The Thieves of Ostia

Reach for this book when your child is starting to notice social hierarchies or is curious about how different people lived in the past. It is an excellent choice for the young reader who values justice and is ready for a mystery that tackles real-world complexities like class and prejudice through a historical lens. Flavia, a sea captain's daughter in ancient Rome, teams up with an unlikely group of friends: a neighbor, a slave, and a mute boy, to solve a series of gruesome dog killings. The story beautifully illustrates how shared goals can bridge the gaps between children of vastly different social statuses. While it is an engaging adventure, it also introduces young readers to the realities of the Roman world, including slavery and religious diversity, in an age-appropriate way. It is perfect for 9 to 12-year-olds who enjoy high-stakes problem-solving and stories about loyalty that defies expectations.