The Impossible Gladiator (Time Keys, book 3)

Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson are on holiday in Rome with Sim's mother, Callidora, and Jeopardy's father, Emmett, and they are loving every minute. Then they meet Soraya, whose brother is the world-famous illusionist, Kinetic. When Kinetic vanishes while performing a trick (which is being broadcast live) in the Colosseum, he never reappears.

Soraya finds a clue in a history book which leads her to believe that Kinetic has been kidnapped and forced into another time. Using their powers as time keys, Sim, Nelson and Jeopardy set off on a thrilling adventure. Travelling through the secret time doors they find themselves in the Colosseum in Ancient Rome, where they will encounter gladiators, wild animals and other dangers in their quest to find and rescue Kinetic.

The Impossible Gladiator is the third novel in the Time Keys series, and, once again, M.G. Leonard gives the reader the perfect blend of history, adventure and music. The characterisation is excellent, the three friends are a great team, working well together and using their various talents to blend in with the world of Ancient Rome and become part of the gladiatorial games.

We learn more about each of the children, especially Sim, who is searching for information about the identity of his father. He believes that Kane Wolfe, the chairman of the Council of Keys, may hold the answers he seeks.

The author gives us a great deal of historical information, all wrapped up in a thrilling adventure, so this would make a wonderful class reader for any teacher delivering lessons on the Romans. Nelson's 'Time Traveller's Diary', which appears at the end of the book, is very useful in giving the young reader extra historical information in a very readable form. The illustrations, by Manuel Sumberac, are a great addition to the story; moody and atmospheric, they enhance the book without interrupting the flow of the story.

This is an excellent addition to an exciting and well-written series of books. We are left with a satisfying conclusion which leaves the reader more than ready for the next instalment! Highly recommended.

272 pages / Reviewed by Beverley Somerset, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+

Whilst enjoying a holiday in Rome, Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson are shocked when they hear about the disappearance of a famous illusionist called Kinetic. Having found a newly added line in an old copy of poems, Kinetic's sister, Soraya, is convinced that it is a message from Kinetic, trapped in ancient Rome. Determined to help, Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson find themselves on a race through time . . .

The Impossible Gladiator is the third adventure in the Time Keys series. Having already travelled to Ancient Egypt and Viking Norway, Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson find themselves in Ancient Rome. Impossible to put down, each book offers a cracking adventure, offering a wealth of historical information.

Perfect for enriching areas of the current KS2 History curriculum, readers will absorb details about the past, effortlessly learning whilst enjoying a great story. As well as being rich in history, family and friendship are at the heart of these stories. With the adults playing a significant role in the action, it is possible to see not only the children’s growth as characters, but also their family dynamics and with more hints about Sim's family and possible connection to Kane Wolf, this is sure to develop in the next book. A great addition to a brilliant series!

272 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+