"The Summoning" Summary

Introduction

What do you get when you blend ancient prophecy, modern-day high school drama, and a dash of supernatural adventure? You get The Summoning by Lynne Ewing—a compelling start to the "Sisters of Isis" trilogy. This book throws readers headfirst into a world where Egyptian mythology pulses beneath the surface of contemporary Washington, D.C., and three seemingly ordinary girls discover they're destined for something extraordinary. If you've ever wondered what it would be like to juggle algebra homework and magical destinies, The Summoning is your perfect read.

Known for her best-selling "Daughters of the Moon" series, Lynne Ewing brings her signature blend of fast-paced storytelling, rich mythology, and relatable characters to this new saga. Whether you’re a mythology buff, a fan of supernatural adventures, or just love a good story about friendship and self-discovery, The Summoning is a page-turner that’s hard to put down.

Historical Context

Although The Summoning unfolds in contemporary Washington, D.C., its heart beats with the mysteries of ancient Egypt. Thousands of years ago, Egyptian priests prophesied the rise of evil forces that could threaten the world. To counter this, they set in motion a plan for future generations—selecting descendants who would inherit magical powers linked to the ancient gods.

Lynne Ewing weaves real-life Egyptian mythology into modern settings. She draws on legends of Isis, Osiris, Set, and other deities, reimagining their eternal struggles in a world where ancient magic and modern technology collide. The book's context also nods to the tradition of "chosen ones" in literature, but with a fresh, female-centric twist.

Brief Synopsis

Plot Overview

Three teenage girls—Sudi, Meri, and Dalila—are just trying to survive the usual high school chaos. But their lives change forever when they’re visited by Abdel, a mysterious stranger who reveals their true heritage: they are descendants of the ancient Egyptian pharaohs and have been chosen as the "Sisters of Isis." Their mission? To master their newfound powers and prevent the return of the evil god Set, who seeks to plunge the world into chaos.

As the girls struggle to accept their destinies, they must learn to trust one another, unravel cryptic prophecies, and battle shadowy enemies who seem to lurk around every corner. All the while, they juggle typical teenage concerns—family drama, friendship, romance, and the ever-present pressure of fitting in.

Setting

• Time: Present-day (2008, when the book was published), with echoes of ancient history.
• Place: Washington, D.C.—a city teeming with political intrigue, historic landmarks, and, in this story, hidden magical energies.
• Atmosphere: The city’s bustling streets and iconic monuments provide a dramatic backdrop for supernatural showdowns. Ewing creates a mood of mystery and suspense, blending the ordinary with the extraordinary.

Main Characters

Plot Summary

The Ordinary and the Extraordinary

Sudi, Meri, and Dalila each lead very different lives—Sudi is a social butterfly, Meri is a science whiz, and Dalila is an artistic dreamer haunted by cryptic dreams. The story begins with odd occurrences: strange symbols appear, animals behave oddly, and each girl feels a growing sense of unease.

The Call to Adventure

Their lives intersect when Abdel, guardian of the ancient order, approaches them. Abdel reveals their lineage and the prophecy: only the Sisters of Isis can stop Set, the god of chaos, from rising. Each girl reacts differently—Sudi is intrigued, Meri is skeptical, and Dalila is terrified.

Trials and Training

The girls are introduced to the ancient wisdom of Egypt. Abdel teaches them about the gods, magical incantations, and the significance of their powers. The training sequences are filled with both wonder and frustration—imagine trying to summon protective magic while worrying about an overdue biology assignment!

First Confrontations

Soon, the girls face their first real test. Mysterious threats emerge—creatures inspired by Egyptian mythology, and human adversaries working for Set. The pace quickens as the girls must work together, learning to trust their instincts and each other. Their powers are unpredictable, and the stakes are high.

Growth and Setbacks

As the story unfolds, each Sister of Isis confronts her own fears and insecurities. Sudi struggles with leadership, Meri with belief, and Dalila with the weight of her heritage. Their friendships deepen as they realize the importance of unity in the face of danger.

The Book’s Climax

Without spoiling the big twist, suffice it to say the climax involves a dramatic showdown in one of D.C.'s iconic landmarks. The girls must use everything they've learned—not just magic, but courage, quick thinking, and their unique strengths as individuals and as a team.

Themes and Motifs

Friendship and Unity

At its core, The Summoning is about the power of friendship. The girls are stronger together, each bringing unique strengths to the group. Their bond is tested but ultimately proves vital in confronting evil.

Heritage and Identity

The struggle to accept one's identity is a key theme. Each girl must reconcile her ordinary teenage life with her extraordinary heritage. The book explores how the past shapes the present, and the importance of embracing one's roots.

Empowerment

Ewing crafts a powerful message of female empowerment. The Sisters of Isis are not just magical warriors; they're young women learning to trust themselves and their abilities.

Good vs. Evil

The classic battle between light and darkness is reimagined through the lens of Egyptian mythology. Set represents chaos and destruction, while Isis and her descendants symbolize order and hope.

The Weight of Destiny

The girls grapple with the burden of expectation—how do you live up to a prophecy when you just want to be normal? The book explores the tension between fate and free will.

Literary Techniques and Style

Narrative Structure

Ewing uses a close third-person perspective, focusing primarily on Sudi's point of view but weaving in the experiences of Meri and Dalila. This structure allows readers to see the world through the eyes of each protagonist, deepening emotional engagement.

Symbolism

Ancient Egyptian symbols abound—scarabs, ankhs, hieroglyphs—each carrying layers of meaning. Ewing uses these symbols not just as magical tools, but as metaphors for transformation, protection, and the connection between past and present.

Realism Meets Fantasy

Ewing’s style is grounded yet vivid. She balances everyday concerns (school, family, friendships) with fantastical elements, making the supernatural feel both wondrous and believable.

Fast-Paced and Accessible

The prose is brisk and engaging, with short chapters and plenty of dialogue. Ewing’s humor and knack for teen dialogue keep the tone light even as the stakes rise.

Author's Background

Lynne Ewing is an accomplished author, screenwriter, and counselor. Best known for her "Daughters of the Moon" series, she specializes in young adult fiction that blends mythology, adventure, and contemporary issues. Ewing’s fascination with ancient cultures, especially Egypt, is evident in her detailed world-building and respectful integration of mythological elements.

Her background in counseling teenagers informs her nuanced portrayals of adolescent struggles—identity, belonging, and resilience. Ewing’s work resonates with both teens and adults, thanks to her empathetic characters and universal themes.

Other Notable Works:

• Daughters of the Moon series
• Sons of the Dark series

Impact and Legacy: Ewing’s stories have inspired a generation of readers to explore mythology and embrace their individuality. Her books are frequently used in classroom discussions about heroism, diversity, and personal growth.

Key Takeaways

• The power of friendship can overcome even the most ancient evils.
• Embracing your heritage and identity is a journey—sometimes scary, always rewarding.
• Every individual brings unique strengths to a team, and unity is key to success.
• Courage means facing your fears, not the absence of fear.
• Ancient myths remain relevant, offering lessons for modern life.

Reader's Takeaway

Reading The Summoning feels like discovering a secret world hidden just beneath the surface of everyday life. For college students and lecturers alike, the book offers more than just escapist fantasy—it’s a meditation on identity, destiny, and the universal struggle to find one’s place in the world. You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, and you’ll root for the heroines as they learn that true strength lies in friendship and self-acceptance.

If you’ve ever felt out of place, struggled with expectations, or longed for adventure, The Summoning will resonate deeply. It reminds us that greatness often comes from unlikely sources—and sometimes, the most powerful magic is believing in yourself.

Conclusion

The Summoning by Lynne Ewing is a masterful blend of ancient myth and modern reality, offering readers a thrilling ride through the streets of Washington, D.C., and the mysteries of Egypt. With its relatable characters, pulse-pounding plot, and thoughtful exploration of identity and friendship, this book stands out in the crowded field of young adult fantasy.

Whether you're dissecting it for a college seminar or reading for pure enjoyment, The Summoning invites you to explore hidden worlds—both within the story and within yourself. Don’t be surprised if you finish the last page and find yourself yearning to learn more about Egyptian mythology, or even dreaming of your own magical destiny.

If you’re searching for a story that’s rich in adventure, humor, and heart, make The Summoning your next read. You won’t regret answering its call.