The Golden Thunder. The Statue of Zeus

Contents

Chapter One - The Invitation

Chapter Two – Olympia

Chapter Three - The Sculptor's Workshop

Chapter Four - The Missing Piece

Chapter Five - The Greatest Wonder

The Golden Thunder

The Statue of Zeus

Meet the Team:

Alex – Curious and brave.

Lily – Smart and creative.

Professor Thomas – The history expert.

Milo – A friendly robot guide.

Anna Honey

About the Author

Anna Honey writes educational adventure stories that help young readers improve their English while exploring history, famous places, and world cultures. Her Time Compass series combines simple English, engaging adventures, historical facts, and full-colour illustrations for learners aged 10–15.

Chapter 1

The Invitation

The last school bell of the year had finally rung. Summer had arrived. Alex hurried along the quiet street with a wide smile on his face. In one hand he carried a paper bag from the village bakery. Warm bread filled the air with a wonderful smell. Professor Thomas opened the front door before Alex could knock.

"I thought that might be you," he said.

"The bread gave you away." Alex laughed. "I wanted to bring something for tea."

"You've made an excellent choice."

Inside, the old house felt cool and peaceful. Books covered every wall of the study. Ancient maps hung beside wooden shelves. Small statues, clay pots, and polished stones rested on the tables. Everything seemed exactly as Alex remembered. Almost. The little lemon tree beside the window had grown taller. Its fresh green leaves shone in the sunlight. Tiny white flowers covered the branches.

"It looks different," Alex said.

Professor Thomas poured water into the pot. "It enjoyed the spring. Just like people, trees become stronger when someone cares for them."

A cheerful voice came from the hallway. "I hope I'm not late." Lily stepped inside carrying a round tin decorated with yellow flowers. "My grandmother baked lemon biscuits."

Professor Thomas's eyes brightened. "Then we have everything we need for a perfect afternoon."

At that moment Milo floated into the room. His silver body turned slowly in the air. "I have detected fresh bread." He paused for a second. "And biscuits." Alex folded his arms. "Which one smells better?" "I cannot decide," Milo replied. "I recommend testing both."

Everyone laughed. For a little while they forgot about ancient cities and mysterious journeys. They shared tea. They talked about school holidays. Alex wanted to learn to sail. Lily hoped to spend more time painting. Professor Thomas planned to organise the books that had slowly taken over his study.

Milo raised one small metal hand. "I wish to learn cooking."

Alex almost dropped his cup. "You can't even eat."

"I know. But I enjoy helping."

When the table was clear again, Professor Thomas stood and walked towards a tall oak cupboard. He unlocked the door with a small brass key. "I have something to show you."

The children exchanged curious glances. Professor Thomas carefully lifted out a long wooden chest. Beautiful olive branches had been carved into the lid.

Lily ran her fingers across the smooth wood. "They're lovely."

"They are olive leaves," Professor Thomas explained. "In Ancient Greece, they were a symbol of peace and victory."

Alex leaned closer. "So, this is about Greece?"

Professor Thomas nodded. "I think our next story begins there." He slowly opened the chest. Inside rested three old scrolls wrapped in pale cloth. Each one was tied with a dark blue ribbon. A round wax seal held every ribbon in place. The seal showed a powerful eagle with its wings spread wide.

Milo scanned it at once. "The eagle belonged to Zeus."

Professor Thomas smiled. "Very good." He untied the first ribbon. The scroll opened across the table. A beautiful drawing appeared. Tall white columns stood beneath a bright blue sky. Wide marble steps led to a magnificent temple. Olive trees surrounded the building, and people wearing light robes walked between them. In the centre of the picture sat an enormous figure on a richly decorated throne. Its robe gleamed like gold. Its face looked calm and wise.

Lily gazed at the picture. "It feels alive."

Professor Thomas nodded. "This is the Temple of Zeus at Olympia. And this is the famous Statue of Zeus. It was created by the great sculptor Phidias more than two thousand years ago."

Alex studied the drawing. "Was it really that big?"

"It stood about twelve metres high," Professor Thomas replied. "The statue was built on a wooden frame. Gold covered the robes. Ivory was used for the face and hands. People travelled across Greece just to see it."

Milo projected a glowing map into the air. A small blue light marked a place called Olympia.

Professor Thomas pointed towards it. "This was also the home of the Olympic Games. The first recorded Games were held in 776 BC. They took place every four years. People came from many Greek cities. They competed in running, wrestling, boxing and other sports."

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