Of the three incidents depicted in Children of the Fox, the one described in the third tale, "Persian Gold," is the most probable historically but the least convincing emotionally, evoking less of a sense of involvement with real children than the other two stories do. The author compensates for this problem somewhat by framing Lala's experiences with Themistokles within the story of her later relating these events to the Athenian who documents her account; this device lends authenticity to the tale.

The enigmatic character of Themistokles comes alive, and readers are able to decide if he was truly a hero or an opportunist.

Paton Walsh is a powerful writer whose work is demanding to read, but very rewarding. She always chooses complex subjects and plots but relates her stories in graceful language.

Through action, description, and, most significantly, realistic dialogue, she evokes a tactile sense of...