Pompeii (Unearthing Ancient Worlds)
True to its series title, Unearthing Ancient Worlds, this illustrated volume presents the long-buried world of Pompeii through a history of archaeological work. Sonneborn begins with a gripping, graphic description of Pompeii’s 79 CE destruction after Mount Vesuvius’ eruption buried the surrounding civilizations in lava. The bulk of the book, though, offers detailed accounts of the first archaeological discoveries of Pompeii’s treasures, in the eighteenth century. This is a focused title; archaeological work at Pompeii after 1800 is merely glossed over in a final chapter, and aspiring young archaeologists may wish for more coverage of how the field is currently practiced. Contemporary color photographs will help readers envision the sites today, though, while well-chosen artwork depicting the dangerous, historical digs will draw readers back to the sometimes dry but serviceable text. A time line, glossary, and further reading suggestions complete this unusual offering. Grades 5-8. --Gillian Engberg