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Loukas and the Game of Chance
While Loukas is playing his flute at the seawall one day, he befriends a mysterious talking, dancing snake that rewards him with fortune and favor. Some years later, tempted by greed and pride, Loukas loses all his riches and his family. He must now set off on a treacherous journey through a frightening forest filled with suspense and strange creatures to find Destiny, her son Ilion, the Sun, and her daughter Luna, the Moon. These celestial guardians will surely allow him to reverse his misfortune, restore his honor, and win back all that he loves and treasures, won't they? A reimagined Greek folktale, Loukas and the Game of Chance is illuminated with dramatic and evocative pen and ink drawings that provide an ideal backdrop for the dark intrigue that fills this haunting story of human struggle, courage, and resilience.
96 pages, Hardcover
Published October 1, 2019
2 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
Anthony L. Manna
8 books27 followersANTHONY L. MANNA, Ph.D., is a retired professor from the Department of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies and the English Department at Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, where he taught Children’s Literature, Young Adult Literature, Writing, and Educational Drama and served as one of the co-directors of Kent State’s National Writing Project (sponsored by UC/Berkeley).
A New Jersey native, he received his doctorate from the University of Iowa, Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University (high honors), and his B. A. from Seton Hall University (with honors). He has taught on nearly every grade level, from preschool to graduate school, and has held positions at the American College in Istanbul, Turkey, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, the University of Maine (Farmington), and the Center for Literature and Medicine (Hiram College/Northeast Ohio College of Medicine), where he received a fellowship to research the intersection of the arts and the practice of medicine and healing.
He is the recipient of Kent State University’s Distinguished Teaching Award, Kent State’s Student Choice Award, and the Arbuthnot Award from the International Reading Association for outstanding university teaching.
Manna is a former member of the executive board of the Children’s Literature Association, former Director of Publications for the Association, and former editor of various columns in the Children’s Literature Association Quarterly.
He is co-author of Children’s Literature for Health Awareness and co-editor of Many Faces, Many Voices: Multicultural Literary Experiences for Youth and Art and Story: The Role of Illustration in Multicultural Literature for Youth. He has published numerous articles, book reviews, and book chapters on literature, drama, and teaching both in the U.S.A. and abroad.
The children’s picture book he co-authored with Soula Mitakidou, Mr. Semolina-Semolinus: A Greek Folktale (Simon & Schuster, 1997; Aladdin Paperbacks, 2015) was selected a 1998 Notable Children’s Book of the Year by the American Library Association was listed among the one hundred best books of the year by the New York Public Library, and was the recipient of the 1997 Marion Vannett Ridgway Award for first-time authors and illustrators.
In 2002, he co-authored a collection of twenty stories titled Folktales from Greece: A Treasury of Delights (Greenwood Press World Folklore Series). His most recent picture book, The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece (Schwartz & Wade/Random House 2011) was selected a Bank Street College of Education Best Book of 2012.
A New Jersey native, he received his doctorate from the University of Iowa, Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University (high honors), and his B. A. from Seton Hall University (with honors). He has taught on nearly every grade level, from preschool to graduate school, and has held positions at the American College in Istanbul, Turkey, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, the University of Maine (Farmington), and the Center for Literature and Medicine (Hiram College/Northeast Ohio College of Medicine), where he received a fellowship to research the intersection of the arts and the practice of medicine and healing.
He is the recipient of Kent State University’s Distinguished Teaching Award, Kent State’s Student Choice Award, and the Arbuthnot Award from the International Reading Association for outstanding university teaching.
Manna is a former member of the executive board of the Children’s Literature Association, former Director of Publications for the Association, and former editor of various columns in the Children’s Literature Association Quarterly.
He is co-author of Children’s Literature for Health Awareness and co-editor of Many Faces, Many Voices: Multicultural Literary Experiences for Youth and Art and Story: The Role of Illustration in Multicultural Literature for Youth. He has published numerous articles, book reviews, and book chapters on literature, drama, and teaching both in the U.S.A. and abroad.
The children’s picture book he co-authored with Soula Mitakidou, Mr. Semolina-Semolinus: A Greek Folktale (Simon & Schuster, 1997; Aladdin Paperbacks, 2015) was selected a 1998 Notable Children’s Book of the Year by the American Library Association was listed among the one hundred best books of the year by the New York Public Library, and was the recipient of the 1997 Marion Vannett Ridgway Award for first-time authors and illustrators.
In 2002, he co-authored a collection of twenty stories titled Folktales from Greece: A Treasury of Delights (Greenwood Press World Folklore Series). His most recent picture book, The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece (Schwartz & Wade/Random House 2011) was selected a Bank Street College of Education Best Book of 2012.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 30, 2021
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Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
When the author approached me with a very kind request to review the book, I was hesitant at first, but the story is a middle grade story with Greek mythology, Folklore and illustrations thrown in and I couldn’t say no to that! These are things that I love very much so I think I kind of had higher expectations than I should have.
I know that I am not the targeted audience but I still enjoyed the book, it kind of read like a parable which kind of made me nostalgic as this is the kind of story that initially got me into reading.
The story does provide what is expected for younger readers, with a meaningful journey, some nice rhymes here and there and repetitions which are acceptable. I kind of did not like the illustrations which affected my enjoyment of the story because they made it look less professional and this is just a personal opinion. I do not consider myself an artist but I can draw and I expected more from an illustrator! I do not know if it is their won style and maybe others liked it but it did not click for me simply!
Summary: I think it is a great story for younger readers who are looking for something more challenging but not hard. It does have illustrations and mythology and it is simply a cool story. I do recommend it for younger readers!
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
When the author approached me with a very kind request to review the book, I was hesitant at first, but the story is a middle grade story with Greek mythology, Folklore and illustrations thrown in and I couldn’t say no to that! These are things that I love very much so I think I kind of had higher expectations than I should have.
I know that I am not the targeted audience but I still enjoyed the book, it kind of read like a parable which kind of made me nostalgic as this is the kind of story that initially got me into reading.
The story does provide what is expected for younger readers, with a meaningful journey, some nice rhymes here and there and repetitions which are acceptable. I kind of did not like the illustrations which affected my enjoyment of the story because they made it look less professional and this is just a personal opinion. I do not consider myself an artist but I can draw and I expected more from an illustrator! I do not know if it is their won style and maybe others liked it but it did not click for me simply!
Summary: I think it is a great story for younger readers who are looking for something more challenging but not hard. It does have illustrations and mythology and it is simply a cool story. I do recommend it for younger readers!
April 15, 2024
A delightful tale of a young boy and his dance with destiny. This has a lot of teaching elements regarding ego and greed and how playing a game of chance can go terribly wrong.
This story also has that mystical and mysterious element that works very well.
It is lovely to read folk tales. Reminds us of our childhood stories.
The illustrations have a dark christian Anderson feel and are sketchy and interesting. They work very well alongside the story.
A pleasure for children and adults to read.
Many thanks to the Author, illustrator and publisher for this enticing tale. Also thanks to Deborah Giustini @stressfreebookmarketing for this DRC.
This story also has that mystical and mysterious element that works very well.
It is lovely to read folk tales. Reminds us of our childhood stories.
The illustrations have a dark christian Anderson feel and are sketchy and interesting. They work very well alongside the story.
A pleasure for children and adults to read.
Many thanks to the Author, illustrator and publisher for this enticing tale. Also thanks to Deborah Giustini @stressfreebookmarketing for this DRC.
November 12, 2019
Since childhood I have loved reading fairytales. Anthony Manna has fed my soul by transporting me to the mystical world of Loukas with vivid pictures of life along the sea wall and the unexpected turn of events that lead him on a trek to regain his most important treasure, family. Illustrations by Donald Babisch richly add to the fabric of the tale with their intricate detail. A wonderful read for middle schoolers and adults!
October 15, 2019
This is a great story written in the style of old fairy tales. It's perfect for kids who have started reading chapter books but need a little more of a challenge!
January 12, 2023
The Review
This was a profound and captivating reimagining of Greek folklore. The author does an amazing job of writing in a way that vividly paints an image of the story to life through engaging imagery and a fantastical atmosphere. The adventurous and hero’s journey elements of the narrative immediately jump off the page, and the mythical tone of the author’s writing brings readers into the magical frame of mind.
The beautiful story that the author tells early on between Loukas and the snake when combined with the themes of love, loss, and the power of kindness over greed made this a truly thrilling story to behold. The way the author is able to relate this story to young readers and still maintain the magic and wonder that has resonated with all readers throughout the time that other fables and folktales have done time and time again was amazing to see come to fruition.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, entertaining, and mesmerizing, author Anthony L. Manna’s “Loukas and the Game of Chance” is a must-read folktale and children’s Greek and Roman Myth story. The wonder and atmosphere the author infuses into this narrative and the rich character development made this a short yet powerful read that young and older readers alike won’t be able to put down.
This was a profound and captivating reimagining of Greek folklore. The author does an amazing job of writing in a way that vividly paints an image of the story to life through engaging imagery and a fantastical atmosphere. The adventurous and hero’s journey elements of the narrative immediately jump off the page, and the mythical tone of the author’s writing brings readers into the magical frame of mind.
The beautiful story that the author tells early on between Loukas and the snake when combined with the themes of love, loss, and the power of kindness over greed made this a truly thrilling story to behold. The way the author is able to relate this story to young readers and still maintain the magic and wonder that has resonated with all readers throughout the time that other fables and folktales have done time and time again was amazing to see come to fruition.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, entertaining, and mesmerizing, author Anthony L. Manna’s “Loukas and the Game of Chance” is a must-read folktale and children’s Greek and Roman Myth story. The wonder and atmosphere the author infuses into this narrative and the rich character development made this a short yet powerful read that young and older readers alike won’t be able to put down.
July 29, 2021
Loukas and the Game of Chance is an enchanting fusion of mystical fairytale and mature, virtuous wisdom. Reading Loukas’s journey through poverty, success, foolishness, and redemption gives the readers a sense of deep connection and great relatability with the imperfect protagonist who is doing his best to return to the happy life he once lived. Like a real person, Loukas made wrong decisions that caused him everything. And yet, he acknowledged his failure and did everything in his power to redeem himself. This type of story, despite its fantastical setting, is incredibly realistic and inspiring.
The mystifying approach of the author in recounting Loukas’ tale has made the story even more alluring and thought-provoking. It was, indeed, a very insightful read. I highly recommend this book to people of all ages!
The mystifying approach of the author in recounting Loukas’ tale has made the story even more alluring and thought-provoking. It was, indeed, a very insightful read. I highly recommend this book to people of all ages!
July 30, 2021
Mystical, youthful, and wise! Anthony Manna’s “Loukas and the Game of Chance'' is the type of fantasy that wraps around the hearts of the readers with its incredibly dynamic characters and wise teachings to be learned upon meditating on the plot and storyline. Manna’s writing is both magical and insightful, growing more enticing further and further into the book.
”Loukas and the Game of Chance“ recounts the story of a promising young man with a beautiful family who has fallen from grace and is desperately seeking redemption. It was extremely heartwarming and inspiring to watch a wretched man, so relatable in his foolish pride, trying his hardest to take back his loved ones and learning many profound things in the process. Highly recommended!
”Loukas and the Game of Chance“ recounts the story of a promising young man with a beautiful family who has fallen from grace and is desperately seeking redemption. It was extremely heartwarming and inspiring to watch a wretched man, so relatable in his foolish pride, trying his hardest to take back his loved ones and learning many profound things in the process. Highly recommended!
November 16, 2019
This is a phenomenal book for all ages. Loukas, an adventurous young boy and talented flautist, befriends a generous snake who helps Loukas's family as a way of thanking him for his beautiful gift of music. Through the snake's generosity, Loukas's family grows rich, and they pay it forward by helping struggling families in their village. However, one day, as a young adult, Loukas risks everything that he has, including his wife and two children, during a card game. Does he win or lose? What is his fate? Read it now to find out what happens in the beautiful story, Loukas and the Game of Chance by Dr. Anthony Manna.
October 1, 2020
Middle-grade readers will love this folktale written with seasoned storytelling skills and complemented with mystical pen and ink illustrations. Loukas and the Game of Chance takes the reader on a mystical and personal discovery of one of life’s lessons. Each character introduced comes out of the page with realistic qualities adding to the story and stirring the imagination. This is one of the better books of 2020 written for teens.
Just found games and exercises supporting the book on the author's website https://anthonymannabooks.com/games-a...
Just found games and exercises supporting the book on the author's website https://anthonymannabooks.com/games-a...
August 26, 2022
Everyone deserves a second chance.
It’s tricky to describe Loukas in a few sentences. He was a talented musician who was deeply loyal to and generous with his friends and relatives. With that being said, he also had moments of selfishness, greediness, and thoughtlessness just like many folks do sometimes. I had a wonderful time peeling back the various layers of his personality and figuring out how all of them were connected. He felt so three dimensional to me that I could have easily accepted the idea of him being based on a real person.
My favorite scenes were the ones that explored what true repentance and forgiveness mean. When someone makes a terrible mistake that harms others, the damage can’t be undone with a simple apology. Instead, Loukas needed to demonstrate that he regretted his actions and was going to make things right again. I found myself smiling and nodding along as he searched for ways to repair everything he’d destroyed.
Folklore appeals to me because of how often first impressions can be deceiving in this type of storytelling and how many lessons it can teach us about being what it means to be a good person. For example, not every powerful character is necessarily trustworthy, and wealth is only as good as how it is used. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this story and seeing how they treated one another. As much as I want to gush more about this topic, it’s best for other readers to discover everything for themselves.
I should also mention that the author’s note at the end provided some helpful backstory for readers who aren’t familiar with the Greek legends this story was based on or who want to read more about this topic. It does contain spoilers, though, so keep that in mind when deciding when to read it!
Loukas and the Game of Chance was perfect.
It’s tricky to describe Loukas in a few sentences. He was a talented musician who was deeply loyal to and generous with his friends and relatives. With that being said, he also had moments of selfishness, greediness, and thoughtlessness just like many folks do sometimes. I had a wonderful time peeling back the various layers of his personality and figuring out how all of them were connected. He felt so three dimensional to me that I could have easily accepted the idea of him being based on a real person.
My favorite scenes were the ones that explored what true repentance and forgiveness mean. When someone makes a terrible mistake that harms others, the damage can’t be undone with a simple apology. Instead, Loukas needed to demonstrate that he regretted his actions and was going to make things right again. I found myself smiling and nodding along as he searched for ways to repair everything he’d destroyed.
Folklore appeals to me because of how often first impressions can be deceiving in this type of storytelling and how many lessons it can teach us about being what it means to be a good person. For example, not every powerful character is necessarily trustworthy, and wealth is only as good as how it is used. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this story and seeing how they treated one another. As much as I want to gush more about this topic, it’s best for other readers to discover everything for themselves.
I should also mention that the author’s note at the end provided some helpful backstory for readers who aren’t familiar with the Greek legends this story was based on or who want to read more about this topic. It does contain spoilers, though, so keep that in mind when deciding when to read it!
Loukas and the Game of Chance was perfect.
July 12, 2023
Very impressive storytelling
Anthony Manna writes a middle grade folktale with Loukas and the Game of Chance. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The reader is introduced to Loukas, who is not just the character in the story, but the illustrations and ink drawings bring this story together. After an encounter with a talking snake, he is rewarded with fortune and riches. As the years progress, he gets more greedy, and then loses it all. He sets off on a harrowing journey that he hopes will not just get back his fortune, but also his reputation and honor. His journey is long, and danger is around every tree in the forest, but he hopes that he can convince the celestial guardians to help him. This author is a great storyteller. The reader just embarks on a superb journey. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next, and to see if he learns life's lesson, and can set aside his quest for more riches. Loukas and the Game of Chance is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
Anthony Manna writes a middle grade folktale with Loukas and the Game of Chance. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The reader is introduced to Loukas, who is not just the character in the story, but the illustrations and ink drawings bring this story together. After an encounter with a talking snake, he is rewarded with fortune and riches. As the years progress, he gets more greedy, and then loses it all. He sets off on a harrowing journey that he hopes will not just get back his fortune, but also his reputation and honor. His journey is long, and danger is around every tree in the forest, but he hopes that he can convince the celestial guardians to help him. This author is a great storyteller. The reader just embarks on a superb journey. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next, and to see if he learns life's lesson, and can set aside his quest for more riches. Loukas and the Game of Chance is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
November 7, 2020
Let me just start by saying this: the first time I finished this book, I immediately went back and started reading it again. I can't think of any other middle-grade book that I've done that with.
What I love about Loukas and the Game of Chance is that every character serves their own purpose and has their own private agendas. All capable of good and bad to one extent or another, they do what they must to survive, and through their actions, I was able to relate and bond with these fictional people whom I have loved, loathed, pitied, and despised. This children's book is extremely character-centric, which means the reader really does become emotionally involved with its characters, and believe me, I did!
The really fun part is re-discovering things in this book. There are some things I remember very clearly, but other little details that pop up and make me think, "Oh yeah, I forgot all about that." There's just so much stuff crammed into this book that even after two back-to-back readings, I still let details slip away.
So, make a sandwich and find a comfortable place to sit. This will take a while, but I guarantee - it'll be worth it.
What I love about Loukas and the Game of Chance is that every character serves their own purpose and has their own private agendas. All capable of good and bad to one extent or another, they do what they must to survive, and through their actions, I was able to relate and bond with these fictional people whom I have loved, loathed, pitied, and despised. This children's book is extremely character-centric, which means the reader really does become emotionally involved with its characters, and believe me, I did!
The really fun part is re-discovering things in this book. There are some things I remember very clearly, but other little details that pop up and make me think, "Oh yeah, I forgot all about that." There's just so much stuff crammed into this book that even after two back-to-back readings, I still let details slip away.
So, make a sandwich and find a comfortable place to sit. This will take a while, but I guarantee - it'll be worth it.
November 7, 2020
As a child, my favorite books were always about myths and adventure stories. I loved to read about all the exciting things the children got up to and where their escapades took them. Reading this book as an adult brought back lots of happy childhood memories, as it is full of adventure along with a touch of mystery and suspense. I really love this book. In fact, I couldn't put it down, it is such a page-turner!
The book is very well-written, it keeps you hooked, wondering what is going to happen at the end, and finishes with a fascinating twist that you won't expect. The story is set on a remote island in the restless Aegean Sea which is described so well by the author, that you can just imagine what a beautiful and stunning place it must be. Loukas, the main character in the story had such personalities that I think any child reading this could relate to, making this book suitable for both boys and girls.
Whether you are an adult or a child I truly recommend that you read this book, as I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did!
The book is very well-written, it keeps you hooked, wondering what is going to happen at the end, and finishes with a fascinating twist that you won't expect. The story is set on a remote island in the restless Aegean Sea which is described so well by the author, that you can just imagine what a beautiful and stunning place it must be. Loukas, the main character in the story had such personalities that I think any child reading this could relate to, making this book suitable for both boys and girls.
Whether you are an adult or a child I truly recommend that you read this book, as I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did!
November 7, 2020
I love books about old folklore. I find the folklore of different countries to be fascinating. I especially love learning anything I can about European folklore. Some of the folklore stories from Europe are really creative and amazing. Therefore, it's no surprise that I really enjoyed Loukas and the Game of Chance.
Anthony Manna reimagines and reshapes Greek folktales and combines them with Donald Babisch's gorgeous illustrations to create a beautifully written story of tales within tales. I ADORED the way this book was written! It's both simple yet extremely poetic at the same time. Its strong themes of human struggle and faith are perfectly captured in the story of a man named Loukas who's in a quest for redemption after losing a card game and learns how to find both courage and the importance of family in a small, remote village.
I highly recommend this book and Manna's writing in general. A wonderful middle-grade novel.
Anthony Manna reimagines and reshapes Greek folktales and combines them with Donald Babisch's gorgeous illustrations to create a beautifully written story of tales within tales. I ADORED the way this book was written! It's both simple yet extremely poetic at the same time. Its strong themes of human struggle and faith are perfectly captured in the story of a man named Loukas who's in a quest for redemption after losing a card game and learns how to find both courage and the importance of family in a small, remote village.
I highly recommend this book and Manna's writing in general. A wonderful middle-grade novel.
November 9, 2020
This is a book that is truly inspired by greek folktales. It has a bit of everything. It is not an easy/quick autumn read. It takes concentration, patience, and quite a bit of faith to become completely absorbed and brought along to the book's climax. And at that point, it scores a winning run.
The language is beautiful, the story is sometimes humorous and the others are quite tragic, the pace is very quick and intense. Sure, it takes a serious-minded reader to get everything out of it, but it's certainly worth the effort. The ending is satisfying in the sense that the story is wrapped up neatly, though it certainly begs for more to be told of these brilliant characters and wonderful setting.
If you love folklore and are looking for characters that grow with their experience, instead of being cookie-cutter "heroes" out of the box, then I would highly recommend Loukas and the Game of Chance.
The language is beautiful, the story is sometimes humorous and the others are quite tragic, the pace is very quick and intense. Sure, it takes a serious-minded reader to get everything out of it, but it's certainly worth the effort. The ending is satisfying in the sense that the story is wrapped up neatly, though it certainly begs for more to be told of these brilliant characters and wonderful setting.
If you love folklore and are looking for characters that grow with their experience, instead of being cookie-cutter "heroes" out of the box, then I would highly recommend Loukas and the Game of Chance.
July 27, 2021
The depiction of Loukas’ character reminded me of the distinctive features so common amongst Homo sapiens, sentimental and foolish. Of course, I’m no exception as I projected my own life and foolish decisions to the protagonist’s. Anthony Manna’s “Loukas and the Game of Chance” beautifully depicts the imperfection of mankind and how our species use our weakness as strength to turn our lives around. Loukas’ life, including both the ups and downs, was extremely inspiring without the superficial perfection of a protagonist’s halo.
Anthony Manna writes in a captivating style that kept my nose buried in the pages and my heart reaching out towards the lifelike yet mystical characters. “Loukas and the Game of Chance” is a fascinating book jam-packed with wisdom and inspiration. Highly recommended!
Anthony Manna writes in a captivating style that kept my nose buried in the pages and my heart reaching out towards the lifelike yet mystical characters. “Loukas and the Game of Chance” is a fascinating book jam-packed with wisdom and inspiration. Highly recommended!
July 30, 2021
A must-read! Anthony Manna’s “Loukas and the Game of Chance” takes its readers on an insightful trip of values, love, friendship, and self-discovery. Manna recounts the story of a young man and his journey to redeem himself and his life with a writing style that lures the readers into a beautifully mystical world of his own making. Every part of the book is written in an aesthetic, alluring, manner that is very pleasing to the eyes and ears, further enriched by beautiful font and captivating illustrations.
The inspiring moral and virtuous lessons I got from this book were definitely more than I expected to get from a fictional story. “Loukas and the Game of Chance” was really a blessing to me as it taught me the true value of wisdom, friendship, and virtue. A great read!
The inspiring moral and virtuous lessons I got from this book were definitely more than I expected to get from a fictional story. “Loukas and the Game of Chance” was really a blessing to me as it taught me the true value of wisdom, friendship, and virtue. A great read!
July 28, 2021
Following the story of our protagonist, starting from being an impoverished yet bright-eyed young boy to becoming an adult who has made both foolish and wise decisions, was incredibly enjoyable and eye-opening. Loukas was portrayed as someone who, despite having been born into poverty, was not at all lacking in love and moral value. The author’s writing style was beautifully appealing as page after page drew me deeper into the story, looking forward to how our beloved protagonist, ruined by his own pride and foolishness, will redeem himself.
The phantasmal origins of this story, coupled with the author’s mesmerizing style of writing, culminate into this perfectly balanced book of childhood fairytale and mature wisdom. I highly recommend it to audiences both young and old!
The phantasmal origins of this story, coupled with the author’s mesmerizing style of writing, culminate into this perfectly balanced book of childhood fairytale and mature wisdom. I highly recommend it to audiences both young and old!
September 14, 2020
Nice myth. I like mythology, so I enjoyed the story.
November 25, 2019
A Tale of Intrique and Redemption
Loukas and the Game of Chance, based on Greek folktales, has been elaborated by author/educator Anthony Manna with timeless and classic folktale elements. An unusual friendship of two very different beings- Loukas and a charmed snake sets groundwork for a cycle of fortunes and misfortunes, and a quest to redeem foolish decisions with help from elements of nature and spirits. With a myriad of clever symbolism, I found myself wishing I had some children to read aloud to- perhaps over the span of a few weeks of bedtime. I can see this story engaging their imagination and instigating rich conversations. Like folktales and fantasies, the book has a delightful sense of wonder which young readers will enjoy.
Loukas and the Game of Chance, based on Greek folktales, has been elaborated by author/educator Anthony Manna with timeless and classic folktale elements. An unusual friendship of two very different beings- Loukas and a charmed snake sets groundwork for a cycle of fortunes and misfortunes, and a quest to redeem foolish decisions with help from elements of nature and spirits. With a myriad of clever symbolism, I found myself wishing I had some children to read aloud to- perhaps over the span of a few weeks of bedtime. I can see this story engaging their imagination and instigating rich conversations. Like folktales and fantasies, the book has a delightful sense of wonder which young readers will enjoy.
January 24, 2020
This was written by one of my college professors and I felt it was a wonderful take about the lengths we will go to get back what we have lost. It made me reflect and understand the whole concept of risk vs reward much better. Dr. Manna is an excellent storyteller and I could hear his voice in this as I read. It's an excellent folktale and I plan on sharing it with my students I teach as well.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews