A complementary resource for the historical fiction novel, this guide is for experienced teachers of young people ages 10-12. Learn more about the history, geography, culture, religion, lifestyle, heroes, government, medicine, language, alphabet, writings, art, and music of this place and time. Guides include age-appropriate curriculum elements such as historical reading material, worksheets, writing projects, puzzles, arts & crafts, tests and timeline events.

In 1638, Tiago is the thirteen year old son of a Portuguese explorer. Following an Indian tradition, the family ventures into the inhospitable tropical rainforest of Brazil to take his young brother to his grandfather. Can they survive the many dangers of this forest to reach the settlement of the Kalapalo Indians? When tragedy strikes, will Tiago remain with is brother and find acceptance among the nations?

In 66 AD, Israel is ruled by the powerful Empire of Rome. Groups of zealots fight for freedom and the unique Jewish religion. Thomas is a twelve year old student who is training to be a scribe. Will he find a new home in the desert fortress of Qumran? Can he help protect the scrolls of the Holy Scriptures?

In 1793 AD, Paris is the center of the French Revolution. The citizens of France live in fear of arrest, imprisonment and death at the guillotine. Beau is a fourteen year-old student in the school of surgery. Can he help save the young dauphin? Will his secret plan be discovered?

Emperor Justinian ordered rebuilding throughout the magnificent 6th century capital of Constantinople. Craftsmen from across the Byzantine Empire will create beautiful buildings and mosaics. Rasmus is a thirteen year old mosaic apprentice. Opportunity and danger await him in the imperial palace. Can Rasmus solve the puzzle and save the emperor?

The strong brave native Maori people of 1845 New Zealand are fascinating to Ashtyn. She is a fourteen year old English girl who wants to live with the great Ngapuhi tribe and teach their children. Will the chief and his people accept her? Can she learn and adapt to the unique traditions of the tribe and save her Maori friend from unknown danger?