Why does SL include Detectives in Togas? May 27, 2003, 22:02

Email from John H:

Dear Debbie:

There are several reasons. But let me BEGIN with one huge reason we are NOT concerned about the book: the reason why you rejected it.

If you would have read the book to the end, you would have discovered the sorcerer is no sorcerer at all; he is a humbug, a charlatan . . .and it is a very good lesson, indeed, don't you think, for our children to learn that many (if not most) of those who claim to have special powers are only "pulling the wool over people's eyes"? . . . The "reality" (I put that word in quotes, since the book IS fiction!) provides a wonderful opportunity for us (you) to discuss with your children where real power lies and which powers they should fear (the Power of God), and which to reject (the powers of Satan). . . .So why did we choose the book? Among other reasons:

  • Because it is one of the very FEW books we found that deals with the Roman culture, at least to some degree, at a level that early elementary children will enjoy.
  • Because it includes an exciting plot.

What reminded me to write to you were the comments I happened upon in the Sonlight Teacher's Lounge forum where someone asked others to list their all-time favorite Read-Alouds or Readers from K-3. Out of 14 responses so far, five people specifically mentioned . . . DETECTIVES IN TOGAS! That was/is the most-mentioned title. I hope this helps a bit!

Thank you for asking. Sincerely, John Holzmann

Original message:

Re: question about a book selected for History of the World, Part1

Dear Mr. Holzmann:

I am wondering about a book you choose for the History of the World Part 1 curriculum. I am using that with my 2nd grade son and have been pleased until we got "Detectives in Togas" From the Library to real aloud. I was confused that you would suggest to read a book that had such dark content and a sorcerer in it. I chose not to read it to my son as the content just didn't seem appropriate for our Christian family. Perhaps I made too quick of a judgment of the book as I didn't read it from cover to cover, but what I saw disturbed me. I was just wondering what thoughts you had about the book to understand why you chose to include it in the curriculum. Thank you so much for your thoughts and time. I want you to know that in all other ways we have been more than pleased and grateful for Sonlight curriculum!

Blessings! Debbie Parker