About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking big questions about how societies are built, who gets to be 'in charge,' and how the concept of fairness has changed over time. While many history books focus only on emperors and wars, this DK guide provides a balanced look at the daily lives of Romans across all social classes. It is particularly useful for parents looking to introduce complex social justice topics through a historical lens, explaining the harsh realities of ancient life without being overly graphic. This volume explores the intricate social hierarchies of Rome, including the varied roles of enslaved people and the paths to freedom. It balances themes of engineering brilliance and military might with the human cost of empire. For children aged 8 to 12, it offers a visual and fact-based foundation that encourages critical thinking about power, labor, and citizenship. It is an excellent choice for a child who loves 'how it works' books but is ready to apply that curiosity to human history and social structures.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book addresses slavery directly and secularly. It does not shy away from the fact that Rome's economy was built on forced labor, but it focuses on the legal paths to manumission and the roles held by skilled workers. The approach is realistic and objective, providing historical context rather than emotional narrative.
