Families who loved Roman Diary by Richard Platt often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a major life change, such as moving to a new place, or when they express curiosity about the fairness of social structures. It is a powerful tool for exploring how resilience can help a person adapt to difficult circumstances while maintaining their inner sense of self. Through the eyes of Iliona, a young Greek girl captured by pirates and sold into Roman slavery, readers explore a world of both hardship and wonder. The story balances the heavy reality of ancient slavery with the fascinating details of daily Roman life, from the Colosseum to public baths. While the subject matter is serious, the diary format makes the history accessible and personal for children ages 8 to 12. It offers a unique opportunity to discuss justice, freedom, and the way people throughout history have found strength in the face of loss.