Turning the page on Greek myths

Stephanides, author of the series, devoted himself to the retelling of ancient myths for more than 25 years, tirelessly studying the source materials to accomplish his literary version of the stories. Working with his brother, the artist and illustrator Yannis Stephanides, they published the Stephanides Brothers' Greek Mythology series. It won the 1989 Pier Paolo Vergerio prize for its outstanding text and illustrations.

"Myths and stories provide children the inspiration, ideas and values about how to think or behave and how to become responsible and useful members of our society," says Greek Ambassador to China Georgios Iliopoulos.

Chinese educationalist Zhu Yongxin also says that reading Greek mythology can help children improve their imagination, creativity and literacy and make them stronger, braver and kinder.

"Greek mythology contains the largest mythological system in the world, and it is also a key way to understand Western civilization," Zhu says.

Cao Wenxuan, a renowned Chinese author, recommends the book to Chinese children. "The imagination embodied in the series is fascinating. Boundless fantasy is the original source of Western Romantic literature," says Cao, who's also a Hans Christian Andersen Award winner.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, and next year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. The countries are making efforts to strengthen their cooperation on aspects related to culture, including celebrating a China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism.

Iliopoulos regards Greek Mythology Series as a "trigger" to attract more Chinese to learn more about Greek culture.

"The publishing of the book can offer a starting point for exploring and understanding Greek civilization and culture, especially for children, since at the end of the day, it is the children who will be building the future of this world," says Iliopoulos.