A Gladiator Stole my Lunchbox! Written by Thiago de Moraes. Reviewed by Arthur, Age 11

A Gladiator Stole My Lunchbox! is a thrilling, action-packed and amazing guide into what happened in ancient Rome. The story follows Henry, a young boy from Britain, after he is transported from the present day to ancient Rome. It is easy to relate to Henry, and the book is written in the first-person, so the reader sees everything through his eyes. This makes the moments of danger – like being chased by lions! – feel more exciting.

The author Thiago De Moraes creates detailed descriptions of the Roman Empire. The story guides us through death-defying situations and dangerous obstacles. Henry shows us what happened in ancient Rome and their many interesting cultures. It shows the reader what it is like to go to school, act in front of the emperor, and eat tongue-testing meals in Roman times (such as stuffed dormice dipped in honey!), as well as teaching the reader about what happened at the amphitheatre, baths, parades and at the temple.

When I first got the book, I did not know what to expect – whether it was fiction or fact – but it turned out to be both in a historical-fiction thriller. It is full of pictures, in the style of a Tom Gates or Treehouse book, and is the sequel to A Mummy Ate My Homework. I really enjoyed it because it is hilarious and adventurous.