Land of the Gods
Lucan, a Celtic boy, hides when he sees the amazing, if frightening, sight of a legion of Roman soldiers. Unfortunately, he makes the decision to fall asleep in a stranger’s wagon. From being a free Celt, he finds himself captured and sold as a Roman slave. Lucan’s initial ambitions to escape and return home are thwarted but, as he learns more about his Roman masters, his view of them changes, as does his destiny.
Lucan is quick-witted and a natural survivor. He has understated self-confidence, which is shown through the accessible way we see things from his point of view. This makes the story absorbing as he works his way through each trial the gods place in his path. These gods are Celtic as well as Roman; both cultures believing in fate and destiny.
Many aspects of Roman life are mentioned, such as food, baths and a surprising insight into Roman tax evasion. The scale of their buildings is cleverly conveyed by the impact they have on Lucan when he sees them for the first time.
Roman life can be peaceful and organised if everyone accepts their role as dictated by their gods. Freedom is a right, but not one shared by all… but freedom without the means to survive is somewhat meaningless. However, the fate of a slave can be changed by a single act of bravery. There is a glossary at the end of the book, along with the ingenious invitation to research the terms, facts or ask further questions on the Internet at a deeper level.
I would highly recommend it for readers of 8+ with no upper limit.
