I Survived the Destruction of Pompeii AD
on Goodreads (5,138)
What’s inside...
In this gripping historical fiction novel, readers follow the journey of Marcus, a boy who lived in Pompeii in AD 79 during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The tale revolves around Marcus' immense courage in the face of unthinkable disaster.
Why read this book
- Engaging historical adventure enhances historical awareness.
- Protagonist's resilience promotes personal growth in readers.
- Fosters empathy and understanding of different cultures.
- Encourages curiosity about ancient civilizations and events.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Marcus felt when he realized Pompeii was in danger? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
What would you have done if you were in Marcus's situation?
How do the friendships in the book help the characters survive through tough times?
What did you learn about ancient Pompeii and its culture?
How does this story change how you think about natural disasters and preparedness?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to set a comfortable tone for the discussion. Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the story, then use that as a springboard for deeper questions. Encourage your child to draw parallels between the characters' experiences and their own lives, fostering empathy and understanding. Highlight the historical aspect of the book to pique curiosity about history and geography. Lastly, discuss the moral lessons learned and how they can be applied in everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist's survival and courage during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius exemplify resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain hopeful and strong when encountering challenges, be it at school or in interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The importance of historical awareness
Explanation: The setting of ancient Pompeii during a real historical event helps children understand and appreciate historical contexts.
Real-World Application: This awareness can stimulate a child’s interest in history and cultures, encouraging them to explore and respect diverse heritages.
Example Lesson: Empathy and friendship
Explanation: As characters face peril together, the story highlights the value of supporting and empathizing with others.
Real-World Application: This can help a child develop strong, supportive relationships and become more attuned to the feelings of others around them.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The characters’ responses to crises in the story demonstrate the necessity of quick and effective thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of analyzing situations and making informed decisions, a skill valuable in academics and personal life.