Wednesday, April 8, 2026

The Well of Sacrifice: A Middle Grade Historical Adventure About The Maya is “Well-researched historical fiction and a good read.” - SLJ #History #kidlit #books #backtoschool

Kirkus Reviews said The Well of Sacrifice, “…. shines not only for a faithful recreation of an unfamiliar, ancient world, but also for the introduction of a brave, likable and determined heroine.”

For ages 9 and up.

Eveningstar Macaw lives in a glorious Mayan city in the ninth century. When the king falls ill and dies, the city begins to crumble. An evil high priest, Great Skull Zero, orders the sacrifice of those who might become king, including Eveningstar’s beloved brother. Suspicious of the High Priest’s motives, Eveningstar attempts to save her brother, thus becoming an acknowledged enemy of the High Priest. 

Eveningstar must find a way not only to save her own life but to rescue her family and her city from the tyrannical grasp of Great Skull Zero. Set against the vivid background of everyday life at the height of the Mayan golden age and illustrated with striking black-and-white paintings, Eveningstar’s candid, gripping, and not-for-the-faint-of-heart account of the last days of a great city will have readers at the edge of their seats. 

with 7 interior illustrations
A Brooklyn New School teacher said, ‘The fifth graders loved the book. Students described it as gripping, suspenseful, plot-twisting, riveting, and entertaining. One student said, “It had me up all night thinking about what was happening. Another said, “It kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to read more.” Another crowed, “The excitement went up up up!” We agreed it was incredibly detailed. We could “picture it in our mind as if we were living in the Maya times.”’ 

“The adventures of this tenacious heroine are suspenseful and entertaining, providing readers with an exciting story and a realistic feel for everyday life in and ceremonial practices of the ancient Mayan culture. Well-researched historical fiction and a good read.” – School Library Journal

Get the Well of Sacrifice: A Middle Grade Historical Adventure About The Maya, available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover at various retailers.

Get Lesson Plans for The Well of Sacrifice or schedule a Virtual School Visit with the author. Find out more here.

Chris Eboch is the author of over 100 published books for young people. 

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