The Boy Who Stepped Through Time

Anna Ciddor author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Murdoch Books

Published:11th Nov '21

£7.99

Available to order, but very limited on stock - if we have issues obtaining a copy, we will let you know.

The Boy Who Stepped Through Time cover

When Perry steps into a crumbling ruin while on holiday in France, he is not expecting to be transported back 1700 years to Roman times. While he hunts desperately for a way home, he must blend in as a slave - even if it means eating mice for dinner!

Gradually, Perry is caught up in the fascinating world of grand Villa Rubia and a life he could never have imagined. But when he makes a new friend, he thinks he might already know her terrible fate.

Perry is faced with an impossible choice: to find his way home or stay and guard his friend's life - and risk being trapped in the past forever...

'Anna Ciddor has vividly brought the Roman era to life with authentic historical flourishes. The Boy Who Stepped Through Time is a sweet, funny romp perfect for history buffs ages 8+.'Readings

'A brilliant novel that combines history, archaeology, time travel and conflicts of modernity versus antiquity to teach kids something new and unique in a fun and vibrant way.'The Book Muse


'This historical fiction book is the ideal novel for children 10+. One of a kind, Anna Ciddor has done an amazing job of adding just the right amount of humor, embarrassment and shocking in this action-packed story. I cannot wait to see what she whips up next! Hannah's Book Reviews



'Richly detailed and riveting middle grade time-slip tale set in Roman times.' Story Links


'Once again Anna Ciddor has crafted an historical narrative that will both entertain her readers with humour, drama, terrific characters and exciting storylines, and inform them with fascinating, and no doubt, previously unknown facts about life in Ancient Rome.' Just So Stories


'This is a wonderful time-slip adventure with so much historical detail that it seems as if you are actually in Ancient Rome with Perry. The characters are lots of fun, and the story full of action and adventure. The friendship between the three main characters is great, and a real highlight of the book. A perfect introduction to Ancient Rome, as well as being a great adventure story, for students in upper primary and lower secondary.'Lamont Books


'The final pages of the novel will be devoured by young readers wanting to know what happens to Perry. All the while, the past has come to life, its people have become real, and the present suddenly looks more temporary and 'historical' than ever because soon enough we will be the past that many young historians might be curious about.' Kevin Brophy, CBCA Reading Time


'It's clear that a lot of deep research went into it, which made it an absolute joy to read. The Roman era was brought to life with colour, vibrancy and affection (Alex Crozier, Good Reads)
The comparison between life then and now will provide much food for thought for young readers, as will the subtle but important lesson about not judging the past by the present. Highly recommended!' Good Reads


'Such an exciting premise, 21st century boy thrust back into Roman times. This is what we need on the shelves. An Aussie boy time travels to ancient Rome, taking on numerous adventures - all the while keeping his identity secret. Please make this a series.' Jeffreys children's book specialist


'This book really intrigued our Year 6 and 7 students who love this mystery that takes the reader into a Roman world in AD 300! Impossible to put down! It's a must read for classes studying Ancient Civilisations in the Australian Curriculum.' Julie Connelly, Teacher-Librarian


  • Winner of Nance Donkin Literary Award 2021 (Australia)
  • Short-listed for Best Children's Fiction 2021 (Australia)
  • Long-listed for ARA Historical Novel Prize 2021 (Australia)

ISBN: 9781911679172

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 310g

336 pages