Mizzou alumnus Robert Carpenter, MA ’18, PhD ’24, is making Greek and Roman mythology accessible to young children through his company, The Classical Workshop. Inspired by his graduate studies in classics at Mizzou and his own children, Carpenter creates board books, memory games, puzzles and coloring activities that introduce ancient stories in engaging, age-appropriate ways. 

After discovering there were few high-quality classics resources for young learners, Carpenter combined his academic expertise with imaginative play to help families explore timeless stories together. His products feature colorful, child-friendly artwork and simple storytelling that introduce iconic characters such as Odysseus, Athena and Zeus, encouraging curiosity and a lifelong appreciation for literature. 

Carpenter credits Mizzou's College of Arts and Science with shaping both his passion for the classics and his entrepreneurial vision. He believes mythology's memorable characters and universal themes make it an ideal way to spark children's imaginations while connecting modern families with stories that have endured for thousands of years.

Both Mythology Match and the baby board book, "The Mountains are Sleeping," are available at the Museum of Art and Archaeology Museum Store.