The Bookcase

The Greek News

by Anton Powell and Philip Steele (Candlewick, 2009)
The Greek News

Wouldn't it be fun to learn about the ancient Greeks by reading their magazines?  Alas, they didn't have newspapers of magazines back then (not even Ask!), so these authors made one for them. On the front page are the latest thrilling adventures of Sparta and Alexander; check out the sports section for cheating scandals at the Olympics. And the Philosopher's Page has a first-hand account of the Death of Socrates. There are funny ads all through for the latest ancient Greek inventions and luxuries, like wine presses and potties. Plus, a handy guide to sacrificing to the gods, and farm advice on what to plant on your rocky hillside! The history is sort of mixed up from different times, but reading about the Greeks this way really makes them come alive.