Greece - Children's Books



There are so many places to visit and activities to do in Greece perfect for a family trip. Visiting Greece when topics around Ancient Greece are being taught in school could make the trip particularly relevant for children.

Do you know of any other children’s books featuring Greece? Please feel free to note it in a comment below!

Children's Books about Greek Fables, Folk Tales, and Fairy Tales

Aesop's Fables: The Classic Edition: Revive your childhood wonder and fascination with the most exquisitely illustrated edition of Aesop’s Fables —featuring breathtaking original artwork by #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Charles Santore!  Captivating the hearts and minds of kids and adults for generations, Aesop, a former Greek slave, developed simple and meaningful adventures featuring animals or insects to teach a moral standard or lesson for living. The most well known and well loved of Aesop's fables are included here.

Aesop's Fables for Children: For centuries, children and adults have treasured the stories handed down by Aesop, a slave who lived in ancient Greece approximately six centuries B.C. Known for their charm and simplicity, these simple tales feature brief adventures of animals, birds, and beasts — with a message hidden in each narrative. Every child should meet up with "The Hare and the Tortoise," "The Ants and the Grasshopper," "The Goose and the Golden Egg," "The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing," and other characters. This splendid gift edition features more than 130 of Aesop's beloved fables, enhanced with full-color illustrations and downloadable MP3 recordings of forty-two of the most popular stories in the book.

The Complete Fables (Penguin Classics): This definitive edition is the first translation into English of the entire corpus of 358 unbowdlerized fables. It is fully annotated, with an introduction that rescues the fables from a tradition of moralistic interpretation. In a series of pithy, amusing vignettes, Aesop created a vivid cast of characters to demonstrate different aspects of human nature. Here we see a wily fox outwitted by a quick-thinking cicada, a tortoise triumphing over a self-confident hare and a fable-teller named Aesop silencing those who mock him. Each jewel-like fable provides a warning about the consequences of wrong-doing, as well as offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of Ancient Greeks.

The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece: Once upon a time in Greece, fate left a young girl an orphan. Her stepmother was so hateful that she counted every drop of water the orphan drank! But with the help of Nature's blessings, the orphan was showered with gifts: brilliance from the Sun, beauty from the Moon, gracefulness from the Dawn—and even a tiny pair of blue shoes from the Sea. When the prince comes to visit their village, he only has eyes for the mysterious beauty. Children will love this fanciful folk retelling of the Cinderella story, accompanied by luminous watercolor illustrations by Giselle Potter.

Mr. Semolina-Semolinus: A Greek Folktale: Since she cannot find the perfect man to marry, feisty Princess Areti decides to create a man of her own, Mr. Semolina-Semolinus, out of sugar, almonds, and semolina wheat, but when he is kidnapped by an evil queen, Areti must brave a perilous journey to get him back.

Children's Books about Stories in Greece

His Name is Santorini – The story of a volcano: A fascinating story about the volcano of Santorini written and illustrated for children or those of us that have the child alive in us!

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants: Carmen got the jeans at a thrift shop. They didn’t look all that great: they were worn, dirty, and speckled with bleach. On the night before she and her friends part for the summer, Carmen decides to toss them. But Tibby says they’re great. She'd love to have them. Lena and Bridget also think they’re fabulous. Lena decides that they should all try them on. Whoever they fit best will get them. Nobody knows why, but the pants fit everyone perfectly. Even Carmen (who never thinks she looks good in anything) thinks she looks good in the pants. Over a few bags of cheese puffs, they decide to form a sisterhood and take the vow of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants . . . the next morning, they say good-bye. And then the journey of the pants — and the most memorable summer of their lives — begins. [Mama Traveler Note: A wonderful young adult novel for teenagers that takes place for a big chuck of the story in Greece. The corresponding movie was filmed in Santorini!]

Children's Books about Greek Myths and Ancient Greece

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths: In print for over fifty years, D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths has introduced generations to Greek mythology—and continues to enthrall young readers.  Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today.   No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come. [Mama Traveler Note: This is the most famous and classic book of Greek myths for kids. If you just get one book of Greek myths, get this one.]

The Iliad and the Odyssey: Thrilling comic-strip action, with monsters, mighty heroes and even mightier gods and goddesses.  The Iliad tells the story of the war between Greeks and Trojans; the love between Helena and Paris; Achilles and Hector's deadly combat; the Trojan Horse... The Odyssey depicts the perilous voyage home of the Greek warrior Odysseus; his struggles against the one-eyed Cyclops; the terrible Sirens; the dreadful, six-headed Scylla... These classic Greek stories have been retold with lively text and a dramatic cartoon style, making them accessible and fun for young children.

The Iliad: Gillian Cross's brilliant retelling and Neil Packer's glorious illustrations bring to life Homer's Iliad , one of the greatest stories ever told. The team behind The Odyssey (2012) now tell the story of the Trojan War. Cross's vivid adaptation begins with a beauty contest: the prize, a golden apple. In return for securing her victory, the goddess Aphrodite helps Prince Paris abduct Helen, wife to the king of Sparta. Enraged, the king and his Greek allies wage war on the Trojans. Nine years later, the fighting still rages on, but the Greeks are beginning to quarrel among themselves – Achilles and Agamemnon's petty argument has dire consequences for everyone caught in the crossfire. Neil Packer's pictures capture the beauty and remoteness of the setting, and bring a profound humanity to one of the finest literary achievements of Greek civilisation.

The Odyssey
: A bold re-envisioning of The Odyssey, told with simplicity and style — perfect for fans of graphic retellings and mythology enthusiasts alike.  Odysseus faces storm and shipwreck, a terrifying man-eating Cyclops, the alluring but deadly Sirens, and the fury of the sea-god Poseidon as he makes his ten-year journey home from the Trojan War. While Odysseus struggles to make it home, his wife, Penelope, fights a different kind of battle as her palace is invaded by forceful, greedy men who tell her that Odysseus is dead and she must choose a new husband. Will Odysseus reach her in time? Homer’s epic, age-old story is powerfully told by Carnegie Medalist Gillian Cross and stunningly illustrated by rising talent Neil Packer.

The Usborne Illustrated Odyssey: A beautiful edition of Homer's classic tale from Ancient Greece, vividly retold to delight modern readers. Dramatic, stylish illustrations bring to life brave Odysseus' encounters with furious gods, bewitching goddesses, terrifying monsters and a man-eating Cyclops... A beautiful gift for any child who loves adventure stories.

Greek Myths for Young Children: Usbourne's collection of retellings of Greek myths for young people.

Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters: The National Geographic Treasury of Greek Mythology offers timeless stories of Greek myths in a beautiful new volume. Brought to life with lyrical text by award-winning author Donna Jo Napoli and stunning artwork by award-winning illustrator Christina Balit, the tales of gods and goddesses such as Zeus, Aphrodite, Apollo, and Athena and heroes and monsters such as Helen of Troy, Perseus, and Medusa will fascinate and engage children’s imaginations. National Geographic completes the book with embellishments of each story: sidebars for each god, goddess, hero, and monster link the myths to constellations, geography, history, and culture to help young readers connect the stories to real life events, people, and places. A family tree and a “cast of characters” profile page help make relationships between the characters clear, and a mapping feature adds to the fun and fascination. Resource notes and ample back matter directing readers to more information round out this luminous book.

A Child's Introduction to Greek Mythology: The Stories of the Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, Monsters, and Other Mythical Creatures: Packed with action, adventure, tragedy, and triumph, A Child'sIntroduction to Greek Mythology acquaints kids ages 9-12 with all the fantastic and memorable classic Greek myths. The book is organized into two main parts. The first section introduces the gods and goddesses, from Apollo to Hades, as well as nymphs, satyrs, centaurs, and the mortal descendants of Zeus, such as Hercules and Midas. Part two is dedicated to the myths themselves: Pandora's Box, Prometheus' Discovery of Fire, the Trojan Horse and many more. Sidebars feature word definitions and fun facts, as well as games and projects. As with all of the other books in the Child's Introduction series, Meredith Hamilton's witty and charming illustrations add yet another dimension to the excellent and absorbing text.

Goddess Power: A Kids' Book of Greek and Roman Mythology: 10 Empowering Tales of Legendary Women: 
The goddesses of classical mythology ruled the heavens, mingled with mortals, and overcame tremendous odds. Goddess Power: A Kids’ Book of Greek and Roman Mythology takes you on an extraordinary journey through the triumphs and tragedies of these remarkable women.  From Gaia, Goddess of Earth, to Aphrodite, Goddess of Love and Beauty, these legendary ladies’ stories are paired with stunning artwork that brings the myths to life.

Oh My Gods! (Mythlopedia): A Look-It-Up Guide to the Gods of Mythology
Love action, deception, romance, power struggles, and more! Mythlopedia is a series where the superstars of Greek myth meet the modern age--complete with profiles, headshots, and family trees; fascinating sidebars; and irreverent surprises, for readers (Ages 10-14).

National Geographic Kids Everything Mythology: Begin Your Quest for Facts, Photos, and Fun Fit for Gods and Goddesses: National Geographic Everything Mythology is jam packed with fascinating facts and awe-inspiring imagery that brings your favorite fierce mythological heroes to life, introducing kids to gods of ancient worlds, including Greek, Norse, Chinese, American Indian, African cultures, and more. Packed with facts, colorful illustrations, and infused with humor, this fun journey through ancient lore will keep kids fascinated with every turn of the page.

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Artemisia of Caria (The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses): Thousands of years ago, in the world of the Ancient Greeks where women were expected to obey their husbands in all matters, to play no part in public life, and to stay inside the house, a princess grew up to be not only a sailor and a ship’s captain, but a famous admiral. Her name was Artemisia, and among all the commanders fighting on the Persian side during the great Persian Wars, she alone dared to give Xerxes an honest opinion that could have saved his entire fleet. This is the story of a real and remarkable princess whose spirit prompted the Persian Great King, Xerxes, to declare, "My men have become women, and my women men!"

Match and Learn the Greek Gods: Discover the wonder and wisdom of the Greek Gods! Who are these Greek Gods? What do they do all day long? Are they just watching over us mortals or are they being a little human themselves?  Learn more about these fascinating characters through 4 exciting stories of their everyday lives.  Children can use the 12 stickers found in the book to match each god with their description and discover details about their everyday lives. Our little friends, who might be small in height but are big in our hearts, can also learn more secrets about the character of each god through funny, engaging poems found in every story of the book.

The Greek Gods: A Day in Greece: This time, the Greek Gods adventure around Greece, and manage to get themselves in all sorts of trouble!  Luckily, everywhere they go they find new friends, who always have something to teach them. Because not even gods know it all.

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Call Me Athena: Greek Goddess of Wisdom (A Treasury of Glorious Goddesses): Athena, Greek Goddess of Wisdom, steps fully formed from her father's head into the already established world of the Olympians. A motherless newcomer, she has to find her own place and purpose. Her adventures bring her down to Earth, where she forms close bonds with the Greek Heroes. Her attachment to three in particular—Diomedes, Odysseus, and Achilles—draws her into the Trojan War. How will she protect her friends and end the conflict? What are the ramifications on Olympus? Where does Athena finally find herself at home—and where can you find her now?  Told by Athena in the first person, this lively book gives young readers a unique entry into the world of Greek mythology and provides interesting cultural and historical context in a nonfiction section illustrated with a family tree of the Olympians, maps, and photographs.

Echo Echo: Reverso Poems About Greek Myths: What happens when you hold up a mirror to poems about Greek myths? You get a brand-new perspective on the classics! And that is just what happens in Echo Echo, the newest collection of reverso poems from Marilyn Singer. Read one way, each poem tells the story of a familiar myth; but when read in reverse, the poems reveal a new point of view! Readers will delight in uncovering the dual points of view in well-known legends, including the stories of Pandora’s box, King Midas and his golden touch, Perseus and Medusa, Pygmalion, Icarus and Daedalus, Demeter and Persephone, and Echo and Narcissus.

Young Zeus: From acclaimed illustrator and author G. Brian Karas comes a witty tale about navigating family and finding one's voice-based on Greek mythology! This is the story of how young Zeus, with a little help from six monsters, five Greek gods, an enchanted she-goat, and his mother, became god of gods, master of lightning and thunder, and ruler over all. in doing so, he learned a lot about family. Who knew that having relatives could be so complicated, even for a god?

Tales of Troy and Greece (Wordsworth Children's Classics): Andrew Lang draws on his classical learning to recount the Homeric legend of the wars between the Greeks and the Trojans. Paris, Helen of Troy, Achilles, Hector, Ulysses, the Amazons and the Wooden Horse all figure in this magical introduction to one of the greatest legends ever told. Also included in this book are the adventures of Theseus and his dramatic battle with the Minotaur with the help of Ariadne, and the quest of Jason for the Golden Fleece with the help of the Princess Medea.

Ancient Myths Collection: A collection of 16 books: Shot in the Dark, Romulus & Remus, City of Dreams, Burning the books, Zeus Conquers Titans, Wooden Horse, Theseus & Minotaur, Phaeton & Sun Chariot, Perseus & Gorgon Medusa, Persephone & Pomegranate Seeds, Adventures of Odysseus, Jason & Golden Fleece, Hermes Tricks the Gods, Twelve labours of Heracles, Daedalus and Icarus, Athena & Olive Tree.

See Inside Ancient Greece: A fascinating flap book packed with facts about Ancient Greece. Find out what it's like inside a Greek city-state, learn all about the Greek gods and myths, discover how temples were built and how Ancient Greek armies fought in battles. The period covered spans from the earliest Minoan civilisation on Crete to the empire of Alexander the Great.

Adventures in Ancient Greece: Join the Binkertons -- twins Josh and Emma and their little sister Libby -- as they head to the Good Times Travel Agency hoping to visit the next Olympic Games, but end up in Ancient Greece instead! Adventures in Ancient Greece is an exciting mix of adventure and historical information about life in Greece in the fifth century BC. Kids will learn about the Greek gods, the birth of democracy, Greek home life -- and much more. They'll love the book's contemporary comic-book look, while parents, teachers and librarians will admire the well-researched story line and solid factual information.

Beasts of Olympus (Series): A boy is reunited with his long-lost father, the Greek god Pan, only to find himself taken to the kingdom of the gods. What begins as just another ordinary day for Demon ends up being far from normal .

Ancient Greece for Kids (Unfolding the Past): Thousands of years ago, the first tribes arrived in the Balkan Peninsula, laying the foundations of Europe’s oldest civilization: Greece, which gave the world democracy, as well as endless knowledge of mathematics, architecture, military affairs, and philosophy. Modern scientists can all trace their lineage back to Greek mathematicians and philosophers, and modern Greece is littered with the remnants of beautiful temples and ancient buildings that shaped the taste and style of modern architects. Let’s travel far into the past and take a look at how the Ancient Greeks lived, worked, fought, and created art.

Growing Up In Ancient Greece: Describes daily life in ancient Greece, discussing life in the city, life in the country, school, ceremonies and festivals, food, and other aspects.


Inside Ancient Athens: This guide explores life in ancient Athens, including a brief history and descriptions of religious practices, culture, sport and everyday activities. It is fully illustrated, with cutaway diagrams, maps, timelines and photographs of surviving artifacts.

You Wouldn't Want to Be a Slave in Ancient Greece!: You are about to experience the life of a slave at first hand in Ancient Greece! This interactive series will enthrall young and reluctant readers (Ages 8-12) by making them part of the story, inviting them to become the main character. Each book uses humorous illustrations to depict the sometimes dark and horrific side of life during important eras in history. It's the 5th century BC, and the Greek civilization is the most advanced in the world. But that civilization is based on slavery, and you, a member of a nomadic people from Asia Minor, are about to experience the life of a slave at first hand! This new extended edition includes a map and a timeline, and a selection of fascinating facts.

You Wouldn’t Want to Be a Greek Athlete!: Get ready...as a young boy growing up in Athens, your father has high hopes that you'll enter the Olympic games. It's demanding! This interactive series will enthrall young and reluctant readers (Ages 8-12) by making them part of the story, inviting them to become the main character. Each book uses humorous illustrations to depict the sometimes dark and horrific side of life during important eras in history.

If You Were Me and Lived in...Ancient Greece: An Introduction to Civilizations Throughout Time: Join Carole P. Roman and travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history in the first four books of her new series.Learn what kind of food you might eat in Ancient Greece, the type of clothing you might wear what your name could be, and what children in the olden days did for fun.

Eyewitness Ancient Greece: Step into the World of Ancient Greece―from Greek Gods, Myths, and Festivals to the birth of the Olympics: Step back in time to an ancient time of mythical beasts, bow down to gods and goddesses, and take a trip to the first Olympics.  Experience the glory of ancient Greece in this detailed introduction to one of the world’s founding nations. Meet a fierce minotaur, wage war with Alexander the Great, look inside a temple and learn how the people of ancient Greece lived their lives. Find out about their religions, their hobbies, and their amazing impact on the rest of history.  This indispensable home reference is crammed full of fascinating information, statistics, and facts. Stunning photography, maps, paintings, and lots of artifacts will help you to learn what life was like at this time. You will also find out why Greek pottery is so famous, discover how children played, and take a look at what people wore. 

Hands-On History! Ancient Greece: Step into the world of the classical Greeks, with 15 step-by-step projects and 350 exciting pictures: Delve into the past to find out about the everyday life of the ancient Greeks - where they lived, the games they played, the clothes they wore, and the people who made history. How-to projects bring the past to life: construct a miniature Parthenon, paint a dolphin fresco, make a comic mask, and learn the ancient Greek alphabet.

Classical Kids: An Activity Guide to Life in Ancient Greece and Rome: Travel back in time to see what life was like in ancient Greece and Rome while having fun with hands-on activities such as making a star gazer; chiseling a clay tablet; weaving Roman sandals; making a Greek mosaic; creating Roman jewelry; throwing Greek pottery; casting a vote in a Roman-style election; and much more. Learn how these civilizations contributed to our present-day world by participating in art, math, cooking, science, and geography activities. Interesting facts and trivia are included throughout. Helpful illustrations explain project steps.

Tools of the Ancient Greeks: A Kid's Guide to the History and Science of Life in Ancient Greece: Explores the scientific discoveries, athletic innovations, engineering marvels, and innovative ideas created more than two thousand years ago. Through biographical sidebars, interesting facts, fascinating anecdotes, and fifteen hands-on activities, readers will learn how Greek innovations and ideas have shaped world history and our own world view.

Children's Books about Travel to Greece

Where Is the Parthenon?: Athens, Greece, is best known for the Parthenon, the ruins of an ancient temple completed in 438 BC to honor the goddess Athena. But what many people don't know is that it only served as a temple for a couple hundred years. It then became a church, then a mosque, and by the end of the 1600s served as a storehouse for munitions. When an enemy army fired hundreds of cannon balls at the Acropolis, one directly hit the Parthenon. Much of the sculpture was destroyed, three hundred people died, and the site fell into ruin. Today, visitors continue to flock to this world famous landmark, which has become a symbol for Ancient Greece, democracy, and modern civilization. Includes black-and-white illustrations and a foldout color map!

Let's Visit Athens!: Adventures of Bella & Harry: Join sibling Chihuahuas, Bella and Harry, as they travel to Athens and go to the Acropolis, the Plaka, Crete and learn about the origin of the Olympics.  Along the way, local cuisine (such as spanakopita) is sampled and basic Greek phrases are introduced to the reader.  The Adventures of Bella & Harry is a picture book series that chronicles the escapades of a pup named Bella, her little brother Harry and their family, who travel the world exploring the sights and sounds of new, exciting cities. 

This is Greece (This Is...travel): Like the other Sasek classics, this is a facsimile edition of the original, first published in 1966. The illustrations have been meticulously preserved and the facts updated for the twenty-first century. The charming illustrations, coupled with Sasek’s playful narrative, make perfect souvenirs that will delight both children and parents. This is Greece captures the flavor and tradition of the birthplace of Western civilization. There’s Athens, with its spectacular views of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, temples, theaters, and marketplaces; architecture-renowned Corinth; Mycenae, inhabited since 3000 B.C.; Olympia, home of the gods; Delphi, famous for its legendary oracle; and the beautiful isles. There’s also modern-day Greece, where life is lived on street corners, in squares, and at tables amid reminders of the past.

My First Book - Greece: All About Greece For Kids: The culture, the beauty, the landmarks, the food - it is simply fascinating. In this book, we cover all of those magical elements about GREECE in n digestible and engaging way!  Combining fun and education, we use real-life images to help your child learn about the country.

KeeKee's Big Adventures in Athens, Greece: Opa! It's Athens, Greece! Join KeeKee, the world traveling kitty, as she explores one of the oldest cities in the world.  The adventure begins the moment KeeKee lands her balloon at the Parthenon. From seeing the Greek gods to enjoying moussaká at a taverna in Plaka, to running the ancient Olympic Stadium, you'll discover what makes Athens a must-visit destination.  Flip to the back of the book to find the kid-friendly pronunciation guide and glossary along with a charmingly illustrated map of KeeKee's top things to see in Athens, Greece.  Part bedtime story, part travel guide, KeeKee will spark curiosity and inspire an appreciation for our world!

Mishi and Mashi go to Greece: Mishi and Mashi Visit Europe Series: Mishi and Mashi are sisters. They travel around Europe with their parents and explore different countries. In Greece they learn about the olives, explore the Greek islands by ferry, and meet a new friend, who shows them how they have fun in Greece. Find out what they learn about the Greek Gods and Goddesses and see them enjoy the local food and dance.

If You Were Me and Lived in...Greece: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around the World: In If You Were Me and Lived in…Greece , early learners get a taste of what their life would be like if they lived in Greece while being introduced to the birthplace of democracy. This book is the latest installment of the educational series about the cultures of the world that speaks to young children about the topics that interest them, such as the foods people eat, the names of boys and girls, and the activities that children their age living in a foreign land are likely to engage in. This exciting visit to Greece also introduces the important concept of democracy to children and highlights some of the other cultural contributions that Greece has made to Western civilization. Basic information is offered in a playful way that won’t overwhelm children.

Violet's Voyages: Greece: The Dolphin Adventure: Violet always starts her adventures by catching a ride on a shooting star! To what area of the world will it bring her? She hangs on tight until her destination, where she is welcomed by a special local animal who is on a mission.  In the Greek Dolphin Adventure (Book 2) Violet meets Delphinaki and helps him with the quest.

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