The First Pharaoh

The First Dynasty, Book 1

By: Lester Picker

Narrated by: Adam Hanin

Throughout antiquity Egypt was a land of hundreds of tiny villages, with constantly warring tribes, loosely divided between Upper and Lower Egypt. Then, in the space of a few extraordinary decades, the impossible happened. An incredible man, King Narmer (also known as Menes), united Upper and Lower Egypt. The First Pharaoh retells the story of Narmer and his epic journey, seen through his eyes and those of his Chief Scribe, the shaman Anhotek. Book 1 of The First Dynasty Series, The First Pharaoh gives us an understanding of the culture Narmer lived in and shaped, the battles he fought to unite his people, the woman he loved and nearly lost, the enemies even in his own court who plotted against him, and his many successes and painful failures. Above all, we see how Narmer's loving relationship with Anhotek defined his personal vision for his country and its people.

Written on a huge tapestry, The First Pharaoh allows us to share Narmer's far-reaching visions for Egypt's future that were so compelling and that ultimately proved so enduring. The First Pharaoh tells the inspiring story of the mythic journey of the visionary hero, through obstacles and triumphs, wars and peace, love and hate, to launch the greatest civilization ever to appear on Earth.

©2012 Lester Picker (P)2012 Lester Picker

Engaged in every way

Loved Inhotek and Narmer relationship father - Son... Good narrator! I even cried at the end 😅

A story like no other

This story is the best thing I have ever listened too. The narrator not only narrates, he brings you into everyone’s character and when he changes his expression of his voice it is as beautiful as Dove coming from heaven. I suggest to everyone who stands on this earth too listen to this story. From the first sentence I was hooked in and I could not take my ears away from listening to this story. Thank you for not only doing what you do but also for choosing the version of the story which was almost entirely true. You have helped me learn so much about my previous life and I am still learning from the many mistakes I did.
I am simply speechless
Thank you

The Ugly Duckling Blooms.

Where does The First Pharaoh rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Definitely in my Top 50.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The First Pharaoh?

As King Narmer noted wistfully, "The saddest day in a man's life is the day his father dies." So very true. This book continually showed the benefits of a good father-son relationship as well as the side effects of a bad relationship. This story line struck a little too close to home. But I really enjoyed it.

What about Adam Hanin’s performance did you like?

Adam's voice produced an excellent narration and one I very much enjoyed. This is the first time I have heard him read and I enjoyed it very much.

I hope that Adam narrates books #2 and #3 when they are released.

If you could take any character from The First Pharaoh out to dinner, who would it be and why?

King Narmer when he decided to take a second wife. All I could think of saying would be "Are you nuts?"

Any additional comments?

I bought this book on a whim based solely on the descriptive blurp of the plotline. I am glad I did.

I really wanted to like it more

Let me start by saying this book was very well researched and the era it describes is one of great interest. Unfortunately, it felt to me more like someone trying to liven up a non-fiction narrative of the beginning of Dynastic Egypt with a folksy story than a thrilling piece of historical fiction. The story line itself left much to be desired with very few twists and turns creating a very flat, predictable journey through the life of Egypt's first pharaoh. Many moments of potential crisis or points of climax in the book led only to an abrupt change of time or were casually dismissed and forgotten. It just seemed like there were many missed opportunities throughout the book. If you are a huge fan of Ancient Egypt, it might be worth a listen...if you're looking for a great novel of historical fiction you're probably better off spending your credit elsewhere.

Not my usual read BUT....

Would you listen to The First Pharaoh again? Why?

There's so much history in the book that in a second read I would concentrate on the historic detail -- perhaps with supplemental material.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The First Pharaoh?

So many it's hard to pick. Overall the relationship between the Prince/King and the shaman Anhotek was always evolving, moving and memorable -- filled with life lessons..

What about Adam Hanin’s performance did you like?

His delivered a good performance. Readers may note certain quirks in his speech but certainly none that detract significantly from his performance.

Who was the most memorable character of The First Pharaoh and why?

Anhotek! I was most invested in this character. Perhaps it was his dedication, wisdom, love and perspective that engaged. The ultimate father figure.

Any additional comments?

A very good read made moreso by the attention to historic detail. You will be entertained and nourished.