Pompeii . . . Buried Alive! : Book Review

"Pompeii: Buried Alive" by Edith Kunhardt Davis is an intriguing and educational book that delves into the tragic events surrounding the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This captivating book provides a detailed account of the Roman city of Pompeii before its destruction, followed by a vivid description of the disaster and its aftermath.

What sets this book apart is its ability to present historical information in a way that is accessible to young readers, making it an excellent choice for middle-grade children. Davis carefully combines well-researched facts with engaging storytelling to create a sense of realism and intrigue. The author's writing style is clear and concise, allowing readers to easily follow along and understand the events leading up to the eruption.

One of the strengths of this book is its use of illustrations and photographs. The inclusion of maps, diagrams, and images of the excavated ruins of Pompeii enhances the readers' understanding and brings the ancient city to life. These visual aids effectively complement the text and help readers visualize the magnitude of the volcanic eruption and its devastating consequences.

In addition to exploring the events of Pompeii's destruction, the book also delves into the ongoing archaeological excavation and preservation of the city. This aspect adds an educational component to the narrative, providing readers with a glimpse into the field of archaeology and emphasizing the importance of preserving historical sites.

Overall, "Pompeii: Buried Alive" is a well-written and well-researched book that successfully engages young readers with the fascinating story of Pompeii's destruction. It combines historical facts, descriptive writing, and visual aids to create an immersive reading experience that inspires curiosity about ancient history and archaeology. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a classroom resource, this book is a captivating and informative read for readers of all ages.

What are readers saying?

Pompeii: Buried Alive by Edith Kunhardt Davis has garnered a range of opinions from readers on Goodreads. Exploring the tragic events surrounding the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the book has generated mixed reviews.

Some readers lauded the book for its engaging storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail. They found the narrative to be well-crafted and informative, making it an excellent educational resource for young readers. The inclusion of primary sources, such as quotes from Pliny the Younger's written account, was appreciated. Additionally, the illustrations were praised for their visual appeal and the depth they added to the story.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book, particularly in terms of its intended audience. They believed that the writing style and content were too simplistic, making it more suitable for children aged 8-12 rather than older readers. Furthermore, a few reviewers mentioned uneven pacing, with some sections feeling rushed and others dragging on. This inconsistency led to a lack of sustained engagement for some readers.

In spite of these criticisms, many reviewers commended the book for effectively conveying the devastation and human tragedy of the Pompeii eruption. They appreciated how the author delved into the personal stories of individuals who lived during that time, fostering empathy and a connection to the past. Moreover, the book was praised for its ability to ignite curiosity and interest in the ancient world, making it a valuable teaching tool.

Overall, the reviews for Pompeii: Buried Alive present a mixed response. While some readers enjoyed the book's engaging storytelling and educational value, others felt that it lacked depth and was better suited for younger readers. However, the majority of reviewers applauded the author for effectively bringing the history of Pompeii to life and fostering a connection with the past.

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