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Great Self-Development Books To Add To Your Summer Reading List
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5 Greek Books Perfect For Language Learners
1. "Ο Μικρός Πρίγκιπας" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (Greek Translation)
While not originally by a Greek author, the Greek translation of "The Little Prince" is a great starting point for language learners. The story's simple language and enchanting illustrations make it accessible and enjoyable. This beloved classic offers a gentle introduction to Greek vocabulary and sentence structure.
2. "Η Τελευταία Μαύρη Γάτα" by Eugenios Trivizas
Eugenios Trivizas is a popular children's author known for his imaginative stories. "Η Τελευταία Μαύρη Γάτα" (The Last Black Cat) is a charming tale with a simple plot and clear language. Although it's a children's book, its themes and humor appeal to readers of all ages, making it a great tool for language learning.
3. "Ο Μεγάλος Περίπατος του Πέτρου" by Alki Zei
"Ο Μεγάλος Περίπατος του Πέτρου" (Petros' Great Walk) by Alki Zei is a touching story set during World War II, seen through the eyes of a young boy named Petros. The straightforward narrative and historical context provide a compelling and accessible read for language learners, helping them gain insight into both the language and Greek history.
4. "Ένα Παιδί Μετράει τα Άστρα" by Menelaos Lountemis
"Ένα Παιδί Μετράει τα Άστρα" (A Child Counts the Stars) by Menelaos Lountemis is a beautifully written coming-of-age story about a boy's journey of self-discovery and dreams. The poetic and evocative language makes it a rewarding read for those learning Greek, offering both literary and cultural enrichment.
5. "Έγκλημα στο Κολωνάκι" by Giannis Maris
"Έγκλημα στο Κολωνάκι" (Crime in Kolonaki) by Giannis Maris is a captivating mystery novel set in one of Athens' most prestigious neighborhoods. The intriguing plot and well-developed characters make it an engaging read. Maris' clear and concise language is ideal for those looking to improve their Greek while enjoying a thrilling story.
Tips for Reading in Greek
1. Start with Translations: Beginning with translated works like "Ο Μικρός Πρίγκιπας" can make the transition easier, as you're already familiar with the story.
2. Use a Dictionary: Keep a Greek-English dictionary handy to look up unfamiliar words and expand your vocabulary.
3. Take Notes: Jot down new words and phrases as you read. This helps reinforce learning and makes it easier to remember.
4. Read Aloud: Pronouncing words out loud can improve your speaking skills and help you become more comfortable with Greek pronunciation.
5. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Try to read a little bit every day to steadily improve your language skills.
Diving into Greek literature is an enriching way to deepen your understanding of the language and culture. These five books are excellent starting points that will make your learning journey enjoyable and engaging. Happy reading!
The King's Special Spice: A Bilingual Tale For Young Learners
To purchase the book, please CLICK HERE!
Books About Famous Greek Philosophers Worth Reading (Translated into English)
- Key Work: The Republic
Plato’s The Republic remains a cornerstone of political philosophy and ethics. This dialogue examines justice, governance, and the nature of the ideal state. Translations by Benjamin Jowett or newer ones like those by Allan Bloom are particularly respected.
- Additional Recommendations:
- Plato: Complete Works, edited by John M. Cooper, compiles all of Plato’s dialogues, including The Symposium and Phaedrus, which explore love, rhetoric, and the soul.
- Key Work: Nicomachean Ethics
Aristotle’s exploration of the “good life” through virtue ethics is a profound guide to personal and moral development. Terence Irwin's translation is particularly well-regarded.
- Additional Recommendations:
- Metaphysics: This work delves into the nature of being and reality, offering insight into Aristotle's philosophical system.
- Politics: Essential reading for understanding governance, citizenship, and Aristotle’s vision of the ideal state.
- Key Work: Apology by Plato
This dialogue portrays Socrates’ defense during his trial, embodying his commitment to truth and philosophy. It’s a gripping introduction to his ideas and personality.
- Other Sources:
- Xenophon’s Memorabilia and Apology: These offer an alternative perspective on Socrates' teachings and trial.
- Key Work: The Art of Happiness (translated by George K. Strodach)
A collection of Epicurus’ letters and teachings, focusing on his philosophy of simple pleasures, friendship, and avoiding unnecessary desires.
- Commentary:
- Epicurus and His Philosophy by Norman W. DeWitt provides a detailed exploration of his thought and legacy.
- Key Work: Fragments (translated by Brooks Haxton)
Heraclitus’ enigmatic aphorisms on change and the unity of opposites are a window into his revolutionary thinking.
- Companion Read:
- Heraclitus: The Cosmic Fragments by G. S. Kirk offers detailed explanations and interpretations.
- Key Work: Diogenes: The Cynic Philosopher
While Diogenes wrote little, anecdotes of his life are preserved in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius (translated by C.D. Yonge).
- Modern Biography:
- The Philosophy of Diogenes by Luis E. Navia offers a comprehensive analysis of his unconventional philosophy.
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Key Work: Meditations by Marcus AureliusThis personal journal is a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy, focusing on inner peace and resilience.
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Other Recommendations:
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Discourses by Epictetus: A practical guide to Stoicism and virtuous living.
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The Stoics Reader, edited by Brad Inwood and Lloyd P. Gerson, offers selections from various Stoic philosophers.
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Reading Fire On The Island: A Book Full Of Heat, Heart & Hope
- The refugee crisis, shown not as an abstract problem but through human faces and suffering, especially in Jura’s story who may not be a refugee but experiences the luck of many
- Xenophobia, both casual and systemic, echoing wider European tensions
- The suppression of LGBTQ+ identities, especially in small, deeply traditional societies
- Suicide and the lifelong trauma of adoption, and how these wounds quietly shape lives
- Sexual firsts, revealing how coming-of-age is rarely what we expect
A Moment That Hurts (and Stays)
Ready to dive into the story? Get your copy of Fire on the Island HERE!
Timothy Jay Smith is a critically acclaimed author with a lifelong passion for Greece. His travels and experiences, from working as a sociologist in Greece to aiding refugees on Lesvos, have inspired his immersive, character-driven stories. An award-winning novelist, screenwriter, and playwright, Smith’s work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Gold Medal in the Faulkner-Wisdom Competition for Fire on the Island not to mention that his screenplay adaptation of it was named Best Indie Script by WriteMovies. His diverse career has taken him around the world, from the streets of Istanbul to the jungles of Africa, giving him a unique perspective that brings depth and authenticity to his writing. Smith’s novels and screenplays have won top honors in competitions, and his stories resonate with readers for their vivid settings, complex characters, and rich social commentary.
Instant Weekend: Thessaloniki
Why go now? Thessaloniki comes into its own during the winter months. Indeed, as its proud inhabitants claim, it beats Athens hands down as a lively off-season destination. It may not have the Acropolis but it does have an absorbing range of ancient sights that are eminently walkable thanks to the city's manageable size. Add in some mouthwatering menus and the seemingly never-ending nightlife options and you have a real surprise package.
You may even get to toast the gods on Mount Olympus, visible from the seafront on a clear day.
Checking in
On the edge of the trendy Ladadika district, the city's only boutique hotel, the Capsis Bristol (00 30 2310 506500; capsisbristol.gr) has a range of rooms tastefully decorated in period style, with doubles from around €160. There is a gourmet restaurant and a classy first-floor terrace to boot. Further inland towards the Ano Poli (Upper Town), the Tobacco Hotel (00 30 2310 515002; davitel.gr) has nearly 60 more modern rooms largely in marble and wood; from around €90. The hotel's name reflects the fact that it was converted from one of the area's many tobacco warehouses. Budget options abound on and around the central thoroughfare of Egnatias Street - at the simple Hotel Bill (Syngrou 29; 00 30 2310 537666) , the, er, hotel bill is unlikely to be much more than €30.
Hit the streets
Thessaloniki's prime strolling arena is the central seafront esplanade, bookended by the workaday port and the city's trademark symbol, the White Tower. The tower was originally part of the Byzantine town's defences. Along the front you'll see the city's chic and famously attractive youngsters parading their designer gear and sharp haircuts during the evening volta (stroll). Drink in some of the venerable ancient heritage by admiring imposing structures such as the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda, both built in the third century AD and situated next to each other just off Egnatias Street. Nearby Ayia Sofia heads an impressive list of Byzantine churches, while the Archaeological Museum (€6; Platia Hanth, just inland from the White Tower) is the place to gaze in awe at the wealth of gold from the Macedon Tombs at Vergina - and that's only part of it. More cutting-edge exhibitions are to be found at two separate portside museums: of Photography and Contemporary Art (entrance free; housed in converted warehouses off Koundouriotou Street).
Coffee break
Greeks love lingering over their coffee and countless cafes line the seafront, the adjoining central square, Platia Aristotelous, and just about every other street corner in the city. For a fine frappé or freddo in the whimsical company of psychedelically lit mini garden gnomes and other figurines, head for Pasta Flora Darling (Zefxidou 6). You should also try the creamy sweet kazan dipi, an eastern version of crème brûlée and a legacy of the Ottoman occupation, available at any zacharoplastio (patisserie).
Nick Edwards is the author of the Rough Guide to Greece (see roughguides.com)
To read more, please visit theguardian.com
Seven Things To Do In Ancient Corinth
Forty- eight miles west of the great city of Athens, Ancient Corinth, one of Greece’s richest cities, stood as a radiant beacon on the narrow isthmus connecting the Peloponnesian peninsula to the mainland of Greece. A cultural and commercial center, as well as a naval power, Corinth enjoyed a commanding presence in the ancient world, owed largely to its strategic positioning.
It had two ports, one on the eastern side of the isthmus (Lecheon) for trade with European and Northern African merchants from throughout the Mediterranean. The other stood on the western edge (Kenchreai) for trade with Aegean, Persian, and Egyptian traders.
Every second spring witnessed the Isthmian Games in honor of the Earthshaker, Lord Poseidon, Greek god of the sea. In the mythical tales of Caenus, crown prince of ancient Iolkos, as recounted in the novel Caenus and The Quiver of Artemis, Caenus sets out to prove his worth at the fictional Apollo’s Tournament in Corinth, a city that was as famous as it was infamous. While at the tournament, Caenus meets a local peasant girl named Adriande, who takes Caenus on a tour of some of the very sights I mention below.
Following are Seven Things To Do In Ancient Corinth:
1. Visit The Doric Temple Of Apollo: Apollo, one of the twelve Olympians, was the Greek god of light, truth, prophecy and archery. He shared his penchant for archery with his twin sister Artemis, whose poison-tipped arrows could kill immediately. Built on a hill overlooking the agora marketplace, the Temple of Apollo displayed exquisite craftsmanship. It included 38 Doric columns and inspired all who saw it. Strike up the lyre.
2. Stroll Through The Agora: The agora was an ancient marketplace. Surrounded by colonnades and stoas (covered walkways), the agora served as the hub of the city's political and economic life. There were shops, museums, temples, and administrative buildings. Near the agora was the Elephant’s Tusk, a local taverna where Caenus meets a local peasant girl named Adriande, whom he later falls for.
3. Climb To The Top Of The Acrocorinth: The Acrocorinth was a monolithic rock, a veritable castle fortress overlooking the city. With its secure water supply, Acrocorinth was used as the last line of defense in southern Greece, repelling foes from entry into the Peloponnesian peninsula. Legend held that, Pegasus came here to drink from a spring. The climb is definitely worth the effort. The view of both of the city’s ports is simply breathtaking.
4. Walk The Diolkos: The diolkos (Greek for "haul across"), was a stone-paved roadway that connected the Saronic Gulf with the Gulf of Corinth, effectively linking Corinth’s two ports. This overland route was highly valuable in that it allowed merchants, passengers and cargo to avoid the difficult and time-consuming trip around the southern end of the Peloponnesian peninsula. Walk a mile in the sandal prints of these ancient traders.
5. Join The Cult of Aphrodite, Attend Her Festival, Aphrodisia: Ahh, Aphrodite… The Greek goddess of love and beauty was worshipped widely. Women wanted to be her. Men wanted to be with her. The Temple of Aphrodite, at the summit of the Acrocorinth, was the site for the most active festival honoring the goddess: Aphrodisia. During this festival the Cult of Aphrodite was quite active, engaging in ritualized prostitution… all in the name of the goddess, of course. This festival was not for the faint of heart.
6. Drink From The Sacred Spring At The Fountain of Peirene: Near the north-west end of the agora was the large public Fountain of Peirene, a marvel in marble. Within, there were chambers through which the water flowed into an open pool. Seven steps led downward to the sacred spring where priests were said to consult with Apollo.
7. Attend Apollo’s Tournament: Every year the summer solstice launched the Festival of the Sun in Corinth. The prestigious Apollo’s Tournament, was the main attraction. Based upon the Isthmian Games, Apollo's Tourney was a grueling contest of skill and might, pitting princes and noble sons against one another in such competitions as bull riding, endurance running, wrestling, and sword fighting. In Caenus and the Quiver of Artemis, Caenus and his nemesis Makedon are guided by the hands of the gods toward an epic showdown in the final stage of the tournament.
Source: C.S. Ledbetter
Mycenae – Fortress of Time
One of the must-sees of the Peloponnese peninsula is the ancient fortress of Mycenae. Once home to Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, this archaeological site launched the "Mycenean Period" where its residents and leaders dominated Greece, Crete, and the islands of the Aegean. It is located about 90 km south-west of Athens, in the north-eastern Peloponnese. Argos is 11 km to the south; Corinth, 48 km to the north.
Dark Aura at Mycenae
Some visitors insist that a sense of evil lingers over Mycenae, even or especially in the harsh glow of the noonday sunshine which beats down on the bare rocks. More likely this is brought on by a touch of dehydration on summer days - Mycenae's tourist facility seems especially prone to run out of bottled water. One possible derivation of the name "Mycenae" comes from Perseus driven to drink water from a mushroom (myces), but this is not recommended for modern visitors.
The grave circles at Mycenae are strangely unnerving. Walking around the deep pit in the narrow curving passageway seems designed to invoke dizziness, a sense of spinning and falling into a vortex of the past. It's easy to believe Clytemnestra plotted murder, or tha Agamemnon sacrificed his daughter Iphigeneia to obtain fair winds.
Heinrich Schliemann and Mycenae
The air of foreboding was catnip to Heinrich Schliemann, who spotted the neglected site and just knew that it concealed great riches. He found it in both in its rich historical connections and in golden treasure, which he excavated from the burial circles. "I have gazed on the face of Agamemnon," he insisted, holding a battered golden face drawn out of the dirt. While the mask found at Mycenae is unlikely to have anything to do with Agamemnon, who lived centuries later than the dating of the site, the seemingly-tranquil, mustachioed golden mask most likely shows us some anonymous pre-Homeric king's face.
The Golden Grave Goods of Mycenae
The goods that accompanied him and others, now on display in Athens at the National Archaeological Museum, were rich and beautiful in a harsh way - a dramatic bull's-head rhyton (drinking vessel), a golden one of a lion's head, a bronze dagger inlaid with gold, and bright, though delicate, gold adornments which assemble into a crown-like image.
While most of the Mycenean gold will stay at the National Archaeological Museum, visitors to Mycenae itself now have a bonus: a new museum on-site displaying some of the thousands of other artifacts found there. Mycenae, so rich in its history, now can be seen in a more complete context, making this must-see site even better.
The "Lions" of Mycenae
The two felines are actually lionesses comprising the triangular lion gate, one of the most recognizable icons of world architecture, still seem to be roaring in unison, probably announcing the unexpected approach of so many ill-armed visitors. Or is that video camera a weapon?
Above and Beyond Mycenae
The acropolis and its ruined walls above the circle graves and beyond the lion gate are intriguing and the extra climb provides an improved view, though visitors on hot days may want to give it a pass. The treasury of Atreus is a better bet - your admission to Mycenae covers visiting this unusual beehive tomb just outside Mycenae, which can be a cool relief on hot days.
Mycenae Travel Tips
Good soles on your shoes are especially necessary for this site - the long marble-paved ramp leading to the Lion Gate was meant to knock attackers off their feet, and, like the choklakia pavings of the Dodecanese islands, still works on modern marauders. For the same reason, this particular site is challenging for those who are not sure on their feet - though persons using canes may actually be better off than those without! I remember an unexpected moment of rest when I tripped backwards while videotaping the Lion Gate, luckily landing on a seat-sized rock just behind me.
A day's trip to Mycenae can be combined with a visit to Epidaurus or Corinth or, for the intrepid and well-organized, all three.
Source: Go Greece About
Discover Monemvasia
Monemvasia (Μονεμβάσια) is located in the southeastern Peloponnese in the prefecture of Laconia, 400 meters from land having been separated from the mainland by an earthquake in 375 A.D. Its name is derived from two Greek words, mone and emvassi, meaning "single entrance". It was called Malmsey by old English writers, Napoli de Malvasia by the Venetians and Malvoisie by the French.
Founded by the Byzantines in the sixth century, it shortly after became an important port.
Today a causeway links the mainland town of Yefira/New Monemvasia to Monemvasia or Kastro (castle). The Kastro is divided into a lower and an upper town. Many ruins of the original 800 houses and only four out of the original forty churches can be found in the lower town. Among them is the Church of the Elkomenos Christ (Christ Dragged), which is named after a famous icon of Christ given in 1700 to the church by Andreas Likinios, philosopher and chief physician to the ruler of Moldavia, Dimitirs Kandimir. The oldest church is St. Paul’s, which was built in 956, and today houses the museum. Further on, towards the eastern edge of the lower town and closer to the sea is the whitewashed Our Lady of Hrisafittisa, which was built in the sixteenth century.
High above, castle walls protect the upper town on the summit. There one can see the remains of Byzantine houses and public buildings and a vast cistern that ensured a water supply at times of siege. A fortified zigzag path from the upper town leads to the Fortress of Goulas on the summit overlooking the town. It is entered by a tunnel that still retains its ironbound gates. Among the ruins of houses and cisterns of the acropolis of the upper town stands St. Sophia, a Byzantine church founded by Andronikos II Paleologos on a plan similar to that of Daphni in Athens.
What to see/do - Monemvasia
After breakfast, walk up to the church on the edge of the cliff atop Monemvasia castle and try your hand at throwing a small iron or steel metal object to the sea (it will be drawn in towards the side of the hill, never reaching the sea, due to a magnetic field emanating from the rocks below.
Beaches:
To the north and south of Monemvasia there are beaches 2-3 kilometres from the causeway at Gefyra. Some well liked beaches slightly further away are at Plytra (20 km) and the stretch from Viglafia to Neapoli (35 kilomtres) both of which on on the west side of the peninsula, across from Monemvasia. The island of Elafonisi has some of the more scenic beaches.
Archaeology:
The Richia Museum of Folklore: Richia, about 25 km from Monemvasia in a building of 1875, which was the first school in the village. With farm tools, spinning wheels, clothing and woven items. Monastery of the Annunciation of the Virgin and Agios Georgios of Gerakas near Gerakas village, founded in 19th century.
There are many caves within easy reach:
Kastania - at Kastania Voion (south of Monemvasia before you reach Neapolis).
Vri Cave is north of Monemvasia with a precipice which you can climb down. You can find the entrance on the south west side and there is a lake below with crystal clear water.
How to get there
By car or bus:
Most of the time, like most people, you will drive from another part of the Peloponnese or from Athens or Sparta, but in the summer there are sea routes and sailings, cruises and tours which head for Monemvasia.
By KTEL (long-distance) buses, from Athens and most cities in the Peloponnese.
From Athens to Monemvasia by bus:
There are 3 direct buses at 06:00, 10:00 & 17:15, from the KTEL Lakonias (Bus terminal at Leoforos Kifissou 100, tel. 210-5246805) - journey takes about 4.5 hours. There are more buses via Sparta or Molai.
Tip: From Athens Airport you can take the Express bus line "X93" to the KTEL terminal on Kifissou (line runs 24hrs, with buses every 20-30 minutes).
From Monemvasia to Athens by bus:
One direct bus at 05:15. And with bus change at either Sparta or Molai at 07:15, 14:15, 17:15.
By plane:
Kalamata airport (code: KLX) is about 130 kilometres from Monemvasia - with many choices of which route to take - scenic and mountainous or scenic and even more mountainous! Allow 2.5 hours and more as you will want to enjoy this trip.
Athens airport (code: ATH) to Monemvasia: about 285 km (4.5 to 5 hours).
By sea:
Githio in the south, Patra in the northwest and Piraeus (Athens) are main ports of arrival for a trip to Peloponnese and Monemvasia, between April/May and September ferries to and from the few islands surrounding this region can be most helpful if you are visiting several places.
Source: Monemvasia.com