History chapters
If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten
Rudyard Kipling
Rolo's books are cross-curricular!
Some of Rolo's adventures are linked to history topics in the National Curriculum for Key Stage 2.
A 'fee free author visit' to school would tick both English and History boxes!
In each book, at least one history chapter has been inspired by an archaeological discovery and can be used to demonstrate to children how an object from the past can tell a story and to encourage children to write their own.
For example in book 1, Rolo witnesses the eruption of Vesuvius inspired by a mosaic found at Pompeii.
In book 2 he finds out about the Bronze Age inspired by the discovery of the burial mound of the Amesbury Archer during excavation for a new primary school in Wiltshire.
In book 3 there is a chapter woven around the excavated Iron Age artefacts known as the Chiseldon Cauldrons.
In book 4 there is a return to the Bronze Age after charred wood appears preserved in Fenland mud and archaeologists are scratching their heads as to what happened at the settlement.
In book 5, Hadrian's Wall and Roman Britain feature, also The Terracotta Army in China. There is a fascinating chapter about medieval manuscripts inspired by an archaeologist's recent discovery and subsequent posting on social media which sparked an invitation and has now led to my books being used to promote a young interest in archaeology by staff at University College, Dublin.
'The Secret Adventures of Rolo' can be an enjoyable family read; perfect for introducing children to history.
Each book can be enjoyed as a 'stand-alone' or as a series. They are chapter books with pencil sketch illustrations.
