Review by Booklist Review
Marcus is an 11-year-old slave in AD 79 who finds himself in Pompeii the day before Mount Vesuvius erupts. Although he has noticed the mini earthquakes that frequently disrupt the city's activities, he is more concerned with his miserable life with his cruel owner. A chance encounter on the street reunites Marcus with his father, who has been sold to gladiators. Marcus braves a daring rescue of his father, and the two race up Vesuvius to escape their captors only to return to warn the unbelieving citizens of the impeding disaster. Tarshis serves up another gripping adventure in the I Survived series, with the light-speed pacing and death-defying maneuvering fans have come to expect. The relationship between Marcus and his father softens the terror of the horrific eruption and the ensuing chaos and panic. The insights into Roman civilization and society will please readers with an interest in the time period. Back matter includes suggestions for further research and answers to frequently asked questions about Pompeii.--Szwarek, Magan Copyright 2014 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
