Greece! Rome! Monsters!
What’s inside...
Introduces monsters from Greek and Roman mythology, such as the basilisk and the phoenix, and includes a 'monster quiz' and pronunciation guide. The book also features updated versions of mythological creatures, such as a blue centaur dressed for a disco, adding a modern twist to these ancient legends. It presents twenty creepy creatures, including harpies, Medusa, and the fire-breathing Chimera. The mythological stories are retold by John Harris with vivid illustrations by Calef Brown, providing both children and adults with engaging encounters of mythological beings. The book includes a bonus pronunciation guide and a pop quiz to test readers' attention to detail.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which monster from the book did you find most interesting, and why?
How do you think the people in Greece and Rome felt about these monsters based on the stories?
If you could create your own mythical creature, what powers would it have and where would it live?
What similarities and differences do you notice between the Greek and Roman monsters?
How do you think the stories of these monsters helped people in ancient times understand their world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the monsters, fostering a deeper understanding of mythology. Use descriptive praise to acknowledge their ideas, such as 'I love how creatively you thought about your own monster!' Connect the stories to their daily experiences or feelings to make the discussion more relatable and meaningful. Lastly, consider visiting a museum or looking at art online that features these mythical creatures to expand the conversation and bring the stories to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: Through the various mythical creatures from Greek and Roman mythology, children learn about the wide array of characters, each with unique traits and stories.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate diversity in real life, recognizing that everyone has something unique to contribute.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Courage
Explanation: Characters in the stories often face frightening situations, yet they demonstrate bravery and resolve.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears and challenges boldly, whether it’s trying out new activities or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Many myths include moral lessons where the actions of characters lead to various consequences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think about the outcomes of their actions and to act responsibly.
Example Lesson: The Power of Creativity
Explanation: Myths are full of ingenious solutions to problems, showcasing the importance of creativity and wit.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to solve problems and overcome obstacles in their daily life.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Mythological heroes often encounter setbacks but persist through them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying and not be disheartened by failure or difficulties.