Parthenon

Award-winning author-illustrator Lynn Curlee explores the tremendous history behind one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, the Parthenon, in this “meticulous” (Kirkus Reviews) nonfiction picture book—now with a new look!

The Parthenon. It was ravaged by the early Christians, occupied by the Turks, and looted by the British. Wars were fought all around it. Plato, Socrates, Phidias, and Pericles contemplated philosophy, art, drama, and democracy on its steps. And today, its proud, ruined columns stand high above the city of Athens, Greece, the last sentinels of what’s often considered to be the most important architectural achievement in the world.

The Parthenon is without rival in its beauty, purity of design, and tumultuous history. It grew out of war and strife, political uprisings, and financial difficulties, yet remains a symbol of what humanity—at its very best—is capable of accomplishing.

Lynn Curlee was educated as an art historian and worked as a fine artist for many years before he began to make children’s books. Three of his books, Capital, Liberty, and Rushmore, were chosen by the Barbara Bush Literacy Campaign as their Book of the Year in three consecutive years. Mr. Curlee has won numerous awards for his work, including but not limited to a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book (Brooklyn Bridge), Orbis Pictus Award (Rushmore), ALA Notable Books for Children (Liberty), and Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year (Parthenon). His other books include Ballpark, Trains, Mythological Creatures, and Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. He lives in Norwich, Connecticut, with his partner and two Great Danes. Find out more on Instagram @LynnCurlee.