Greeking Out
Greek myths packed with action, humor, and lots of battles.
Parents say
Based on 2 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this podcast.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Greeking Out is a lively podcast from National Geographic Kids that retells classic Greek myths and features gods, monsters, and plenty of battles. Brave heroes go on epic quests, gods and goddesses fly into jealous rages, and warriors seek revenge when they're betrayed. Whether your kids are mythology buffs or are new to the genre, Greeking Out offers fast-paced and exciting adaptations of ancient dramas that will keep them engaged. Greek myths are known for their violence, but the depictions of fighting and warfare in Greeking Out have been toned down for kids. Characters are frequently killed but there are no descriptions of bloodshed. Very sensitive young listeners should be prepared for some of the fantastical violence -- when the Egyptian pharaoh Osiris is killed, his body parts are spread across Egypt, only to be reassembled and mummified to save his soul for the afterlife. Kids will learn a lot about Ancient Greece and mythology, all while picking up some new vocabulary words.
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Excellent, engaging, educational
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What’s It About?
Each episode in GREEKING OUT features an original adaptation of a Greek myth. The host, Kenny Curtis, is joined by the "Oracle of WiFi" (voiced by Tori Kerr). The host introduces and narrates the story with humorous interjections from the Oracle, who offers important historical facts and defines new words like "centaur" and "fleece." Some of the myths recount famous epics like Jason and the Quest for the Golden Fleece, while others follow the infighting between the Greek gods. Not every story has a moral, but themes of bravery, loyalty, and gratitude are important in many of the myths. We also hear entertaining stories about the pettiness and jealousy of the gods. Listeners are given important background information to put the stories into context, like the expectation that a woman would marry (and not have a choice in the matter) in Ancient Greece.
Is It Any Good?
Kids will find a lot to like about this podcast, as it's a well-told, exciting, and often humorous introduction to Greek mythology. Greeking Out will especially appeal to kids who love action and adventure, history, or mythology. As a podcast, it's pleasant to listen to and the limited incidental music and sound effects add to the drama but don't overwhelm. The banter between the host and the Oracle of WiFi does break up the story a bit, but it also ensures that kids won't lose interest. Without seeming like an overtly educational podcast, Greeking Out teaches some vocabulary and history, and provides a good background for kids who want to explore mythology further.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can use Greeking Out to talk about the importance of mythology in ancient cultures. Are Greek myths similar to myths you know from other cultures?
Some of the myths challenge the gender roles in Ancient Greece by showing women who were accomplished fighters or who did not want to marry. Can you think of characters in modern books or TV shows who defy stereotypes?
Some of the characters in Greek myths use violence or deceit to get what they want. Do you think they can still be heroes? Why or why not?
Podcast Details
- Release date: October 1, 2019
- Genre: Storytelling
- Average Run Time: 24 minutes
- Website: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/podcasts/greeking-out
- Hosts: Kenny Curtis, Tori Kerr
- Publisher: National Geographic Kids
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, History, Middle School
- Last updated: May 31, 2022
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