Informational (nonfiction), 1,543 words, Level V (Grade 4), Lexile 980L
For five centuries starting around 27 BCE, the leaders of the Roman Empire ruled over large areas of Europe. Eventually, the empire became so vast that it had to be divided between two emperors. This division reduced the power of the empire, leaving them open to attack. A fearsome leader named Attila attacked the Roman Empire. Aetius, a Roman general, persuaded several tribes in the empire to form an army. This huge army halted Attila and the Huns at the monumental Battle of Chalons. Photographs, maps, and illustrations support the text.