Romans on the Rampage
#1 of 2 in Romans on the Rampage Series
on Goodreads (84)
What’s inside...
Perilus is a Roman boy who is passionate about chariot racing and dreams of riding in the Circus Maximus. He practices with a homemade chariot pulled by the family goat. When his hero, the famous charioteer Scorcha, goes missing on the day of a big race, Perilus unexpectedly gets the chance to compete in the race himself. This humorous story, written by Jeremy Strong, is filled with excitement and laughter.
Discussion points
What do you think made Perilus so determined to win the chariot race?
How do the characters in the book show teamwork or friendship?
Can you relate to any of the challenges the characters faced? How would you handle it?
What are some of the funniest moments in the story? Why do you think they were funny?
How would you change the story if you were one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the ancient Roman setting, asking them how they would feel and what they would do.
Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the story and relate them to everyday choices your child faces.
Help your child connect with Perilus by asking about times they have faced similar emotions.
Use humor from the book to initiate conversation, making it light-hearted and engaging.
After reading, consider watching a movie or documentary about Ancient Rome to deepen understanding and continue the conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Romans on the Rampage', the characters often have to work together to overcome challenges and obstacles, demonstrating the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities and learning the value of working cooperatively to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book features characters who face various problems that they must solve creatively, showing children the power of innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's life by encouraging them to think outside the box and use their creativity to navigate challenges in school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the story often take on tasks that require them to be responsible, both for themselves and for others, fostering a sense of accountability.
Real-World Application: Children learn to take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact of their decisions on others around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout 'Romans on the Rampage', the characters face setbacks but continue to strive towards their goals, demonstrating the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily and to keep trying even when things get tough, whether in academics, sports, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for Differences
Explanation: The book portrays a variety of characters from different backgrounds, highlighting the importance of respecting and celebrating diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace individual differences in their peers, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their everyday interactions.