It's true - The Romans were the real gangsters
John & Joshua Wright

Allen & Unwin, 2004
88pp., pbk., $12.95
1741173004

The Romans Were the Real Gangsters is a book written interestingly by two brothers, John and Joshua Wright. The publication was by Allen & Unwin in the year 2004. Series: It’s True!

The Romans Were the Real Gangsters book tells you all about the interesting, strange and gruesome facts about the Romans BC, such as some supreme commanders came from pig yard, Julius Caesar had a personal hairdresser who plucked his hair with tweezers, and an emperor was always talking to his horse!

I recommend this book for boys around the age of 8-12 who like history with a twist, and a few laughs. [But I am sure a few adults would enjoy this book too!) The choice of the topic was excellent, as not a lot of children know about the Roman times.

The illustrations are cartoons related to what's going on. These I feel are very amusing and give more life to the story. However, the cover is a bit disappointing and would not catch my eye when browsing in a bookstore or library, as it is rather plain.

The language used is very rich and original. The layout makes it a more interesting book to read. I like the way that the key words are made larger and bolder. I would say that this book is ideal for groups to read, as there are many short interesting chapters.

This book I would not mind receiving as a gift, but not one I would spend on with my pocket money, unless I heard a good recommendation from a friend. But I am not quite sure I would keep this book for my children to read.

I am glad I read this book because I can have something new to talk about to my family and friends. Thank you John and Joshua Wright!

By Erika Age: 11 Canberra

This year, because of the Olympics we have done lots of studies about the Ancienct Greeks, so it was good to read about the Ancient Romans for a change.

The only stuff I knew until I read this book was the story of Androcles and the Lion. My mum says I am too young to watch Gladiator but she might let me now.

Living in Roman times must have been really tough, especially if you were not one of the leaders. I don't think I would have liked to have lived then.

I learned a lot from this book - the stories were easy to read and the pictures helped, even though some of them made me squirm.

I think this is a book for kids over 10 because they would know that there were people on earth before us and they could manage the gory bits.

Boyan, 11, North Coast, NSW