Rating: 
Summary: A mix of fact and fiction
Review: Crocodile on the Sandbank, by Elizabeth Peters, utilizes the framework of ancient Egyptian history to construct a charming mystery novel. Fact and fiction intertwine in order to draw the reader into the ancient Egypt that the characters are busy uncovering. The zealous personality of Amelia Peabody captivates the reader while they are simultaneously engulfed by rich images of the breathtaking Egyptian landscape. The reader is given glimpses of the life of the heretic pharaoh, Khuenaten, and the mysteries that have continuously surrounded his life and death. It is an amusing tale of an archeological dig gone awry as a mysterious and elusive mummy haunts them as night falls. The journal entries of the feminist archeologist will keep the reader amused and wanting more. From the amazing image of the pyramids at Giza to the entertaining tales of the ancient tombs, this novel places the reader in Egypt at the foot of ancient pharaohnic history. From the moment that Amelia and Evelyn step into Egypt, the reader is whisked away into the ancient world of the pharaohs. Amelia sets out to uncover ancient Egyptian history, but is deterred as she has to guard her new friend from harm by a haunting and puzzling mummy while concurrently handling the outspoken Emerson. This book is not your ordinary mystery, it is rare to find one in which its backbone is rooted in ancient culture. I would recommend this book to those who are interested in ancient Egyptian history, with a twist of mystery and entertainment.
Rating: 
Summary: Predictability and Lack of Development Disappoints
Review: Peters' Crocodile on the Sandbank fails to entertain the reader because of its predictability and lack of mystery despite its status as a mystery novel. The romance and plot, especially the culprit, is obvious, even to clueless readers. Her history of Egypt, including ancient cities, temples, and gods, is sparse and seems to be an attempt to boast her knowledge of the subject. I was interested in the historical details, only because I have background experience regarding Egyptology. Otherwise, I do not think I would understand the significance of her facts. For example, Peters' description of Akhenaten (spelled Khuenaten throughout the book) is only useful to those who know the history of the pharaoh and his significance as a monotheist. The development of the main character, Amelia Peabody, is disappointing. She is described as unconventional and rebellious against traditions of society. Nonetheless, she is not and the book only goes to further typify the stereotype of the "weak woman." While she may reply to a snide comment by Emerson with a remark of her own, overall her character traits fit the mold of the proper English woman. Obvious instances of her submission into her "role" are most noticeable in her relationship with Emerson. The sexual tension between the couple is evident, yet she does not make the first step. It is not until the last few pages of the book does the relationship evolve into something more than friendship. However, the development is only advanced because Emerson makes the first move, which only furthers the notion of male control. The other supporting characters also fail to be fully developed to their potential. The worst demonstration of this is the characterization of the Egyptians who work for Amelia, Evelyn, Lucas, and the Emerson brothers. The only real distinction among them is their name. I failed to understand the significance of each, particularly Abdullah and Michael, despite that they held different occupations and rarely mingled through the story. Overall, this book was uninteresting and its interactive dialogue neglects to engage the reader in what has the potential to be a good storyline. Peters' failure to develop complex characters and a compelling plotline makes this book a must-avoid to all who value their leisure reading time for interesting novels. PS. Comments made by critics should not be printed on the back of the cover if they reveal information that is not uncovered until page 259. (Ex: "Amelia Peabody Emerson . . .")
Rating: 
Summary: "Sandbank" Sizzles with the Heat of the Sahara
Review: Peters' chronicles of the life and adventures of Amelia Peabody score another reader favorite in this addictive book. Ameila Peabody is a very British, "stiff upper lip", female version of Indiana Jones, as the quick-witted, take-no-prisoners heroine of this 19th Century throwback adventure novel. Peters keeps us on the edge of our seat with an intricate cross-weaving of jilted lovers, irate archaeologists, confused locals, and even a resurrected mummy who begins to make several late night appearances. Seeing isn't always believing in this mystery however, as Peabody strives to find a logical explanation for the supposedly supernatural visits that the characters receive. Full of surprises, humor, lushly descriptive language, and likable (if not loveabe) characters, "Crocodile on the Sandbank" is an enjoyable romp through turn-of-the-century Egypt. I reccomend this book to anyone who enjoys strong-willed and intelligent female characters, pulse-pounding page turners, and old-fashioned whodunit mystery stories. I loved the story, the characters, and the pace of the novel. I couldn't put this book down once the mummy had me in his seemingly omnipotent clutches. I highly reccomend this book!
Rating:
Summary: A fun read
Review: In her book, Crocodile on the Sandbank, Elizabeth Peters transports her readers right into Egypt. Peters displays a wealth of knowledge about ancient Egypt and at the same time she is able to create a story full of romance and suspense. This balance of romance, history, and mystery are what makes this novel entertaining and instructive at the same time. I am currently taking a class on ancient Egypt and I loved the way Peters combined the history of Egypt, descriptions of the great temples and tombs, and mystery all into a delightful and informative story. It was wonderful to be able to picture sites like Luxor, Giza, and The Valley of the Kings when they were mentioned in the text. The characters were also gripping, especially Amelia Peabody, a strong willed archeologist who never let any situation get the best of her. The dialogue between Peabody and Emerson is also terrific. The romance adds a nice touch to the story as well. At times the story line is a bit predictable and silly but this makes it all the more fun to read. If you are looking for something to occupy you in your spare time, as well as a little history lesson, this is the right book for you.
Rating:
Summary: A Lazy Sunday Afternoon Read
Review: Elizabeth Peters' Crocodile on the Sandbank was an entertaining read once I got into it. I wouldn't say that this book is one of the great literary works of our time, but I would recommend it to others who like mysteries, good character development, and are just looking for something to help them pass a lazy Sunday afternoon. Written in the smug, self-assured voice of Amelia Peabody, Crocodile on the Sandbank explores Egypt during the Victorian era. Although I don't think the story is very accurate or realistic on these counts, it doesn't keep you second-guessing the world Peters creates. I'm aware that Peters is also known as Egyptologist Barbara Mertz, but I felt that Egypt was not the focus of this particular work. Peters seemed to be more into developing her main characters, (although I can't say much about the development of the others), which in my opinion is a good strategy for the first book in a series. It does leave me wondering about how many fun facts about Egypt are contained in her other books, or if this one sets a precedent. As far as the plot goes, I found it an interesting, if not predictable story line. I did think the novel was somewhat anti-climactic though. I rather expected some shocking revelation, perhaps from the dig, or somewhere else within the characters' lives. Perhaps, since this is an introductory book, the others in the series will uncover something amazing. I'll just have to wait for another lazy Sunday afternoon to find out.
Rating: 
Summary: Predictability with Jane Austen-esque Sentiment
Review: Let me begin by stating that those who like Jane Austen or the Bronte sisters will probably find something rewarding from this exercise in mock English pomposity. I am sorry to say it, but Elizabeth Peters comes off sounding like a 20th century writer, trying to write in the 19th century. The effect is a wholly unbelievable mystery that resurrects Austen's "tea room banter", but fails to achieve her emotional sentiment. Instead, Amelia Peabody comes across as the stereotypical snobbish Brit with an added tinge of moral fiber (that cannot rescue her character from being elitist). As other reviewers have stated, the merit of this novel is not in the story line, but in the Egyptian history and specificity of details Peters relates to us, the readers. She takes her own liberties at history and the result is an impressive exercise in Egyptology. Unfortunately, the rest comes across as too forced and phoney. Had it been a successful novel (in my opinion) the disparity between when the writer was actually writing and the time period in which the novel takes place (because it is a third person novel the writer and Amelia Peabody merge) should not have been noticeable. Elizabeth Peters falls too easily into the cliched character, failing to connect to the reader's better judgement. On the whole "Crocodile..." is an interesting historical interpretation, but a bad historical narrative that fails to achieve any drama (and/or believability).
Rating:
Summary: This is not your typical mystery novel
Review: Elizabeth Peters does a wonderful job of showing off her knowledge of ancient Egypt while writing an amusing mystery novel. This book transcends the mystery genre, expanding into romance and historical fiction. As a student interested in ancient Egypt, I found this book merged fact and fiction exquisitely. Peter's descriptions create wonderful images that help transport the reader to Egypt and the world of the pharaohs. The plot is excellent and I found myself reading this book every free moment I had. The story builds and there is never a dull moment. Not only was it full of historical facts, but also mystery and romance. Although the mystery and romance was a bit predictable, it in no way ruined the story. Every moment was full of intrigue and remarkable dialog reminiscent of Jane Austen. The characters are dynamic. Amelia Peabody is a charming heroine, full of energy and snide wit. The villains are charming as well and you will love to hate them. I highly recommend this novel especial for those interested in learning about ancient Egypt. In short, it is an adventurous treat that is fun and exciting. After reading this book you will want to take a trip to Egypt.
Rating:
Summary: Amelia Madness... It's Crazy
Review: An amazing woman with a character that's a pure delight, she heads for Egypt, never knowing what horrors and wonders lay in wait for her. Yet I can think of no one better to handle the job than Amelia Peabody! I stronly encourage all to read this book... it sparks the imagination of all sorts of readers. You can continue the saga with "The Curse of the Mummy", which I didn't like as much as this book, except for the end. The rest of them, especially "Lion in the Valley" and "The Last Camel Died at Noon" are some of the best books I've ever read. Some other great books for further enjoyment are the Mrs. Polifax books by Dorothy Gilman, a woman very different but so like Miss Amelia Peabody. I strongly suggest you read this book... you'll be laughing your socks off!
Rating:
Summary: Not usually a mystery fan, but...
Review: I'm not usually a mystery fan, but I absolutely LOVED the Amelia Peabody mystery series. They are very exciting and humourous, and I enjoy the fact that the author doesn't write down to you. I read the entire series (unfortunately out of chronological order) and found this first book to be one of my favorites. By the way, this is how the books are ordered chronologically: 1.Crocodile on the Sandbank, 2.The Curse of the Pharaohs, 3.The Mummy Case, 4.The Lion in the Valley, 5. The Deeds of the Disturbur, 6.The Last Camel Died at Noon, 7.The Snake, the Crocodile and the Dog, 8.The Hippopatumus Pool, 9.Seeing a Large Cat, 10.The Ape Who Guards the Balance, and 11.Falcon at the Portal. All excellent books. I loved seeing the characters grow throughout the series. This first book was a good beginning to a great series. I encourage anyway who loves to read (mystery or otherwise) to give these books a try.
Rating:
Summary: Peabody's no pea-brain (sorry!)
Review: I like light-hearted mysteries (Sue Grafton, Barbara Wilson, etc), and this was very much to my liking. OK, so I guessed who dunnit about a third of the way in, and there were no real twists and turns to try to put you off the scent, but the detection was of secondary importance. The book was a page-turner for the characterisation (the characters are clicheic but enjoyably so), the setting, and the downright fun of it all. I'm glad I read the first one first. Now I've just got to find out which one came second! Rob
|
