Greek Boy

By Author / Illustrator

Tony Bradman

Genre

Historical Fiction

Age range(s)

Publisher

Walker Books

ISBN

9781529522136

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

09-04-2026

Synopsis

Tony Bradman's award-winning historical-adventure series goes to Ancient Greece: Greek Boy - one boy's journey into espionage and treachery during the Persian wars.

For fans of Percy Jackson and Dominic Sandbrook - Key Stage 2 history topics brought to life as pacey action thrillers. Packed with Curriculum-linked adventure content: Ancient Greek civilization and the Persian wars.

Nikos is the son of an important Athenian politician as the shadow of war against the Persians descends over Ancient Greece. When his father is forced to flee Athens, leaving his family behind, Nikos hears shocking news; his father is accused of spying for the Persian king. As Persia invades Greece, Nikos and his family are cast out as traitors. Determined to clear his father's name, Nikos goes undercover as a Greek spy in the Persian army. His quest for the truth - personal and political - takes Nikos from the burning of Athens to the famous battles of Salamis and Platea.

Also by Tony Bradman: Viking Boy; Anglo Saxon Boy Roman Boy

Reviews

Rachel

Following the success of Roman Boy, Viking Boy and Anglo-Saxon Boy comes Greek Boy, a captivating story which offers insight into the life and battles of the ancient Greeks as well as the thrill of an adventure at sea.

The boy of the title is Nikos who, with his mother and sisters, are exiled from Athens after his father is accused of treachery. Understandably, Nikos feels the pain and betrayal of those around him and so sets out to find his father and discover the truth.

The story is full of detail about Ancient Greek life, temples, offerings, and battles but there is also a more modern relatable side as we watch Nikos play and squabble with his younger sisters.

This book will have a wide appeal. For readers who enjoy history and want to learn more about an ancient civilisation, and for those who want an exciting adventure story. The illustrations (some are full page) give an extra depth of understanding to a time we can only know about through reading. They help, as does the Historical Note at the end.

224 pages / Reviewed by Rachel Bolton