The Romans

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-A good overview of ancient Roman civilization from its founding to the fall of the empire. Good-quality, full-color photographs of buildings and artifacts and maps enhance the presentation, which covers such diverse topics as town and country life, physical appearances, the army, and gods and burial. The philosophy that life was cheap and slaves were expendable comes across loud and clear, as does the violence of early Roman entertainment. In sharp counterpoint to this aspect of Roman civilization is the presentation of their sophistication in engineering. Readers are shown their advanced road designs and high hygiene standards that included indoor plumbing and heated bath houses. Italicized words are defined in a well-done glossary. A serviceable addition.-Anita Palladino, Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, NY