A Roman Rescue
#1 of 7 in An Eqyptian Escape Series
What’s inside...
When Charlie and his dog, Bandit, fall down a sinkhole in their back garden, they’re transported across time to Ancient Rome! Join Charlie as he searches for Bandit and a way home, making new friends and taking part in a chariot race along the way. Also included is Charlie’s notebook, packed with facts about his stay in Ancient Rome. Long-listed for the Surrey Libraries Children's Book Award 2012. Vibrant, bright, and eye-catching according to Cloverhill book reviews, and praised for its humour and dynamic drawing style by Armadillo magazine. This is the first in a new time-travel series featuring Charlie and his dog, Bandit.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to go on a rescue mission?
How would you feel if you were in the same situation as the main characters?
What are some ways the characters showed teamwork throughout their adventure?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
If you could change one part of the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss the book, focus on highlighting the problem-solving and teamwork aspects. Ask your child to relate these themes to their own experiences.
Allow your child to lead parts of the conversation to gauge their understanding and thoughts about the story's events and characters.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to enhance their creative and critical thinking skills.
Validate your child's feelings and thoughts as they relate to the story's events, helping them connect emotionally with the characters and their journey.
Use the conversation as an opportunity to instill values such as bravery, friendship, and persistence by connecting actions in the book with real-life applications.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'A Roman Rescue,' the characters work together to solve puzzles and navigate challenges during their adventure in ancient Rome. This collaboration is essential to their success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group activities at school or during sports, understanding the importance of every team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The young protagonists face their fears when dealing with unexpected situations in a historical setting. Their bravery in overcoming obstacles is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace this lesson by standing up for themselves or others in intimidating situations, whether it's speaking out against bullying or trying out new activities that seem daunting.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout 'A Roman Rescue,' characters encounter various problems that they must think critically and creatively to resolve.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use critical thinking in their daily life, helping them to navigate challenges and solve problems efficiently, whether in academic settings or personal scenarios.
Example Lesson: Historical Knowledge
Explanation: The story provides insight into ancient Roman culture, architecture, and society, educating the reader in an engaging way.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to appreciate history and promotes curiosity about different civilizations, enhancing their cultural awareness and understanding.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As characters in the book interact with historical figures and citizens, they learn to understand different perspectives and the importance of empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to be more empathetic and considerate in their interactions with others, fostering better relationships and community understanding.