Dream Master: Gladiator

Dream Master #4

by Theresa Breslin

Cy has the ability to control his own dreams and knows his own, personal Dream Master. But sometimes Cy's own imagination is so strong that he can run his own dream. Or so he thinks. For there's plenty of mishap and adventure ahead when Cy and the Dream Master travel back to Pompeii - on the eve of the eruption of Vesuvius. Not only does the Dream Master have to face a lion in the gladiatorial ring, but Cy must rescue him - and drive a chariot to escape from the volanic lava and dust . . . The third in a fantastic fantasy series.

168 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

About the author

Theresa Breslin is a Scottish author of over 50 books, known for her contributions to children's and young adult literature. She won the Carnegie Medal in 1994 for Whispers in the Graveyard, which tells the story of a dyslexic boy overcoming personal struggles. Born and raised in Kirkintilloch, Scotland, she started writing as a teenager and later worked as a librarian before becoming a full-time author.

Her works often explore historical and social themes, as seen in Divided City (2005), which addresses sectarianism in Glasgow, and The Medici Seal (2006), a historical novel featuring Leonardo da Vinci. Her book Prisoner of the Inquisition (2010) was shortlisted for another Carnegie Medal.
Breslin has received numerous accolades, including the Scottish Book Trust's Outstanding Achievement Award and an Honorary Fellowship from the Association for Scottish Literary Studies. In 2019, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to literature.

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in Theresa Breslin's Dream Master series, aimed at primary school children. Again we have good and enjoyable writing, a lovely protagonist in Cy, and another (mis) adventure with the Dream Master as Cy takes control of his own dreams once more. This time he is exploring volcanoes and winds up in Ancient Rome, where possibly the most famous eruption in history is about to take place.

History pedants will notice a few lapses, but it is meant for children, and provides some good age appropriate information about the Roman first century.

I think children can get into this one more than adults. I enjoyed it a lot for the protagonist, but adult readers please be aware your mileage will vary.