book cover

Julius Zebra: Commotion in Ancient China

by Gary Northfield

Interest age: 9 to 11
Reading age: 8+

Published by Walker Books

  • Adventure
  • Around the world
  • Funny
  • Historical

About this book

Fiendish Roman Emperor Hadrian has captured Julius Zebra’s mum. He’s promised to release her if Julius and his motley crew of animal friends go on a secret mission for him.  

Of course, Julius agrees, but then he finds out he must travel five thousand miles to China and steal silk cocoons so the Roman Empire can make its own silk and save loads of money! Nevertheless, he and his faithful band endure the rigours of the long journey, only to find that the secrets of silk are closely guarded and trying to steal them might cost them their lives.  

This madcap historical adventure is told both in regular text and as lively and hilarious cartoons, making it ideal for reluctant readers or lovers of graphic novels. 

The diverse personalities of Julius’s gang of friends shine through as they blunder through a New Year parade, play kickball near the Great Wall, practise martial arts, and meet another Emperor. 

This is the fifth book featuring Julius Zebra and, as with previous books, a glossary explains the truth behind some historical elements of the story. The mix of fun, facts and dynamic drawings gives the books wide appeal.

About the author

Gary was born in Romford, Essex in June 1969. He moved to Norfolk when he was two, where he then spent most of his childhood and the bug for writing and drawing funny stories evolved. Gary graduated from college with a degree in illustration. After graduation he worked in an art shop for a few years during which time he discovered the hidden world of small press (home-made) comics. Finally Gary took the plunge with his own comics in 1999. He acquired the position of ‘in-house illustrator’ at Eaglemoss Publications in 2002, working on magazines such as Horrible Histories and The Magical World of Roald Dahl. Gary has been writing and drawing Derek the Sheep for DC Thomson’s The Beano since late 2003.

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