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Atlantis: The Legend of the Lost City
A magnificently illustrated retelling of the story of Atlantis--one of the world's most haunting and fascinating myths.
Floating on the emerald sea is a small rocky island belonging to the mighty sea-god Poseidon. Few visit its shores-until Poseidon marries a beautiful woman named Cleito and transforms the island into a rich and fertile paradise, where all things flourish. A magnificent city arises. Poseidon names his perfect island Atlantis. Atlantis prospers and its people live in peace, but as the years pass, Poseidon's descendants start to act less like gods and more like men. When the people incur the wrath of their god, a terrible curse is carried out and the entire island sinks forever beneath the waves.
This retelling of the history of fabled Atlantis is based on Plato's Timaeus and Critias. It features a note by internationally known historian Geoffrey Ashe, who has written extensively in the area of mythology.
Floating on the emerald sea is a small rocky island belonging to the mighty sea-god Poseidon. Few visit its shores-until Poseidon marries a beautiful woman named Cleito and transforms the island into a rich and fertile paradise, where all things flourish. A magnificent city arises. Poseidon names his perfect island Atlantis. Atlantis prospers and its people live in peace, but as the years pass, Poseidon's descendants start to act less like gods and more like men. When the people incur the wrath of their god, a terrible curse is carried out and the entire island sinks forever beneath the waves.
This retelling of the history of fabled Atlantis is based on Plato's Timaeus and Critias. It features a note by internationally known historian Geoffrey Ashe, who has written extensively in the area of mythology.
26 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
3 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Christina Balit
31 books18 followersChristina Balit is a graduate of both the Chelsea School of Art and the Royal College of Art. A playwright and children’s book illustrator she has illustrated over 20 children’s books and has been been short-listed for the Kate Greenaway Medal twice.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 28, 2024
A decent enough picture-book story about Atlantis and how it came to be and how it was destroyed, bringing together more than one theories that's been written throughout the ages since Plato till now, and tying them to create a story inspired by many other stories since its origin to tell a new refurbished one.
July 29, 2020
Using Plato's dialogues,
Timaeus
and
Critias
, as sources, British author and illustrator Christina Balit relates the Greek myth of Atlantis in this gorgeous picture-book. Built up from a tiny island by the god Poseidon, after he marries island girl Cleito, Atlantis becomes a marvel of the world - an island city both wealthy and peaceful. Named after Poseidon and Cleito's oldest son, Atlas, it is governed by a wise set of laws. But when Poseidon sleeps beneath the waves, the people of Atlantis gradually abandon the laws, and violence and injustice creep into their civilization. Waking from his long rest, the sea god must fulfill his vow to destroy the island, if its people ever break the law, raining down fire and submerging Atlantis in powerful waves. And so the island slips beneath the waters, never to be seen again...
Although there are various different versions of the myth of Atlantis, something outlined by scholar Geoffrey Ashe in his afterword, Atlantis: The Legend of the Lost City retells the traditional Greek tale. The story here is engaging, and the illustrations simply beautiful! Balit uses vibrant colors - deep blues and oranges, and lovely golden highlights - and stylized figures to create paintings that are a pleasure to peruse. Beside the passage discussing the giving and keeping of Atlantis' laws, she depicts a carved half-disk that looks very much like the Phaistos Disk, from the ancient Minoan civilization on the island of Crete. This felt entirely appropriate, as some scholars believe that the story of Atlantis is actually about Crete, and about the destruction of the Minoan civilization after the eruption of a volcano on the island of Thera, in 1450 BC. I'd recommend this one to all folklore and mythology enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the legend of Atlantis, or in the idea of lost civilizations.
Although there are various different versions of the myth of Atlantis, something outlined by scholar Geoffrey Ashe in his afterword, Atlantis: The Legend of the Lost City retells the traditional Greek tale. The story here is engaging, and the illustrations simply beautiful! Balit uses vibrant colors - deep blues and oranges, and lovely golden highlights - and stylized figures to create paintings that are a pleasure to peruse. Beside the passage discussing the giving and keeping of Atlantis' laws, she depicts a carved half-disk that looks very much like the Phaistos Disk, from the ancient Minoan civilization on the island of Crete. This felt entirely appropriate, as some scholars believe that the story of Atlantis is actually about Crete, and about the destruction of the Minoan civilization after the eruption of a volcano on the island of Thera, in 1450 BC. I'd recommend this one to all folklore and mythology enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the legend of Atlantis, or in the idea of lost civilizations.
May 23, 2012
This tells the story of Poseidon falling in love with Cleito and building the city of Atlantis. My children were mesmerized! The story is truly magical, and the illustrations are beautiful! This IS the book to read FIRST to hook children, before reading them the dry textbooks about Atlantis. Our brains really are wired to remember stories, not strings of facts, and this one is perfectly done. I didn't realize the Atlantic Ocean was named after Atlantis in this story. We used this book learning about ancient Crete and the Minoans because some people think Atlantis was on the island of Crete.
January 9, 2018
I’m giving this book 5 stars because it’s illustrations are wide and gorgeous, the story itself is easy to follow, understand and retain and most importantly it’s totally suitable for kids & a great for us grown ups. 💕
October 16, 2022
This isn't for children, not because of anything inappropriate, but because it's very heavy and textbook-like in its diction. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed it! The illustrations are gold and blue toned and it moves briskly with a delightful abrupt ending I found charming. The same illustrator did a constellations tome a la Nat Geo, so I'm a fan.
October 9, 2020
Gorgeous illustrations that draw strongly on archeological studies of the ancient Mediterranean, and a text that takes from both Greek myth and Plato, present here a great picture book that encapsulates a high-level story of the myth of the rise and fall Atlantis.
December 8, 2020
I liked it because the wave knocked out Atlantis.
January 11, 2022
Engagingly written and colored with lovely hues, this picture book was enjoyable to read aloud. It's a great resource for Greek mythology studies with kids. 🌊
May 1, 2022
The absolute most beautiful illustrations!
March 5, 2023
Good story! there are many about Atlantis this one is very good. I will save this one for the grandkids. Pictures are good too!
January 14, 2026
Beautiful artwork and history in this children’s book.
Using for the 2026 Popsugar Reading Challenge prompt “a book about an underwater civilization”
Using for the 2026 Popsugar Reading Challenge prompt “a book about an underwater civilization”
Read
March 1, 2016Title: Atlantis: The Legend of a Lost City
Author: Christina Balit
Genre: Myth
Theme(s): Selflessness/Greek Mythology
Opening line/sentence: “First there was chaos”
Brief Book Summary: Poseidon, God of the Seas, was curious about how the people on a poor island were such happy people. As he watched the people on the island, he eventually fell in love with a woman who lived there. When they got married, he created a wealthy island and had five sets of twin sons. He made them all a section of the island and said that they major law is that they shall never fight with each other or there will be a curse. After a while of peace, greed and envy and ambition took over and eventually they fought. The curse was placed upon them and now Atlantis is still not found. It is said that it was swallowed up by the sea.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Ilene Cooper (Booklist, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 96, No. 18)) The story of Atlantis, adapted from Plato's Timaeus and Critias, is not so different from more familiar myths and folktales. Poseidon, god of the sea, wonders how the island dwellers can be so happy with so little. He falls in love with Cleito, and they marry, though no one knows he is a god. But gods don't stay hidden for long, and Poseidon reinvigorates the island, turning it into a lush paradise. He also builds a palace and temples, fountains, and gardens: the people are wise and kind and love peace. Then Poseidon leaves Atlantis and sleeps in the sea. Slowly, the people lose their tranquillity, become dangerous, and yearn for power. Angry, Poseidon sends a tidal wave that destroys Atlantis in a night and a day, sinking the city to the ocean floor. The text is rather staid, but the illustrations, taking their cue from classical Greek art, splash over the pages, brilliant in design and color. Balit captures the elemental forces that create Atlantis and then destroy it in swirls of lines, bursts of sea and sky hues, and fires of yellow. In between, she magnificently portrays Atlantis, with architectural shapes and intricate patterns, all burnished with gold. Sometimes reminiscent of Jane Ray's work, the art is quite sophisticated, especially as it portrays the landscape. Flowers, trees, mountains, even stones, are all exquisitely detailed, as are the animals and birds that roam throughout. A note by an authority on Atlantis sorts out the truth and fancy of the enduring legend. Category: Middle Readers. 2000, Holt, $16.95. Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. Starred Review.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 68, No. 10)) Balit ("Twelve Labors of Hercules", 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of “Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom” (not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. 2000, Henry Holt, $16.95. Category: Picture book/folk tale. Ages 8 to 10. © 2000 Kirkus Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews: I agree with both reviews in that the illustrations are very well done and closely resemble Greek Mythology drawings. In addition, I agree that it gave an accurate, yet brief, version of the story of Atlantis.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: I think that it is good that the illustrations closely resemble Greek Mythology drawings because it gives students a good picture to look at and learn from. In addition, I think it is good that the text is accurate because it teaches students about Greek Mythology.
Consideration of Instructional Application: In a classroom, I would use this text to talk about Greek Mythology and maybe have a game where each student will get to be a Greek God at some point and they have to do what that God does in a game.
Author: Christina Balit
Genre: Myth
Theme(s): Selflessness/Greek Mythology
Opening line/sentence: “First there was chaos”
Brief Book Summary: Poseidon, God of the Seas, was curious about how the people on a poor island were such happy people. As he watched the people on the island, he eventually fell in love with a woman who lived there. When they got married, he created a wealthy island and had five sets of twin sons. He made them all a section of the island and said that they major law is that they shall never fight with each other or there will be a curse. After a while of peace, greed and envy and ambition took over and eventually they fought. The curse was placed upon them and now Atlantis is still not found. It is said that it was swallowed up by the sea.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Ilene Cooper (Booklist, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 96, No. 18)) The story of Atlantis, adapted from Plato's Timaeus and Critias, is not so different from more familiar myths and folktales. Poseidon, god of the sea, wonders how the island dwellers can be so happy with so little. He falls in love with Cleito, and they marry, though no one knows he is a god. But gods don't stay hidden for long, and Poseidon reinvigorates the island, turning it into a lush paradise. He also builds a palace and temples, fountains, and gardens: the people are wise and kind and love peace. Then Poseidon leaves Atlantis and sleeps in the sea. Slowly, the people lose their tranquillity, become dangerous, and yearn for power. Angry, Poseidon sends a tidal wave that destroys Atlantis in a night and a day, sinking the city to the ocean floor. The text is rather staid, but the illustrations, taking their cue from classical Greek art, splash over the pages, brilliant in design and color. Balit captures the elemental forces that create Atlantis and then destroy it in swirls of lines, bursts of sea and sky hues, and fires of yellow. In between, she magnificently portrays Atlantis, with architectural shapes and intricate patterns, all burnished with gold. Sometimes reminiscent of Jane Ray's work, the art is quite sophisticated, especially as it portrays the landscape. Flowers, trees, mountains, even stones, are all exquisitely detailed, as are the animals and birds that roam throughout. A note by an authority on Atlantis sorts out the truth and fancy of the enduring legend. Category: Middle Readers. 2000, Holt, $16.95. Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. Starred Review.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 68, No. 10)) Balit ("Twelve Labors of Hercules", 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of “Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom” (not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. 2000, Henry Holt, $16.95. Category: Picture book/folk tale. Ages 8 to 10. © 2000 Kirkus Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews: I agree with both reviews in that the illustrations are very well done and closely resemble Greek Mythology drawings. In addition, I agree that it gave an accurate, yet brief, version of the story of Atlantis.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: I think that it is good that the illustrations closely resemble Greek Mythology drawings because it gives students a good picture to look at and learn from. In addition, I think it is good that the text is accurate because it teaches students about Greek Mythology.
Consideration of Instructional Application: In a classroom, I would use this text to talk about Greek Mythology and maybe have a game where each student will get to be a Greek God at some point and they have to do what that God does in a game.
Read
November 6, 2016Title (italicize): Atlantis:The Legend of a Lost City
Author: Christina Balit
Illustrator (if separate from author):
Genre: Myth
Theme(s): Greek gods, myth, water
Opening line/sentence (type directly from text): “First there was Chaos”
Brief Book Summary (2-3 sentences in your own words): This book tells the story of Atlantis. It shows how it came to be, when it was good and civilized, and how/why it got destroyed.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1 (cut & paste):
Ilene Cooper (Booklist, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 96, No. 18))
The story of Atlantis, adapted from Plato's Timaeus and Critias, is not so different from more familiar myths and folktales. Poseidon, god of the sea, wonders how the island dwellers can be so happy with so little. He falls in love with Cleito, and they marry, though no one knows he is a god. But gods don't stay hidden for long, and Poseidon reinvigorates the island, turning it into a lush paradise. He also builds a palace and temples, fountains, and gardens: the people are wise and kind and love peace. Then Poseidon leaves Atlantis and sleeps in the sea. Slowly, the people lose their tranquillity, become dangerous, and yearn for power. Angry, Poseidon sends a tidal wave that destroys Atlantis in a night and a day, sinking the city to the ocean floor. The text is rather staid, but the illustrations, taking their cue from classical Greek art, splash over the pages, brilliant in design and color. Balit captures the elemental forces that create Atlantis and then destroy it in swirls of lines, bursts of sea and sky hues, and fires of yellow. In between, she magnificently portrays Atlantis, with architectural shapes and intricate patterns, all burnished with gold. Sometimes reminiscent of Jane Ray's work, the art is quite sophisticated, especially as it portrays the landscape. Flowers, trees, mountains, even stones, are all exquisitely detailed, as are the animals and birds that roam throughout. A note by an authority on Atlantis sorts out the truth and fancy of the enduring legend. Category: Middle Readers. 2000, Holt, $16.95. Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. Starred Review.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2 (cut & paste):
Susan Link (The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews (Vol. 13, No. 1))
Using picture-book format, the author retells the legend of Poseidon's creation of Atlantis. Mythical characters are brought to life through illustrations enriched by the strength of blues, greens, golds, and the appearance of seas full of energy and movement. Poseidon's marriage to Cleito leads him to rebuild her home island into Utopia. Peace and harmony reign for many years until the inhabitants allow greed to take over their souls. Noticing their decadence, Zeus roars disapproval from the heavens, causing Poseidon to destroy Atlantis with a giant tidal wave. The island sinks to the bottom of the ocean. Suitable for an older audience, the book is appended with a note by Geoffrey Ashe, historian and author, who writes extensively about mythology. Grades 3-5. 2000, Holt, Unpaged, $16.95. Ages 8 to 11.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews (3-4 sentences in your own words): These reviews are mostly a summary of the book however, they talk about the wonderful illustrations that the book consists of. The text is very heavy, but as brought up in the reviews, the pictures collaborate well with the descriptive language used.
Evaluation of Literary Elements (3-4 sentences in your own words): The book is very text heavy, however, it uses a lot of descriptive language that is great for readers to help imagine what the text is saying and “paint a picture in their head”. Nonetheless, the pictures are the real show stopper in this story.The artist uses bright, bold colors to draw attention and show the details of the story and make it as elaborate as the story itself.
Consideration of Instructional Application (3-4 sentences in your own words): This story would definitely be used for older students who are learning about Greek mythology. The text is understandable, but there is a lot of it so would be a good book for doing a research assignment of some sorts!
Author: Christina Balit
Illustrator (if separate from author):
Genre: Myth
Theme(s): Greek gods, myth, water
Opening line/sentence (type directly from text): “First there was Chaos”
Brief Book Summary (2-3 sentences in your own words): This book tells the story of Atlantis. It shows how it came to be, when it was good and civilized, and how/why it got destroyed.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1 (cut & paste):
Ilene Cooper (Booklist, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 96, No. 18))
The story of Atlantis, adapted from Plato's Timaeus and Critias, is not so different from more familiar myths and folktales. Poseidon, god of the sea, wonders how the island dwellers can be so happy with so little. He falls in love with Cleito, and they marry, though no one knows he is a god. But gods don't stay hidden for long, and Poseidon reinvigorates the island, turning it into a lush paradise. He also builds a palace and temples, fountains, and gardens: the people are wise and kind and love peace. Then Poseidon leaves Atlantis and sleeps in the sea. Slowly, the people lose their tranquillity, become dangerous, and yearn for power. Angry, Poseidon sends a tidal wave that destroys Atlantis in a night and a day, sinking the city to the ocean floor. The text is rather staid, but the illustrations, taking their cue from classical Greek art, splash over the pages, brilliant in design and color. Balit captures the elemental forces that create Atlantis and then destroy it in swirls of lines, bursts of sea and sky hues, and fires of yellow. In between, she magnificently portrays Atlantis, with architectural shapes and intricate patterns, all burnished with gold. Sometimes reminiscent of Jane Ray's work, the art is quite sophisticated, especially as it portrays the landscape. Flowers, trees, mountains, even stones, are all exquisitely detailed, as are the animals and birds that roam throughout. A note by an authority on Atlantis sorts out the truth and fancy of the enduring legend. Category: Middle Readers. 2000, Holt, $16.95. Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. Starred Review.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2 (cut & paste):
Susan Link (The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews (Vol. 13, No. 1))
Using picture-book format, the author retells the legend of Poseidon's creation of Atlantis. Mythical characters are brought to life through illustrations enriched by the strength of blues, greens, golds, and the appearance of seas full of energy and movement. Poseidon's marriage to Cleito leads him to rebuild her home island into Utopia. Peace and harmony reign for many years until the inhabitants allow greed to take over their souls. Noticing their decadence, Zeus roars disapproval from the heavens, causing Poseidon to destroy Atlantis with a giant tidal wave. The island sinks to the bottom of the ocean. Suitable for an older audience, the book is appended with a note by Geoffrey Ashe, historian and author, who writes extensively about mythology. Grades 3-5. 2000, Holt, Unpaged, $16.95. Ages 8 to 11.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews (3-4 sentences in your own words): These reviews are mostly a summary of the book however, they talk about the wonderful illustrations that the book consists of. The text is very heavy, but as brought up in the reviews, the pictures collaborate well with the descriptive language used.
Evaluation of Literary Elements (3-4 sentences in your own words): The book is very text heavy, however, it uses a lot of descriptive language that is great for readers to help imagine what the text is saying and “paint a picture in their head”. Nonetheless, the pictures are the real show stopper in this story.The artist uses bright, bold colors to draw attention and show the details of the story and make it as elaborate as the story itself.
Consideration of Instructional Application (3-4 sentences in your own words): This story would definitely be used for older students who are learning about Greek mythology. The text is understandable, but there is a lot of it so would be a good book for doing a research assignment of some sorts!
Read
October 13, 2015Title: Atlantis: The Legend of the Lost City
Author: Christina Balit
Illustrator:
Genre: Legend
Theme(s): gods, mythical creatures
Opening line/sentence: First there was chaos.
Brief Book Summary: This book is about the once prosperous legendary city of Atlantis that was created by the gods. Atlantis was once peaceful and thriving and everyone followed the laws and were kind to one another, since there would be a curse on them if they were not. After many years of fighting, quarreling, and disobeying the laws, however, Poseidon had to follow the laws of the curse and he sank the city, which still has never been found to this day.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kirkus Reviews
Balit (Twelve Labors of Hercules, 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom (not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. (Picture book/folk tale. 8-10)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: School Library Journal
Gr 2-6-Through luminous illustrations and simple prose, Balit lures readers to Plato's legend of Atlantis. Poseidon, ruler of the water, falls in love with Cleito, a happy maiden on a small, rocky island. They marry, he transforms the island into a paradise, and she bears five sets of twin sons. Their descendants intend to rule the lands in accord with Poseidon's laws of peace, but throughout time become less godlike, prompting Poseidon to create a forceful storm that drives Atlantis to the bottom of the sea. Whimsical, buoyant images depict the sea and her creatures; raven and henna-haired Greek characters are painted in profile; tiny figures stroll hand in hand throughout palatial splendor during Atlantis's glory days, fighting amid ruins during the decline. Boldly colored illustrations extend the text with pleasing design covering three quarters of each double-page spread. An afterword by British historian Geoffrey Ashe mentions some of the theories associated with the myth. As a read-aloud to early elementary students, or a read-alone for older students, this picture book will captivate a new generation of children intrigued with the mysteries of this timeless legend. Holly Wallace's The Mystery of Atlantis (Heinemann Library, 1999) offers theories of the island's possible existence and location.-Laura Scott, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|
Response to Two Professional Reviews: I like how the reviews mention the ending of this book, how the author included a historical and cultural perspective of Atlantis. They were even able to give us an idea as to where Atlantis might be if it did in fact exist a long time ago. The reviews gave good feedback of what worked in the book and what was a little more unrealistic, too.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: I think the author's beginning of the book was very important so the reader could get the historical background of the gods before getting right into the story. Although, once they finally got to the story, it picked up and we were able to finally see the flourishing city of Atlantis. I think the plot was very well developed in this retelling.
Consideration of Instructional Application: This book could be a great contribution to the classroom when learning about historical legends like this one. It made it a fun and lighthearted way to study the gods and put things into perspective by putting it into a picture book that anyone can relate to.
Author: Christina Balit
Illustrator:
Genre: Legend
Theme(s): gods, mythical creatures
Opening line/sentence: First there was chaos.
Brief Book Summary: This book is about the once prosperous legendary city of Atlantis that was created by the gods. Atlantis was once peaceful and thriving and everyone followed the laws and were kind to one another, since there would be a curse on them if they were not. After many years of fighting, quarreling, and disobeying the laws, however, Poseidon had to follow the laws of the curse and he sank the city, which still has never been found to this day.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kirkus Reviews
Balit (Twelve Labors of Hercules, 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom (not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. (Picture book/folk tale. 8-10)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: School Library Journal
Gr 2-6-Through luminous illustrations and simple prose, Balit lures readers to Plato's legend of Atlantis. Poseidon, ruler of the water, falls in love with Cleito, a happy maiden on a small, rocky island. They marry, he transforms the island into a paradise, and she bears five sets of twin sons. Their descendants intend to rule the lands in accord with Poseidon's laws of peace, but throughout time become less godlike, prompting Poseidon to create a forceful storm that drives Atlantis to the bottom of the sea. Whimsical, buoyant images depict the sea and her creatures; raven and henna-haired Greek characters are painted in profile; tiny figures stroll hand in hand throughout palatial splendor during Atlantis's glory days, fighting amid ruins during the decline. Boldly colored illustrations extend the text with pleasing design covering three quarters of each double-page spread. An afterword by British historian Geoffrey Ashe mentions some of the theories associated with the myth. As a read-aloud to early elementary students, or a read-alone for older students, this picture book will captivate a new generation of children intrigued with the mysteries of this timeless legend. Holly Wallace's The Mystery of Atlantis (Heinemann Library, 1999) offers theories of the island's possible existence and location.-Laura Scott, Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MI Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|
Response to Two Professional Reviews: I like how the reviews mention the ending of this book, how the author included a historical and cultural perspective of Atlantis. They were even able to give us an idea as to where Atlantis might be if it did in fact exist a long time ago. The reviews gave good feedback of what worked in the book and what was a little more unrealistic, too.
Evaluation of Literary Elements: I think the author's beginning of the book was very important so the reader could get the historical background of the gods before getting right into the story. Although, once they finally got to the story, it picked up and we were able to finally see the flourishing city of Atlantis. I think the plot was very well developed in this retelling.
Consideration of Instructional Application: This book could be a great contribution to the classroom when learning about historical legends like this one. It made it a fun and lighthearted way to study the gods and put things into perspective by putting it into a picture book that anyone can relate to.
April 2, 2014
This book is a traditional literature book about the legend of the lost city of Atlantis. Poseidon, the god of the seas, marries a beautiful woman named Cleito and transforms the island that she came from into Atlantis. It becomes a beautiful paradise and a thriving city. Poseidon divides the island up into ten parts for each of his sons to rule over. Poseidon leaves the city and goes to the bottom of the ocean to sleep. Slowly, the people of Atlantis change from being god-like to sinful humans. The people become greedy and crime infects the city. Poseidon causes the seas to swallow up the island were now the people continue to live. This story is adapted and retold based on Plato’s Timaeus and Critias in this beautiful picture book.
This book could be an introduction book to a unit about mythology or be connected with a unit on Ancient Greece. Students could also write stories creating their own myths and use them for a reader’s theater project. I recommend this book for grades 2-5.
This book could be an introduction book to a unit about mythology or be connected with a unit on Ancient Greece. Students could also write stories creating their own myths and use them for a reader’s theater project. I recommend this book for grades 2-5.
March 14, 2011
This was yet another myth that has been added to my favorites. I love to read about myths from different cultures and I have always been fascinated about the lost city of Atlantis. This book was amazing and would be enjoyed by children of all ages. There are so many books out there and movies as well that discuss this legend. The illustrations in this book were amazing. The illustrator painted Atlantis to look like everything I ever dreamed it to be. This book also helped you to get your imagination working and it makes you wonder if Atlantis is really out there awaiting discovery. I want to read more about Atlantis now that I have read this book. Children would probably want to know more and if that encourages them to pick up another book, then the author has done her job!
May 10, 2013
Richly illustrated in bright colors and gold leaf, this retelling of the myth of Atlantis is stunning and reads beautifully. We learn how Poseidon created Atlantis as a tribute to his mortal wife, Cleito, and gave it to his sons to rule over. Its citizens lived in peace and harmony, thankful for the many natural wonders Poseidon provided for them. But over time, the people began to bicker and become ambitious and greedy. Zeus, displeased, demanded Poseidon punish them, and so the entire island was swallowed up and sank to the bottom of the sea where, some say, it still resides. Dramatic and compelling, this makes an excellent read aloud for grades 2 and up - way up!
March 21, 2011
This book is about a very well known myth! It is about a very beautiful kingdom that didn't follow one of the rules and was punished severely for it! It is such a great and fun to read book with great illustration!
October 7, 2008
It was pretty cool about the canals in the castle. The pictures were quite creative, most were drawn using dots.
January 24, 2014
this site is terrible because you can not read the book
January 10, 2014
This is a great retelling of the Atlantis legend. The text is a bit lengthy, but it is beautifully illustrated and the story flows well.
December 1, 2014
A delightful re-telling of the Atlantis myth with a nice historical afterward at the end of the book. Story is well told and the illustration is artful.
January 21, 2014
I liked this book. I really liked learning about the Gods. I didn't know that Poseidon made Atlantis go under the water. I found that very interesting!
July 2, 2014
Awesome illustrations
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April 28, 2017Title (italicize): Atlantis: the Legend of the Lost City
Author: Christina Bali
Illustrator (if separate from author):
Genre: Legend
Theme(s):
Opening line/sentence (type directly from text):
Brief Book Summary (2-3 sentences in your own words): This book tells the mythical story of why Atlantis sank and became the "lost city." In this retelling, Poseiden is angered by the people on the island of Atlantis and, therefore, curses them to sink into the ocean.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1 (cut & paste): Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature )
According to legend, the island of Atlantis was set up as a paradise kingdom by the sea god Poseidon for his bride Cleito and their descendants. The god creates a city of beauty with all one could desire, but sets laws prohibiting violence and cruelty, promising disaster if the laws are disobeyed. The evils of human nature persist, however, and Poseidon must sink the island into the sea. Archeologists seek it to this day, as the added note tells us, in many possible places, but whether and where it lies remains a mystery. Such a mystical tale deserves the fanciful visual setting on these double pages. Figures are stylized, hinting at those found on ancient Crete, with multi-patterned clothes and ornate hairstyles. Everything glitters, all surfaces are decorated, almost every square inch is alive with surface embellishments. The pages are redolent with exotic visuals that fill our eyes with the story of human glory destroyed by human folly. 2000 (orig. 1999), Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 6 to 9.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2 (cut & paste): Kirks (Kirks Reviews, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 68, No. 10))
Bali ("Twelve Labors of Hercules", 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of "Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom "(not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. 2000, Henry Holt, $16.95. Category: Picture book/folk tale. Ages 8 to 10. © 2000 Kirks Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews (3-4 sentences in your own words):
The first professional review does a great job of summarizing the main points in the book, while also talking about the illustrations in relation to the text. Additionally, this review discusses the real-life implications of the reality of Atlantis versus the children's book. The second professional review similarly does an excellent job of discussing the text and the illustrations together.
Evaluation of Literary Elements (3-4 sentences in your own words): The pictures in this story are very colorful and resemble an Egyptian-like artwork at some points in the book. This vibrant color adds a sense of fantasy because it is a legend. In addition, this book has strong characters, such as Poseidon and Cleito, who the book is centered around throughout the story.
Consideration of Instructional Application (3-4 sentences in your own words):
This book could be used in a 3rd grade classroom during a unit about legends and the mystical stories they portray. I think that this story would capture students' imagination because it is very eventful and breaks off from the norm of non-fiction or realistic fiction that is read often.
Author: Christina Bali
Illustrator (if separate from author):
Genre: Legend
Theme(s):
Opening line/sentence (type directly from text):
Brief Book Summary (2-3 sentences in your own words): This book tells the mythical story of why Atlantis sank and became the "lost city." In this retelling, Poseiden is angered by the people on the island of Atlantis and, therefore, curses them to sink into the ocean.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1 (cut & paste): Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature )
According to legend, the island of Atlantis was set up as a paradise kingdom by the sea god Poseidon for his bride Cleito and their descendants. The god creates a city of beauty with all one could desire, but sets laws prohibiting violence and cruelty, promising disaster if the laws are disobeyed. The evils of human nature persist, however, and Poseidon must sink the island into the sea. Archeologists seek it to this day, as the added note tells us, in many possible places, but whether and where it lies remains a mystery. Such a mystical tale deserves the fanciful visual setting on these double pages. Figures are stylized, hinting at those found on ancient Crete, with multi-patterned clothes and ornate hairstyles. Everything glitters, all surfaces are decorated, almost every square inch is alive with surface embellishments. The pages are redolent with exotic visuals that fill our eyes with the story of human glory destroyed by human folly. 2000 (orig. 1999), Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 6 to 9.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Professional Recommendation/Review #2 (cut & paste): Kirks (Kirks Reviews, May 15, 2000 (Vol. 68, No. 10))
Bali ("Twelve Labors of Hercules", 1997) recasts Ancient World accounts into a spare narrative, describing Atlantis's creation as Poseidon's wedding gift to his mortal bride Cleito, its idyllic early history, gradual descent into lawlessness, and final punitive submergence. In page-and-a-half-spread paintings that evoke ancient styles without copying them, figures posing in dignified, majestic profile give way to smaller scenes of urban decay and street violence, culminating in a mighty wave driven by Poseidon's anger, and a final view of broken, coral-decorated buildings. Though the story has often been told at greater length, this is a new format for it. A closing note by Geoffrey Ashe, author of "Atlantis: Lost Lands, Ancient Wisdom "(not reviewed), puts the tale into both historical and cultural perspective. 2000, Henry Holt, $16.95. Category: Picture book/folk tale. Ages 8 to 10. © 2000 Kirks Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Holt (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2000.)
Response to Two Professional Reviews (3-4 sentences in your own words):
The first professional review does a great job of summarizing the main points in the book, while also talking about the illustrations in relation to the text. Additionally, this review discusses the real-life implications of the reality of Atlantis versus the children's book. The second professional review similarly does an excellent job of discussing the text and the illustrations together.
Evaluation of Literary Elements (3-4 sentences in your own words): The pictures in this story are very colorful and resemble an Egyptian-like artwork at some points in the book. This vibrant color adds a sense of fantasy because it is a legend. In addition, this book has strong characters, such as Poseidon and Cleito, who the book is centered around throughout the story.
Consideration of Instructional Application (3-4 sentences in your own words):
This book could be used in a 3rd grade classroom during a unit about legends and the mystical stories they portray. I think that this story would capture students' imagination because it is very eventful and breaks off from the norm of non-fiction or realistic fiction that is read often.
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