Gunpowder for the Revolution (in Greek)

Gunpowder for the Revolution (in Greek)

Sophia Kalantzakos
Illustrations: Thanos Tsilis
Athens 2021, 64 p.
ISBN 978-960-244-217-3
€ 18,00

In the framework of the Commemoration of the 200-year anniversary of the 1821 Revolution by Piraeus Bank, the Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation (PIOP) presents the new book of tales titled Gunpowder for the Revolution by Sophia Kalantzakos, with illustrations by Thanos Tsilis.

This book, related to the theme of PIOP's Open-Air Water Power Museum in Dimitsana, describes the everyday life of two children in the area during the pre-revolutionary era. How did they try to get educated, to work and to "discover" the world that lay beyond their own land? But mainly, how did they participate in the preparations for the 1821 Revolution?

Quite eloquently, Sophia Kalantzakos, Global Distinguished Professor in Environmental Studies and Public Policy at New York University, takes us on a journey to a world that is familiar to adults but largely unknown to children. Starting from the common life story and love between the two protagonists, Violeta and Nikolas, the author sheds light on the pre-revolutionary history of Dimitsana and the role played by the local population in the war preparations for the Revolution.

In parallel, the work of illustrator Thanos Tsilis depicts the characters with sensitivity and dynamism, and the historical and natural environment of the tale combining elements that remind of comics and children's graphic novels. The composition of illustrations and designs vividly depicts Dimitsana, presenting also the water-powered installations and machinery that are exhibits of the Open-Air Water Power Museum today.

The book Gunpowder for the Revolution is also available in Braille (ISBN 978-960-244-218-0). It was transcribed and printed by the Braille Printhouse Department of the Lighthouse for the Blind of Greece.