The Pillar of Fire; or, Israel in Bondage

"The Pillar of Fire; or, Israel in Bondage" by J. H. Ingraham is a historical story that takes place in ancient Egypt, exploring the difficult lives of the enslaved Israelites. When Prince Sesostris of Phoenicia journeys to Egypt to learn about their culture, he is struck by the beauty of the land but also sees the harsh treatment of the Hebrew people. Through letters to his mother, the prince shares his observations of the magnificent city of On, the powerful leaders such as Queen Amense, and the struggles of the Israelites who are forced to work under cruel conditions. As he gets involved in Egyptian society, he is torn between admiring Egypt's splendor and feeling sorry for the suffering Israelites, setting the stage for a conflict between right and wrong that will shape the rest of the story.