Blanche McManus
Nabul, Our Little Egyptian Cousin
"Our Little Egyptian Cousin" by Blanche McManus is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of a young Egyptian boy named Nabul Ben Hassan, who is a donkey boy living in Cairo. Nabul's energetic and playful character introduces readers to the vibrant culture of modern Egypt, as he navigates through the city, interacts with tourists, and dreams of adventures beyond his familiar surroundings. The opening of the book introduces Nabul as he calls out to potential riders for his donkey in the bustling streets of Cairo. The reader learns that Nabul is not just a typical donkey boy, but also a lively child full of dreams influenced by the stories told by travelers and his uncle in America. His relationship with his little sisters and the excitement of waiting for tourist season as well as the anticipation of his first ride with American visitors set the stage for cultural exchanges that bridge his world with that of the tourists. From the get-go, the narrative captures both the charm of childhood innocence and the rich tapestry of Egyptian life, sparking curiosity about Nabul’s future encounters.