The Ancient Roman World (World in Ancient Times)
Grade 7-10–Twenty-six chapters covering the history of Rome from its founding to its fall make this volume somewhat more inclusive than many other works for this audience. What makes this book accessible is the lively writing. The story of Spartacus and his slave revolt, for example, is told without embellishment, but in a narrative form that brings it alive. Many quotes from ancient writers also add interest. Chapters on gladiatorial games, business, and class conflict balance other more purely historical sections covering emperors, wars, and conquests. The numerous illustrations include full-color photographs and reproductions of sites, artifacts, period artwork, and an occasional movie still. There are also a number of simple maps. A comprehensive index adds to the book's usefulness for research and reports. Don Nardo'sFrom Founding to Fall: A History of Rome(Lucent, 2003) is less comprehensive.–David Pauli, Hillsboro Public Library, ORCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.