Julius Zebra: Rumble with the Romans
#1 of 5 in Julius Zebra Series
on Goodreads (746)
What’s inside...
From a water hole on the African savanna, Julius Zebra is captured along with Milus the lion and Cornelius the warthog. Transported to the Colosseum, they must become gladiators to win their freedom, facing a world where only the toughest survive. The story combines humor, adventure, and history in short chapters with cartoon-style illustrations, and includes an illustrated guide to Roman numerals and a glossary.
Discussion points
What do you think Julius felt when he first arrived in Rome? Can you relate to his feelings?
Julius encounters many different characters throughout his adventure. Who was your favorite, and why?
How do the friendships Julius forms help him throughout the story? Have you ever been helped by a friend in a tough situation?
If you could change one part of Julius's story, what would it be and why?
What did you learn about Ancient Rome that you found interesting or surprising?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in their responses, to encourage deeper thinking and engagement.
Relate aspects of Julius's adventures to your child’s own experiences, fostering a personal connection to the story.
Discuss the historical and cultural setting of Ancient Rome, stimulating curiosity and educational exploration.
Use a globe or map to locate Rome and enhance the geographical and historical context of the story.
Encourage creative thinking by asking your child how they would have reacted in similar situations as Julius.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Julius Zebra: Rumble with the Romans', Julius and his quirky group of friends must work together to navigate the challenges they face in gladiator school.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals. This lesson is applicable in group activities at school, in sports teams, and during group projects.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Julius, initially out of his element, shows bravery as he tackles obstacles in an unfamiliar world. His journey from a frightened zebra to a celebrated gladiator is central to the plot.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and challenges, understanding that bravery isn’t about not being scared, but about overcoming those fears to do what needs to be done.
Example Lesson: The significance of resilience
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Julius never gives up. His perseverance is a key theme that helps him and his friends survive and eventually thrive.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the value of persistence even when faced with difficulties. This can be applied in their academic pursuits, personal hobbies, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing diversity
Explanation: Julius Zebra encounters many characters from different backgrounds and species, each with unique traits and perspectives that contribute to their shared experiences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate diversity and understand that everyone brings something valuable to the table, promoting inclusivity in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Humor as a coping mechanism
Explanation: The book uses humor to lighten the challenges Julius faces, making the narrative enjoyable and relatable.
Real-World Application: It demonstrates to children how humor can be an effective tool to deal with difficult situations and not to take every setback too seriously.