A thrilling journey from Babylon to the stars· where science meets friendship and secrets reshape the universe. From video games to galaxies -οne boy’s bet leads to an unforgettable cosmic adventure.
Awards & Recognition 
- Selected by the Eugenides Foundation Library for its Online Parent-Child Reading Club (Astronomy Series), featuring an innovative educational program inspired by reader’s theatre.
- Chosen by the “Vivliodromies” Reading Contest, a renowned literacy initiative across Greece, Cyprus, and the Greek diaspora.
- Nominated by IBBY Greece for the prestigious Fani Apostolidou Award (2010) as an outstanding middle-grade novel for upper elementary and junior high school readers.
When eleven-year-old Marios Doukas —a sworn video game addict— hears about a school competition with a once-in-a-lifetime prize, everything changes. The winner gets a place at an elite space camp, and Marios wants it badly. But there’s a catch: he has just bet Athena, the smartest girl in his class, that he will win… and there’s no turning back now. With his friends by his side, and some unexpected help from his older sister, who’s secretly chatting with someone online, Marios dives headfirst into the challenge. Soon, a mysterious journey through time, an eccentric astronomer, and a Babylonian boy named Marduk lead him into an extraordinary adventure that blends science, history, and family secrets. A captivating middle-grade novel that explores astronomy, digital addiction, online safety, teamwork, and friendship —perfect for young readers who love science, mystery, and the thrill of discovery.