On Saturday, 21 June 2025, from 17:00 to 18:00 Athens time, the radio show “Narratives – Stories and Fairy Tales for All Ages” on Voice of Greece presents two enchanting stories by Maria Koutra, published by Iviskos Editions: “Foivos and His Friends” and “Mr. Minas’s Junkyard Treasures”.
Artistic curation and illustrations are by Thodoris Charizakis – Ermis, while both books are introduced by Maria Tzani, Professor Emerita of the University of Athens (Faculty of Primary Education).
In “Foivos and His Friends”, we meet a thoughtful child of the 20th century, who longs to understand the world and imagine what lies ahead. One night, as if summoned by divine intervention, a whimsical little phantom bursts into his imagination. Representing the clarity of the Apollonian spirit, the mysterious visitor whisks Foivos away on a wondrous journey into the next millennium. Together, they explore what the future may hold — and Foivos returns with a message to share with his classmates:
If we dare to imagine a better world, we may one day build it.
An idea, when it sparks the soul, floods the mind with light — and in that light, it blossoms.
In “Mr. Minas’s Junkyard Treasures”, children are gently guided to see beyond the surface of things — to discern the beauty, wisdom, and hidden worth in what others might overlook. Mr. Minas is a humble man, a collector of castoffs, who sees stories in old objects and meaning where others see only clutter. He also sees the folly of those who mock what they do not understand. But the children, unlike the grown-ups, are drawn to his quiet knowledge. They gather around him instinctively, absorbing his wisdom as naturally as breathing — tucking it away like a rare gift in the treasure chest that nature placed in their hearts.
For children are treasures themselves — the memory and legacy of every civilization.
“These stories are dedicated to all children — and especially to the children of the Greek diaspora.”
With love,
Maria Koutra
Produced and presented by Maria Karagiannaki Iona
Broadcast: Saturday, 21 June 2025, 17:00–18:00 (Athens time)
