Thinking Thursday - Zenobia visit to Pharos of Alexandria

In chapter 37 of Zenobia – Birth of a Legend, visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pharos of Alexandria. 

Read excerpt of the experience:

“This looks to be as tall as the great pyramid,” Salim proclaimed.

“It is,” agreed Zelina.

“Race you to the top!” Zenobia challenged Salim.

…Zenobia sprinted up the stairs two at a time Salim close behind…At two hundred steps she was gasping for air, but so was her pursuer. Her legs were protesting, and Salim started to pass her, but she lunged ahead for another fifty steps. Suddenly he grabbed her ankle, and she toppled forward, landing lightly on the steep steps. “Cheater!” She yelled as he passed her.

Eventually they reached the level of the great mirror. Salim was already exploring, and he was fascinated by the mechanics of the system. The mirror itself nested in a frame which sat on a series of wheels on a wooden platform base. Three slaves pushed on protruding poles to turn it constantly. A central vertical shaft that penetrated the frame appeared to hold the mirror in position as it rotated. A beam of light from above somehow shone down on the mirror and was reflected out through the large windows which ringed the entire level.

 “What is the mirror made of?” Zenobia asked.

“A special metal with a silver coating that is polished when needed.”

Zenobia had been studying the mirrors frame and she remarked, “It looks like this is designed to be tipped.”

“Correct,” the attendant acknowledged. “The design allows us to aim a beam of light at distant objects.”

“I have heard that the mirror can set an enemy ship at sea on fire,” stated Salim. “How is that done?”

“That is true, but the details of how are a secret we are not allowed to reveal. As you are aware, sunlight can be very hot. Now imagine that concentrated so it is ten or twenty times stronger. It can set wood on fire.” Salim looked at Zenobia and he could see her mind analyzing the possibilities.

The Pharos at Alexandria was a lighthouse at the port of the Egyptian city named for Alexander the Great.

“The lighthouse was the only ancient wonder that had a practical use, serving as a beacon for ships in the dangerous waters off the Egyptian port city of Alexandria, now called El Iskandarîya.

Constructed on the small island of Pharos between 285 and 247 B.C., the building was the world's tallest for many centuries. Its estimated height was 384 feet (117 meters)—equivalent to a modern 40-story building—though some people believe it was significantly taller.

The lighthouse was operated using fire at night and polished bronze mirrors that reflected the sun during the day. It's said the light could be seen for more than 35 miles (50 kilometers) out to sea.

The huge structure towered over the Mediterranean coast for more than 1,500 years before being seriously damaged by earthquakes in A.D. 1303 and 1323.”

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/07/photogalleries/seven-wonders/#/new-old-7-wonders-lighthouse-alexandria-egypt_18309_600x450.jpg

Tuesday Teaser - Legendary Women - Zenobia

http://www.howarddavidjohnson.com/legendary-women.htm

The artist Howard David Johnson states, “Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra is one of the grandest & most underrated heroines of antiquity!”

Tuesday Teaser sentences from Zenobia – Challenging a Legend, book two in the series:

  

“But what did he see in her? He was much older than her, maybe forty, so he must have known a great many women. He probably could have, and perhaps had had, any woman he wanted.”

“Tabira laughed at this. “It’s not much of a secret, my young friend. You are probably the most intriguing female he has ever met.”

“On the ride home, Zelina remarked, “It seems that your education here is a bag of figs and scorpions! I had not planned on that.”

“You know she could be dangerous. She reportedly killed eight men on her trip to Egypt.”

Review for Zenobia – Birth of a Legend:

IPBA 24^th annual 2012 Benjamin Franklin Awards – Teen Fiction (13 – 18 years) “Zenobia – Well-done dramatization of an historical figure that may also intrigue YA readers into finding out more about the history of the time (always a plus). There’s a lot of adventure stuffed into the story, but short chapters and clarifying dates help sort through the mass. The relationship between the heroine and her two very difference beaux, the mother-daughter drama, the unusual setting and strong characterizations combine in a fascinating book that sets up further adventures very well.”

About.com has been a great website to research and find interesting articles on Zenobia. Here are some articles I enjoyed:

“Zenobia’s languages likely included Arabic, Greek, Aramaic and Latin. Zenobia’s mother may have been Egyptian; Zenobia was said to be familiar with ancient Egyptian language as well.”http://womenshistory.about.com/od/ancientqueens/a/Zenobia.htm article by Jone Johnson Lewis at about.com

“Throughout history, women warriors have fought and led troops into battle. This partial list of warrior queens and other women warriors runs from the legendary Amazons — who may have been real warriors from the Steppes — to the Syrian queen of Palmyra, Zenobia. Sadly, we know too little about most of these brave warrior women who stood up to the powerful male leaders of their day because history is written by the victors.”
http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/womenbiography/tp/030110WomenWarriors.htm by By N.S. Gill

Zenobia visits the Great Pyramid of Giza

Zenobia on her trip to Alexandria, Egypt visit two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Let’s explore one of them today in Chapters 29, Zenobia visits the Pyramids of Giza.

Here’s an excerpt from her experience:

Very slowly, the massive monuments grew on the horizon until in the eyes of a young girl, they began to overpower her senses…

After quite a while, she saw a third pyramid appear, much smaller than the first two, now set against a deepening purple hue. She engraved the moment in her mind, sensing this could be a singular experience, to be enjoyed again only in memory.

Finally, they drew near the base of the pyramids and stopped to camp for the night. Still in awe Zenobia spoke quietly, “They are majestic Mother, and they were especially magnificent with that beautiful sunset. Have you seen them like this before?”

“No. They are always impressive, but we were blessed to see them in a special light tonight.”

They set up the tents up near the two huge pyramids, and then over half of the warriors went along for the mounted tour of the area. Zenobia rode Bethy… Zelina and daughter took the lead as the horses slowly circled the magnificent structure. “These have to be the largest and tallest man-made objects on earth,” Zenobia said in an almost reverential whisper. “Even seeing them it’s still hard to believe. It’s incredible.”

 “You said the Great Pyramid is larger?”Zenobia asked. “It looks the same height as the one next to it.”

Zelina answered, “The great one was allegedly built by a kind named Cheops, and it is higher, but only a few cubits. The second one was supposedly built by his son, but he cited it on higher ground, so from some positions it appears as high or higher.”

They drew up to the base of the Sphinx, approaching it from the rear, and slowly moved around to the front. To Zenobia, though she knew it was lifeless stone, it seemed menacing in the dark, like a colossal lion crouching, ready to pounce. She reflected irrationally that her bow and arrows, which she carried as usual, would be of no value if this creature suddenly sprang to life. It seemed possible. Finally they moved between the elongated front paws and under the head.

Greek tourist traveled around the Easter Mediterranean rim compiling a guide book of remarkable constructions to visit. “Of the original Seven Wonders, only one- The Great Pyramid of Giza, the oldest of the ancient wonders – remains relatively intact.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Wonders_of_the_Ancient_World

“Although weathering has caused the structure to stand a few feet shorter today, the pyramid was about 480 feet (145 meters) high when it was first built. It is thought to have been the planet’s tallest human-made structure for more than four millennia.”  http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/07/photogalleries/seven-wonders/#/new-old-7-wonders-great-pyramid-giza-egypt_18306_600x450.jpg

Zenobia goes from warrior to pirate in book two

Ahoy matey!

In honor of “talk like a pirate day” http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html

Here is a bonus “Teaser” Wednesday. We wanted to share a scene from Zenobia – Challenging a Legend book two, where Zenobia and her crew plan to commandeer a boat and go from warriors to pirates. Read and enjoy. 

  

“You think fast, young warrior,” Caras acknowledged. “That might work. It would have a better chance if you had a legitimate appearing document. However, if the Roman captain recognized the ship as belonging to Hasshel, he probably would not believe you. Even if he did, in a few days when back in port, if he was headed to Alexandria, he would report it and inquiries would be made. Then Hasshel would know his ship had been pirated, and he would start to investigate. He would certainly enlist the aid of the local commander, General Publius. Men would talk, and someone might suggest checking out Caras.”

    “What do you suggest?” Zenobia asked.

    “I suggest that you disguise the ship right after you capture it.”

    “I assume you could arrange this disguise?”

    “Yes. Here is my proposal. I will transport you and your men to overtake the Minerva. You will do the actual fighting to take the ship. I will provide the sea captain to then sail the ship to where you wish on the eastern end of the Great Sea. And I will have constructed the items to change the appearance of the ship. The captain will instruct your men in their installation. And he will also make a new bogus log for your new ship.” He paused. “My fee for all this will be 500 darics in advance.”   

    “Silver darics, I assume.” Zenobia said slyly.

    “No, dear,” he replied with a smile, “gold. But it was worth a try. You will make a good pirate.”

Where there be seas there be pirates - Greek proverbs. 

Tuesday Teaser - Zenobia in Love

Movies, songs, and books entertain us with love stories.  Book two of Zenobia’s life story is no different as we find Zenobia in LOVE.



Today our Tuesday Teaser is a couple sentences from the budding romance you will find in book two, Zenobia – Challenging a Legend.


Ch 2 – “Did you not think that I would also find you interesting?” He only smiled, so she added, “I am not the only woman to study you,” she teased.

Ch 14- Zenobia just smiled at him sweetly and cocked her head. “I wondered how much you cared about me. Now I know.”


“Love is all you need/All we need is love” – John Lennon/Paul McCartney/Bob Marley/Marvin Gaye


Review of book one Zenobia – Birth of a Legend-

“Zenobia’s skills and talents allowed her to become a great military leader who fought for justice for all. The book has all the features that the popular super hero’s have. Archery, fighting, hunting, killing and a terrific horse race. What’s not to like. Zenobia will make a fantastic movie – it is very visual and has lots of action. Zenobia is as remarkable as Katniss and Bella – but best of all, she was real.” – Bea Martin

Reviews on Goodreads:

“A great story about history and you get plenty of action and adventure. There is budding romances that makes me want to get into book two, which is supposed to come out later this year. The horse race had me holding my breath the whole time. I highly recommend this book for all ages. The main character may be a young girl but her search for knowledge will stimulate all ages and gender.”

“I very much enjoyed this book. I found Zenobia a highly sympathetic character that I wanted to keep reading and finding out more about. I felt my knowledge, as well as my enjoyment, vastly expanded by the time I reached the end. Which is not really the end, as this is the first in a series covering the life of this historical figure, Zenobia.”


Russ Wallace is a 2012 IPPY award winner, he’s offering for a limited time a chance to win a free ARC of book two, Zenobia – Challenging a Legend which will be released later this year. All you have to do is buy book one, Zenobia – Birth of a Legend at Changing Hands Bookstore. Located at: Changing Hands Bookstore 6428 S McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283
*Send us a copy of the receipt and we will send you an advanced copy of book two as soon as it’s available. What a deal! Buy one and get the next one for FREE! (*you can mail us a copy of your receipt to 530 E. Hunt Hwy Ste 103- 199 San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 or take a picture of receipt and email it to us at geodepress@gmail.com)

Thinking Thursday - the bond between Zenobia and her horse Bethany

When Cam gives Zenobia a filly as a gift the connection between horse and rider was instant. Zenobia recognized and respected the power in her beautiful black Arabian horse.  Chapter thirteen is the beginning of Zenobia’s strong relationship with Bethany that will continue through-out her life.

     “She is a beauty,” her mother admitted. “She’s bigger than some stallions. Have you named her?”

     “Not yet. I’m thinking of ‘Bethany.”

     “…Zenobia thrilled to feel the power as the mare reached full stride. Riding bareback, with no saddle to hinder the intimate contact, she felt one with her mount. She could feel the movement as the front legs stretched out and back, again and again, though she realized it was the powerful haunches that did the hardest work. With only an occasional touch of the reins, Bethy kept to the trail.”

     “…How was she?”

    “Great. She’s fast as the wind, and strong. I tried to tire her out and I lost! Also, she has real spirit and learns fast, but she can be stubborn!”

     “I’ve heard it said that great riders pick a horse a lot like themselves,” Zelina remarked with a faint smile.

     Do you ever wonder about the stories you have read and the movies you have seen that portray this amazing bond between humans and horses and if they are real? Many books have been written about the uniquely special bond that exists between human and horse. Those who have experienced this relationship first hand appreciate how intense this bond can be. Zenobia and Bethany’s exemplify the human and animal relationship that can be achieved.

There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.

~ Sir Winston Churchill 

Tuesday Teaser - Zenobia's education

Today we share sentences from Zenobia's class about Jesus. On a day like today, it’s a good time to do a little thinking about his teachings.  

Funerary stele of Licinia Amias, one of the most ancient Christian inscriptions. Upper tier: dedication to the Dis Manibus and Christian motto in Greek letters ΙΧΘΥC ΖΩΝΤΩΝ / Ikhthus zōntōn ("fish of the living"); middle tier: depiction of fish and an anchor; lower tier: Latin inscription “LICINIAE AMIATI BE/NEMERENTI VIXIT”. Marble, early 3rd century CE. From the area of the Vatican necropolis, Rome.

We’ve shared some pretty exciting scenes that will be happening in book two but Zenobia is also receiving a great education while studying in Alexandria, Egypt. Her critical thinking classes helped her ask the right questions and to search for truth and knowledge.

At the time of the coming out of Christianity, the Middle East was the scene of great religious diversity. In Zenobia’s second semester of classes she takes “Deities and Demons” they discuss Jesus and his teachings. Zenobia keeps an open mind during her class discussions but a lot of it goes against her survival skills. Here are some sentences that took place during these class discussions.

Ch. 10 “Basically, a lot of humans are pretty cowardly. Whatever this Jesus of Nazareth was, a coward he definitely was not.”

Ch. 10 “Professor Anwar continued the thought. “An amazing thing to me is this: although many claimed that he healed all kinds of illness, he was never addressed as Healer. People called him Teacher! It was his teaching that has so impacted the world.” 

Ch 12 “I have a question about that,” said Zenobia, breaking the spell. “Do you think that teaching is practical? I mean, if you love your enemies, won’t they just trample on you? In truth, isn’t that what happened to Jesus himself?”

Ch 15 “But that is simply not realistic,” Filemon countered. “We cannot wish the world into a state we would like to see. That’s why Zenobia carries a sword and learned archery. Jesus may have been idealistic, but he was not realistic!”

Goodreads contest winner announced

(drum roll please ) ...And the winner is Lisa Norton!

How does it feel to win a free copy of Zenobia - Birth of a Legend!?

You also can experience the excitement of winning by liking us on facebook.com/geodepress

OR

Here's a great opportunity to win a free advanced copy of book two, Zenobia - Challenging a Legend which will be released later this year. All you have to do is buy book one, Zenobia - Birth of a Legend at Changing Hands Bookstore. Located at: Changing Hands Bookstore 6428 S McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283   

*Send us a copy of the receipt and we will send you an advanced copy of book two as soon as it's available. What a deal! 

Buy one and get the next one for FREE!

(*you can mail us a copy of your receipt to 530 E. Hunt Hwy Ste 103- 199 San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 or take a picture of receipt and email it to us at geodepress@gmail.com)

Thinking Thursday –Critical Thinking and Ancient Egypt

On the documentary channel an interesting program called The Pyramid Code http://www.pyramidcode.com/ talks about the pyramids and what we can learn from Ancient Egypt.  Dr. Carmen Boulter is the director, producer, and creator of this great program. Episode # 5 “A New Chronology” talks about how today in a test driven educational system and memorizing facts will not help our youth expand their knowledge. Instead we should teach them to seek truth and justice by living the Ancient law of Maat; which is the Ancient Egyptian concept of truth, balance, order, law, morality, and justice.

 

In Zenobia – Birth of a Legend, Zenobia’s mom takes her to Egypt for her to study and learn. Even though there isn’t strong evidence that Zenobia indeed took this trip we know she was highly educated and thirsted for truth and knowledge in her pursuit of justice. It only makes sense that she was taught the Ancient law of Maat.  

Here’s an excerpt of one of Zenobia’s classes, Critical Thinking found in Chapter 34 of Zenobia – Birth of a Legend:

     “Wrong thinking leads to wrong conclusions, which, in turn, lead to wrong actions,” began Longinus. “Correct thinking, obviously, will lead us to right actions, that is, successful actions. But, how are we to know when an idea is wrong? Or, worse, when a pattern of thinking is false? How can we discern between truth and falsehood? Is there a key?” He paused for effect and to allow his class to reflect on his questions.

     His manner and presence commands attention, thought Zenobia…

     “I believe the key to discovering truth is to want the truth. Then we will more likely ask the right questions and be open to the answers.”...replied Zenobia, “not everyone wants the truth, and I can prove it! This leads to huge injustices in the world. But I do agree with you that it is not so easy to discern the best questions.”

     What is critical thinking? Zenobia even as a student understands that we need to be asking the right questions to get the right answers. Until you are ready for the truth you will not find it.

The New York Times has a challenge a day on Critical thinking. This is a great way to broaden your education like Zenobia did. Click on the link and let your critical thinking class begin.  http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/07/30/new-feature-test-yourself-critical-thinking/

Tuesday Teaser for Book two, Zenobia Challenging a Legend

Ch. 6

     “There seem to be a lot of people who need killing.” Longinus noted she was deadly series. The beautiful, intelligent young woman before him, almost still a girl, was a deadly killer.

Ch. 8

     Zenobia rode onto the plain, sizing up the situation. She had plenty of arrows left, so she rode slowly toward the enemy and then stopped.

Reviews on Book one - Zenobia – Birth of a Legend:

“With new authors, I am always apprehensive. My usual reading is spying and conspiracy against world governments. I was told to try this book by a close friend. I must say, to my surprise I really enjoyed it. First, the description of the characters was such that it took little imagination to visualize them. Because of that I was sucked into the story. Zenobia as well as other main characters were believable and the storyline was very entertaining. I hated to see the pages coming to a close since the story is yet far from over. I can't wait to see what is in store for Zenobia as she grows in life experience and wisdom. Please continue writing the rest of the story............” Steven Weston on Amazon.com kindle edition.

“If Russ's first book is any indication of the planned series, this first-book author should move quickly up the best seller’s lists and remain there for years to come.” LinDee Rochelle- owner of http://www.penchantforpenning.com/- founded and administered Women Writers of the Desert, a metro Phoenix organization for nearly five years.  It transformed into an online resource to benefit women on a broader scale and renamed Women Writers Worldwide.