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Gr 4—6—This companion to the author's Highway Robbery (Greenwillow, 2009) begins in the same way: a lad is handed the reins of a horse and told to take care of the animal until its owner returns. Set in ancient Rome, this is the story of the mad emperor Caligula's infamous horse, Incitatus, who was one of two consuls, appointed by the tyrannical and crazy emperor. The animal has his own house and retinue of servants, and is fed gold flakes in his oats. Marcus, a baker's son, is handed the horse by a slave boy who seconds later is killed by soldiers. Fearing what the mad emperor, known as Little Boots, will do to him if he finds that he has Incitatus, Marcus instinctively heads home, a decision that could mean a death sentence for his whole family if the soldiers discover the horse. Should he sacrifice himself to save his family? This brief chapter book is nicely suited for reading aloud or for those independent readers who enjoy their adventure and history touched with humor. Marcus's voice is engaging and credible. There are enough references to murder, from the soldiers' killing of the slave boy to descriptions of some of Little Boots's nefarious deeds, to make this story more appropriate for slightly older children than it would seem at first glance. A cleverly told tale of an odd and interesting piece of history that will intrigue young readers.—Connie Tyrrell Burns, Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME

Silver-tongued Marcus spins a rousing tale of how he came to possess Incitatus, beloved steed of Emperor "Gaius" (think vicious tyrant Caligula). "Take care of him," says the slave who hands Incitatus over just before being summarily dispatched. Marcus's ensuing escape on horseback is engrossingly eventful on its way to the story’s just conclusion. Plenty of pen-and-ink spot illustrations keep the tone light.

Perfect for emerging chapter-book readers—the lively, fast-paced story consists of short chapters and ample illustrations. An entertaining plotline; young readers will enjoy that a horse, appointed consul, is the second most powerful individual in Rome. Both Marcus, the young narrator, and Incitatus, the horse, are likable characters, and readers will be rooting for their survival. Kate Thompson’s tale has fascinating historical origins. Her brief author’s note provides elucidation regarding Incitatus’s starring role: cruel, greedy Little Boots is based upon Roman emperor Caligula (AD 37–41), who had a favorite racehorse that he indeed threatened to make consul (though he never did).