Deosreviews

Daughters of the Lamp by Nedda Lewers is a magical debut novel that transports readers into a world where the lines between history, culture, and fantasy blur beautifully. The story follows Sahara Rashad, a logical, science-loving girl from New York, whose summer plans are upended when her father takes her to Cairo for her uncle’s wedding. This unexpected trip thrusts Sahara into the heart of her Egyptian heritage and deep into a family mystery involving ancient treasures and magical realities.
In Cairo, Sahara is quickly swept up in family dynamics and local legends. She learns that the women in her family are guardians of a powerful secret—they protect Ali Baba’s magical treasure, a responsibility passed down through generations. But this is no simple tale of treasure-keeping.
The narrative alternates between Sahara’s present-day experiences and the historical journey of her ancestor, Morgana, set in 985 CE. Morgana’s story offers a gripping account of how she came to be the original guardian of the treasure. This dual perspective enriches the narrative, providing action-packed insights into the past while exploring Sahara’s personal growth and self-discovery in the present.
The story weaves elements of Egyptian culture, from the sensory overload of Cairo’s streets to the intricacies of an Egyptian wedding, lending authenticity and depth to the story. The cultural richness serves as a backdrop to Sahara’s internal journey as she grapples with her identity—feeling neither fully American in New York nor entirely Egyptian in Cairo. This exploration of belonging and identity is a resonant theme that many young readers, especially those of mixed heritage, will find compelling.Daughters of the Lamp is not just a fantasy adventure; it is also a story about the power of family ties and the importance of heritage. Sahara’s evolution from a skeptic of superstitions to a believer in her family’s mystical legacy is handled with sensitivity and is convincingly portrayed. The magical elements—such as the glowing necklace and the hidden treasure—add layers of mystery and excitement, propelling the plot forward and keeping the reader hooked.
Nedda Lewers’ debut is a delightful mix of fantasy, mystery, and a heartfelt family saga. The novel ends with enough resolution to satisfy but leaves ample scope for the sequel, which promises more adventures as Sahara likely continues to confront and combat the mystical threats to her family’s legacy.
Overall, Daughters of the Lamp is a recommended read for middle graders and anyone else who enjoys tales of adventure woven with historical threads and magical realism. It’s a story that celebrates cultural heritage while delivering a thrilling adventure—perfect for fans of fantastical journeys and heroic young characters.