
Hour of the Olympics
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on their sixteenth adventure in the beloved Magic Tree House series! In Hour of the Olympics, the siblings are whisked away to ancient Greece, where the very first Olympic Games are taking place. However, they quickly discover a strict rule: no girls allowed! While Jack heads to the stadium, Annie's curiosity leads her into a daring plan to see the games for herself, potentially landing them both in Olympic-sized trouble.
This book is perfect for children who love history and mythology mixed with a touch of magic. It is an ideal choice for young readers interested in ancient civilizations and sports history. Mary Pope Osborne masterfully blends educational facts with an engaging, fast-paced plot that keeps early readers turning pages. Parents will appreciate how it introduces complex historical concepts like gender roles and ancient traditions in an accessible way.
Highlights:
- An exciting introduction to ancient Greek history and the origins of the Olympics.
- Promotes themes of bravery, sibling teamwork, and questioning unfair rules.
- Short chapters and simple vocabulary make it great for building reading confidence.
- Includes a touch of magic and time-travel mystery that captivates young imaginations.

In the Hand of the Goddess
by Tamora Pierce
In the Hand of the Goddess is the thrilling second installment in Tamora Pierce's beloved Song of the Lioness quartet. Alanna of Trebond continues her journey toward knighthood, still disguised as a boy named Alan. As she transitions from page to squire, the stakes grow higher and the dangers more personal. This book is perfect for children who love stories about secret identities, magical destinies, and breaking traditional gender roles. Readers will be captivated by Alanna's determination to prove herself in a world that doesn't know her true self.
Ideal for readers interested in epic fantasy and strong female protagonists, this volume explores Alanna's growing magical abilities and her first brushes with romance and courtly intrigue. She must navigate the treacherous waters of the royal court while keeping her secret safe from her peers and the suspicious Duke Roger. It is a great choice for fans of high-stakes adventure and character-driven storytelling. Tamora Pierce's world-building shines as Alanna faces the ultimate test of her character and skill.
Highlights:
- A powerful coming-of-age story featuring a trailblazing female hero.
- Exciting blend of sword-fighting action and mystical magic.
- Explores complex themes of identity, honesty, and perseverance.
- Perfect for fans of the Tortall universe and classic high fantasy.
