November 1, 2005
Gr 5-9 -Mitchell's classical adventure rival's Caroline Lawrence's -The Roman Mysteries - (Millbrook) or Jane Yolen's -Young Heroes - series (HarperCollins). Raised by his aunt and uncle, Aulus Spurinna wants more than anything to see the great city of Rome. This wish comes true under tragic circumstances when his uncle mysteriously dies. The family's land and tenants are being plagued by pillaging soldiers, and, as the sole male heir, he must speak to their Protector in Rome to stop the carnage. Once there, Aulus teams up with Tullia, his protector's daughter, and they set out to find his uncle's murderer. Fast-paced action, an authentic setting, and realistic characterization all work together to make this an exciting journey to the ancient world." -Karen T. Bilton, Somerset County Library, Bridgewater, NJ"
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