Books about Romans

A comprehensive, accessible guide to what it would have been like to live in Ancient Rome, with engaging activities and illustrations to bring the facts to life. Enjoyable reading at school or at home.

Strong’s hilarious and pun-filled text, and Rowan Clifford’s numerous excellent comic illustrations provide an ideal introduction to Roman life.

A stunning book exploring the history of sport across the world, from the sword fighter the Lady of Yue to boat-jousting on the Nile in Ancient Egypt. As ever with Flying Eye titles, the illustration and lovely book production means that this is a special treasure of a book that kids will adore.

In a tiny corner of Brittany, one small village of indomitable Gauls hold out against the almighty, all-conquering Romans.

Set in ancient Rome, this is the hilarious tale of Julius, a zebra who is seized from his African watering hole and shipped hundreds of miles away to face the gladiators in combat at the Colosseum.

This fascinating illustrated book tells the often heartbreaking story of Black people in Britain’s history clearly, and with a focus on the real humans involved. Doubtless, the book will be an education for many parents, as well as their children. 

Rhianna and Eleri are taken in by Queen Boudica following the death of their parents. When Boudica’s determination to rule enrages the Romans, the sisters find themselves in the midst of a frightening military campaign, beginning to question the Queen’s very humanity. A gripping adventure portraying one of history’s most legendary female icons.

This gripping historical novel, set in 125 CE, is full of treachery and war, and provides a fascinating insight into the life of a teenage boy in Ancient Rome. 

In the exhilarating but brutal world of chariot racing the rewards are huge but so is the death-toll. This is the background to Dido’s quest for victory and justice; she must win, her life depends on it.

This engaging, illustrated non-fiction book explores ancient Roman life through a series of 20 objects, from a wooden nit comb to exquisite jewellery.