Revolt against the Romans by Tony Bradman

Bloomsbury, 2017. ISBN 9781472929327
Author, Tony Bradman has created a short read (115 pages) about a young Roman boy called Marcus. He has a complicated relationship with his father a high-ranking official within the Roman Civil Service. When Marcus is captured by Catuvellauni in Britannia, his father suggests that Marcus makes the ultimate sacrifice for his country. Despite the reputation the Britons have for being savages who tattoo themselves and take the heads of their enemies in battle, Marcus wins the trust and respect of the village and is adopted into a Briton family where he experiences the love and warmth he so craved.
But soon the Romans are on the march against the Britons and Marcus must face his old enemy in his father. Will he be recognised by his long-lost father? Who will Marcus support?
This is a fast-paced book, full of adventure, battle scenes and an interesting ending. Being a lover of historical fiction, I found this book left me wanting to google the period in history to learn more. Bradman has done a fantastic job of mixing fact with fiction to allow the characters to come alive throughout the book. It is difficult not to feel sympathetic towards Marcus and will him to victory. These will be a fantastic addition to read aloud if one is learning about ancient civilisations and an exciting carrot to dangle in front of reluctant readers.
I am hoping this will become a series.
Kathryn Schumacher