Damon, Pythias, and the Test of Friendship

Outside of ancient Syracuse on the island of Sicily, there lived a cruel ruler named Dionysius. He trusted no one. Nearby lived two best friends, Damon and Pythias. One day Pythias spoke out against Dionysius, who quickly ordered his execution, to take place in one month. Pythias wanted to return to his elderly parents to say goodbye and arrange for their care. Dionysius laughed, not trusting that Pythias would return.

Damon stood up and offered to take Pythias's place until he returned. The ruler agreed only after stipulating that if Pythias did not come back, Damon would die instead. When the execution day arrived, Pythias had not returned, but Damon still believed that his friend would be there if he could. Just in time, Pythias ran in, offering up his own life for his friend's.

"Share this offering to launch discussions of friendship, faith, and trust." —School Library Journal

"Rebellion, loyalty, and friendship fuel the personal drama in this moving picture-book retelling of an ancient Greek legend. . . . Kids will want to talk about the friendship issues and how the tale reaches into their own lives." —Booklist

"Bateman's retelling of the inspiring tale of two best friends, Damon and Pythias, is a beautiful story not only for young children, but for all ages. The eye-catching, watercolor illustrations have every color of the rainbow to help retell the tale of two men who would give their lives to protect the ones they love. . . . I recommend this book to anyone who wants to be introduced to an inspiring story. I absolutely loved every word and picture of the retelling."—Kutztown University Review

"Bateman breathes new life into this ancient story, and Johnson accents it by stunning paintings. Young readers will be drawn into the Greek legend of the power of friendship, courage and justice. . . . Drama and tension will keep readers turning the pages in this exciting tale of friendship put to the ultimate test. It is a fine introduction to heroes of Greek mythology."—Children's Literature

"Teachers will find this story useful to incorporate with units of Greek Mythology or Character Building."—Library Media Connection

Teresa Bateman is the author of many books for children, including Paul Bunyan vs. Hals Halson: The Giant Lumberjack Challenge!, The Bully Blockers Club, and April Foolishness. She is a children's librarian and lives in Washington State.