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Cousins Patrick and Beth are back in Mr. Whittaker’s time machine. This time they head to ancient Rome in search of the Roman monk’s silver cup that will, once again, help Albert against the angry Lord Darkthorn. But just as the children think they have succeeded in their quest, something odd happens.
In Attack at the Arena, readers discover the bloodthirsty sport in which slaves and animals fight to the death in the arena. The Christian-based message in this book comes from Beth, who asks the emperor, “How can a Christian emperor laugh when men die? How can he then drink from a holy cup? That silver chalice has been used for the Lord’s Supper.”
Patrick and Beth are elated that they have found the silver cup, but as they get ready to head home in the Imagination Station traveling machine, a knight appears. He has a message for Mr. Whittaker: he needs to find the golden tablet of Kublai Khan. A real cliffhanger to keep readers guessing until the next book.
As with the other books in the series, Patrick and Beth’s adventures give readers a glimpse into the past, revealing physical and cultural details about the place and time. The details in the text are enhanced by the illustrations that show the uniform for Roman guards, as well as the city scene and clothing of the time.
Another fun read in the Imagination Station series that introduces children to aspects of ancient Rome, while teaching Christian-based values. Recommended.
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Imagination Station #2: Attack at the Arena