Detectives in Togas (original 1956; edition 2002)

A lively and entertaining story about the misadventures of a group of Roman schoolboys. I enjoyed this a great deal. It's funny, fast-paced, and the scrapes the boys get into while trying to solve the mystery feel authentic.

The picture of ancient Rome portrayed in this novel reminds me of some of my early Latin classes, which seems to me appropriate since the book was written at a time and place when children were commonly taught Latin in the schools, and I think some of the appeal is particular for someone with that background. (At least one fairly important clue to the mystery is made quite clear - perhaps too clear - for someone with a knowledge of Greek as well as Latin, however.)

One of the blurbs on the front said "Humorous". I did not find this book humorous. It was not suspensful. They were not detectives. I could not keep track of which boy was which. It was a struggle to keep trudging through. Too much book for not enough story. ( )

This is a great book about Roman culture and intrigue. The plot was complex for my young children (5 and 8) and yet they always wanted to go on to the next chapter. I had difficulty with the number of characters but we likely read the book over too long a time. There is some violence but it isn't graphic. I would definitely recommend for older elementary aged children and parents. ( )

"Caius is a dumbbell", in Rufus's handwriting, is found scrawled in red paint on the wall of the temple of Minerva. Such desecration is enough to send Rufus to prison. Rufus swears he is innocent, and in a fight against time his schoolmates (including, as the matter grows serious, even Caius) set out to find the real culprit. As their search grows warmer, the clues become frightening in their political implications, and a terrifying visit to the soothsayer nearly spells disaster. - back cover. Good historical details and humour: this book is a keeper. ( )