Decide & Survive: The Destruction of Pompeii

Presenting historical events in an exciting and empowering “Choose Your Own” plot style gives readers control over how to proceed through the pages. The options are exciting, sometimes suspenseful, usually dangerous. Some readers may be attracted to the idea of reading a whole book without having to read the whole book, others may become frustrated with the back-and-forth and feel like they are missing out on something. Of course, they can go back and choose a different set of options, but keeping up with page numbers can be a challenge. Peppered with historical information, this series is an excellent source for teachers looking to liven up social studies lessons. Teachers may enjoy using the series as a read-aloud and letting the class vote on which options to choose. Vivid graphics help bring the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, and the American Revolution to life. Opportunities for discussion about choices and consequences will be plentiful and will make historical events much more comprehensible and relatable for students, who will enjoy stepping into the shoes of the characters. VERDICT Recommended to teachers and students who love new challenges.

Sylvia Whitman, a writer and educator, has published a slew of articles and a handful of children’s history books as well as a picture book, Under the Ramadan Moon. A folklore and mythology major in college, she has always liked proverbs, particularly this one: ‘A book is a garden carried in the pocket’. She lives with her husband and two kids in Arlington, Virginia.