Love & Olives
#3 of 3 in Love & Gelato Series
on Goodreads (31,831)
What’s inside...
Liv Varanakis has mixed feelings about her father, who left her when she was eight years old and moved to Greece. Despite their shared love for the lost city of Atlantis, Liv tries not to think about him. Unexpectedly, she receives a postcard from her father inviting her to help with a documentary on Atlantis, supported by National Geographic. Reluctantly, Liv travels to Santorini, where she encounters awkwardness, unresolved emotions, and her father's charming protégé, Theo. Santorini's beauty captivates her, but Liv soon realizes that her father's invitation might have been for reasons other than Atlantis.
Character compass
Olive 'Liv' Varanakis
Theo
Nicola 'Nico' Varanakis
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Liv to explore her family's past in Santorini? How would you feel in her place?
How do the myths and history of Santorini add to the story? Can you think of a myth from our culture that is impactful?
How does Liv's relationship with her father evolve throughout the book? Have you ever had to reassess your understanding of someone you care about?
Why is it important to reconcile with our past, according to the book? Do you think understanding our history can change our present or future?
How do the characters use art and creativity to express themselves? In what ways do you like to express your own feelings and ideas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, fostering a non-judgmental space for open dialogue.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s life by discussing family, heritage, and the role of personal history.
Discuss the significance of place in the story and perhaps share personal family stories connected to specific locations.
Explore the themes of art and creativity presented in the book, and encourage your child to relate these themes to their own experiences with creative expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonds
Explanation: Throughout 'Love & Olives', the protagonist Liv reconnects with her estranged father in Santorini, exploring the complexities of family relationships and the healing power of reconciliation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of resolving familial conflicts and maintaining relationships with family members, fostering a nurturing and supportive home environment.
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Heritage
Explanation: As Liv delves into her father's passion for Atlantis and Greek history, the book showcases the richness of embracing one’s cultural background and the connections it fosters.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own cultural heritage, enhancing their personal identity and appreciation for diversity.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Liv's journey to a foreign country and tackling unresolved issues with her father illustrates the courage required to step out of one’s comfort zone and face challenging situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to approach new experiences and challenges with bravery, whether it be starting a new school, trying a new activity, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of Truth and Transparency
Explanation: The storyline emphasizes the pain caused by secrets and the liberation that truth brings, showing Liv and her family's transformation through honest conversations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of honesty in building trust and strong relationships, applicable in their interactions with family and peers.
Example Lesson: Power of Forgiveness
Explanation: Forgiveness is a central theme as Liv learns to forgive her father for past mistakes, illustrating the healing and freeing power of forgiveness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of forgiving others to move forward and build positive, healthy relationships.