In the third century AD, as the Roman imperial army travels north with a caravan of families, slaves, and livestock, two youths meet at an encampment near Cologne. Martilla, a young Roman slave girl, and Marbord, the son of a merchant who is traveling south from Scandia with his father, strike an unlikely friendship. As they learn about each other's 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 book's engaging 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. For ages ten and up.

Birgitta Petrén resides in Sweden and is the author of several books on the history of the Scandinavian people. Elisabetta Putini is a children's books author and lives in Rome. Lara Artone and Monica Barsotti studied graphics at the European Institute for Design and live in Rome.

This title is out of print. Please look for it at your local libraries and/or used bookstores.