3000 – 1200 B.C.
The ancient Minoans and Mycenaeans were two of the earliest civilizations in the Aegean region. The Minoans, centered on the island of Crete, were known for their grand palaces, like the one at Knossos, and their vibrant art and trade networks. The Mycenaeans, based on mainland Greece, are often remembered for their fortified cities and connection to the legendary Trojan War. These two cultures influenced later Greek civilization with their advancements in architecture, art, and writing, including their myths and legends.
Picture books
Chapter books
The Winged Girl of Knossos
Delightful middle-grade novel based on ancient myth
Buy
The Creature of Crete: Stories from Ancient Greece
Stories from ancient Crete
Buy
Island of the Minotaur: The Greek Myths of Ancient Crete
Stories of ancient Crete mythology
Buy
Theseus and the Minotaur: A Graphic Retelling
Graphic novel adaptation of the Theseus myth
Buy
Dragonfly Song
Gripping fantasy novel set in Bronze-Age Crete
Buy
Non-fiction books
The Minoans
Rich history of the Minoans with primary sources and vivid visuals
Buy
In Search of Ancient Crete
Great introduction to archaeology of Ancient Crete with lovely illustrations
Buy
Digging for Troy: From Homer to Hisarlik
Retelling of the Iliad with the archaeological history of the Troy site
Buy
The Palace of Knossos
Story of the Palace of Knossos through archaeology
Buy
In Search of Knossos: The Quest for the Minotaur’s Labyrinth
Story of an archaeologist’s quest for the Minotaur’s labyrinth and Minoans’ palace
Buy