Buried Cities, Volume 1 Pompeii   By: Jennie Hall (1875-1921)

Buried Cities, Volume 1 Pompeii by Jennie Hall offers readers a captivating and insightful journey into the ancient city of Pompeii. As a historical account, this book serves as a bridge connecting us to the past, vividly recounting the tragic events surrounding the city's destruction by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Hall's writing style is engaging, providing a wealth of information blended seamlessly with captivating storytelling. She navigates the vast amount of historical data surrounding Pompeii with remarkable clarity, making it accessible to readers of various backgrounds. One can easily immerse oneself in the narratives of ordinary citizens and influential figures, gaining a comprehensive understanding of Pompeii's society, customs, and daily life.

What sets Buried Cities, Volume 1 Pompeii apart is Hall's attention to detail. The meticulous descriptions allow readers to visualize the forgotten streets, houses, temples, and even the vibrant characters who once thrived in this bustling city. Hall paints a vivid portrait of the ancient world, exploring the intricate social structures, mosaics, frescoes, and public buildings that characterized Pompeii.

Moreover, Hall's meticulous research shines through in her descriptions of the eruption itself. From the initial tremors to the catastrophic eruption that blanketed Pompeii in ash and pumice, she recreates the terrifying experience witnessed by its inhabitants. This portrayal evokes a sense of empathy and realism, enabling readers to grasp the true extent of the tragedy that unfolded centuries ago.

While the focus of the book is on Pompeii, Hall also provides a broader context, explaining the historical significance of the city within the greater Roman Empire. This broadens our understanding of the era, connecting the events in Pompeii with the wider political and cultural dynamics of the time.

Nevertheless, one minor drawback of the book is its occasional repetition of certain details, which may be noticeable to more attentive readers. Yet, it does not detract significantly from the overall quality of the content, as the narrative remains captivating throughout.

In conclusion, Buried Cities, Volume 1 Pompeii is a remarkable piece of historical literature that unravels the mysteries of an ancient city frozen in time. Jennie Hall's meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and vivid descriptions offer an immersive experience, transporting readers to a world long lost. This book stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with Pompeii, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone eager to uncover the forgotten treasures of the past.

First Page:

Do you like to dig for hidden treasure? Have you ever found Indian arrowheads or Indian pottery? I knew a boy who was digging a cave in a sandy place, and he found an Indian grave. With his own hands he uncovered the bones and skull of some brave warrior. That brown skull was more precious to him than a mint of money. Another boy I knew was making a cave of his own. Suddenly he dug into an older one made years before. He crawled into it with a leaping heart and began to explore. He found an old carpet and a bit of burned candle. They proved that some one had lived there... Continue reading book >>