A warm welcome to my friend and fellow author, KD Holmberg. She’s here to tell us about the release of her first children’s book, the re-release of her Biblical fiction novel, and share about a delicacy for one of the world’s oldest recipes! Congratulations, KD, and welcome to Historical Nibbles!

KD Holmberg here, author of The Egyptian Princess, A Story of Hagar, and the newly-released  What Would Happen? children’s picture book.

What Would Happen? is a colorful, engaging adventure that introduces environmental care in a fun and simple way. Kids giggle with delight as they seek and find the hidden footprint on each page! Perfect for ages 4-8.

The Egyptian Princess was recently re-released with a new cover and offers a fresh take on the 4,000-year-old story of Hagar, Sarah, and Abraham. After learning that, according to Hebrew tradition, Hagar was a princess before Pharaoh—her father—gave her to Sarah, I researched the lives of royal daughters in that era. I discovered that their lives were marked by a unique blend of culture and privilege, including a formal education equal to that of royal sons. Viewing Hagar as an educated, sophisticated young woman rather than a victimized slave provides a compelling new perspective on her story.

One of my favorite characters in The Egyptian Princess is Tamari, a harem busybody who ‘spreads gossip like a farmer spreads manure.’ With a sweet tooth but a sharp tongue, she cares only about herself—until she realizes that her future and Hagar’s may be intertwined.  

Tamari’s favorite treat is one of the world’s oldest recipes: Tiger Nut Sweets, a delicacy recorded on an Egyptian pot dating back to 1600 BC. Tiger nuts are making a comeback due to their unique nutritional properties, and are now widely available. Despite their name, tiger nuts are not nuts at all but tubers produced by a plant in the sedge family. You can substitute walnuts or pecans to achieve a similar texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried pitted dates

1 tbs cinnamon (or to taste)

2 tbs roughly chopped tiger nuts (or pecans or walnuts)

2 tbs honey (more if needed)

2 tbs finely ground almonds

· In a food processor, grind the dates with splash of water to form a sticky paste.

· Place the honey and almond meal in separate shallow bowls

· Transfer the date paste to a bowl and add the cinnamon (to taste), and chopped tiger nuts (or walnuts or pecans).

· Mix thoroughly with your hands and roll the paste into small balls.

· Coat balls in honey and then almond meal and serve.

Easy peasy, and a potential new Christmas tradition in your home!

May each day of Advent bring you peace, joy, and special blessings. KD Holmberg