this book. I enjoyed the author's "just get over it" attitude. Very refreshing - and someone that I would love to sit down, pick their brain, and have an honest-to-goodness conversation.

A Story About Archaeology Brilliantly Written

Ryan did a masterful job writing of his experiences in this highly recommend listening experience. The performance by the narrator was exquisite and the life story and build up to the climax is well worth the hours invested listening to it. I highly recommend this title to your collection. Especially if you're an armchair Egyptologist ;)