Why Are You Calling Me Barbarian?

About this book

It is the 3rd century BC and as the Roman imperial army travels north followed by a caravan of families slaves and livestock two kids meet at an encampment near Cologne in todays Germany. Martilla a young Roman slave girl and Marbord the son of a merchant from Scandia strike an unlikely friendship. As they learn about each others customs lifestyles and lands they discover that calling someone a "barbarian" is strictly a matter of ignorance. This timely lesson in tolerance--set centuries ago in Europe--shows children how people of different cultures can overcome stereotypes to become friends. The books quaint illustrations show children the daily life of early Europeans and a section on the history of Roman and Scandian slavery offers age-appropriate insights on the subject. Also included is a glossary of Germanic and Roman terms and proper names.