Aaron Thanos Adventure

When twelve-year-olds Aaron and Manar use a spell to go back in time to Thebes, Egypt, to find Aaron's missing father, they accidentally end up in Thebes in Ancient Greece instead. Manar, used to being the smart one, is out of her comfort zone in a new country and Australian Greek Aaron discovers more about his ancestors and heritage. Pythia, the oracle of Delphi, tasks them with three impossible missions they must complete before they can get home. They insult Artemis, the Moon Goddess, who separates them and turns Manar into a star. Aaron must forge a dagger from a meteorite but needs to create a meteorite shower first. He needs the dagger to cut a lock of Medusa's hair off, so they know they're not getting home in a hurry, if at all. When Athena sends them to the Gates of Hades to help Hercules with his twelfth labour, they learn more about their combined strengths that prove more powerful than the man they are there to help.

"SPELL 30: Book of the Dead by Verona McColl is an action-packed entry into the middle-grade genre that keeps readers on the edge of their seats! The story introduces us to Aaron Thanos, a brave and resourceful protagonist who must unravel ancient mysteries while facing danger at every turn. McColl's writing is vivid and engaging, with just the right mix of suspense, history, and heart to appeal to young readers and adults alike.Caron Pescatore author Kids' Court Whodunit series"Primary teachers are always seeking resources that will help their pupils learn in a fun and interesting way. This book 'Spell 30. Book of the Dead' (Book 1 of The Aaron Thanos Action Adventure Series) certainly ticks this box for the Irish History curriculum for 3rd to 6th classes. They will identify with the young Australian boy who has left behind his Jack Russell terrier, his sick mother and his X-box and will be fascinated with the savvy Bedouin girl who is able to decipher hieroglyphics and understand some of the ancient customs and practices.For teachers, it will be possible to examine the Strand of Early People and Ancient Societies, Strand Unit Egyptians by discussing the homes, clothes, food, weapons, beliefs and burial practices that Aaron and Manar encounter on their exciting adventure."Kathryn Crowley author and past principal of St Louise's NS, Ballyfermot, past Primary Director NCCA.