Athena

High on a mountain lived the wise goddess Athena. One day, she saw a beautiful new city with shiny white buildings and sunny streets, but it did not have a name. Athena wanted to watch over the city, but so did her powerful uncle, Poseidon, the king of the sea. They both loved the new city so much. This is the story of their friendly competition, the myth called Athena and the Contest for Athens.

The people of the city gathered to see who would give the best gift. Poseidon went first. He held his big, three-pointed fork called a trident. CRACK. He hit a rock, and water shot high into the air. The water sparkled in the sun. But when the people tasted it, their faces made a funny shape. The water was salty, just like the big ocean. It was not good to drink. Then it was Athena’s turn. She knelt down and planted a tiny, tiny seed in the ground. The seed grew and grew. It grew into a big, beautiful tree with shiny, silvery-green leaves. It was an olive tree.

Athena showed the people that the tree's olives were good for food. Its oil could light up their lamps, and its wood was good for building. Her gift was helpful and kind. The people cheered for Athena's wonderful gift. They chose her gift to be the best. They named their city Athens, after her. The olive tree is still a sign of peace and friendship, showing that the most helpful gifts are the best of all.