What This Book Is About
Young Zeus has a big problem—every time he sneezes, gets angry, or even just feels bored, lightning bolts shoot out of his hands. At school, at home, at the dinner table, his powers are completely out of control. His parents, Kronos and Rhea, have tried everything, but nothing works. So they make a decision: it's time to send Zeus to Camp Eureka, a special place where young gods learn to master their supernatural abilities.
At camp, Zeus meets other little Olympians who are struggling with their own wild powers—Poseidon can't stop making floods, Athena accidentally turns people into owls, and Ares keeps starting arguments without meaning to. Together, they train, fail, laugh, and slowly figure out how to control what makes them different. But when a real threat appears that only lightning can stop, Zeus must decide: is he brave enough to unleash his full power on purpose?
This is the first book in the Little Olympians series by A.I. Newton (also known for the Alien Next Door series), with vibrant illustrations by Anjan Sarkar. Think Percy Jackson for the early chapter book crowd—Greek mythology made accessible, funny, and impossible to resist.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Greek mythology is a cornerstone of Western literary tradition, and UWC believes in giving students early exposure to the stories that underpin so much of the literature, art, and language they will encounter later. Little Olympians introduces Zeus, Poseidon, Athena, and other major figures in a way that is age-appropriate and genuinely entertaining—planting seeds that will bloom when students meet these characters again in more complex texts.
The book also powerfully models UWC's values of self-awareness and personal growth. Zeus's journey is about learning to accept and control what makes you different—a theme that resonates deeply in an international school where every child is navigating a unique cultural identity. The camp setting, where diverse young gods must cooperate and support one another, mirrors the UWC experience itself: different strengths, shared challenges, and growth through community.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
Perfect difficulty. Engaging stories with simple vocabulary for early readers.
An easy, quick read at A2. Great for building reading speed and confidence.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
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