This post contains affiliate links.
On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, When Pharaoh Said “No” by Jessica Dhakira brings the Biblical story of Moses and the Ten Plagues to life for children aged 4–7 through playful rhymes, vibrant illustrations, and interactive lessons on faith and courage.
The stories of the Bible have fascinated generations, but explaining complex historical events to very young children can sometimes be a challenge. Author Jessica Dhakira is changing that with her engaging new book, When Pharaoh Said “No”. Tailored specifically for children between the ages of 4 and 7, this vibrant book transforms the dramatic Biblical account of Moses, Pharaoh, and the Ten Plagues into an accessible, joyful, and memorable experience for early readers.
By blending ancient history with playful storytelling, the book serves as an excellent introduction to the story of Exodus and the origins of Passover, making it a perfect addition to any family’s bookshelf.


A Gentle and Interactive Approach to the Ten Plagues
The narrative follows Moses as he repeatedly petitions Pharaoh to free the Israelites, introducing children to powerful themes of perseverance, faith, and divine power. While the Ten Plagues involve intense historical events, this book reframes them into a gentle, rhyming adventure.
Young readers can follow along as frogs bounce through royal palaces and hail falls from the sky, with each plague unfolding through rhythmic repetition. This structure not only keeps children entertained but also helps them build confidence, practice recall, and strengthen their memory skills.
More Than Just a Story: Encouraging Play and Learning
When Pharaoh Said “No” is designed to be an interactive experience rather than a passive read. The lyrical nature of the text lends itself beautifully to being read aloud, prompting families to sing, act out the scenes, and fully immerse themselves in the tale.
Beyond its spiritual and historical lessons, the book pulls double duty as an educational tool. Parents and educators can use the rhythmic narrative to practice counting skills and encourage performance, helping children connect with the moral lessons of courage and obedience in a highly engaging format.
Tools for Deeper Family Discussions
To help parents and faith leaders extend the impact of the book beyond bedtime reading, a free digital Family Discussion Guide is included with the physical copy. This resource is designed for those looking to explore the themes more deeply, sparking curiosity and inviting children to ask questions about faith, standing firm in the face of challenges, and doing what is right. It creates a natural space for meaningful multi-generational conversations and bonding.
Jessica Dhakira
The musical rhythm of the book comes naturally to its creator. Based in Berkshire, Jessica Dhakira is an award-winning songwriter, poet, and children’s author who has been passionate about storytelling since childhood. Her diverse background includes working as a session singer—even appearing on Top of the Pops alongside the late artist Coolio—and supporting global charitable initiatives for vulnerable families.
By combining her extensive experience in music, creative writing, and children’s education, Dhakira has crafted a story that honors the weight of a traditional Biblical narrative while keeping it completely approachable, vibrant, and fun for the youngest generation.
Find more from Jessica Dhakira now:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4x25jmn
Hardcover: https://amzn.to/3Q1hW06
Website: https://www.jessicadhakira.com/
All Books: https://amzn.to/4uUDdYH
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!



