A parent should reach for this book when their adventure-loving child is fascinated by ancient history but finds non-fiction daunting. It's the perfect story for kids who love action and want to feel what it was really like to live in another time. The plot follows Seth and Abrinet, who time travel to ancient Rome and find themselves in the thrilling and dangerous world of the gladiators. Through their eyes, your child will explore themes of bravery in the face of fear, the resilience needed to survive in an unfamiliar world, and the strength of friendship under pressure. This book is an exciting, fast-paced read that cleverly embeds historical facts into a sci-fi adventure, making it an ideal choice for readers aged 8 to 12.
The central topic is the historical violence of gladiator games. The book addresses this directly, but in a way that is appropriate for the age group, focusing on the peril, training, and spectacle rather than graphic detail. Death is an implied and present danger of the games. The approach is secular and historical. The resolution is hopeful as the protagonists are expected to succeed in their quest to return home.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a 9 to 11-year-old who has graduated from the Magic Tree House series and is seeking a more detailed historical adventure. They are likely fascinated by action-oriented history (knights, Vikings, gladiators) and enjoy a fast-paced, plot-driven story that blends facts with fiction.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared for conversations about the brutality of Roman entertainment. It may be helpful to preview the chapters describing the gladiator school or the events in the Colosseum to gauge the level of intensity. Contextualizing the story by discussing how different cultures have viewed entertainment throughout history would be beneficial. A parent might seek this book after their child expresses a strong interest in ancient Rome, perhaps after a school lesson or watching a documentary. The child is asking specific, curious questions about gladiators and what it was like to watch them fight.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will primarily connect with the time-travel adventure, the friendship between the main characters, and the overall thrill of survival. An older reader (10-12) is more likely to absorb the historical details, understand the social context of the games, and ponder the ethical questions the book raises about violence as entertainment.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many historical fiction books that offer a broad look at an era, this book's tight focus on the high-interest world of gladiators makes it exceptionally appealing. Its use of the time-travel trope provides an accessible entry point for readers who might not typically pick up historical fiction. The DK publishing brand also suggests a strong commitment to well-researched, accurate historical details within the fictional narrative.
Read plot summary
Two modern-day children, Seth and Abrinet, are accidentally transported back in time to the Roman Empire during its height. They quickly become entangled in the dangerous world of gladiatorial combat, witnessing the training and spectacle firsthand. They must use their wits, courage, and historical knowledge to navigate the unfamiliar culture, avoid capture, and find a way to return to their own time.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The ancient Romans were entertained by the gladiator fights, which shocked Seth and Abrinet. Why do you think people in that time enjoyed these events? What do we watch for entertainment today that might seem strange to people from the past?
2
If you could travel back in time like the characters, which historical event or place would you want to visit? What would be your number one rule for staying safe?
3
Seth and Abrinet had to rely on each other to survive. Describe a scene where their teamwork was essential to overcoming a challenge. What might have happened if they hadn't worked together?
4
The book gives a glimpse into the life of a gladiator. Besides physical strength, what other skills or character traits do you think would be important for a gladiator to have?
