Review of Caspar: Last of the Magi

[Mandi Palfreyman]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Caspar: Last of the Magi" by Fred Fraikor.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Have you ever wondered about the background of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Jesus? Caspar: Last of the Magi by Fred Fraikor draws readers into the ancient world of the Roman Empire. We meet the main character, Caspar, as he reports to Queen Cleopatra. Since his father had worked for Cleopatra, Caspar is used to working with royalty and powerful government officials. Caspar is given a slave girl named Thah to assist him in his work for the queen. Together, Caspar and Thah navigate the perils of Egyptian and Roman politics. Eventually, they manage to build a comfortable life for themselves.

The author does a great job describing life in ancient times. He explains the meaning of unfamiliar words as they appear in the story. The action starts right away as Caspar is sent on a diplomatic mission for Cleopatra. Even the periods of peace in Caspar’s life are interesting as readers learn what life was like for families and merchants. The author also explains the relationship between Caspar and the other two men who accompany him to see Jesus.

I appreciated the pictures and maps that were included in the book. The photographs at the end were very interesting. It helped to be able to see the area on a map and pictures of items used during that time period. There is a list at the back of the book giving details of the real people and places mentioned in the novel. It was apparent that Mr. Fraikor did a great deal of research.

One of the things I disliked about the book was how little background information was given about the other two men, BaIthazar and Melchior. It would have been nice for both characters to give Caspar the story of their early lives.

Overall, I give Caspar: The Last of the Magi five out of five stars. Anyone who enjoys history or historical fiction will find this book an interesting read. I enjoyed how Caspar’s life story was intertwined with so many historical figures. The author made the historical and fictional figures interact naturally which really enhanced the storyline.

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Caspar: Last of the Magi
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