The Ancient Romans

School Library Journal

Gr 7-10Hinds covers the Romans' rise to world domination, followed by chapters on their love of practicality, illustrated by the construction of aqueducts and civic buildings; and entertainment, demonstrated by gladiatorial games, chariot racing, and plays. A section on deities and religion is also included. A brief, but worthwhile description of slavery and its place in Roman society is an example of the balanced treatment accorded to all of the topics covered here. A final chapter focuses on Roman contributions to present-day civilization and culture. The inclusion of many fine-quality, full-color photographs and illustrations, especially the reproductions of Roman art, add greatly to the text. The good suggestions for further reading are also noteworthy. Readers will have to look to Dale Brown's Rome (Time-Life, 1994) or other resources for information about warfare, politics, and the fall of the Empire, but The Ancient Romans makes an excellent addition to a crowded field.David N. Pauli, Missoula Public Library, MT