I’m a sucker for stories set in the ancient world—that’s obvious. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to jump up and down every time I read one. (Steven Saylor’s work? Pretty much guaranteed to induce said jumping. But I digress.)Books that I find exciting have me relating to the main character’s emotional struggles while, at the same time, marveling at the strangeness or … [Read more...] about Book Review: The Pericles Commission
The Cover for Cleopatra’s Moon!
I've known for a while how gorgeous the cover for Cleopatra's Moon is, but I didn't make a big deal about it because, well, it doesn't come out until August. I worried that people might get tired of it if I jumped up and down about it too much, too early.But, I've been seeing it pop up in different places (Goodreads, for one) so I figured I might as well own it. So, TA DA! … [Read more...] about The Cover for Cleopatra’s Moon!
Connecting with Teens Made my Day
I recently spoke to a high school Latin class of juniors (11th graders). I had a blast. But ya know what really made me happy? Not a single kid fell asleep during my talk (hey, it was an early class, okay?And we're talking teens).Yesterday, I received a thank you note from the teacher along with a thick packet of letters and cards from the students. I sometimes receive sweet … [Read more...] about Connecting with Teens Made my Day
“Shall I Pee on your Hair Now?” Going Blonde and Other Ancient Gross Facts
Sometimes, I like to pretend the ancient world fascinates me because I'm intellectually curious. The truth? I like learning about things that make me laugh or that gross me out. Yes, I have the emotional maturity of an 11-year old boy.So, in the spirit of celebrating my true nature, let's get to the fun stuff! Here are some disgusting...I mean, interesting facts I've come … [Read more...] about “Shall I Pee on your Hair Now?” Going Blonde and Other Ancient Gross Facts
Review: I Feel Better with a Frog in my Throat
Any book that opens with a warning to not eat lunch while you're reading it is my kind of book. And the fact that it also includes lore from ancient and medieval history? Awe. Some.Author-illustrator Carlyn Beccia's book, I Feel Better with a Frog in My Throat: History's Strangest Cures, takes you on a fun and fascinating medical mystery tour. My kids are too old for … [Read more...] about Review: I Feel Better with a Frog in my Throat
