This is the first in a new time-travel series featuring Charlie and his dog, Bandit. In this first adventure they accidentally fall into a 'sinkhole' that transports them back to ancient Rome where their adventures begin as Charlie searches for his dog. Charlie is befriended by a young Roman named Cosmo; he must help his new friend win a chariot race before he can return home. The style and storyline are witty and appealing to all reading abilities. The context is educational and after the story, readers can delve into Charlie's notebook, filled with all sorts of information and sketches about ancient Rome that Charlie has collected just in case he ever goes back.