Billy Cotsis, Jim Claven, and Dr John Martino—a triad of passionate history tragics and writers an—share their must-read picks for the summer.
Dr John Martino – Academic, and award-winning author
Dr. John A. Martino is a disabled veteran, honourably discharged from the Australian Defence Force, completed a PhD in Classical History through Monash University and The University of Melbourne on martial violence in the Old World and the New.
After years of writing academically and creatively, his debut novel, ‘Olympia: The Birth of the Games’ has won accolades and awards. The former military officer, Dr. Martino has selected the following books:
Fake News in Ancient Greece by Diego De Brasi, Amphilichios Papathomas, and Theofanis Tsiamokalos
Think fake news is a modern phenomenon? This insightful book dives into its roots in ancient Greece, exploring how political, literary, and rhetorical deceptions shaped society. The authors draw fascinating parallels between ancient and contemporary misinformation, making it a compelling read for history and media enthusiasts.
Goddesses & Heroines, Greek Myths: Heroes and Heroines, and Greek Myths: Gods and Goddesses by J. Menzies
Dr Jean Menzies had a prolific 2023, celebrating mythology and legendary women. Goddesses & Heroines spotlights iconic female figures from Greek mythology alongside global folklore, while her pocket-sized books bring the tales of Cadmus, Europa, and Heracles to life with scholarly precision. Perfect for mythology beginners or seasoned enthusiasts, these works marry academic rigor with accessible storytelling.
Jim Claven OAM – Historian
Claven the Melbourne-based historian and regular Neos Kosmos contributor has authored several books on Greek and Australian military history. H has ensured the the efforts of Anzacs and Greeks during the Gallipoli landing of 1915 have been recognised in Australia and Greece.
The historian’s recommendations include:
The Greek Revolution: 1821 and the Making of Modern Europe by Mark Mazower
Mazower masterfully debunks myths surrounding the 1821 Greek Revolution, focusing on the unsung heroes—the ordinary villagers and townsfolk who sparked the fight for independence. With insightful analysis and a tribute to Lord Byron’s deep understanding of the cause, this book is a must-read for history lovers.
Tales of Cyprus: A Tribute to a Bygone Era – Volume II by Constantinos Emmanuelle
Step back in time to 20th-century Cyprus through 400 evocative photographs and personal stories. Emmanuelle captures the harmony between Christian and Muslim communities, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era.
The Holocaust in Thessaloniki: Reactions to the Anti-Jewish Persecution 1942-43 by Leon Saltiel
Saltiel explores the devastating loss of Thessaloniki’s Jewish community, unraveling the responses of local authorities, the church, and civil society. The haunting story of the destroyed Jewish cemetery adds a chilling layer to this deeply moving book.
Billy Cotsis author of The Aegean Seven Take Back the “Elgin” Marbles, a regular contributor to Neos Kosmos, and is a unique intrepid traveler looking for Greeks around the world, from Central America to Southern Italy. His work on the Griko (Γκρίκο), or Grecanici in Calabria – an ethnic Greek community of Southern Italy has been screened in various international and national documentary festivals.
Cotsis’ selection of must reads are:
Olympia: The Birth of the Games by Dr John Martino
This enthralling book connects the ancient and modern Olympic Games, blending history and mythology into a story that inspires. At Olympia, amidst the Greeks, one visionary sees hope where others see despair—a way to resolve conflict with honour and courage.
This spark will ignite a flame of peace that endures through the ages.In ancient Greece, kingdoms clash for dominance, their strength consumed by endless wars. A beautifully illustrated book – and en essential read for young and old.
From Imbros Over the Sea: Imbros & Gallipoli Revealed by Jim Claven
Discover the hidden role of Imbros during the Gallipoli campaign. With rare photographs and vivid accounts, Claven uncovers the bonds forged between Allied soldiers and the island’s Greek locals. The book details the lives of Anzac and Allied soldiers on Imbros and their interactions with the Greeks. Claven has added an important piece to modern Australian and Greek history.
Whose is this Song? Balkan Nationalism, Greece, and Shared Culture edited by Eleni Elefterias
A celebration of shared cultural ties, this anthology features insights from leading experts, exploring the deep connections between Greek and Balkan traditions.
The Librarian of Cappadocia by Dean Kalimniou
The Librarian of Cappadocia is a captivating tale of one man’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and the surprising path that leads him to fulfill his destiny. Written to charm middle-grade readers while captivating their parents, this story promises to delight readers of all ages. Enhanced by the evocative illustrations of Talia Lomman, The Librarian of Cappadocia is a literary treasure for the entire family.
Wild Colonial Greeks by Peter Prineas
Prineas brings to life the extraordinary tales of Greek migrants in colonial Australia, from their struggles to their acts of rebellion and resilience.
