Frederick James Gould 
The Children’s Plutarch: Tales of the Romans 

In ‘The Children’s Plutarch: Tales of the Romans’ by Frederick James Gould, young readers are introduced to the fascinating world of ancient Rome through a collection of engaging and educational stories. Written in a clear and accessible style, the book combines history and myth to provide a comprehensive overview of Roman civilization. Gould’s literary style is both informative and entertaining, making this book a perfect introduction to classical literature for children. The stories within the book are carefully selected to showcase the virtues and vices of prominent Roman figures, offering valuable moral lessons for young readers. Frederick James Gould, a noted scholar of ancient history, drew upon his expertise to craft this captivating collection of tales. His deep knowledge of Roman culture and society shines through in the vivid depictions of historical events and legendary figures. Gould’s commitment to making classical literature accessible to young readers is evident in the engaging narrative style and informative content of ‘The Children’s Plutarch.’ I highly recommend ‘The Children’s Plutarch: Tales of the Romans’ to anyone seeking an engaging introduction to the world of ancient Rome. Gould’s skillful storytelling and expert knowledge make this book a valuable resource for young readers interested in history and mythology.

About the author

Frederick James Gould (1855-1938) was a notable British educator, writer, and a fervent advocate for Secularism and Rationalism. Gould devoted much of his life to education and the spread of humanistic ideals, with a particular focus on moral education for children. His pedagogical contributions are underscored in his works, which often aimed to present history and ethics in an accessible manner for young readers. A significant example of this is ‘The Children’s Plutarch: Tales of the Romans’ (1910), where Gould reinterpreted Plutarch’s Lives with a presentation fitting for the younger audience. Through engaging narratives, Gould sought to instill in children not only knowledge of Roman history but also the moral virtues exemplified by its most renowned figures. Gould’s approach to writing was characterized by clarity and a moral imperative, conveying complex subjects with a simplicity and directness designed to appeal to the developing minds of his intended audience. His contributions to literature extend beyond historical retellings, encompassing various fields including secularist thought and social reform, which are evident in his other works such as ‘The History of Freemasonry’ (1885) and ‘Children’s Book of Moral Lessons’ (1909). Gould’s legacy in literature and education remains a testament to his commitment to rational thought and the moral upliftment of society.