The Childhood of Rome

"The Childhood of Rome" by Louise Lamprey is a story that transports readers to the ancient Italian world, weaving together historical lore with the experiences of a young girl named Marcia and her family. Living on the slopes of the "Mountain of Fire", Marcia's life, filled with basket weaving and harvest traditions, is shattered when a volcanic eruption decimates her village. This catastrophic event tests the family's strength and underscores their commitment to rebuilding, mirroring the broader struggles and resilience associated with the beginnings of Roman civilization and its relationship with the natural world.