Ancient Rome

Children's Literature

This informative history book clearly indicates its origins as part of an English elementary school series called "Your Ancient Rome Homework Helper." Each spread is self-contained and uses the same format: the title of the main topic, followed by a one-paragraph overview, followed by a boxed related subtopic and a "Case study"—all illustrated with photos. Each page also includes a boxed word study and glossary. The topics chosen range from an historical perspective such as "Creation of the Roman Empire," "The Roman Army," and "Gladiators" to brief indications of everyday life in ancient Rome such as "Health and Medicine," and "Food and Drink." In effect, this is a very competent encyclopedia-like approach, in a 32-page book format. The carefully-designed format and use of many illustrations make it a very accessible resource book for middle-school or junior-high social studies. This title is part of the "Historic Civilizations" series. 2005, Gareth Stevens, Ages 9 to 12.
—Mary Hynes-Berry