Julius Zebra: Rumble with the Romans

Gr 2–5—Julius Zebra, a fast-talking, nervous sort who tries to sneak home from the stinky, crocodile-infested waterhole, is captured along with Milus, a grumpy lion, and Cornelius, a clueless warthog. They are transported to the ferocious clamor of the Roman Coliseum. They are forced to become gladiators, and the only way they can gain their freedom is if they win the love of the Roman crowds. The story is written in short chapters with funny, irreverent text and cartoon-style visuals. An illustrated guide to Roman numerals and a handy glossary are included in the back. Although the book has a completely ridiculous plot mixed with zany characters, it is highly entertaining and somehow manages to combine daft antics with historical facts. Pair this title with Terry Deary's Ruthless Romans (2009) or Toby Brown's Spartacus and His Glorious Gladiators (2010, both Scholastic), and students are sure to get hooked on learning about ancient Rome.