Books by Annelise Gray
Annelise Gray is a children’s book author who has also written books for adults under the name Annelise Freisenbruch. She has a PhD in Classics from Newnham College, Cambridge, and teaches Latin.
Circus Maximus: Return of the Champion
by Annelise Gray
The first book in the Circus Maximus series, Race to the Death, made our list of the best books for kids 2021. The series, which is set in 1st century Rome and Roman North Africa, has kept its quality across all four books, and this elegant conclusion works well as a standalone novel. Dido has been keeping a low profile but when she is asked to shelter the runaway son of her chariot-racing rival, can she find it in her to help him fulfil his dream? And will she manage to stay away from the thrill and danger of Rome's Circus Maximus? Great historical fiction for kids age 9-12.
Rider of the Storm
by Annelise Gray
Want to start at the beginning? The first book in this series, Race to the Death, made our best books for kids 2021 list.
In our interview with the author, Annelise Gray recommends The Best Classics Books for Children.
Circus Maximus (book 3). Historical novels set in 1st century Rome and Roman North Africa, centred on the dangerous world of chariot racing. Age 9+
Rivals on the Track
by Annelise Gray
Circus Maximus (book 2). This is the sequel to Race to the Death, which made our best books for kids 2021 list. In this volume, which is set in Roman North Africa, Dido gets another chance to compete in the dangerous world of chariot racing. Age 9+
Circus Maximus: Race to the Death
by Annelise Gray
Circus Maximus is a gripping novel set in ancient Rome, centred on the world of chariot racing. Readers meet Dido, a 12 year old girl who loves to look after the horses her father trains. Girls do not compete, but Dido nevertheless dreams of racing in the Circus. When she witnesses a crime she has to go on the run from the Praetorian guard. We follow her journey over the next couple of years as she finds ways to train as a charioteer whilst longing to be reunited with her beloved horse Porcellus. Meanwhile the unpredictable emperor Caligula has become obsessed with chariot racing, raising the stakes for all involved to ever more dangerous levels. The story wears the historical detail lightly but very convincingly.
Ages 8+ but really just as exciting for teens
Interviews with Annelise Gray
The Best Classics Books for Children, recommended by Annelise Gray
Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire continue to fascinate children and provide fertile ground for historical novels that resonate with today’s readers. Author and classicist Annelise Gray talks us through some of her favourite books for children set in the ancient Mediterranean world and Roman Britain.
