Are you into Greek mythology? Do you think two-thousand-year-old wisdom would still be useful in modern life? Follow sixth-grader Callie's challenging journey of discovery in Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom, an upcoming release from prolific, award-winning author and scholar Claudia Mills. Enter to win a signed hardcover copy, two other signed books from the author and more!
My Review:
Full of heart and humor, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom is a gripping, illuminating middle-grade novel that promotes kindness, empathy, acceptance, resilience and creativity.
Fascinated by the history and culture of ancient Greece, Callie chooses to name herself after Greek goddesses Calliope and Callisto, although the school librarian is the only one who calls her by Calliope. One morning accident triggers a series of unfortunate events that put Callie at risk of losing her furry friend Archie. In hopes of getting guidance from ancient wisdom, Callie joins the philosophy club organized by the kind and knowledgeable school librarian. Will what she learns in the club help her behave well enough to keep Archie forever?
Told from Callie's perspective, the first-person narrative leads us inside the orphaned young girl's colorful yet chaotic world through her unconventional thoughts, observations, interpretations and reactions. With an active, inquisitive mind, Callie is smart, sensitive, assertive and outspoken. She likes to ask questions, tough ones. She dares to challenge authorities including her rigid teacher and the open-minded principal. She longs to be seen and heard. She gets emotional easily and stands up for her friend with no hesitation. This unique mix of traits makes the protagonist feel real and relatable.
Callie's strong character is contrasted and complemented by her bestie Peggy's calmness and easygoingness. The philosophy club gives Callie the opportunity to discover something new about her friend as well as her nemesis. As Callie learns to put herself in other people's shoes, young readers are inspired to practice empathy and voice their opinions without hurting others' feelings. They are also encouraged to express gratitude and make sincere apologies for their mistakes.
Through witty language, comical scenarios and thought-provoking discussions, the story makes abstract philosophical concepts accessible and relevant to young thinkers, prompting them to ask not only "What" but also "Why" questions. Callie's experience suggests that one should focus on what's within their control instead of trying to change someone else's thoughts and actions. In addition, adaptability is a necessary skill in the fast-changing world we live in.
Expertly written and heartwarming, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom provides a most enjoyable introduction to philosophy, a charming read for dog-lovers and Greek mythology enthusiasts!
About the Book:
Ages: 9+ | 272 Pages
Publisher: Holiday House (2026) | ISBN-13: 978-0-8234-6050-2
“Difficult” student Callie joins a philosophy club seeking the wisdom she needs to keep her beloved but equally difficult dog in this hilarious, heartfelt middle-grade novel for underdogs and dog-lovers alike!
Once Callie (Calliope Callisto Clark) starts saying something, it’s hard for her to stop. The opinion gets bigger and bigger, her voice gets louder and louder—and she gets in more and more trouble. She’s in trouble with her teacher, who likes order and not Callie. She’s in bigger trouble with her Grampy, who blames Callie and her dog (a.k.a. Best Ever Friend) Archie for his ever-rising blood pressure. Then there’s the biggest trouble of all… just one more strike, and Callie could lose her beloved Archie forever.
When she turns to Greek philosophy for answers on how to solve her problems, she only gets more questions: What is justice? What is fairness? And as her problems get bigger, so do her questions: Is it Callie’s fault when Grampy has a stroke?
Told in Callie’s endearing, energetic voice, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom is sure to speak to any student who’s ever been called “disruptive.” Acclaimed children’s book author and retired philosophy professor Claudia Mills delivers a heartfelt middle-grade novel for misunderstood readers who feel like they’re living their own Greek tragedies.
Purchase link: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org
About the Author:
Claudia Mills has written over sixty books for children, including The Lost Language, an NCTE Notable Verse Novel, a Charlotte Huck Recommended Book, A Mighty Girl Best Book of the Year, and A Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books Blue Ribbon Book. Her most recent book, The Last Apple Tree, received a starred review in Kirkus Reviews. She is a recipient of the Kerlan Award for her contribution to children’s literature. She was a professor of philosophy for more than two decades at the University of Colorado. She lives in Boulder, Colorado.
Visit her at claudiamillsauthor.com. Follow her on Facebook, BlueSky and Instagram.
One lucky Grand Prize winner will receive a signed, hardcover copy of Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom, two additional books signed by author Claudia Mills and a one-hour Zoom visit with author Claudia Mills!
Ten additional winners will each receive a signed, hardcover copy of Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom!
Giveaway ends 3/17. Open to US only. Please complete your entries below. Good luck!
Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom: Book GiveawayDisclosure: This post is sponsored by Claudia Mills. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.
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