Whenever our family embarks on long car rides, we have a fail-safe trick up our sleeves to keep the kids entertained – tuning in to the captivating podcast “Greeking Out” by National Geographic Kids. Hosted by the charismatic Kenny Curtis and the all-knowing “Oracle of Wi-Fi,” this podcast breathes life into ancient Greek mythology with its vivid storytelling. With 10 seasons under its belt, our two boys have become little experts in the nuances of mythological tales. Fun fact: did you know that the blind seer Tiresias was transformed into a woman by Hera for seven years? Mind-blowing, right?
“It’s true,” confirmed my 10-year-old son, Holt.
Our kids are not alone in their fascination with Greek mythology. Thanks to the wildly popular Percy Jackson series – encompassing books, movies, and even a musical – the interest in ancient myths has experienced a resurgence among the younger audience. The series follows the adventures of a troubled modern-day boy who discovers his demigod heritage and must navigate the challenges at Camp Half-Blood. Naturally, chaos ensues.
My youngest, 7-year-old Max, has been absolutely captivated by the world of demigods. A hedonist at heart, he adores pleasures and chocolate, with his favorite deity being Dionysus – the god of wine, revelry, and madness.
On the flip side, Holt, aged 10, approaches the Percy Jackson craze with a more critical eye. A lover of facts, he finds humor in seeking truth within mythology. Surprisingly, his top pick among the Greek gods is Athena – the goddess of warfare strategy, wisdom, and crafts.
I’ve always harbored a dream of taking my sons to Greece, the birthplace of these ancient legends, where we could stand amidst the ruins and ponder the intersection of truth, myth, wisdom, and madness.
Our chance to delve into this mythical realm came last summer when the Greek parents of one of Holt’s classmates graciously invited us, along with another family, to their ancestral home on the picturesque island of Crete.
