Today Greek mythology serves many purposes. People still read these stories with great interest and enthusiasm. Some of the stories have even been made into movies, television shows, and comic books. Many versions simply retell the old myths while others use the original myths as a jumping-off point for new tales. Athena, on the other hand, was a whole different story. Instead of feeling envious of others, she inspired those who worshipped her to be brave and resourceful like she was. She wasn't as pretty as Aphrodite. But she was striking in other ways. She is said to have had piercing grey eyes. She also wore a plumed helmet and carried a shield. This represented her role as a protector of the ancient Greeks. Many drawings depicted her with an owl on her shoulder or a coiled snake at her feet. Athena was also a clever inventor. She is said to have created numbers, musical instruments like the flute and trumpet, and the plow. Just the way she carried herself made her look strong and confident, which was beautiful in a way that Aphrodite just couldn't manage. This story of Athena will introduce middle grade readers to the famous legends.