This is a fictional take on the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius as viewed from two children who were able to escape it.

The story begins with what like was like in Pompeii in the first century (as learned from excavation of the ruins hundreds of years later) - games the children would have played, theater, trade, etc.

The tragedy is a bit dark for a children's book, but it's a great introduction to archeology and art history.

The illustrations are statuesque and appropriate to the story.

An interesting story about 2 children who escape from the Pompeii's eruption.
A very good picture book for upper KS2 and can be used for history to explore the events and facts about Pompeii; Geography to learn about Italy, volcanoes; English to write descriptive pieces, to use VIPERS and so on.