Bodies From the Ash by James M. Deem

Book Summary
This book describes the events that took place on August 24 and 25, AD 79 when Mount Vesuvius erupted and destroyed the city of Pompeii. It also tells about the excavation of Pompeii and how the story of those days was pieced together. Included are photographs of the excavation site and the plaster casts of the bodies that were found.

My Thoughts
This book does an excellent job of teaching about Pompeii and the events that have taken place there since the eruption. It is extremely informative, explaining how the excavations were done as well as how the stories of those who died were figured out. The facts are given in an interesting way so as not to loose the interest of the reader.

Library Usage
I would use this book for a display on ancient times. It would also be useful in a reader's advisory recommended informational books.

Journal Reviews
School Library Journal, December 01, 2005
"In this well-researched account, Deem retells the story of this devastating eruption, combining a lively text with photographs of the bones and artifacts that have been unearthed through the years. Dramatic photographs of the casts capture the horror of this event and help readers to envision day-to-day life in this civilization. With incredibly engrossing images and narrative, this is a powerful and poignant piece of nonfiction." -Jodi Kearns, University of Akron, OH Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Booklist, November 01, 2005
"What the text lacks in excitement is made up for by the enormous amount of information Deem offers, some of which was acquired in on-site research. But the jewels here are the numerous black-and-white (and some color) photographs, especially those featuring the plaster casts and skeletons of people in their death throes. The horizontal format, with pages looking as though they were partially bordered in marble, makes an attractive setting for the art. Excellent for browsers as well as researchers." --Ilene Cooper Copyright 2005