good books greek mythology

The 26 best books about Greek mythology, from funny retellings to graphic novels based on classic myths

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• Greek mythology is full of gods and goddesses whose stories have been passed down through time.
• We collected the best books to learn about Greek mythology or discover a fictional retelling.
• This list includes classic tales and legend-inspired new releases.

Books can be inspired by absolutely anything from historical events to literal dreams. Recently, more and more exciting books have been published that are drawn from stories in Greek mythology, launching readers into an exploration of gods, goddesses, and mythological creatures that come to life in fun fantasies, dark romances, or educational reads. 

We've collected some of the best and most popular reads for readers to experience the greatest Greek myths in fictional or highly researched accounts. Whether you're looking for a book to help you learn about popular Greek myths or a fictional retelling of your favorite goddess, here are some of the best books about or featuring featuring Greek mythology: 

The 26 best Greek mythology-related books:

Books to learn about greek mythology, fiction based on greek mythology, a staple of ancient greek mythology.

"The Odyssey" by Homer, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $10.99

"The Odyssey" is an ancient Greek poem about Odysseus' 10-year journey home after the Trojan War. Intertwined with Greek myths and interventions from the gods and goddesses, this epic poem tells of Odyeesus' tumultuous adventure back to his wife and son through intense battles, temptations of Sirens, and a detour to Hades. 

A classic of Greek mythology about the Trojan War

"The Iliad" by Homer, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $12.99

"The Iliad" dates back to the ninth century and tells the story of the Trojan War in its own epic poem, a companion to "The Odyssey" that outlines the events that occurred before Odysseus' journey. Full of emotion and violence, this classic traverses the 10-year war which, according to Homer, began when the prince of Troy ran off with a Spartan queen. 

A literary resource to learn about Greek mythology

"The Greek Myths" by Robert Graves, available on Amazon, from $19.99

First published in 1955, Robert Graves' "The Greek Myths" has stood as a literary reference guide to Greek mythology. Carefully organized to lead readers through the complex histories of Greek myths, Robert Graves' poetic voice shines through and makes this collection a beautiful retelling of the major Greek myths. 

A go-to guide to learn about Greek mythology

"Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths" by Bernard Evslin, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $6.79

Bernard Evslin was an author and playwright who became most well-known for writings about Greek mythology, including "Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths," which is estimated to have sold over 10 million copies. In this book, Evslin brings the ancient myths to life in a series of stories to introduce readers to the gods in a captivating and exciting way. 

A classic Greek mythology anthology

"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $9.30

Edith Hamilton's "Mythology" is a classic collection of Greek myths that combines beautiful graphics and illustrations with easy-to-follow explanations, a favorite since its publication in 1942. Perfect for new or seasoned readers of Greek mythology, this book not only retells the myths but analyses how the legacies have a lasting impact on society today. 

A beautiful encyclopedia of Greek mythology

"Classical Mythology A to Z: An Encyclopedia of Gods & Goddesses, Heroes & Heroines, Nymphs, Spirits, Monsters, and Places" by Annette Giesecke and Jim Tierney, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $26.72

This Greek mythology encyclopedia is an all-encompassing reference guide to 700 major and minor characters of the Greek myths. Annette Giesecke, who has a Ph.D. in Classics, offers exciting details to the classic Greek tales — combined with Jim Tierney's incredible artwork — that brings the characters to life. 

An introduction to Greek mythology that is perfect for young readers

"D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths" by Ingri d'Aulaire and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $17.99

The d'Aulaires' introduction to Greek mythology is the perfect first read for young readers to experience the enchantment of gods and goddesses through simple stories and accompanying artwork. A well-loved retelling of the Greek myths, this book is a chronological collection of the ancient stories from the beginning of the Titans through the Trojan War. 

A hilarious retelling of the Greek myths

"Mythos" by Stephen Fry, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $18.69

"Mythos" is my personal favorite retelling of Greek mythology because Stephen Fry's voice animates each tale in a hilarious and engaging way. Beginning with Zeus and making his way through the gods' family tree, Fry brings his wit and comedy into this celebration of mythology, made even more entertaining in the audiobook version as he narrates the myths.  

The third installment of an entertaining Greek mythology retelling

"Troy" by Stephen Fry, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $15.92

"Troy" is the third installment of Stephen Fry's mythology collection, which tells of the rise and fall of Troy in "The Iliad" but with Fry's signature and entertaining wit. A detailed retelling based on significant research, Fry uncomplicates the complex ancient history of the Trojan War and the legends of the Greek gods that accompany it.  

A classic retelling from the perspective of a Greek goddess

"A Thousand Ships" by Natalie Haynes, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $13.99

This book is a retelling of the Trojan War that focuses on the roles of women through the eyes of Calliope, the goddess of eloquence and epic poetry. "A Thousand Ships" is a collection of womens' stories that offers a refreshing perspective of an ancient tale. 

"Lore Olympus" by Rachel Smythe

"Lore Olympus" by Rachel Smythe, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $11.40

"Lore Olympus" is a stunning graphic novel about the love story between Hades and Persephone that begins when they meet at a party and feel an immediate spark. New to Olympus, Persephone must navigate this world's strange politics while finding her own place and spending more time with the charming and misunderstood ruler of the Underworld. 

An emotional story featuring a warrior from Greek mythology

"The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $10.35

"The Song of Achilles" is a magical and emotional book about the friendship between Achilles, a Greek warrior, and Patroclus, a young and awkward prince. When Patroclus is exiled by his father after a misunderstanding, he meets Achilles by chance, forming a unique friendship that is quickly tested by the rise of the Trojan War.

A fantastical tale about the Greek myth of Circe

"Circe" by Madeline Miller, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $11.10

Circe is a daughter of the mighty Titans who possesses a much different skill than her powerful parents: The power of witchcraft. Banished to a desert island by Zeus, Circe hones her craft while encountering some of the most famous mythological figures, including Odysseus, until a terrifying danger arises and Circe must choose between the gods and the mortals. 

The first book in a young readers' Greek mythology series

"The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $5.97

One of the most well-known fictional series featuring Greek mythology is "Percy Jackson," a loveable and action-packed childrens' book series about a boy who learns he's a son of Poseidon. When Percy's mother sends him to Camp Half-Blood, a summer camp for demigods, he is thrust into an epic quest that leads him to the gates of the Underworld.

"Medusa" by Jessie Burton, Illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill

"Medusa" by Jessie Burton, Illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $15.68

Medusa, a monstrous Gorgon with snakes for hair and a look that can turn people to stone, lives a lonely, exiled existence on a distant island until the hero Perseus arrives and unleashes a new destiny of love, desire, and betrayal. Accompanied by brilliant illustrations, "Medusa" is a vibrant and imaginative retelling of Medusa's story.  

"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood

"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $11.59

Helen of Troy has long been known as the "the face that launched a thousand ships" and as princesses of Sparta, sisters Helen and Klytemnestra were regarded as little more than beautiful, demure girls expected to birth the next heirs. "Daughters of Sparta" follows Helen and Klytemnestra  as they're separated and married off at young ages to cruel and powerful husbands, pushing against what is expected of them and offer a retelling of the Siege of Troy through their own perspectives. 

A dark fantasy novel intertwined with Greek mythology

"Lore" by Alexandra Bracken, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $11.34

"Lore" is an engrossing fantasy novel where nine Greek gods are forced to walk the earth as mortals during a hunt called "the Agon" that takes place every seven years. Humans hunt the gods for their power and immortality and, while Lore has avoided the brutality for years, two participants reach out to her for help and she must decide to whom she will bind her fate. 

"Olympus, Texas" by Stacey Swann

"Olympus, Texas" by Stacey Swann, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $12.10

With each main character and storyline inspired by a different Greek myth, "Olympus, Texas" brings Greek mythology to the Briscoe family's tense dynamic as March returns home two years after he was caught having an affair with his brother's wife. Loved for its carefully woven plot and engrossing characters, this novel takes off when, within days of March's return, someone is dead, rivalries roar, and secrets are revealed that threaten the family ties with a destructive and powerful force. 

"Secret of the Broken King" by Eliza Raine

"Secret of the Broken King" by Eliza Raine, available on Amazon , from 10.99

Eliza Raine has written several Greek mythology-inspired fantasy romances but her latest, "Secret of the Broken King," is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance about Almi, Poseidon's secret bride who has been exiled to the human world. As her sister is slowly consumed by a sickness causing her to turn to stone, Almi must escape exile, return to Aquarius, and find a way to save her sister. 

A philosophical read orchestrated by two gods of Greek mythology

"Fifteen Dogs" by André Alexis, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $13.39

A fascinating experiment begins when a bet between Greek gods Hermes and Apollo leads them to grant human-like consciousness and language to a group of dogs staying overnight at a veterinary clinic. As the gods watch from above, the dogs struggle with their new complex understanding of themselves and the world, torn between the new and the old ways of thinking. 

A brilliant retelling of a monstrous Greek myth

"Ariadne" by Jennifer Saint, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $15.39

In this retelling of the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, Ariadne is a princess of Crete whose brother is the Minotaur — a monster with the body of a man and the head of a bull. When Theseus, the Prince of Athens, comes to Crete to kill the Minotaur, Ariadne can't help but fall in love with him and finds herself torn between her lover and her family. 

A retelling of a classic Greek myth with a new voice

"The Penelopiad" by Margaret Atwood, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $4.21

"The Penelopiad" is a retelling of the story of Penelope and Odysseus, told with a modern voice and focusing on Penelope's story from "The Odyssey." This short read is a compassionate yet haunting version of events that highlights the formerly neglected perspectives of Penelope and her 12 maids. 

A new perspective of an ancient Greek mythological tale

"The Silence of the Girls" by Pat Barker, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $13.90

This modern novel follows Briseis, who was once a queen in a kingdom neighboring Troy but is now a spoil of war and servant of Achilles during the Trojan War. Told from Briseis' point of view, this novel is a powerful dedication to the forgotten women from the ancient tale of "The Iliad" as Briseis gives a voice to the women who were captured and enslaved by the victors.

A romance that entwines Greek mythology into a modern story

"Starcrossed" by Josephine Angelini, available on Amazon and Bookshop , from $10.99

"Starcrossed" is an engrossing young adult romance that intertwines Greek mythology into a modern young adult story. Helen Hamilton has spent much of her life on Nantucket trying to hide her unique strength and intelligence — until a new family moves to the island. Helen finds herself entangled in both the secrets of her ancestry and an ancient, tragic play the Fates are determined to repeat. 

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The 10 Best Books on Greek Mythology (And Everything About It)

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Greek mythology is populated by all kinds of famed heroes, gods, and goddesses. One of the most prominent mythologies in Western culture, it's the inspiration behind numerous books, movies, TV shows, and even video games.

And yet, as widespread and clichéd as it might be, many of us are still utterly fascinated by its narrative depths. Whether you're just getting started or you already know a lot, there's always more to learn and explore when it comes to Greek mythology.

Here are our picks for the best books on Greek mythology, which offer nonfictional looks that are more accurate and historically-focused than what we normally see in media today.

10. The Greek Myths

The Greek Myths by Robert Graves is a crucial piece of literature that delves into Greek mythology. From his thorough explanation of the Greek gods and their characteristics to his retellings of the most influential mythological stories, this book has it all.

If you're fascinated by Greek myths, then the aptly-named The Greek Myths is a great place to start. Robert Graves is a trustworthy professional who gives you everything you need to approach the world of Greek mythology without hesitation.

9. Mythos: The Greek Myths Reimagined

Stephen Fry—yes, the comedian!—wrote this book where he retells classical Greek myths with a dash of his own humor and wit. Mythos is perfect for Greek mythology connoisseurs who will appreciate Stephen Fry's style and knowledge.

But it's also a great read for new lovers of Greek mythology, as it's an accessible, charming, and informative work. The main perk here is its unique writing style, which maintains story and tradition while infusing them with new life and energy.

8. Heroines of Olympus: The Women of Greek Mythology

Greek mythology is full of fascinating female characters who are, sadly, often overlooked in nonfictional studies. Heroines of Olympus brings the women of Greek mythology back into focus.

From goddesses to heroines, from demons to kindred spirits, this book offers a complete overview of the female in Greek literature. It explores the meaning of these varied characters, their personalities, and their roles within Greek society.

This is a must-have book to keep on your desk if you feel a lack of female representation in Greek myths.

7. The Wisdom of the Myths: How Greek Mythology Can Change Your Life

The Wisdom of the Myths by Luc Ferry is a bit of a unique pick among all the other books about Greek mythology on this list.

Sure, it provides a great overview of Greek mythology and its stories, but it also explains the meanings of these ancient tales and how they can be applied to improve our everyday lives.

Greek myths were more than just stories, after all. If you need some practical advice for your life, you may find that these ancient tales of folklore offer many takeaways that can be relevant and helpful.

6. The Gods & Goddesses of Greece & Rome

The Gods & Goddesses of Greece & Rome is an awesome illustrated guide to—you guessed it—the numerous gods and goddesses of both ancient Greece and Rome.

The mythologies of Greece and Rome share several similarities, and some gods are direct analogues between them. However, the two pantheons belong to two very different societies from different eras.

In this book, you'll learn all about the differences and similarities between the mythologies of ancient Greece and Rome, including how fundamental aspects of Greek mythology were altered into the more imperialistic and war-oriented Roman mythology.

5. The Greek Plays: Sixteen Plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides

It's impossible to talk about Greek mythology without considering the impact and influence of Greek plays, which are deeply intertwined with mythological creatures and divine beings.

Contrary to what you might think, Greek plays were more than just fictional tales for entertainment. Ancient Greek theater was actually a way to convey important lessons to the people and to practice catharsis in a collective manner.

If you truly want to know more about ancient Greek society, you have to understand the importance and role of theater—and you can get a strong start with The Greek Plays .

4. Classical Mythology A to Z

Classical Mythology A to Z is an encyclopedic guide by Annette Giesecke (Professor of Classics) that covers nearly everything about both Greek and Roman mythologies.

From gods to monsters, heroes to demons, nymphs to spirits, this book has extensive information on the structure and pantheon of Greek mythology and the creatures that populate those myths.

This is truly a fundamental resource to have on hand when you want a broad overview of everything Greek mythology.

3. Bulfinch's Greek and Roman Mythology: The Age of Fable

Bulfinch's Greek and Roman Mythology: The Age of Fable is one of the most famous and most influential books about Greek mythology.

It was first published in 1855, introducing several generations of readers to the worlds of Greek and Roman mythology. Most other books these days stand on the shoulders of this one.

This book is perfect if you want to tackle Greek and Roman mythologies from a scholarly point of view and learn as much as you can about classical authors like Ovid and Virgil.

2. A Thousand Ships

A Thousand Ships is technically a novel, but we're including it because it's a notable retelling of the famous Trojan War.

Balancing poetic recitation with historical facts, author Natalie Haynes provides a uniquely comprehensive account of the war through a feminist perspective, to reclaim power over this war that's often been told only through male points of view.

A Thousand Ships is an important book that highlights how matters—like the Trojan War—that are deeply embedded in ancient culture can still be relevant today, especially when explored through a feminist perspective that's been overlooked by past scholars.

1. Myth and Meaning: Cracking the Code of Culture

This book at the very top of our list isn't just about Greek mythology but mythology as a whole. However, given the great presence of Greek mythology in Western culture, it's featured prominently here.

Myth and Meaning: Cracking the Code of Culture by Professor Claude Levi-Strauss is a foundational source for understanding why mythologies exist and how they come about (which certainly applies to Greek mythology as well).

In discussing both scientific and historical aspects, Levi-Strauss shows us how various facets of mythology—like abstract thinking, storytelling, and science—are actually deeply innate to us.

Best Greek Mythology Books

Unravel the timeless myths of gods and heroes with our selection of the best greek mythology books, chosen for their popularity and presence in esteemed publications across the web..

From original texts to contemporary reinventions, there’s something for every kind of reader.

Madeline Miller’s hit 2011 novel The Song of Achilles , which reimagines The Iliad , sparked an enduring literary trend. In the decade-plus since, novels that put a new spin on Greek epics like Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey , along with myths from the story of Medusa to that Orpheus and Eurydice, have found eager readers. These books have exploded on BookTok, especially Miller’s, and can be found on displays in bookstores across the world. Natalie Haynes, whose books examine and recontextualize Greek mythology through a feminist lens , explained to Esquire that the surge of new voices and interpretations has been especially refreshing from a feminist perspective: “It just felt to me like these women were hiding in plain sight, hidden in the margins of these stories.”

This outpouring of stories is thrilling, especially to readers who grew up loving Greek mythology, but the concept behind them is hardly new. Greek myths have been told and retold for thousands of years, with writers like Chaucer, Shakespeare, and plenty more drawing inspiration from writers like Homer and Ovid. Even feminist reinventions have been seen before: C. S. Lewis, the author of The Chronicles of Narnia , wrote a novel from the point of view of Psyche’s sister in the 1950s.

Bustle’s list includes plenty of those classics, along with encyclopedias and translations of the original works themselves. It also features new feminist retellings and plenty of literary novels from around the globe that take Greek mythology as a starting point. Writers like Rita Dove and Jesmyn Ward have shed light on the Black American experience by drawing on classical Greek tales, while writers like Ali Smith, Sarvat Hasin, and Kamila Samshie have explored gender, sexuality, politics, and fame in their own striking novels.

Below, 50 books to read if you love Greek mythology.

D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths

If you grew up fascinated by Greek mythology, there’s a good chance you spent a lot of time poring over this classic book, first published in 1962. Richly illustrated by Edgar Parin d’Aulaire, it features short but potent retellings of the most memorable Greek myths, from Zeus’ extramarital exploits to Orpheus’ tragic pursuit of Eurydice, and everything in-between.

The Greek Myths

If you’re looking for a slightly more grown-up compilation of every Greek myth imaginable — from a recounting of the Trojan War to descriptions of more obscure characters like Omphale and Hesione — you can’t do better than Robert Graves’ The Greek Myths . Graves was a classicist, memoirist, and novelist best known for his WWI memoir Goodbye to All That and his Roman empire novels I, Claudius and Claudius the God , and he brings his all of his scholarly expertise to this comprehensive survey.

Classical Mythology A to Z: An Encyclopedia of Gods & Goddesses, Heroes & Heroines, Nymphs, Spirits, Monsters, and Places

Classics professor Annette Giesecke recently wrote her own Greek mythology compendium in the form of an encyclopedia, richly illustrated by Jim Tierney. You probably wouldn’t want to read Giesecke’s book from cover to cover, but it’s an invaluable research if you’re interested in more obscure figures and places in Greek mythology — or want a beautiful book to decorate your coffee table.

If you’re looking for a more entertaining coffee table book, look no further than Mythos , a collection of Greek myths retold by prolific poly-hyphenate Stephen Fry. Fry retells myths from Prometheus to Pandora with his signature wit and verve. This isn’t the book to buy if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to every Greek myth out there, or if you want a reference book — for that, go with Giesecke’s encyclopedia — but those looking to be entertained with be richly rewarded by this volume.

Pandora’s Jar: Women in the Greek Myths

If you want a shorter book that’ll beef up your Greek mythology knowledge — and offer insightful feminist commentary on the myths — there’s no better option than Pandora’s Jar by classicist, writer, and comedian Natalie Haynes. Haynes, whose novels A Thousand Ships and The Children of Jocasta appear elsewhere on this list, is an equally adept nonfiction writer, and serves a friendly but knowledgeable guide to the major female figures in Greek mythology.

The Iliad of Homer

If you’re more in the mood for a primary source text, The Iliad of Homer is the perfect place to start, especially if you’re a fan of retellings of Greek myths (you’ll find several novels inspired by this epic poem included below). Not only does The Iliad offer context for those novels, it’s an entertaining read all on its own, full of warfare, intrigue, and tragedy.

The Song of Achilles

If you’ve read one book on this list, it’s probably Madeline Miller’s phenomenally popular The Song of Achilles , which received wide acclaim — and the Orange Prize for Fiction — when it was published in 2011, and recently experienced another surge in popularity when it went viral on TikTok . Though Miller’s approach to The Iliad , which tells the classic story as a romance between Achilles and Patroclus, isn’t exactly new — as she herself explains , “Many Greco-Roman authors read their relationship as a romantic one” — her psychological and emotional acumen make this novel feel both fresh and heart-rending.

The Silence of the Girls

Many contemporary retellings of The Iliad focus not on the male warriors who occupy most of the poem’s action, but instead on the female characters who are affected by the conflict. Pat Barker, best known for her award-winning, WWI-set Regeneration Trilogy , brings her perspective to this ancient, legendary war and the women who would have suffered through it in The Silence of the Girls . Her protagonist is Briseis, a woman given to Achilles as a concubine, who finds herself witnessing the war’s key events.

A Thousand Ships

This novel by Natalie Haynes also approaches the story of the Trojan War from the perspective of the women affected by the conflict. Haynes, though, isn’t as interested in the brutality of battle as Barker is, even if she doesn’t shy away from the darker elements of the story. Instead, she presents a kaleidoscopic view of the conflict and the women involved, presented as a series of vignettes and narrated by Calliope, the Greek muse of epic poetry.

Helen of Troy

Author Margaret George has made a career writing sweeping historical novels about figures ranging from Mary Magdalene, in Mary, Called Magdalene to the Emperor Nero in The Confessions of King Nero . She applied the same depth of research and narrative sweep to Helen of Troy , a vast epic chronicling Helen’s life that incorporates not only gods and prophecies but also a keen understanding of Ancient Greek history.

Daughters of Sparta

Classicist Claire Heywood takes a more focused approach to the Trojan War in her debut novel Daughters of Sparta , which tells the story of The Iliad from the points of view of Helen of Troy and her sister Klytemnestra, both of whom are married to powerful kings who aren’t very good husbands. Heywood focuses on their early lives, rather than on the fallout from the war, in building her portrait of these legendary characters.

House of Names

This novel by Irish writer Colm Tóibín offers yet another a starkly different approach to remixing ancient material. In House of Names , Tóibín presents a thoroughly human version of the house of Atreus, stripped of references to the Greek gods, in the bleak aftermath of the Trojan War. Here, these characters, who were given life by Greek tragedy writers Aeschylus and Euripides, feel startlingly real: Clytemnestra, the wife of Agamemnon, attempts to cope with his betrayal of her family, while her children Orestes and Electra reckon with a betrayal of their own.

The Odyssey

Once you’ve exhausted your supply of books about The Iliad , it’s time to dive into Homer’s masterpiece, The Odyssey , which follows Odysseus, the wily king of Ithaca, on his 10-year journey home after the fall of Troy. This recent translation by classicist and MacArthur “Genius” Fellow Emily Wilson, the first woman to translate the poem, is a great entry point for newbies and mythology nerds alike. Susan Chira, in the New York Times Book Review , called it “a revelation. Never have I been so aware at once of the beauty of the poetry, the physicality of Homer’s world and the moral ambiguity of those who inhabit it.”

If you’ve read The Song of Achilles , you’ve probably also read Madeline Miller’s follow-up, Circe — but if not, there’s no time like the present. Though many novelists have explored other elements of The Odyssey — as seen below — Miller once again shows off her talent for taking a somewhat neglected character and breathing life into them. She takes plenty of liberties with the original text in inventing a backstory for Circe, all to riveting effect.

The Penelopiad

Authors have more often explored the experience of Penelope, Odysseus’ wife, who waits for his return for decades in Ithaca. In Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad , Penelope reflects on the events of The Odyssey from the underworld, as do the Greek chorus of maids who are hanged in the poem for their supposed betrayal. Atwood uses various forms of poetry for her Greek chorus, along with Penelope’s more traditional narration.

Adèle Geras offers a young adult spin on the women of Ithaca with Ithaka . This novel is told from the point of view of one of Penelope’s servants, Klymene — a granddaughter of Odysseus’ beloved nurse who pines for Odysseus and Penelope’s son, Telemachus. In this immersive novel, Geras expertly balances characters and plots of her own invention with familiar elements from The Odyssey .

Ithaca Forever: Penelope Speaks

For a more sober appraisal of Penelope’s experience, check out Luigi Malerba’s Ithaca Forever: Penelope Speaks . Malerba, who was a prominent Italian avant-garde novelist in the 20th century, doesn’t shy away from depicting Penelope and Odysseus’ marriage as fractured and troubled. He also, refreshingly, focuses on the anger that Penelope would have felt after Odysseus’ return — a topic glossed over in The Odyssey and often neglected in retellings.

Not every updated version of The Odyssey hews so closely to its source material. The most famous example of this approach, which continues to serve as inspiration for writers the world over, is James Joyce’s epic modernist novel Ulysses. First published in 1922, the story contains Odysseus’ world-spanning journey to the streets of Dublin. Though it’s hardly an easy read, Ulysses will reward those who stick with it, especially if they’re already experts in Homer’s poem.

An Orchestra of Minorities

Chigozie Obioma, like Joyce, takes inspiration from The Odyssey to tell a story about original characters set in the recent past — in this case, Nigeria in the 2000s. Obioma’s novel, which follows the story of Nonso, a poor chicken farmer who upends his life in pursuit of the wealthier Ndali, isn’t an exact recreation of The Odyssey . Instead, it weaves references to Homer together with Igbo mythology, demonstrating how classical stories can still feel relevant today.

Tales from Ovid: 24 Passages from the Metamorphoses

But Greek mythology isn’t limited to Homer. Many of the most familiar — and oft-retold — stories originate elsewhere, like in the Roman poet Ovid’s Metamorphoses : a collection of 250 Greek and Roman myths that has influenced writers from William Shakespeare to Robert Graves to the English poet Ted Hughes. The latter wrote this loose translation of some of Ovid’s tales, which serves as a handy introduction to Ovid but also stands on its own as a work of art.

Metamorphica

If you’re looking for a recent prose version of the Metamorphoses , check out Zachary Mason experimental novel-in-stories Metamorphica . Mason, who is also a computer scientist, has written a similarly unconventional reimagining of The Odyssey , The Lost Books of The Odyssey , and his experimental approach and beautiful prose are also on display in this book.

Girl Meets Boy

In Girl Meets Boy , Scottish author Ali Smith brings Ovid’s myth of Iphis to contemporary Scotland. In Metamorphoses , Iphis is a child who is born female and raised male, and eventually transformed into a man by the goddess Isis so that he may marry the woman he loves. In Smith’s novel, the story revolves around two sisters, one of whom falls in love with a genderqueer environmental activist. Like many other contemporary interpretations of Greek myths, Smith’s retelling of Ovid is loose but ingenious, and foregrounds a lesser-known myth that will resonate with many readers today.

The King Must Die

Mary Renault is now best known for her pioneering gay novel The Charioteer , first published in 1953. An expert in classical languages and literature, she frequently wrote about Greek mythology and culture, including in The King Must Die , a retelling of Theseus’ story. This novel spans Theseus’ early life, from his early days at Troizen to his romance with Ariadne to his coronation at Naxos.

Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold

This last novel by C.S. Lewis, the author best known for The Chronicles of Narnia , shows that recentering Greek myths around secondary female characters isn’t a new trend. Till We Have Faces , which recounts the story of Psyche and Cupid from the point of view of Psyche’s sister Orual, was published in 1956. Orual, who is cursed to be ugly and remains bitter about it despite her many accomplishments, is a riveting study in loneliness. Philosophically and psychologically rich, this novel will appeal to readers who want a darker or more challenging take on a familiar story.

Katherine Beutner, like C.S. Lewis, put her own spin on a lesser-known figure from Greek mythology. In the original story, Alcestis sacrifices herself to save her husband from death, traveling to the underworld in his place. Beutner offers a feminist slant on Alcestis’ story. Instead of dying for her husband, this Alcestis chooses to go to the underworld on a quest to search for her long-lost, beloved sister — and meets legendary figures like Heracles, Persephone, and Hades himself along the way.

The Golden Apples

Anyone familiar with Greek mythology will recognize that the title of this novel is a reference to the goddess Eris’ golden apple of discord, which leads to the beginning of the Trojan War. Eudora Welty’s book, told in a series of short stories and set in the fictional Mississippi town of Morgana in the 1940s, is rife with references to Greek myths, which savvy readers will enjoy picking out.

This satirical novel by Fran Ross, originally published in 1974, is based on story of Theseus. It follows Oreo, a mixed-race Black and Jewish girl growing up in 1970s Philadelphia, who (like Theseus) goes on a quest to find her father — but hers takes her all over Manhattan, rather than ancient Greece. The book, which mixes English, Black vernacular, and Yiddish, is both linguistically and narratively anarchic; it’s also very, very funny.

Autobiography of Red: A Novel in Verse

Canadian poet and former MacArthur “Genius” Fellow Anne Carson has extensively translated ancient Greek literature, including plays by Euripides and poetry by Sappho, over the course of her career. She brings that expertise to her novel-in-verse, Autobiography of Red , which is based on the fragmentary poem Geryoneis by the Greek poet Stesichorus. In that poem, Geron is a monster killed by Hercules; here, Carson reimagines him as a young queer man who comes from in an abusive home and later embarks on a romance with a man named Herakles. Haunting, beautiful, and romantic, this book was a surprise hit when it was released in 1998.

Weight: The Myth of Atlas and Heracles

In this addition to Canongate’s Myth Series, English author Jeanette Winterson, best known for her semi-autobiographical novel Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit , takes on the story of Atlas, who was tasked with holding the world on his shoulders. In keeping with much of her other work, Winterson expands her premise beyond this narrative to her own experience of isolation and loneliness.

Fans of Madeline Miller will no doubt enjoy Jennifer Saint’s debut novel Ariadne . Saint, a former high school English teacher, explores and expands upon the familiar story of Ariadne, Theseus, and the Minotaur, as well as Ariadne’s subsequent marriage to the god Dionysus. Most of the novel takes place after the dramatic and familiar events of the myths, allowing Saint to flesh out Ariadne’s relationship with her sister Phaedra.

English writer Jessie Burton has written books for adults, children, and now young adults with Medusa , a feminist retelling of the legend that revolves around a budding romance with young Perseus. Burton’s version of Medusa is far more sympathetic than the original, and explores themes of sexual assault as well as gender expectations and self-image. It’s also beautifully written and illustrated: Kirkus Reviews writes that Burton’s prose is “aquatic and mythical but not overwrought, its beauty ... reflected in [Olivia Lomenech] Gill’s sublime full-page illustrations.”

The Darker Face of the Earth

Over the years, authors have also found inspiration in the myth of Oedipus, most famously depicted in Sophocles’ plays Oedipus Rex and Antigone . After being exiled from his home as a baby, Oedipus accidentally kills his father as an adult and unwittingly marries his mother, Jocasta, the queen of Thebes; when he discovers what he has done, he blinds himself. In her verse play The Darker Face of the Earth , former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove adapts Oedipus Rex , setting it at a slave plantation in antebellum South Carolina instead of in ancient Greece.

Mother Love: Poems

Rita Dove wrote this collection of poems as an homage to Rainer Maria Rilke’s Sonnets to Orpheus . Instead of Orpheus, she focuses on the tragic, complicated mother-daughter relationship between Demeter and Persephone, transporting the mythological figures into the modern era and placing them in unlikely locales including Arizona, Mexico, and Paris.

The Children of Jocasta

Natalie Haynes’ retelling of the Oedipus story follows the pattern of her other books: It’s set in ancient Greece and revolves around the myth’s female characters — in this case, Oedipus’ mother Jocasta and her daughter Ismene. Haynes focuses on Jocasta’s unhappy first marriage and Ismene’s efforts to uncover a plot to kill her. Controversially, though, Haynes has stripped the original myth of its core feature — incest — so this book will likely appeal more to readers who are looking for a grounded, historical version of the story, rather than Greek tragedy experts.

In Home Fire , British writer Kamila Shamsie brings Antigone , the sequel to Oedipus Rex , to 21st century London. This Women’s Prize-winning novel follows the orphaned Pasha siblings, who are haunted by the legacy of their jihadi father. When Parvaiz, the only son in the family, tries to join ISIS, everything in the siblings’ lives goes horribly wrong very quickly. Shamsie expertly melds the Greek tragedy of Antigone with contemporary characters and political concerns, once again demonstrating the durability of these ancient stories.

The Bluest Eye

Nobel laureate Toni Morrison drew much looser inspiration from the Oedipus story for her first novel, The Bluest Eye . The novel takes place in the 1940s and tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, a young girl who has been sexually abused by her father and is now living in foster care. Morrison imbues her characters and setting with the feeling of doomed fate that haunts Sophocles’ characters, and further explores the trauma of incest and the family estrangements and rejections that result.

The Icarus Girl

Helen Oyeyemi is now a beloved novelist best known for her reworkings of classic fairy tales. That skill was already on display in her debut novel, The Icarus Girl , which she wrote when she was only 18. In The Icarus Girl , Oyeyemi draws on both Nigerian and Greek myths to tell the story of Jess, an awkward Nigerian-British girl, and TillyTilly, the odd, unsettling friend she makes on a family trip to Nigeria.

Salvage the Bones

Jesmyn Ward directly invokes classical mythology in her debut novel Salvage the Bones , which went on to win the National Book Award. Although Ward doesn’t write explicit adaptations of Greek myths, her work is clearly informed by them: Her second novel, Sing, Unburied, Sing , was influenced by The Odyssey , while Salvage the Bones , which tells the story of Esch, a teenager in a coastal town in Mississippi during Hurricane Katrina, draws on the story of Medea. In fact, Esch spends much of the book literally reading about Medea and Jason and the Argonauts, and thinks of her unborn child as a Black Athena. Ward’s writing has the heft and scope of an odyssey all its own.

Fifteen Dogs

In this audacious novel, Canadian-Trinidadian writer André Alexis uses Greek mythology to kick off a surreal premise. After Hermes and Apollo have a friendly dispute, the gods decide to endow a group of dogs in a Toronto veterinary clinic with the ability to think and speak like humans. Chaos — and existential crises — ensue in this parable on the beauty, dangers, and limitations of human consciousness.

The Giant Dark

In this acclaimed novel, Pakistani author Sarvat Hasin interrogates modern fame by loosely adapting the tragic story of Orpheus and Eurydice. Her protagonist, Aida, is a world-famous rock star whose obsessive fans follow her every move — including her romance with Ehsan. When the two reconnect after decades apart, it changes Ehsan’s life, though perhaps not for the better: soon he’s one of the people following Aida around the world, desperate for a piece of her.

Olympus, Texas

In this compulsively readable novel, debut author Stacey Swann paints a portrait of the powerful but dysfunctional Texas family. Infidelity, intrafamily fighting (violent and otherwise), and estrangement are only some of the issues that face the Briscoes — there’s also an accidental murder. Swann infuses her novel with allusions to Greek mythology, and any aficionado of those ancient stories will recognize the hubris of the gods on display in the Briscoe clan.

The Secret History

In her bestselling debut, Donna Tartt, who won the Pulitzer Prize for The Goldfinch , doesn’t retell a specific Greek myth. Instead, she evokes the tropes and feeling of Greek tragedy. The Secret History takes place at a secluded liberal arts college, where a group of classics students form a cult-like attachment to their charismatic professor. Soon, they’re holding bacchanals in the woods at night — which sounds fun until those bacchanals lead to murder.

The Maidens

Like Donna Tartt’s The Secret History , Alex Michaelides’ The Maidens makes a classics department the site of intrigue and even murder. This time, that classics department isn’t in a small, remote college but at Cambridge University. The plot revolves around Mariana, a psychologist who begins investigating the murder of a student. She quickly suspects that classics professor Edward Fosca is guilty — but how can she prove it?

Antigoddess

If you want your Greek mythology update to come with a young adult spin, look no further than Antigoddess , a YA fantasy novel that takes gods, goddesses, and tropes from Greek mythology and places then in a contemporary urban setting. These gods are just as flawed as humans — they’re just a lot harder to kill, which might cause some problems if they start acting up.

Dio in the Dark

Like Kendare Blake, Canada-based author Rizwan Asan — who also runs the popular food blog Chocolates and Chai — puts a modern YA spin on Greek myths. Set primarily in Toronto, where Asan lives, Dio in the Dark finds the gods living normal human lives — sort of. (One of them is Martha Stewart.) The action kicks off when Dionysus, the titular Dio, has to go on a quest to find his father, Zeus, who’s mysteriously vanished.

Lore Olympus: Volume One

Lore Olympus is another book that places Greek gods and goddesses in the modern era, but a couple things set it apart. First of all, it’s a graphic novel with an impressive pedigree: It started out as a webcomic, was nominated for an Eisner Award, and was then published as a book, after which it was nominated for a Hugo Award. It’s worth reading for Rachel Smythe’s striking illustrations alone. But Smythe also focuses on one particularly compelling aspect of Greek mythology — the relationship between Penelope and Hades — instead of telling an ensemble story.

The latest novel to place the Greek gods in the modern world is Lore , written by bestselling YA author Alexandra Bracken. Bracken weaves a complex, compelling narrative set in New York City, revolving around Lore Perseous, a descendant of the gods who’s attempted to escape their brutal world. She gets sucked back in when a childhood friend and the great god Athena turn to her for help. How can she say no?

Gods Behaving Badly

If you want a more grown-up version of a story about Greek gods living in the modern world, look no further than Marie Phillips’ Gods Behaving Badly . In this clever novel, the gods are beset by existential malaise while languishing in a London townhouse. They feel depressed, purposeless, and their powers don’t work as well as they used to. Phillips ingeniously inserts two normal humans into this heightened scene, who have to navigate not only this bizarre situation but also the potential end of the world.

Oh. My. Gods.

Tera Lynn Childs takes a lighter approach to the “gods in the modern world” trope with her YA fantasy novel Oh. My. Gods , the first in a series. Instead of focusing on the gods themselves, Childs goes one step removed — to their children. Phoebe, the novel’s protagonist, is initially skeptical about moving to Greece with her mom and new stepdad. Soon, she finds herself at a super competitive new school — and on the track team — with the literal descendants of the gods. Does she have what it takes to keep up?

Just because a novel alludes to Greek gods and myths, it needn’t be overly heavy or serious. Julie Berry’s clever, page-turning young adult novel Lovely War isn’t exactly a comedy — it takes place during WWI and WWII — but the way Greek gods meddle in its central romances is playful and original.

This article was originally published on Jan. 5, 2022

25 Greek Mythology Books You Should Totally Read

By James Lingard

Updated on February 10, 2023

Being a hero in Ancient Greece did not consist of doing small acts of kindness, such as saving a dog or an elderly person. Nor was anything about being a criminal figure with superpowers implied. In Greek culture, all it took to be considered a hero was to be blessed by the gods .

Mythology actually comes from the Greek words for “people’s story” (myth) and “word” (logos). So, we can say that mythology is the folklore that is passed from one generation to the next. It can be about anything from the mundane to the fantastic, but it always has something to do with the human condition or pain.

These tales were outlandish, full of ferocious witches, capricious gods, and fearsome warriors brandishing deadly blades. They were also very dramatic, with stories about families turning violent on each other, onerous tasks assigned by ruthless kings, love gone awry, wars, and tragic loss. There was enchantment, metamorphosis, monsters, and a journey to the underworld.

It was a realm shared by humans and immortals that was both dangerous and fascinating. And even though these tales were completely made up, the lessons they teach are just as applicable now as they were thousands of years ago, contributing significantly to the development of contemporary thinking.

For instance, sibling rivalry is a reality in every family. Countless innocent people are killed when wars break out. Men often use violence against women. Even the brightest minds sometimes fail to see the forest for the trees. A mysterious disease destroys cities all over the world. Life is shattered by floods and fires.

The political and religious context in which these legends were originally told has long since been forgotten, but the impact they had has not diminished in the 21st century. In a nutshell, they tackle the unavoidable realities of the human condition, whether it is through their depictions of abrupt, incomprehensible calamity, radical reversals of fortune, or arbitrary events.

If you’re a fan of mythology and are interested in learning more about the best writings devoted to the subject, you’ve found the right site. Therefore, you should consider these 25 Greek mythology books as an addition to your extensive library.

• 25. D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths

Together, the fascinating stories and the stunning illustrations bring the gods and heroes like Hercules, Theseus, and Jason to life. Therefore, this timeless collection of Greek myths is a great way for young readers to learn about the wonders of myth and magic while also learning important lessons about the past.

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• 24. Minotaur by Phillip W. Simpson

This magical realist (ish) tale is enjoyable to leaf through thanks to its unique first-person insider take on the Minotaur myth . Truth, perspective, hidden motivations, and the fibs we tell ourselves all play a part here. If you’re the type of reader who loves learning about the demonic, divine, and ghastly perspectives on Greek mythology, you’ll enjoy this story.

The plot moves quickly and neatly, and the characters are well-developed. Ovid, a Roman poet, and Ast, a towering individual who speaks with a thunderous voice, are the two primary figures. Nonetheless, the author could have done more to flesh out their personalities before cutting them off just when things were getting intriguing.

The novel moves from serious literature to something more akin to pleasant beach reading because of its shallowness. However, the book was saved from becoming tedious by a few profound and bleak passages.

23 . The Trojan War: A New History by Barry Strauss

There are few wars more famous than the ten-year fight that began in Troy and ended with the loss of heaps of Greeks. More than two thousand years have passed since this tale first served as creative fodder, but it is still more accurate than ever.

In “The Trojan War”, annalist and rhetorician Barry Strauss reveals the story behind the war, from Homer’s writings in “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” to Heinrich Schliemann’s breakthrough of old Troy in the late 1800s to recent archaeological digs that have found exciting clues about the legendary city of Troy.

• 22. Women & Power: a Manifesto by Mary Beard

With only 115 pages, this book is small enough to fit in even the tiniest purse or, if you’re really in the mood to stride out, the inside of an overcoat. However, to be clear, this context makes size unimportant, and there are two things you must understand.

The first is the significance of Mary Beard’s words: these are more than a few very useful stones for the catapults some of us feel we need to carry around with us right now. The second is that the author does not simplify anything, and this is where most of the book’s impact comes from.

• 21. Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe

The compelling love tale between two Greek gods, Hades and Persephone, is brought to life with magnificent artwork and an enticing modern voice. Rachel Smythe’s sophisticated and forward-thinking retelling of a classic myth shows the gods’ after-hours shenanigans, such as backbiting gossip, lavish feasts, and unrequited love.

Through her sharp and passionate writing, Smythe brings the Greek Pantheon into the present in her Eisner-nominated webcomic “Lore Olympus” with an exclusive short story that is clean as a whistle.

• 20. Theogony by Hesiod, translated by M.L. West

Homer’s contemporary, the epic poet Hesiod, flourished in Boeotia around 700 BCE. We were able to find more about Hesiod since his poetry contains some personal facts, even though unreliable. His father was from Kyme, a significant seaside city in the region of Aeoli that is now Turkey.

Hesiod resided and worked at the base of Mount Helicon, where he encountered the nine Muses. So, he started his song about the Gods’ race. Theogony provides a comprehensive genealogy of the gods from the start of time, as well as a description of their violent struggles before the establishment of the current order.

• 19. The War That Killed Achilles by Caroline Alexander

Both sides desire nothing more than to end the conflict and return home. Achilles , Homer’s magnificent conception of an incandescent hero, quarrels with his leader, Agamemnon, but eventually comes back to the battlefield to revenge for the death of a comrade.

Few warriors, in reality or in literature, have attacked their commanding officer with as much ferocity as Achilles did. Therefore, this book explores the fundamental questions that define every age’s military experience and the justification for the war they fought.

Is it ever acceptable for a warrior to challenge his commander? Must he give up his life for another’s cause? Should a man who sacrifices his life for his country forsake his family? How is a terrible conflict ever permitted to begin, and why, if all parties desire its conclusion, cannot it be stopped?

• 18. Why Homer Matters: A History by Adam Nicolson

In Adam Nicolson’s view, the Iliad and the Odyssey serve as the cornerstones of Greek and Western awareness, rendering the ancient Mediterranean world as relevant to us as the happenings of the present day. “Why Homer Matters” is a fascinating journey of discovery spanning vast expanses of the past, woven together by the analogies of life and adversity.

As Adam Nicolson writes, Homer’s poems take up “the third space” in the manner we connect to the old days; not as a recollection, which endures no more than three generations, nor as unbiased records of history, but as iconic poetry that aims to heal the scars that time inflicts.

• 17. Troy by Stephen Fry

There is both bravery and villainy, love and loss, vengeance and sorrow, as well as yearning and hopelessness in the story of Troy. These human emotions, etched in the sands of a long-ago bloody beach, continue to resonate with us now.

This work of art by Stephen Fry is a pleasure to read and handle as the author gives the story of Homer a thoroughly contemporary spin. In a cutting-edge retelling of the circumstances leading up to the conflict and the colorful ensemble of Greeks and Trojans who eventually went to war, the book has much to offer serious mythology aficionados.

• 16. The Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton

Why, many centuries and cultural shifts later, do versions of Greek tales reverberate in so many different places? Bestselling author Richard Buxton delves into the contemporary relevance of eight of the most famous Greek stories in „The Complete World of Greek Mythology”.

According to Buxton, each of the eight main myths is crucial to how we perceive ourselves and the world. For example, the character of Prometheus inspired Mary Shelley and Ridley Scott, the drama of Medea has had a significant impression on theatre, feminism, and even criminal justice, and the influence of Oedipus extends well beyond Freud.

The rich aesthetic heritage inspired by Greek myths , from ceramics to sculptures to popular culture, illustrates this expansive and sometimes startling study, making this book both a lovely object to own and a thought-provoking read.

• 15. A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes

A woman is startled awake in the middle of the night to find that her hometown is currently engulfed in flames. After what seemed like ten years of nonstop fighting, the Greeks and the Trojans have finally reconciled their differences. Sadly, Troy has been destroyed. So, this was never the tale of just one lady, or even two. It was the story of them all.

These are the stories of the women whose existences, loves, and conflicts were forever changed by the long and terrible war; from the women of Troy, whose futures depended on the Greeks, to the Amazon princess who fought Achilles on their side, to Penelope, who longed for Odysseus to come home.

• 14. Metamorphoses by Ovid, Translated by Charles Martin

The remarkable stanzas of Ovid, whose metaphor of evolution has resounded throughout the ages, are one of the most important works of Western fiction, serving as inspiration from the time of Dante up to the present day when authors like Salman Rushdie and Italo Calvino have unearthed a living reference in Ovid’s work.

Charles Martin’s adaptation of Ovid’s writings retains a high level of accuracy while also capturing the original’s vivacity and swiftness in poetry. As a whole, we love Martin’s decision to update the masterpiece in a more contemporary style, which tends to make the book more approachable and also more like a pastiche of many familiar legends filled with great puns.

• 13. Mythos by Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry has put together the most important stories from Greek mythology. He starts with Chaos, the first god, and the creation ex nihilo, or the birth of the universe. He then moves on to Gaia, Tartarus, Erebus, Nyx, Hemera, and Aether, or the Earth, the Abyss, the Shadows, the Night, the Day, and the Light.

The author does a fantastic job of elucidating the creation of life, the origin of the Titans, the Olympian gods , the nymphs , the minor gods, and the evolution of the planet. He also does brilliant work in organizing all these myths into a coherent storyline.

Without sacrificing any of the myths’ awe-inspiring magic, Fry reimagines Zeus and the Olympians’ exploits as touching and hilarious tales. Mythos gives new energy to classic stories like “Pandora’s Box” and “Prometheus’s Fire” while embracing the drama, majesty, and unashamed pleasure of the Greek myths.

• 12. Gods Behaving Badly by Marie Phillips

The lives of Greek gods aren’t as dazzling as they used to be in Marie Phillips’s novel. There are still twelve gods of Olympus in the modern era, but they all live in close quarters in a London townhouse, and they’re not too pleased about it, as they’ve all had to take mundane jobs to make ends meet.

Artemis now walks dogs, Apollo reads horoscopes on television, Aphrodite answers sexual-related phone calls, and Dionysus spins records. A little disagreement between Aphrodite and Apollo quickly develops into a full-blown war of words.

Alice and Neil, two confused individuals involved in the disagreement, have reason to fear for their own existence as well as the fate of the human race. To save the world, nothing but a real act of heroism will do. But can two people who are otherwise pretty normal do the impossible?

• 11. Circe by Madeline Miller

This outstanding book by Madeline Miller explores well-known tales from a distinct angle. Those who are familiar with the Odyssey may remember the wanderer’s visit to Aiaia’s island, which is mostly remembered as the witch who turns the sailors into pigs; nonetheless, she asks Odysseus to be her sweetheart and spend a year with her and his men.

The author uses the first-person narrative, allowing Circe to speak for herself as a complex and changing individual. Therefore, this book is a delight to pore over because it combines vibrant retellings of classic stories such as the Minotaur’s birth or Odysseus’ arrival on the island, with brief references to other, pertinent tales such as Daedalus and Icarus.

10. T he Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus, translated by Robin Hard

“The Library of Apollodorus” is an unparalleled resource for learning about every aspect of Greek mythology, from the world’s inception to the Trojan War , and it is the only text of its type to have survived from ancient times. Moreover, classicists have employed it ever since it was compiled, with its influence reaching up to modern authors like Robert Graves.

Complete with detailed accounts of the exploits of legendary figures such as Jason, Perseus, Heracles, Helen of Troy, and dozens more, “The Library” is an invaluable resource for anybody interested in classical mythology because it serves as both a reference work and a strong indicator of how the Greeks themselves saw their mythological traditions.

• 9. Medusa by Jessie Burton

Medusa , who has been banished to a remote island at the whim of the gods, has few companions besides the snakes that she wears in place of hair. But when a handsome young man named Perseus lands on the island, her solitary life is shattered like a supernova, setting in motion a chain reaction of desires, loves, betrayals, and fate.

This feminist retelling of a Greek myth, written by the author of the international blockbuster “The Miniaturist,” features exquisite illustrations by Olivia Lomenech Gill, exposing the story of the real girl behind the myth and bringing the narrative to life for the modern audience.

• 8. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton

Edith Hamilton’s Mythology tries harder than any other work to make Greek, Roman, and Norse legends, which are the basis of Western culture, last forever for modern readers as stories about gods and heroes that have inspired creativity since ancient times.

We can also find the starting points for many works of art, poetry, and cultural analysis here, such as Freud’s “Oedipus complex,” Wagner’s “Ring Cycle” of operas, and Eugene O’Neill’s “Mourning Becomes Electra.”

Therefore, Mythology is Edith Hamilton’s magnus opus; it is the criterion by which all other works on mythology are judged, lauded for its authority and clarity around the globe.

7. The Penelopiad  by Margaret Atwood

After 20 years apart, Odysseus finally returns to Ithaca to regain his crown, be reunited with his wife Penelope, and rid his home of the 100 suitors vying for her hand in marriage in the final act of The Odyssey. Odysseus, using his renowned intelligence and guile, manages to murder all of the suitors and twelve of Penelope’s servants, despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

Nonetheless, getting rid of the suitors stands to reason, at least in Greek mythology book terminology, since they were trespassers in Odysseus’ home. But why kill the maids? Margaret Atwood’s fascinating novella “The Penelopiad” explores this and other existential concerns.

• 6. The Greek Plays: Sixteen Plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, And Euripides, edited by Mary Lefkowitz and James Romm

Explore a variety of the most well-known and frequently studied plays from the Greek canon with this engaging curated anthology. The texts are given new vitality through updated translations into contemporary English while retaining as much of the original meaning as feasible.

In other words, this book is a complete timeline of adaptations of Greek drama to prose, stage, and film from the time of Seneca to the present, depicting the history of Greek tragedy and its influence on Western culture. These new translations have a zest and an edge that will remain for some time.

• 5. Heroes: Mortals And Monsters, Quests And Adventures by Stephen Fry

Nothing in this book is uninteresting, and Fry gives each of his characters more than just the courageous traits that have become stereotypes in previous works. By showing that even his heroes have weaknesses , the author makes you care about them, giving you a rich, imperfect portrait of each hero amidst their fights, loves, and encounters with gods and demons.

Hercules, for instance, is shown as a lout because he isn’t the brightest guy and relies on brute force to resolve his issues, even if this is what ultimately leads to his downfall. But Fry gives Hercules remorse and a heart, and suddenly you can admire him for more than just his heroic persona.

This book, just like Fry’s Mythos, is written with a satirical mocking tone, particularly in the footnotes, when he unleashes some quite funny remarks, which will make it difficult not to laugh out loud. And, perhaps, this is the best thing about this book; you can look at familiar stories with fresh eyes.

• 4. Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths by Bernard Evslin

In Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths, best-selling author Bernard Evslin reveals his fascination with the magnificent Greek mythology and the timeless concepts it represents so wonderfully.

In this one-of-a-kind overview, you will become acquainted with the mythological gods and heroes like Zeus, the all-powerful god of the gods; Hera, his wily and defiant wife; King Midas , whose touch could turn anything into gold; the sculptor Pygmalion , who falls for its creation, and many others.

With each of his tales, Evslin breathes new life into these mythical beings and the enchanted realm in which they dwell. With over ten million copies sold and several translations, this reference is now considered a classic.

• 3. The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

In this popular book, Robert Graves, a poet, and philosopher recounts the classic stories of Greek mythology. The tales of Demeter lamenting the loss of her daughter Persephone, Theseus and the Minotaur, as well as Icarus flying too close to the sun, are all depicted with the author’s signature erudition and flare.

The Greek Myths are the result of years of investigation and study, but the creative and artistic approach of the retelling is what makes this book unique. Each story is backed up by Graves’s analysis of where it came from and what it means. This gives the reader a unique look at the customs and development of ancient Greek society.

2. The Odyssey by Homer , interpreted by Robert Fagles

When the Iliad ends, the story of Homer’s second great epic poem, the Odyssey, continues. Troy has been subdued, but Odysseus, one of the triumphant army’s heroes, still has many challenges to face before he can reunite with his wife and son.

If the Iliad is the biggest war novel in the world, then the Odyssey is the finest literary depiction of the voyage of the common man. Odysseus’s ten-year trip, during which he relied on his intelligence and cunning to survive his meeting with supernatural elements, is both an eternal human tale and an individualized test of moral fortitude.

In the myths and legends recreated here, Fagles has caught the fire and beauty of Homer’s masterpiece in a bright, modern style and provided us with an Odyssey to read aloud, relish, and cherish for its sheer lyrical perfection. Therefore, this book will please both classicists as well as the general public and will capture the attention of a new crop of Homeric students.

1. The Iliad by Homer, interpreted by Robert Fagles

There is no way that a course in Greek mythology could be considered complete without this colossal opus. The thrill of perusing Homer’s works is equally as significant as the Greek mythology understanding you will gain from them.

Homer is generally acknowledged as one of the greatest poets of all time, and for a clear reason: his lyrics are compellingly stunning without being eloquent or emphatic; his trademark fast pacing makes for an action-packed read, and the tales he reveals contain some of the most archetypal characters and settings in all of world literature.

Mixing the talents of a writer and a historian, Robert Fagles infuses this timeless heroic epic with the vitality of modern language. In an astounding performance, he preserves the pace and meter of Homer’s poetry and conveys the intensity and depth of the Iliad’s captivating repeated phrases.

• Final Words

Culture is the essence of who we are and what we value as a nation. A solid foundation and knowledge of what made us who we are can help our children remain resilient in a society where morality and ethics are always being questioned.

And one cannot discuss culture without mentioning its mythology, as it has a significant impact on societal customs and the way people in your community think and act. So, can you count the number of mythological tales you’ve read? Have you found any of them on this list? If not, let us know what its title was.

Disclaimer: MythNerd is reader-supported. When you buy books through the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you!

• 23. The Trojan War: A New History by Barry Strauss
• 10. The Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus, translated by Robin Hard
• 7. The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood
• 2. The Odyssey by Homer, interpreted by Robert Fagles

About James Lingard

A lifelong fan of mythology and all things ancient, James has always been fascinated by the rich stories and legends of different cultures, and he loves nothing more than diving into a good mythological tale. Learn more about MythNerd's Editorial Process .

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50+ Best Greek Mythology Books of All Time [Ranked for 2024]

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Greek mythology is one of the most captivating and influential collections of stories ever to emerge from human history.

It’s where immortal deities and daring heroes take center stage, creating tales that have traveled from ancient campfires to our modern-day bookshelves.

For those who are new to these myths or those longing to revisit the adventures of characters like Odysseus, Athena, and Persephone, the quest for the Best Greek Mythology Books can lead you through an exciting labyrinth of tales and triumphs.

Table of Contents

1. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan

2. the song of achilles by madeline miller, 3. circe by madeline miller, 4. the odyssey by homer, 5. lore olympus by rachel smythe — lore olympus #1, 6. percy jackson’s greek gods by rick riordan, 7. mythos by stephen fry — stephen fry’s great mythology #1, 8. heroes by stephen fry — stephen fry’s great mythology #2, 9. mythology by edith hamilton, 10. d’aulaires’ book of greek myths by ingri d’aulaire and edgar parin d’aulaire, 11. troy by stephen fry — stephen fry’s great mythology #3, 12. the iliad by homer, 13. theogony, works and days by hesiod, 14. greek mythology by liv albert, 15. the greek plays by aeschylus, sophocles, and euripides, 16. the silence of the girls by pat barker — women of troy #1, 17. till we have faces: a myth retold by c.s. lewis, 18. metamorphoses by ovid, 19. goddess of spring by p.c. cast — goddess summoning #2, 20. a thousand ships by natalie haynes, 21. treasure of greek mythology: classic stories of gods, goddesses, heroes & monsters by donna jo napoli, 22. helen of troy by bettany hughes, 23. pandora’s jar by natalie haynes, 24. ariadne by jennifer saint, 25. clytemnestra by costanza casati, 26. the greek myths by robert graves, 27. the gods and goddesses of greece and rome by philip matyszak, 28. gods and heroes of ancient greece by gustav schwab, 29. lore by alexandra bracken, 30. the bull from the sea by mary renault — theseus #2, 31. the library of greek mythology by apollodorus, 32. the tale of cupid and psyche by apuleius, 33. the last of the wine by mary renault, 34. the king must die by mary renault — theseus #1, 35. helen of troy by margaret george, 36. the children of jocasta by natalie haynes, 37. the lost sisterhood by anne fortier, 38. electra by sophocles, 39. never look back by lilliam rivera, 40. the golden ass by apuleius, 41. the dark wife by sarah diemer, 42. the women of troy by pat barker — women of troy #2, 43. the penelopiad by margaret atwood, 44. atalanta by jennifer saint, 45. fifteen dogs by andre alexis — quincunx #2, 46. ithaca by claire north — the songs of penelope #1, 47. greek gods and heroes by robert graves, 48. girl meets boy: the myth of iphis by ali smith, 49. antigoddess by kendare blake — goddess war #1, 50. an orchestra of minorities by chigozie obioma, 51. gods behaving badly by marie phillips, 52. house of names by colm tóibín, final thoughts.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology, Fiction, Greek Mythology

Diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, Percy’s life has been a rollercoaster of unexplainable events and school expulsions. But his life takes a fantastic turn when he discovers he’s no ordinary boy—he’s the son of a Greek god, which makes him a demigod.

This revelation thrusts Percy into a world filled with surprises. At Camp Half-Blood, a haven for demigods, he meets other demigods, and together, they embark on a quest to prevent catastrophic war and events.

The story adapts Greek mythology to a contemporary setting, making it educational and entertaining. Percy’s struggles with his identity and challenges as a demigod resonate with the trials every reader faces in their journey of self-discovery.

The book cleverly addresses family, friendship, and loyalty themes, making it a relevant and empowering read for readers.

Humans see what they want to see.

What you might love:

• The story explores complex family relationships, especially between Percy and his parents.
• The novel emphasizes the importance of friends and teamwork as Percy embarks on his journey with close companions.
• Percy Jackson’s character is known for his sharp wit and humor, adding light-hearted and enjoyable elements to the story.

What might not be for everyone:

• People with strong religious beliefs could disagree with how the series shows gods and myths.
• The series makes mythological villains more likable, which might bother fans of the original myths.
• It takes a humorous approach sometimes, possibly weakening the seriousness of some scenes for certain readers.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance, Mythology, LGBT

“The Song of Achilles” is a retelling of the Trojan War, seen through the eyes of Patroclus, a young Greek prince. Patroclus, deemed mediocre by his father, finds his life tangled with Achilles, the son of a sea nymph and a king.

Their bond deepens against the backdrop of the impending Trojan War, with a prophecy looming over Achilles’ heroic destiny and tragic fate. The novel beautifully explores themes of love, destiny, and the human condition, resonating deeply with readers.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the often-overlooked character of Patroclus and its exploration of the Achilles-Patroclus relationship as a deeply intimate and romantic one.

This reinterpretation offers a fresh and emotionally rich perspective on a well-known legend, making it a must-read for those interested in Greek mythology and epic tales of love and war.

He smiled, and his face was like the sun.

• The book’s poetic language vividly paints the Greek myths.
• The novel carries readers into a realm of gods and epic heroes with its vivid details.
• Though set in olden times, the novel’s focus on identity, honor, and human experiences speaks to today’s readers.
• Some readers may view the characters’ bond as too clingy, which can dominate the story.
• The intense focus on Achilles and Patroclus’s love affair in the novel might overshadow other parts.
• Miller’s Patroclus differs from “The Iliad,” with less emphasis on fighting skill, which might let down fans of the classic.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Historical, Greek Mythology, Retellings

Traditionally portrayed as a villainous figure, Circe is portrayed here as a complex and sympathetic character. This novel is a story about finding one’s identity, challenging societal norms, and the enduring power of love and motherhood.

Born into a powerful but unloving family as the daughter of the sun god Helios and a nymph, Circe is scorned and isolated due to her lack of apparent divine qualities. Her journey begins in earnest when she falls in love with a mortal fisherman, Glaucos.

“Circe” is a must-read for anyone interested in Greek mythology and those who enjoy stories of growth and empowerment. It’s a unique blend of myth and reality, making the ancient world accessible and relevant to today’s readers.

He showed me his scars, and in return he let me pretend that I had none.

• Miller’s poetic style paints an immersive, mythical Greek world.
• The novel tracks Circe’s progress, showing her flaws and power and making her a believable main character.
• “Circe” examines power and ethics among gods, Titans, and humans, providing deep reflections on these ideas.
• The many mythological characters might confuse those new to Greek myths.
• The book’s old-fashioned language might make it tough for some to follow the story.
• The novel’s long and complex themes may overwhelm rather than entertain some readers.

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Poetry, Mythology, Fantasy, School Literature

This epic poetry narrates the journey of Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as he strives to return home after the Trojan War. Despite the ten-year war, his journey home takes another decade, filled with various challenges that test his cunning and endurance.

During his absence, Odysseus is presumed dead, and back in Ithaca, his wife Penelope and son Telemachus struggle against a group of unruly suitors vying for Penelope’s hand in marriage.

The action of the poem, although spanning over twenty years, focuses primarily on the final six weeks of Odysseus’s journey. His adventures bring him face-to-face with mythical creatures and divine entities.

What sets “The Odyssey” apart is how it tackles themes like loyalty, perseverance, and the complexities of human nature. It delves into the idea of homecoming, the concept of guest-friendship, and the pivotal role of omens and the gods in the lives of mortals.

A man who has been through bitter experiences and travelled far enjoys even his sufferings after a time.

• The story digs into deep themes like devotion, grit, and fairness, enriching the thrilling plot.
• “The Odyssey” presents the gods as complex, showing ancient Greek perspectives on the divine and human worlds.
• It raises thoughts on destiny against choice, divine influence on people, and moral values, adding philosophical richness.
• Some may find the epic’s violent moments unsettling.
• The story’s strong male-dominated and sexist setting may trouble readers concerned with gender equality.
• The idea that gods decide human destiny in the story may clash with contemporary beliefs in personal freedom.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Romance, Mythology, Comics, Retellings, Fiction

“Lore Olympus” begins at the Panathenaea party in Olympus, where Hades, feeling lonely as the only unmarried one among his brothers, encounters Persephone and immediately catches his attention.

The setting blends the ancient and the contemporary, with characters using mobile phones and driving fast cars. The story navigates themes of love, consent, and relationships with a depth that resonates with a modern audience.

Whether you’re a fan of Greek mythology or just looking for a beautifully illustrated and well-told story, “Lore Olympus” offers a captivating experience. Its portrayal of divine characters with human emotions and problems makes it relatable and engaging.

Hades, all the fine suits in the world won’t change the fact that you stink of death.

• The story presents deep, flawed gods and goddesses, enriching the tale.
• It places the Greek gods in today’s world, using cars, phones, and modern talk to make them relatable.
• The novel reworks the classic Hades and Persephone story with a modern twist, mixing old myths with present-day details.
• Mixing modern speech and actions with Greek myth may seem off or fake to some.
• The story changes the original Persephone and Hades myth, and those who like traditional Greek tales may not enjoy these updates.
• The comic covers issues like sexual assault, bad relationships, and gaslighting, which, despite careful treatment, could upset some readers.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Fiction, Greek Mythology, Adventure

This book retells Greek mythology from the perspective of Percy Jackson, the beloved demigod son of Poseidon. It offers a fresh and humorous twist on the classic myths, making it an excellent choice for young readers and fans of the series.

In this book, Percy Jackson takes you on a journey through Greek mythology, introducing the major gods and goddesses and their fascinating stories. The book covers many tales, from the gods’ origins to the Olympians’ individual stories.

The story is marked by Percy’s signature sarcastic and irreverent tone, transforming ancient Greek mythology into something modern young readers can enjoy and relate to, making the ancient myths more accessible and entertaining.

• The book dives into Greek mythology, touching on popular gods and obscure tales.
• Percy Jackson, known for his sharp and funny style, narrates the book, bringing humor and a fresh angle to the Greek myths.
• Riordan sticks closely to the original myths, making the book a fun and informative read for those interested in Greek mythology.
• The book’s emphasis on action and laughs might downplay the original myths’ depth and ethics.
• Snappy, funny chapter titles like “Hera Gets a Little Cuckoo” and “Zeus Kills Everyone” may feel too casual for the topic.
• Percy’s casual, often sarcastic storytelling might not suit those who favor a more respectful treatment of the classics.

Genres: Non-fiction, Classics, Historical, Retellings, Short Stories, Greece

The book begins with the universe’s birth, telling tales of original deities like Chaos, Gaia, and Nyx, then advancing to Titans and Olympians, featuring famous and lesser-known Greek mythology characters.

Fry revitalizes these myths with fresh wit, maintaining their classic spirit while making them more enjoyable for today’s readers through lively storytelling.

“Mythos” by Stephen Fry is a must for fans of Greek mythology or anyone wanting a gripping tale. It offers a charming, witty take on these ancient stories, making it a key read for mythology enthusiasts​​.

Gaia visited her daughter Mnemosyne, who was busy being unpronounceable.

• Fry mixes storytelling with facts, creating a fun and informative read.
• With his smart wit, Fry delivers an enticing and enjoyable new look at old myths.
• The book spans Greek myths from the cosmos’s birth to tales of Olympian gods and renowned heroes.
• The book’s casual language might clash with what readers wanting formality expect.
• “Mythos” doesn’t include all well-known myths, which may let down those looking for a complete anthology.
• Some might find Fry’s handling of sensitive themes like abduction and rape lacking, as he doesn’t always discuss their effects on victims.

Genres: Non-fiction, History, Greek Mythology, Classics, Historical

“Heroes” delves into the lives and adventures of iconic figures like Perseus, Hercules, Bellerophon, Orpheus, Jason, Atalanta, Oedipus, and Theseus. The book breathes new life into them, making them relevant and relatable to the modern reader.

But it’s not just about their triumphs; The book also explores the personal struggles and tragedies that shape these characters, highlighting their humanity amidst their legendary status.

What sets “Heroes” apart is its focus on the familiar and lesser-known aspects of these myths and the author’s unique voice. His writing is infused with wit, humor, and a deep understanding of simplifying these myths without losing their essence.

This book is a perfect introduction for those new to Greek mythology while offering fresh insights for those who are already fans.

In a fight, do not do what you want to do, but what you judge your enemy least wants you to.

• The book doubles as a fun way to learn about Greek myths, mixing knowledge with pleasure.
• Fry uses epic stories to show different sides of human nature, connecting the reader to the characters’ lives.
• He offers unique takes on each hero, showing their special qualities and adventures, enriching well-known stories.
• Fry’s modern dialogue and current jokes may not suit fans of old-fashioned storytelling.
• Though the footnotes are packed with details, they might disrupt the story’s rhythm for some.
• Focusing on individual heroes instead of a straight timeline could confuse those who like straightforward storytelling.

Genres: Classics, Non-fiction, History, Reference, Greek Mythology, Religion

“Mythology” introduces readers to Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology stories. The author explains how the world began according to Greek and Roman beliefs, introducing the main gods like Zeus and Hera and how humans came into being.

The book is divided into parts that cover different types of myths—from the early gods and heroes like Hercules and Perseus to the famous Trojan War with Achilles and Odysseus.

The book combines different stories from old texts to make a complete picture of these myths. It’s great for anyone who wants to learn about classic myths that have influenced Western culture and shaped our world.

The power of good is shown not by triumphantly conquering evil, but by continuing to resist evil while facing certain defeat.

• The book shows how myths evolved from ancient times to reflect shifting social values.
• Hamilton combines scholarly detail with compelling stories, balancing expertise with narrative.
• The book celebrates mythology’s literary heritage, sparking the imagination and teaching about humanity.
• Hamilton briefly covers Norse myths, which may leave those wanting depth a bit wanting.
• The book sometimes idealizes Greek culture, missing out on its irrational and dark sides essential for a full picture.
• Hamilton edits out the more violent or sexual content to suit young readers, which might seem like a softening of the myths’ raw power and intricacy.

Genres: Classics, Children, Fiction, Fantasy, Picture Books, Greek Mythology

“D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths” covers many mythological characters, including gods, goddesses, nymphs, satyrs, centaurs, and demigods, each depicted with moving, laughing faces that captivate the reader’s imagination.

The stories are rich in detail, covering themes of love and war, murder and revenge, and the complex relationships between mortals and gods.

What sets this book apart is its approach to storytelling. The d’Aulaires infused the retellings of the story with a sense of fun and excitement. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Greek mythology, especially young readers beginning their journey.

• The book has inspired readers to explore writing and art for generations.
• Its clear language and style make Greek mythology approachable for young readers.
• The d’Aulaires’ vivid art breathes life into the myths, enchanting with its visual appeal.
• The complex family relationships of the gods can be challenging to follow.
• Simplifying myths for children might disappoint those wanting detailed exploration.
• The focus is primarily on major myths, potentially omitting lesser-known but equally intriguing stories.

Genres: History, Greek Mythology, Non-fiction, Classics, Historical

“Troy” begins with the kidnapping of Helen, celebrated for her beauty, which leads to the Greeks launching a thousand ships against Troy. The war, instigated by a decision made by the Trojan prince Paris under the guidance of Zeus, unfolds over ten years.

The book’s retelling reveals the human passions and monstrous actions that mark this ancient war, highlighting themes of heroism, hatred, revenge, and despair.

The story is about the larger-than-life characters like Achilles, Hector, Odysseus, and Helen and the human emotions and motivations that drive them.

Whether you are a fan of Greek myths or new to these stories, “Troy” is a captivating read that brings the epic tale to life in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.

• It explores human cruelty, prompting deep reflection.
• The book provides notes, appendices, a character list, and a map to help readers understand Greek mythology.
• Fry presents a fresh version of the Trojan War that stays faithful to the classic, drawing in novices and fans alike.
• Dark jokes in a serious tale might seem inappropriate to some.
• The book’s footnotes and glossaries may distract those who prefer a direct story.
• The author’s mix of modern talk and old settings may not suit all tastes, as the clash of tones can seem uneven.

Genres: Classics, Poetry, Fiction, Mythology, Literature, Fantasy, Historical Fiction

The Iliad recounts the pivotal moments of the Trojan War beginning in the ninth year of the war, sparked by Paris of Troy’s abduction of Helen, the wife of the Achaean king Menelaus.

Central to the narrative is a dispute between Agamemnon, and his best warrior, Achilles. The poem vividly portrays the brutality and heroism of war, with the Achaeans struggling against the Trojans, led by their prince Hector.

The Iliad delves into the themes of the glory of war, the impermanence of human life, and the influence of fate. Its detailed descriptions of battle tactics, the roles of gods, and the portrayal of human emotions make it a foundational text in culture and literature.

…There is the heat of Love, the pulsing rush of Longing, the lover’s whisper, irresistible—magic to make the sanest man go mad.

• Vivid combat fills “The Iliad,” capturing the thrills of ancient battles.
• The story examines honor, bravery, and human nature, echoing through time.
• Achilles, Hector, and Agamemnon are richly portrayed, blending valor and imperfections.
• Gods often meddle in the plot, which could clash with the taste for realism.
• Achilles shows intense feelings and strict honor in ways modern readers might find over the top.
• Women in “The Iliad” play minor parts, often as rewards or symbols, which might displease a modern audience.

Genres: Poetry, History, Philosophy, Ancient, Classics, Greek Mythology

Theogony delves into the Greek gods’ genealogy, tracing the universe’s origins from the primordial beings to the rise of Zeus as the supreme deity. The poem begins with Hesiod’s encounter with the Muses, who inspire him to tell the story of the gods.

Works and Days , however, focuses on the human experience and the hard truths of life. Hesiod uses the framework of a dispute with his brother Perses over inheritance to dispense advice on farming, justice, and personal conduct.

These works blend cosmic mythology with practical wisdom. Theogony offers a foundational understanding of Greek mythological cosmogony and theology, while Works and Days provides a glimpse into the daily lives and moral outlook of ancient Greeks.

These texts are indispensable for any enthusiast of Greek mythology or anyone interested in ancient Greece’s cultural and philosophical underpinnings. They provide a window into the mindset of an ancient civilization, making them timeless classics.

But he who neither thinks for himself nor learns from others, is a failure as a man.

• “Works and Days” offers justice, diligence, and virtue advice.
• The texts offer insight into ancient Greek beliefs about the world’s start and the divine.
• “Theogony” charts the cosmos’s birth and the lineage of gods and mythical creatures, essential for Greek myth knowledge.
• It delves deeply into Greek farming life, a topic that might not captivate everyone.
• The texts’ ancient Greek values, especially on gender and society, could appear old-fashioned or troubling to contemporary readers.
• “Works and Days” resembles a manual with tips on farming, sailing, and society, which may not entertain those wanting a story or poetry.

Genres: Non-fiction, Greek Mythology, History, Adult, Reference

This book condenses the complicated web of Greek mythological tales into an easily digestible format. The author handpicks standout stories for over 60 characters from the Greek mythological pantheon.

It includes stories from the well-known Olympians and other significant figures such as Heracles and Perseus, as well as lesser-known characters like Atalanta and Phaethon. This variety ensures that both popular and obscure myths receive their due attention.

One of the book’s unique features is its focus on contextualizing these ancient stories for modern audiences. Albert does not shy away from the more problematic aspects of these myths, such as misogyny and sexual assault, often glossed over in earlier interpretations.

It’s a must-read for anyone interested in Greek mythology, whether they are newcomers or seasoned enthusiasts, offering a blend of entertainment, insight, and a touch of humor.

The gods had some very strange ways of making mortals immortal or invulnerable.

• Its organization by character types simplifies searching for particular tales or figures.
• Albert examines various takes on these myths, revealing the characters’ diverse facets.
• The book is a handy tool for anyone studying Greek mythology, academically or casually.
• The author mixes modern views with myths, which may not please traditionalists.
• The book’s division into gods, deities, and heroes may not suit readers who prefer other content structures.
• Some may find the book’s treatment of Greek myths’ darker themes, like sexism and assault, lacking depth or sensitivity.

Genres: Classics, Plays, Fiction, Greek Mythology, Drama, Literature

“The Greek Plays” is an anthology that brings together sixteen masterpieces of Greek drama by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. This collection features new translations that make these ancient texts accessible to a modern audience.

The plays included are some of the most celebrated in the Greek canon, such as “Agamemnon,” “Prometheus Bound,” “Bacchae,” “Electra,” “Medea,” “Antigone,” and “Oedipus the King.”

This anthology is a must-read because it revives the original spirit of these timeless plays and demonstrates their enduring influence on literature and culture. The translations breathed new life into the texts, making this an invaluable read.

Old age that’s quick to learn is always young.

• Introductions and notes explain and give background to each play.
• The plays have deeply shaped Western culture, showing their long-standing influence.
• They explore themes like human behavior, ethics, and life’s realities, enduring through time.
• The complex language of Greek plays may deter some modern readers.
• Greek tragedies center on suffering, destiny, and divine anger, potentially overwhelming some.
• Their ancient settings can make it hard for today’s audience to relate to the stories and characters.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Greek Mythology, Fantasy, Historical, Retellings

The story follows Briseis, who was given to Achilles as a war prize, forcing her into a life of servitude and sexual exploitation as she navigates her complex relationship with him and the other Greek warriors, including Patroclus and Agamemnon.

The book depicts the harsh realities of war and its impact on women, challenging the glorified narratives often associated with the Iliad.

It presents the Trojan War not as a heroic endeavor but as a violent conflict driven by the egos and reputations of powerful men, with devastating effects on the lives of women and the innocent—making it a powerful narrative that gives voice to the silenced.

Decades after the last man who fought at Troy is dead, their sons will remember the songs their Trojan mothers sang to them. We’ll be in their dreams–and in their worst nightmares too.

• It gives a detailed view of ancient cultures and practices through vivid descriptions.
• The book examines how war affects women, highlighting the themes of grief, endurance, and strength.
• Figures like Briseis are depicted with richness and detail, offering insight into their feelings and experiences.
• Graphic scenes of violence and sex in the book could upset some readers.
• Some might think characters, such as Achilles, need more depth.
• Despite focusing on Trojan War women, the novel might still place female characters behind the men for some readers.

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Classics, Christian, Religion, Christianity, Mythology

“Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold” offers a retelling of the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche. Unlike traditional adaptations, this novel is narrated from the perspective of Orual, Psyche’s often-overlooked, ugly older sister.

Her evolution throughout the novel reflects a journey towards self-understanding and acknowledging her flaws. This path to self-realization culminates in a series of visions, leading Orual to a deeper understanding of the gods and herself.

This novel is a must-read for those interested in a deeper, more introspective take on classical myths and an exploration of human nature, love, and the divine.

• Orual’s growth from bitterness to insight is key to the story.
• The novel explores love in its giving and greedy forms and the sacrifices it requires.
• The book prompts deep thought on godliness, human pain, and the search for truth.
• Its focus on character psychology and self-examination might not suit action-lovers.
• The book’s intense examination of love, treachery, and godliness could be too much for some.
• The novel’s Christian symbolism may not attract those who favor non-religious or classic fantasy tales.

Genres: Classics, Poetry, Mythology, Fiction, Literature, Fantasy, Ancient

“Metamorphoses” retold a series of Greek and Roman mythology narratives, highlighting the theme of transformation. It’s a collection rich in myths and legends; each story revolves around the concept of metamorphosis, a change in form or nature.

The narrative begins with the world’s creation, emerging from a state of chaos into an ordered existence. Ovid recounts over 250 myths, each presenting a unique transformation.

It is a masterpiece that has inspired countless works of art, literature, and even modern media. Its themes of transformation resonate deeply with human experiences, making the book timeless and relevant across ages.

Omnia mutantur, nihil interit. (everything changes, nothing perishes.)

• The story collection offers romance, adventure, or tragedy for every type of reader.
• Transformation, driven by love or desire, turns characters into new forms at the core of these tales.
• The poem dissects control, rebellion, affection, and mistreatment, revealing their impact on life.
• Graphic scenes of violence and change in the poem may unsettle some.
• Its mix of genres and styles could puzzle those expecting a typical narrative.
• The poem’s depiction of women and power might clash with today’s views, mirroring past norms.

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Mythology, Paranormal, Magic

The protagonist, Lina, struggles to keep her bakery in Tulsa afloat. Her discovery of an Italian Goddess cookbook seems like a stroke of luck, leading her to summon a goddess to save her business.

However, things take a fantastical turn when she finds herself in a soul exchange with Persephone, the Goddess of Spring. In Persephone’s form, Lina is tasked with bringing spring to a world of spirits.

This journey takes her to the Underworld, where she encounters the dark and brooding Lord of the Underworld, Hades. The novel explores the evolving relationship between Lina and Hades, challenging the reader’s perceptions of love and destiny in a mystical realm.

What sets “Goddess of Spring” apart is its clever subversion of the traditional Persephone myth. It reimagines this classic tale with a matriarchal slant, offering a fresh and empowering perspective showcasing the strength of its female characters.

Ultimately, the body is just a shell; it is the soul which defines the man or woman, god or goddess.

• The story highlights women’s empowerment, with Lina finding her power as a goddess.
• “Goddess of Spring” is part of a series but stands alone, welcoming new readers without requiring sequence reading.
• The character of Lina, a 43-year-old baker, is relatable and inspiring, particularly for her independence and determination.
• The novel’s take on Greek myths may differ from what fans of the originals expect.
• Its modern version of the Persephone and Hades tale may not please fans of classic myth tellings.
• While many value the deep character development, others may see it lacking depth or authenticity.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Retellings

“A Thousand Ships” is a reimagining of the Trojan War, told through the eyes of its women. This novel retells the legendary war exploring the experiences and impacts of the conflict on mortal and immortal women.

Framed by Calliope, the story unfolds as a series of vignettes narrating the lives and struggles of various women connected to the Trojan War. It features characters like Creusa, Penelope, and Laodamia—Greek women who were left behind.

Its focus on the female characters brings them to the forefront, giving voice to their stories and experiences. It beautifully balances the personal and the epic, offering a fresh lens on a familiar story.

When a war was ended, the men lost their lives. But the women lost everything else.

• It explores themes of strength, resilience, and empowerment in the face of adversity.
• The book features various women, from goddesses to average figures, each with their own tale.
• Set in the past, the novel covers timeless topics like conflict, grief, effort, and sisterly bonds, connecting with today’s readers.
• The many briefly mentioned characters could perplex or daunt those not well-versed in Greek myths.
• Knowing Greek epics can make the book more pleasing; some readers might be confused without it.
• Readers who know modern Greek myth retellings might compare them, influencing their view of this book.

Genres: Non-fiction, Greek Mythology, Folklore, History, Classics, Reference

In this book, you’ll journey through the ancient Greek pantheon, meeting deities and demigods whose stories have shaped Western culture. From Zeus to Hera, and from the 12 labors of Hercules to the tragic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice.

The book also delves into the stories of legendary heroes and mythical monsters—tales of bravery, betrayal, love, and loss that have been passed down through generations.

The stories featured are also meticulously researched, ensuring that while the stories are accessible, they stay true to their roots. You’ll gain insights into these myths’ cultural and historical context, adding depth to your understanding.

• The novel presents classic myths from a women-focused viewpoint.
• It examines war’s impact, especially on women, covering aspects such as bravery, treachery, and revenge.
• Despite its ancient setting, “A Thousand Ships” reflects current issues, thus relevant for the modern reader.
• It may lack sufficient historical and cultural context about ancient Greece for those seeking deeper insight.
• Due to its young target audience, the book might simplify or soften darker, complex themes in Greek mythology.
• For readers already well-versed in Greek mythology, the stories in this book might feel repetitive or overly familiar.

Genres: Non-fiction, Mythology, Biography, Ancient History

Often labeled the face that launched a thousand ships, Hughes delves deep into the life and legend of Helen, presenting her not just as a mythical figure but as a real woman whose story resonates through history.

From her divine origins to her abduction and the famous incident that sparked the Trojan War. The book details historical, archaeological, and literary evidence to reconstruct the life of a woman who has often been reduced to a mere symbol of beauty and desire.

The book delves into the societal and cultural conditions of ancient Greece, offering insights into the roles and perceptions of women at the time, ensuring that Helen’s story isn’t just remembered but deeply understood.

• It studies Helen’s lasting influence on artists and writers across history, underlining her continued impact on literature and art.
• Thanks to its vibrant and engaging narrative, the book immerses readers in ancient Greece, North Africa, and Asia Minor realms.
• Hughes uses her broad knowledge, referencing sources like Homer, Euripides, and modern poets, to delve deeply into Helen’s story.
• The book’s questioning of Helen’s reality could divide readers with firm views.
• It proposes Helen might have been a historical figure, possibly conflicting with the views of those considering her purely mythical.
• Despite commendable control and narrative flow, managing complex content may still be tough for readers without historical context understanding.

Genres: Non-fiction, Greek Mythology, History, Feminism, Retellings

In “Pandora’s Jar,” you’ll find the tales of Medea, Jocasta, Helen, and Pandora, among others, presented in a new light.

This book focuses on understanding these women as complex characters, each with motivations, strengths, and vulnerabilities, rather than mere footnotes or moral lessons in the sagas of heroes and gods.

For anyone who loves Greek mythology or is interested in the representation of women in literature, “Pandora’s Jar” is a book you shouldn’t miss. It’s a thought-provoking, enlightening read that offers a fresh take on some of the most famous stories ever told.

And if history has taught us anything, it is that women making a noise—whether speaking or shouting—tend to be viewed as intrinsically disruptive.

• It questions standard interpretations of Greek myths, prompting readers to rethink their knowledge of these tales and women’s roles.
• The book attempts to restore and empower Greek mythological women, showcasing them as key figures with unique stories and influence.
• The book, merging in-depth research and an engaging writing style, is a reliable academic reference and a pleasant read for the general public.
• It explores different myth versions, including complex and opposing ones, potentially puzzling readers seeking direct narratives.
• Its primary focus on retelling myths from women’s viewpoints might not attract readers who prefer traditional male-centric stories.
• The book’s intensive study of linguistic nuances and translation challenges in Greek mythology might overwhelm readers uninterested in these details.

Genres: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Fiction, Historical, Retellings

The book follows the life of Ariadne, from her early life in Crete, under the shadow of the Minotaur, through her fateful meeting with Theseus, including her marriage to the god Dionysus, offering a comprehensive look at her trials, triumphs, and transformations.

What sets “Ariadne” apart is its focus on the female perspective, a rarity in the traditional telling of Greek myths. The book delves deep into Ariadne’s emotions and experiences and those of other women in the narrative, including her sister Phaedra.

This approach offers a refreshing and necessary female-centric view of a story that, for too long, has been dominated by the deeds and desires of male heroes.

I would not let a man who knew the value of nothing make me doubt the value of myself.

• Despite its deep roots in Greek mythology, the book’s accessible writing style makes it a great beginner’s guide to this genre.
• The book intensely explores characters, especially women like Medusa and Phaedra, adding depth to these well-known figures.
• Avoiding black-and-white morality, the book presents a more intricate understanding of the characters’ actions and motivations.
• Some readers may view the novel’s reinterpretation of mythological elements as too radical or lacking respect for the original material.
• Depending on their attachment to classic tales, readers familiar with Greek myths may find Saint’s differing narratives refreshing or disturbing.
• The book’s emotional depth, exploring characters’ pain and suffering, could be overwhelming for readers seeking a lighter or more escapist read.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Greek Mythology, Fiction, Retellings, Historical

Clytemnestra, traditionally portrayed as a vengeful wife and mother, the novel presents her in a new light, from her early years to her marriage to Agamemnon, delving deep into her struggles, motivations, triumphs, and wounds inflicted upon her by war and people.

The story also portrays her complex relationship with her husband, her role as a mother, and her ultimate decision to take revenge for the sacrifice of her daughter, Iphigenia.

It’s a tale of power, betrayal, and the resilience of a woman in a world dominated by male heroes and gods. The novel invites you to empathize with Clytemnestra, understanding her not just as a figure of myth but as a real, multifaceted woman.

Kings and heroes drop like flies, but queens outlive them all.

• Even though the novel is based on popular myths, its storytelling is captivating, with a driving narrative that keeps readers hooked.
• The novel centers on female anger, depicting Clytemnestra as ambitious and resilient, using personal tragedies to grow robust and gain control.
• It combines multiple narratives into a linear story focused on Clytemnestra, boosting her from a secondary character to the main character of her tale.
• Despite enhancing the story, the numerous side characters and subplots might divert some readers from the main plot.
• The book’s pace and structure, highlighting important moments in Clytemnestra’s life, may not suit readers preferring a straightforward narrative.
• Substantial time jumps in the story might give the impression of off-page character development, possibly detaching readers from the plot evolution.

Genres: Classics, Non-fiction, History, Greek Mythology, Reference, Greece

This book catalogs many of the Greek myths, from the well-known tales of Olympus to the lesser-known stories. You’ll find detailed accounts of heroes like Hercules and Perseus, gods such as Zeus and Apollo, and many other mythical figures.

“The Greek Myths” examines the stories through the lenses of history, archaeology, and anthropology. Graves provides context and commentary, offering insights into how these myths reflected and influenced the life and thoughts of the ancient Greeks.

This book is an essential reading for anyone interested in Greek mythology, history, or literature, whether you’re a casual reader seeking to explore these timeless stories or a student looking for a comprehensive guide to the myths of ancient Greece.

• The book encompasses a range of myths, from popular to obscure tales.
• Its imaginative and poetic recreations of myths offer a unique take on these old stories and are widely applauded.
• The book’s varied reception during and post-Graves’s lifetime underlines differing opinions on his Greek mythology representation and is worth noting.
• It may not match the latest classical research, troubling those who want current scholarly views.
• This book could serve better as a reference for myth-knowledgeable readers than as a starter for beginners.
• The novel’s long name lists and thorough details might overwhelm those who prefer a story-focused, lighter myth retelling.

Genres: Mythology, History, Non-fiction

In this book, you’ll meet various gods and goddesses, each with unique stories, powers, and personalities. From Zeus to Athena and Roman Jupiter to Demeter, the book brings these characters to life with vivid descriptions and intriguing details.

The book also delves into how these myths have influenced art, culture, and religion throughout history, providing a broader understanding of their lasting impact. You’ll learn how their stories have shaped human thought and expression over millennia.

“The Gods & Goddesses of Greece & Rome” is an informative guide that introduces you to the world of classical mythology—making ancient myths accessible and enjoyable for all readers, whether you’re a mythology buff or a newcomer to the subject.

• It also examines how these myths have influenced art, writing, and culture for ages.
• It includes various myths, from the universe’s birth to epic battles, featuring famous and obscure stories.
• The book’s clear format and style cater to everyone, from casual to dedicated mythology and history enthusiasts.
• The book focuses on major gods, possibly overlooking minor deities for interested readers.
• Mixing old art with new interpretations may not satisfy everyone, particularly purists or modernists.
• The book links old gods to today’s world, which might not suit those who only want ancient context.

Genres: Classics, History, Non-fiction, Greek Mythology, Literature Religion

In this book, you will journey through the timeless stories of Olympus, beginning with the creation of the world and moving through the age of gods and the heroic age, narrating the fabled tales of Hercules, Perseus, Theseus, and the Trojan War.

“Gods and Heroes of Ancient Greece” encompasses the breadth and depth of Greek mythology, offering you a panoramic view of a world where gods and mortals intersect in tales of heroism, treachery, love, and revenge.

This book is essential for anyone interested in mythology, history, or literature. The myths are presented in a way that is engaging and easy to understand, making it suitable for readers of all ages.

• The book spans many Greek myths, offering a thorough view of ancient Greek legends.
• Greek myths’ themes and stories have an enduring appeal, always relevant and engaging.
• Many tales contain underlying moral and philosophical messages that are as relevant today as they were in ancient times.
• Some might find the portrayal of female characters outdated or problematic.
• The black-and-white illustrations might not appeal to those who prefer modern, colorful artwork.
• The book reflects the 19th-century perspective, which might not align with contemporary views on mythology.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Greek Mythology, Fiction, Retellings

Set in the gritty backdrop of New York City, “Lore” revolves around the life of Melora “Lore” Perseous, a young woman who’s left behind the brutal world of ancient gods and hunters.

When Athena, one of the last original gods, offers Lore a chance to avenge her family’s death and reclaim her heritage, she is drawn back into the violent, treacherous world she thought she’d left behind.

What sets “Lore” apart is its innovative concept of blending classical mythology with a high-stakes, contemporary urban setting while delving deeply into themes of power, legacy, and choice that will surely resonate with many readers.

Scars are tallies of the battles you’ve survived.

• The story blends New York City’s dynamic setting with old myths, making an exciting scene.
• “Found family” is a key theme, giving warmth and familiarity to the relationships in the story.
• It delves into meaty themes of revenge and fairness, appealing to those who like intricate moral tales.
• It has intense scenes involving child death and assault attempts, which could disturb or repel some.
• Some might think there’s less combat in the book than anticipated, despite its focus on death and rivalry.
• Flashbacks break the narrative flow, which might irk those who favor a straight, evenly-paced story.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Greek Mythology

In this novel, Theseus navigates the complexities of love, power, and leadership. The book details his battles against gods and men, his passionate romances, and his profound struggles with destiny and duty, highlighting his internal challenges as a leader.

One of the most compelling aspects of “The Bull from the Sea” is its exploration of Theseus as more than a mythic figure; the book portrays him as a deeply human character with all the virtues and flaws that come with it.

“The Bull from the Sea” balances action and introspection and will transport you to another time and place, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in Greek mythology and historical fiction.

It is the mark of little men to like only what they know; one step beyond, and they feel the black cold of chaos.

• The book sheds light on ancient Greek society, adding depth to the read.
• The novel delves into themes such as duty, love, and sacrifice, offering much for readers to ponder.
• Theseus is portrayed as a complex character, giving readers a deeper understanding of his motivations and challenges.
• The novel’s portrayal of women reflects its ancient setting, which might clash with today’s views.
• Theseus, often hot-tempered and harsh, especially toward women, might not win all readers’ sympathy.
• Starting the book can be tough without reading the series’ first installment, “The King Must Die,” as it may cause confusion.

Genres: Classics, Non-fiction, Greek Mythology, History, Ancient

“The Library of Greek Mythology” covers an extensive range of stories, from the creation of the universe to the tales of the Trojan War, offering a complete guide to the gods, heroes, and mythical narratives of ancient Greece.

Originally attributed to Apollodorus of Athens, a student of Aristarchus, the book has gone through a history of preservation, including near loss and rediscovery, and has been a crucial source for classicists since its compilation.

What makes “The Library of Greek Mythology” unique is its status as the only work of its kind to have survived from classical antiquity, offering a unique window into the myths and legends of ancient Greece that influenced writers and scholars throughout history.

• Its organized structure makes navigating various myths and legends easier for readers.
• This work is the only one of its kind to have survived from classical antiquity, adding to its historical and cultural value.
• It offers detailed accounts of Greek myths, covering various stories from the universe’s origins to the Trojan War.
• The book draws mostly on previous sources and lacks new content.
• The organization of family trees can be intricate and hard to keep track of for some.
• It’s structured like an encyclopedia, potentially not appealing to those seeking a narrative style.

Genres: Classics, Romance, Fiction, Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Short Stories

The story revolves around Psyche, a mortal woman whose beauty made the goddess of love, Venus, jealous. Venus then commands her son Cupid to punish Psyche by making her fall in love with a hideous creature.

However, in a twist of fate, Cupid himself falls in love with Psyche and takes her as his wife but forbids her from seeing him. Despite Cupid’s warnings, she looks upon her husband’s face, only to cause his departure.

Psyche’s journey becomes one of trials as she seeks to regain Cupid’s love, facing challenges set by Venus. Her journey from a naive girl to a figure of divine stature is a tale of growth and redemption, making it a timeless story that resonates with readers.

Its blend of divine intervention, mortal struggle, and the triumph of love over adversity makes it a standout narrative in Greek mythology and a captivating read.

• Its tale-within-a-tale setup deepens and enriches the plot, captivating readers more.
• It touches on love, treachery, salvation, and the search for real affection, themes that strike a chord with many.
• The story contains symbols about love and the spirit, seen as a soul’s quest for eternity and joining with the divine.
• Gods in the story act almost comically, unlike their usual mythic roles.
• It weaves in heavy philosophy, like Plato’s and Epicurus’s ideas, which could stump those unfamiliar.
• Psyche’s initial naivety and struggle to keep her husband a secret from her sisters may annoy some readers.

Genres: Historical Fiction, LGBT, Classics, Greek Mythology

The story follows the life of Alexias, a young Athenian noble known for his athletic abilities and beauty. Alexias faces a challenging childhood, losing his mother at birth and narrowly escaping being exposed to the elements by his father.

The novel explores his relationships with Lysis, a student of Socrates, who becomes both his lover and a father figure. This relationship defies the Athenian norms where the older erastes should pursue the younger eromenos, causing a stir in their community.

“The Last of the Wine” is an authentic and tender portrayal of homosexuality in ancient Greece, set against a historical backdrop exploring themes of love, honor, loyalty, and the pursuit of beauty and goodness, as inspired by Socratic philosophy.

The novel challenges readers to consider the ideals that drive societies and individuals and the personal and political struggles that define our humanity.

We shall either find what we are seeking, or free ourselves from the persuasion that we know what we do not know.

• Socratic notions of virtue, beauty, and truth play a key role, enriching the story’s backdrop.
• The book explores Greek life, covering events, athletics, military practices, and wedding traditions.
• It was among the first novels to focus on male homosexuality, depicting it sensitively within ancient Greek norms.
• It delves into serious moral themes, including power and its misuse, which might be too complex or vague for some.
• Its concentration on philosophical conversations, mainly Socratic thought, may not capture readers who are uninterested in philosophy.
• The novel’s pioneering depiction of ancient Greek same-sex relationships may seem old-fashioned to those with modern LGBTQ+ perspectives.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Classics

This historical novel is narrated by an aged Theseus, reflecting on the significant events of his life, starting from his childhood in Troizen under the guardianship of his grandfather, King Pittheus.

The story is rich with details of ancient Greek culture and rituals, including a poignant scene of Theseus witnessing the ritualistic slaughter of a horse, symbolizing the sacrifice kings must be prepared to make for their people.

What sets “The King Must Die” apart is its blend of historical fact and mythological fiction, creating a story and providing insightful commentary on the mores and cultural practices of Classical Greece, making it an enlightening and entertaining read.

A man is at his youngest when he thinks he is a man, not yet realizing that his actions must show it.

• The book examines Greek life, women’s roles, and the importance of training for young men.
• The story considers fate, governance, and the burdens of power, appealing to those drawn to such ideas.
• It depicts Theseus as a detailed and nuanced character, focusing on his abilities, weaknesses, and fate.
• The novel graphically displays past violence and sacrifices, potentially disturbing some.
• Its representation of women, true to the era, may disappoint those seeking stronger female characters.
• Theseus’ manipulative and tactical ways of tackling obstacles might unsettle readers with moral concerns.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Greek Mythology, Romance, Fantasy

“Helen of Troy” is a reinvention of the legendary tale from Homer’s Iliad, but with a unique twist—it’s narrated from Helen’s perspective. This approach brings a fresh lens to a well-known story and humanizes Helen, transforming her into a relatable character.

In this version, Helen’s life is explored, from her extraordinary birth as the daughter of Zeus and the human Queen of Sparta, Leda, to her upbringing in a royal household where her beauty is both a blessing and a curse.

The central event of the story is, of course, her love affair with Paris, the prince of Troy, which ignites the Trojan War. The novel does not shy away from painting the brutal aspects of the war through Helen’s eyes.

Through this book, Helen’s story becomes more than just a tale of war and beauty; it’s a journey through a life filled with innocence, horror, peace, and chaos, making “Helen of Troy” not to be missed by readers.

Some things can be recovered. Some things can be restored. But some lost things, we seek forever.

• The novel realistically retells Helen of Troy’s saga, mixing real elements with myth attractively.
• It brings ancient Greece to life with sharp descriptions of its scenery, buildings, and traditions.
• Helen narrates her story in the first person, drawing readers deep into her persona and offering a personal perspective on the legendary events​.
• Plot techniques to spotlight Helen in key “Iliad” events could seem forced to some readers.
• Character renditions of Achilles and Paris might clash with traditional images, potentially troubling myth purists.
• Some readers might find the novel lacking emotional depth, especially in the latter parts that cover Helen’s life after the fall of Troy​.

Genres: Greek Mythology, Historical Fiction, Retellings, Fantasy

Jocasta, known for being Oedipus’s mother and wife, is depicted here as a young girl forced into marriage with the King of Thebes, a stranger much older than her. Her narrative delves into her life challenges and her limited choices due to circumstances.

On the other hand, Ismene, known as the daughter of Oedipus and Jocasta, experiences a traumatic event within the palace walls, setting off a chain of events that redefines the family’s fate.

The novel shines a light on these two characters, exploring their inner lives, struggles, and the societal constraints they navigate. It reexamines the classic myths through their perspectives, offering a familiar and strikingly new narrative.

This approach allows the reader to see beyond the traditional tales of fate and tragedy, focusing instead on Jocasta and Ismene’s personal and emotional journeys and making it an essential read for those interested in Greek mythology and feminist reinterpretations.

Jocasta had never enjoyed being married to her husband more than at his funeral.

• The novel empowers its female characters, unlike in traditional tales.
• It delves into destiny, kinship, and authority, triggering deeper thought.
• It connects Jocasta and Ismene’s lives, offering a parallel connection between women’s experiences across generations..
• The descriptive writing style may slow down readers who prefer quick-paced stories.
• The book’s feminist angle might conflict with traditional takes on these age-old tales.
• The new spins on famous characters like Achilles and Paris could clash with fans’ usual views.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Mythology, Fantasy

Diana Morgan, an Oxford lecturer, and Greek mythology expert influenced by her grandmother’s claims of being an Amazon herself, leads her on a journey across Europe in search of a league of secret sisters guarding a treasure since the Trojan War.

The story alternates between Diana’s modern-day adventure and the Bronze Age tale of Myrina and her sister Lilli. Myrina, a trained hunter, becomes a key figure in the history of the Trojan War, showcasing her bravery and leadership.

“The Lost Sisterhood” blends archaeology, mythology, and modern adventure, creating an educational and exciting narrative. The novel also delves into issues such as artifact restitution and archaeological ethics, making it a thought-provoking read.

Only weak men want women to be weak.

• It blends myth with history, pleasing fans of both areas.
• “The Lost Sisterhood” alternates between past and present in its plot, creating an engaging, layered tale.
• The book examines how multiple cultures weave myths into their fabric, offering intellectual engagement.
• Switching between two timelines might confuse readers who like a simple story.
• Jumping from one character or era to another might break the rhythm for those who enjoy continuous plots.
• It crosses different genres, which could disappoint those anticipating a straight historical or modern thriller.

Genres: Plays, Classics, Drama, Mythology, Fiction, Theatre, Poetry

The play centers around Electra, who is consumed by grief and a thirst for vengeance against her mother, Clytemnestra, and her mother’s lover, Aegisthus, who was responsible for the murder of her father upon his return from the Trojan War.

It explores themes such as the ethics of revenge, the complexities of family loyalty, and the psychological effects of grief and anger. Sophocles expertly crafts Electra’s character, depicting her inner turmoil and unwavering determination.

This is an essential read for Greek mythology and tragedy enthusiasts, offering insights into ancient Greek society and moral dilemmas. Its compelling narrative and profound themes make “Electra” a timeless classic that still resonates with modern audiences.

I will not live by rules like those.

• It contains symbols and themes that add depth, rewarding analytical readers.
• Character interactions are full of drama, sparking thought-provoking and forceful dialogues.
• The play examines intense feelings such as sorrow, anger, and the quest for fairness, resonating with many.
• Gender roles might appear outdated or problematic through a contemporary lens.
• The social customs, norms, and beliefs intrinsic to ancient Greek society might feel foreign or inaccessible in modern times.
• The lack of moral clarity and the problematic endorsement of revenge might not align well with the values of some readers.

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Retellings, Mythology, Fiction, Contemporary

The novel follows the story of Eury, a young Puerto Rican girl haunted by trauma and evil spirits, who moves to New York from Tampa Bay, Florida, to live with her cousin Penelope and her Aunt Titi.

As the story unfolds, Eury experiences a near-death incident, and like the classic Greek myth, Pheus, a bachata-singing neighborhood charmer, ventures into the Underworld to help her escape the grip of Ato.

“Never Look Back” blends modern issues like mental health and trauma, making it an important addition to the young adult genre and a standout among the myths of retellings.

• Music takes center stage in the story, enchanting readers who love tunes.
• The novel stars Afro-Latinx characters, spotlighting diversity and representation.
• It champions confronting challenges with love and kinship as pillars, offering encouragement.
• It weaves in current topics like Hurricane Maria’s impact, which may not suit those after pure fantasy.
• The novel delves into trauma and recovery, potentially weighing on readers who enjoy lighter topics.
• Its strong Afro-Latinx and Bronx atmosphere might not captivate those seeking broader settings or other cultural tales.

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Mythology, Fantasy, Literature, Ancient, Novels

The novel follows Lucius, a man from the Greek part of the Roman Empire, who is on a journey to Thessaly. His curiosity about magic and witchcraft leads him into various misadventures.

The novel chronicles Lucius’ misadventures and the series of stories he encounters or overhears, serving as a narrative within a narrative. His experiences range from the comedic to the tragic, offering a satirical view of Roman society.

The novel combines elements of allegory, satire, and bawdiness, creating a complex and multifaceted narrative. Its exploration of transformation, literally and metaphorically, and its commentary on human nature and society make it an important and timeless work.

And so his life he surrendered to destiny, but his glory he kept for himself.

• The book offers views into Roman philosophy and faith.
• It explores magic, change, and the idea of transformation, appealing to those who like to question reality.
• Lucius, the protagonist’s transformation into an ass, leads to a series of entertaining and comical adventures that delight readers with their humor.
• The novel’s old-fashioned views on women might upset some readers.
• Its old-style, episodic flow could disappoint those accustomed to current narrative methods.
• Vague morals and the main character’s faults may dissatisfy those who prefer explicit ethical guidance.

Genres: Fantasy, LGBT, Mythology, Romance, Lesbian, Retellings, Queer

Central to the narrative is Persephone, who finds herself at a crossroads of self-discovery and independence. It delves deep into Persephone’s journey of self-empowerment and self-realization.

Her character evolves from being under the shadow of her mother and Zeus to standing on her own, learning to convert feelings of injustice into action, and finding her individual identity.

The book explores themes like the contrast between mortality and immortality and the significance of having choices. It encourages readers to ponder the differences in perceptions and values between mortals and immortals in relation to love and death.

“The Dark Wife” is a vibrant and imaginative exploration of Greek mythology, challenging traditional narratives and offering a perspective highlighting the struggle for independence and agency.

I had loved and lost, and now… Love had found me again, brought me back to life in the land of the dead.

• The book reimagines the Persephone and Hades myth with a feminist twist.
• At its heart is a lesbian love story, adding depth and LGBTQ+ representation to the genre.
• It navigates through intense emotions like affection, longing, hurt, and deceit, drawing readers in.
• The book addresses grim topics such as mortality and treachery, possibly disturbing certain readers.
• Its poetic style, though elegant, could be too ornate or complex for those who favor plain storytelling.
• The main lesbian relationship, while enriching for some, may not attract those seeking conventional straight romances.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Greek Mythology, Fantasy, Retellings

The novel starts with the Greeks inside the wooden horse, including Pyrrhus, Achilles’ son, who is anxious about living up to his father’s legacy. Pyrrhus’s brutal actions, such as the killing of the Trojan king Priam and his refusal to bury him, set a dark tone for the story.

The narrative shifts between the perspectives of Briseis and Pyrrhus, creating a contrast between her reflective narration and the men’s impulsive, often violent actions. Briseis’s journey is one of survival and resilience.

The novel highlights themes such as the underestimation of women, the complexities of motherhood, and the struggle for survival in a patriarchal world. It is a must-read for those interested in Greek mythology or powerful stories of women’s resilience.

We women are peculiar creatures. We tend not to love those who murder our families.

• The book tackles courage, endurance, and spirit amid hardship, stirring and inspiring readers.
• The in-depth character growth showcases diverse sides of individual personalities and backgrounds.
• Barker portrays determined, layered women dealing with war’s consequences, highlighting their strength and endurance.
• The book’s nuanced morals may disturb those who like straightforward good and evil characters.
• The story dwells on war’s consequences and might not entice fans of battle action or dynamic plots.
• The sole focus on women’s post-war experiences may not satisfy those wanting varied viewpoints.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Retellings, Feminism

In “The Penelopiad,” Penelope tells her story from the afterlife. She talks about her life from childhood in Sparta to her marriage with Odysseus and her time in Ithaca.

While Odysseus is away at war, Penelope cleverly handles suitors who want to marry her. She tricks them by weaving a shroud and unweaving it every night. The story also highlights the fate of her Twelve Maids, whom Odysseus and Telemachus unjustly punish.

This novel gives a new perspective to the classic Odyssey, focusing on the women’s side of the story. It is an essential addition to the collection of anyone interested in history’s untold and marginalized voices.

Which of us can resist the temptation of being thought indispensable?

• The book spotlights women’s views, enhancing often overlooked roles in myths.
• The detailed portrayal of Penelope and others turns mythic names into robust characters.
• Atwood’s sharp humor spices up the narrative, balancing light-heartedness with deeper issues.
• The unique structure, featuring the maids’ chorus, could confuse those who favor linear tales.
• Tackling gender roles and power systems in depth might be too intense for certain readers.
• The novel’s humorous and occasionally mocking voice may not suit those who like serious or classic storytelling.

Genres: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Historical Fiction, Retellings

The story begins with the birth of Princess Atalanta, who is abandoned by her father on a mountainside because she is not the son he hoped for. Miraculously, she survives, thanks to the intervention of a mother bear and the protective gaze of Artemis.

Raised in the wild, Atalanta grows up to be a fierce and strong huntress, becoming one of the best warriors among Artemis’ followers. The book takes a turn when Atalanta joins the Argonauts on their quest representing herself as an avatar of Artemis.

This journey is marked by adventures and challenges, during which Atalanta proves herself to be as capable as her male counterparts. However, as she starts to fall in love, Atalanta faces a difficult choice: staying true to her vow to Artemis or following her heart.

“Atlanta” brings to life a formidable character that explores what it might have been like to be the only female hero in a world dominated by men. It’s a story of adventure, love, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world, making it a must-read story of resilience.

The oracle warned that I would lose myself, but the opposite is true. I am more myself than I have ever been. I am wild, I am free. I am Atalanta.

• The story celebrates empowerment, grit, and defying social norms.
• It offers a current women’s take on classic tales, refreshing old myths.
• The book challenges gender stereotypes, showing Atalanta’s athletic prowess.
• The novel’s focus on gender roles, while significant, may not interest everyone.
• The story may be potentially daunting for those unfamiliar with Greek Myths.
• The story’s complex character interactions might challenge fans of simpler narratives.

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Canada, Animals, Philosophy, Dogs, Mythology

“Fifteen Dogs” is an allegorical novel that centers on a group of fifteen dogs who are granted human consciousness and language by the Greek gods Hermes and Apollo. The story unfolds in Toronto, where these dogs escape to form their own society in High Park.

The novel delves into various themes, such as the nature of intelligence, the complexities of communication, love, and friendship, and the existential crises that arise from self-awareness.

The dogs’ individual experiences and fates are portrayed against the backdrop of their interactions with humans and each other, bringing to light the profound questions about the essence of happiness and the true nature of being.

It’s a compelling read for those interested in philosophical fiction and exploring human nature through an unconventional lens.

Perfect understanding between beings is no guarantor of happiness. To perfectly understand another’s madness, for instance, is to be mad oneself. 

• The book weaves in smart, light humor, balancing its profound themes.
• Each dog has a distinct personality, allowing for rich character development.
• Through the eyes of the dogs, the book explores what it means to be human, delving into themes of intelligence, emotion, and morality.
• The book plays with language, inventing a canine lingo that could confuse some.
• It probes existence, thinking, and feeling deeply, potentially overwhelming those who seek simple plots.
• The story’s deep emotion and darker moments, like pain and death themes, could unsettle certain readers.

Genres: Greek Mythology, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Retellings

The book takes place in the kingdom of Ithaca, where King Odysseus has been absent for 17 years after going to war with Troy. In his absence, the women of Ithaca, led by Penelope, Odysseus’s queen, have been left to run the kingdom.

Penelope is depicted as a loyal wife waiting for her husband’s return and a strong, astute leader who deeply loves her land and people. From Hera’s perspective, this retelling highlights these women’s struggles and resilience.

The book offers a fresh portrayal of Penelope, showing her capability to navigate the political landscape, deal with suitors vying for her hand, and the power that comes with it, as well as other external threats, which makes this book a compelling read.

I was a queen of women once, before my husband bound me with chains and made me a queen of wives.

• “Ithaca” stands out for its vibrant and multifaceted women characters.
• The book delves deeply into human feelings, connecting with many readers.
• The novel examines fate, authority, and humanity, encouraging deep reflection.
• The book graphically depicts its era’s cruelty, potentially unsettling readers.
• Intricate and flawed characters may prevent some readers from relating to them.
• The book centers on women’s challenges in a patriarchal society, which may not interest all readers.

Genres: Mythology, Non-fiction, Classics, History, School, Religion, Short Stories

This book retells 27 Greek myths, immersing readers in the era of the Olympian gods’ ancient and savage rule. It brings to life the major gods and goddesses, as well as the lesser-known deities, Titans, Giants, and, of course, the iconic heroes of Greek mythology.

It doesn’t oversimplify these stories; the book maintains much of their symbolism and connection to ancient Greek culture, making it a good reference for mythological wisdom and history.

These stories provide a cultural and moral framework, offering guidance on virtue, morality, and the consequences of actions. They encourage readers to reflect on their own choices and the broader impact of their actions.

• The book might encourage further reading on Greek mythology and Graves’ writings.
• These myths give readers insights into ancient Greece’s values, beliefs, and customs.
• The book focuses on mythology and offers educational insights into ancient Greek culture and religion.
• As a mid-20th-century work, the book’s take on mythology may not match current views.
• The book targets young readers and may not satisfy those seeking scholarly depth in Greek mythology.
• Simplified for accessibility, it might lose some original myth complexity, disappointing those wanting comprehensive knowledge.

Genres: Fiction, LGBT, Queer, Mythology, Contemporary, Romance, Retellings

The book reinterprets Ovid’s metamorphosis myth of Iphis, skillfully adapted to a modern-day setting. This novella is set in the Scottish town of Inverness and revolves around two sisters, Anthea and Imogen, who both work for Pure, a bottled water company.

The story takes an intriguing turn when Anthea falls in love with Robin, a genderqueer environmental activist, delving into themes of homophobia, corporate and social responsibility, and the transformative power of love.

What sets “Girl Meets Boy” apart is its delightful blend of contemporary issues with ancient myth. Smith reimagines a classical story for modern readers and infuses it with relevant social commentary, making it a novel that resonates with today’s issues.

And it was always the stories that needed the telling that gave us the rope we could cross any river with.

• The novel strongly promotes standing firm for personal convictions.
• The book’s humor and wordplay make it an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
• It challenges conventional narratives and societal norms regarding relationships and love​​.
• The book includes homophobia, misogyny, and sexism, which may upset or trigger certain readers.
• The novel focuses on characters over the plot, possibly not meeting the expectations of those who favor plot-focused stories.
• It tackles complex issues such as gender fluidity and social duty, which are potentially difficult or unattractive to some readers.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Greek Mythology

In “Antigoddess,” the old gods are not immortal and are, in fact, dying. Athena and Hermes find themselves suffering from mysterious and slow decay. In their quest for answers and survival, they travel the world to gather allies and face old and new enemies.

Unaware of the existence of gods and her own extraordinary past, Cassandra and her high-school boyfriend Aidan, who harbors his divine secret, become entangled in a war involving gods.

This portrayal of gods losing their immortality and struggling for survival adds a layer of vulnerability and depth to these figures, making them more relatable and intriguing.

It’s a book that should not be missed by readers who enjoy a blend of myth and modernity and who are intrigued by the idea of ancient gods navigating the challenges and complexities of the modern world.

Fate was the only lesson a god needed to learn. It was their only hard limit.

• The novel brings depth to Greek mythological figures, making them compelling and relatable.
• “Antigoddess” examines mortality and divinity, questioning how immortals handle their possible end.
• The interactions between the gods, with their varied histories and personalities, add depth and complexity.
• Knowing Greek mythology can improve enjoyment, possibly hindering those with less background.
• The book’s dark take on mythology may not suit those seeking a lighter, classic portrayal of Greek gods.
• Modern versions of the gods in the novel might clash with some readers’ traditional views on these characters.

Genres: Fiction, Africa, Contemporary, Nigeria, African Literature

The story follows the life of Chinonso, a humble poultry farmer whose life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters and prevents a woman, Ndali, from committing suicide.

This act of kindness sparks a deep connection between them, leading to a love affair that faces significant challenges, particularly from Ndali’s affluent family. Chinonso’s journey is marked by his efforts to elevate his status to be deemed worthy of Ndali by her family.

The book is a must-read for those interested in exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of human destiny through the lens of African literature. Its portrayal of the struggles faced by many in pursuit of a better life makes it relatable to many.

The true being of a man is hidden behind the wall of flesh and blood from the eyes of everyone else, including his own.

• The book examines social class struggles, enriching the story.
• The novel vividly portrays Nigerian life, teaching about its culture and daily life.
• It reveals deep truths about hope, desperation, and yearning for improvement.
• The book’s deep use of Igbo cosmology and culture may be hard for those new to it.
• The story’s unique narrative voice may make it difficult to connect with the characters.
• The main character’s many struggles make the story sad, possibly not for those who like upbeat tales.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Humor, Greek Mythology, Romance, Contemporary

In “Gods Behaving Badly,” the Greek gods are portrayed in a contemporary setting, living in London with diminishing powers due to their lack of belief.

The story centers around a young woman named Alice, who unknowingly finds herself working as a cleaning lady in a flat occupied by these fallen gods. The plot thickens when Apollo, one of the gods, falls in love with Alice.

What sets “Gods Behaving Badly” apart is its humorous and irreverent take on the Olympian gods, placing them in a modern, mundane context and exploring how they cope with their fading powers and relevance.

It combines elements of fantasy, humor, and mythology, creating a book that readers who enjoy a light-hearted take on classical mythology shouldn’t miss, blending the ancient with the contemporary in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.

Gods were always tricking each other into looking foolish; if they didn’t, the world would probably be too bored to keep it going.

• The book humorously yet insightfully critiques modern belief and heroism.
• The gods appear arrogant and naive; their faded powers create humor in today’s world.
• At its heart, there’s a touching human love story, providing a nice contrast to the gods’ antics.
• Readers may find the novel’s shift from comedy to seriousness too abrupt.
• The book’s humor is often crude, possibly clashing with tastes for milder, family-friendly jokes.
• Experts in Greek mythology may view the book’s approach as too shallow or not true enough to the myths.

Clytemnestra, after being deceived and having witnessed the sacrifice of her daughter, is consumed by a desire for revenge. This leads her to murder Agamemnon upon his return from the Trojan War alongside her lover Aegisthus.

The story then follows Orestes, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and befriends Leander, an exile like himself. Meanwhile, Electra seeks vengeance against her mother for Agamemnon’s murder.

The novel offers a compelling look at the dynamics of power, betrayal, and vengeance within a family, making it an essential read for those interested in Greek mythology and dramatic storytelling.

The memory of my name will last longer than the lives of many men.

• It tackles power, betrayal, and revenge in ways that appeal to modern readers.
• The book challenges gender norms with strong female characters leading the plot.
• Clytemnestra, Orestes, and Electra narrate the story, each providing a fresh, captivating angle.
• The book starts conventionally, suggesting a typical Greek tragedy before diverging into original twists.
• Tóibín’s reserved writing style during intense scenes may disappoint those wanting more vivid descriptions.
• Complex relations between characters like Clytemnestra, Electra, and Orestes may challenge those who favor simple interactions.

These ancient myths, with their complex characters and intricate plots, continue to resonate with us, offering a window into a past that still shapes our present.

They remind us of the power of storytelling and how it can transform our understanding of the world around us.

Whether you’ve found yourself inspired by the strength of Achilles, the wisdom of Athena, or the cunning of Odysseus, these stories have the ability to connect us across time and space, speaking to the shared essence of our existence.

And who knows? By the end, you might just find yourself plotting your own quest . Remember, in Greek mythology, everything’s possible—especially the improbable!

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Erika Maniquiz

Erika Maniquiz is a certified teacher and librarian with a Library and Information Science degree. She cherishes the calm moments reading books as much as the dynamic discussions she has in her classroom. Beyond her career, she is a fan of Kdrama and loves Kpop's lively beats.

Norse Mythology for Smart People

The 10 best greek mythology books.

There’s a bewildering array of books out there on Greek mythology, especially at the beginner level. Which ones are most deserving of your hard-earned money? This list (last updated in April of 2019) was written with the intention of helping you make that decision.

Different people find Greek mythology to be meaningful for different reasons. For some, the wondrous tales and their larger-than-life characters make for great literature. For others, the value of the Greek myths and the religion of which they were a part lies in their importance for understanding the history of Western civilization and thought. Still others might be interested in the subject for spiritual or scholarly reasons. But whatever it is that draws you to Greek mythology, you’ll probably find at least a book or two on this list that fits what you’re looking for.

The order of the books in this list runs roughly from the most newbie-friendly to the most advanced. The lower-numbered books aren’t necessarily better than the higher-numbered ones, but the lower-numbered ones are more accessible.

If you find this list to be helpful enough that you decide to buy one or more of the books listed here, the best way you can say “thank you” is to buy whatever you decide to buy through the Amazon links provided at the end of each book’s description. When you do, I automatically get a small commission on your purchase with no extra cost or hassle for you whatsoever.

1. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton

Ever since its original publication in 1942, Edith Hamilton’s Mythology has been widely seen as the quintessential introduction to Greek mythology for adults, even as countless other introductions to the topic have come and gone. Yes, it’s stood the test of time that well.

Hamilton masterfully retells all of the major myths of the Greeks, and gives overviews of all of their main deities and heroes. Her prose is clear and lucid, yet poetic and evocative – an ideal style for both the head and the heart. The book assumes no prior knowledge of the topic whatsoever, making it perfectly suited to the total beginner.

As an added bonus, Mythology includes a brief treatment of Norse mythology at the end.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to Greek mythology that reads like great literature, Edith Hamilton’s Mythology is the book I’d recommend. Click here to view or buy Mythology at Amazon.

2. The Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton

Another deservedly popular and impeccably newbie-friendly introduction to the topic that you might want to consider is Richard Buxton’s The Complete World of Greek Mythology . Buxton’s book covers much of the same ground as Hamilton’s, but is written in a less literary style and has more of an emphasis on the historical and geographical contexts within which the myths were told. For example, Buxton will teach you much more about the wider religion and society of which Greek mythology was a part, the roles that particular features of the Greeks’ landscape played in their ancient myths, and how subsequent centuries have used and re-imagined Greek mythology.

But perhaps the biggest draw of The Complete World of Greek Mythology for most people will be its 330 illustrations, including 139 in color, which adorn practically every page of the book. These pictures range from artifacts from ancient Greece to photos of Greek landscapes to classic paintings of scenes from Greek mythology.

Bottom line: you can’t go wrong with either Hamilton or Buxton – or both, if you find both of their approaches appealing. Click here to view or buy The Complete World of Greek Mythology at Amazon.

3. D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire

If you’re looking for a great book on Greek mythology for kids, D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths is easily the best one out there. It’s written in a style so simple and clear that children should have no problem understanding it, but the language is also very colorful and evocative. It entertains as it informs.

The book is as comprehensive as you could wish for in a book of this sort, and gives accounts of the personalities of the gods and most of the heroes, as well as retellings of most of the major myths themselves. Along the way, countless lavish illustrations help to bring the stories and characters to life. This book is sure to kindle your child’s imagination and take him or her on a journey to an enchanting world filled with extraordinary beings who do epic deeds, but who are cast as being surprisingly relatable for a child.

Much like Edith Hamilton’s Mythology , D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths was originally published decades ago – in 1962, in fact – but has yet to be surpassed to this day. It’s that good. Click here to view or buy D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths at Amazon.

4. The Iliad by Homer, translated by Robert Fagles

Back to the books for adults.

Who could consider themselves to be knowledgeable about Greek mythology without a familiarity with Homer’s masterpieces, the Iliad and the Odyssey ? Even if you’ve read the summaries in introductory works on the topic, there’s no substitute for reading the original epic poems (in English translation, of course, unless you can read Homeric Greek).

The experience of reading Homer’s works is just as valuable as the knowledge of Greek mythology you’ll glean from them. Homer is regarded as one of the greatest poets of all time for good reasons; his verse is poignantly beautiful without being flowery or effusive, his signature rapid pacing makes for an action-packed read, and the stories he tells feature many of the most paradigmatic characters and scenes in all of world literature.

The Iliad tells the story of the conquest of the city of Troy by a Greek army led by the likes of Achilles, Agamemnon, and Odysseus. The fight is ultimately over Helen, a daughter of Zeus and one of the most beautiful women to ever walk the earth, who is abducted by one of the Trojans. The plot is tugged one way and then another by the characters’ complex psyches, twists of fate, and divine interventions. Click here to view or buy the Iliad at Amazon.

5. The Odyssey by Homer, translated by Robert Fagles

Homer’s second major epic poem, the Odyssey , picks up where the plot of the Iliad leaves off. Troy has been conquered, but for Odysseus, one of the heroes of the victorious army, many battles still loom ahead before he can return home to the arms of his wife, Penelope, and their son, Telemachus. Over the course of twenty years, Odysseus must undergo captivity at the hands of a nymph, the curse of the god Poseidon, a fight with a cyclops, malevolent drugs and spells, the now-proverbial Scylla and Charybdis, and many other trials and tribulations before he can at last set foot again in his home city of Ithaca.

Meanwhile, Penelope and Telemachus must fend off many dozens of suitors, who want to gain Penelope’s hand and, with it, access to Odysseus’s great wealth.

As with the Iliad , the best translation of the Odyssey for most people will be that of Robert Fagles, who makes both of these Greek masterpieces read like masterpieces in English. Click here to view or buy the Odyssey at Amazon.

6. Theogony by Hesiod, translated by M.L. West

Another primary source that every Greek mythology enthusiast owes it to himself or herself to read is Hesiod’s Theogony .

Theogony is a prose work from the late eighth century BCE that provides a remarkably systematic account of the origins of the first gods. (“Theogony” means the genesis of gods.) It’s one of the main sources we have on ancient Greek creation narratives, and its clear, point-by-point structure has made it a favorite source for modern retellings.

M.L. West’s translation is probably the best one out there – easy to understand, but full of poetic richness and nuance. This edition also includes Hesiod’s Works and Days , a collection of advice for farmers on how to live a good life. Click here to view or buy Theogony at Amazon.

7. The Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus, translated by Robin Hard

The Library of Greek Mythology (a.k.a. the Bibliotheca ) is the only work that survives from classical antiquity that attempts to provide a comprehensive account of all – or at least large parts – of Greek mythology. As such, it’s long been one of the main ancient sources that scholars have used to piece together Greek mythology.

The material in The Library of Greek Mythology covers the birth of the gods and the creation of the world, the later exploits of the gods, and the mighty deeds of heroes like Hercules, Jason, Perseus, Theseus, and the men and women of the Trojan War.

Robin Hard’s translation is modern and accessible, and makes for pleasurable reading. Click here to view or buy The Library of Greek Mythology at Amazon.

8. Greek Religion by Walter Burkert

If you’re interested in going beyond the mythology and learning more about the ancient religion to which Greek mythology belonged, Walter Burkert’s Greek Religion is probably the best single book out there on the topic.

Whereas a few of the other books on this list contain some basic remarks about the Greek gods and other aspects of Greek religion that pertain directly to the myths, Burkert goes much further. Greek Religion offers a comprehensive account of the ancient Greeks’ sanctuaries, rituals, deities, theology (both explicit and implicit), ideal of heroism, views on death and the afterlife, and more. The last two sections focus on later developments in Greek religion, such as the “mystery” cults and the beginnings of the philosophical tradition.

Throughout the book, Burkert provides an ideal synthesis of factual detail and abstract, conceptual interpretation. Click here to view or buy Greek Religion at Amazon.

9. The Penguin Dictionary of Classical Mythology by Pierre Grimal

I imagine that most of you who are reading this have read the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Remember how his works typically come with glossaries so that you don’t become too bewildered by the sheer profusion of proper nouns – the names of characters, places, etc.?

Well, Greek mythology contains a similar abundance of such “key terms.” Therefore, when reading any book on the topic, it’s extremely helpful to have a guide to those “key terms” handy.

Pierre Grimal’s Dictionary of Classical Mythology (reprinted by Penguin Books as The Penguin Dictionary of Classical Mythology ) is the best such guide available today. It covers virtually every proper noun you’ll encounter when reading about Greek mythology. Each alphabetical entry contains a description of the character, place, concept, or other “key term” that’s thorough but makes sure that the main points don’t get lost amongst the details. Click here to view or buy The Penguin Dictionary of Classical Mythology at Amazon.

10. Myth and Philosophy: A Contest of Truths by Lawrence J. Hatab

Those of you who have particularly intellectual interests will likely find Lawrence Hatab’s Myth and Philosophy to be engrossing and illuminating, just as I have.

Hatab first offers an overview of early Greek myth and religion from a philosophical standpoint – including what myth is, what its latent or implicit theory of knowledge is, its relationship with the political system and view of the self that prevailed in early Greece, and other such themes. The philosophies of Nietzsche and Heidegger often help to frame these discussions.

The book then considers the historical transformation from myth to philosophy in ancient Greece, and the roles that the above themes and others played in that transformation. Along the way, Hatab points out ways in which earlier Greek myth and religion provided raw concepts that later philosophy would take up and transform, and ways in which elements of myth remained in Greek philosophy (such as Plato’s view that an inner, intuitive “spark” was the root of all reason).

Myth and Philosophy is probably one of my personal favorite books, and is indispensable reading for anyone interested in both philosophy and myth. Click here to view or buy Myth and Philosophy at Amazon.

If you’ve found this list to be helpful, you might also be interested in these other guides of mine:

• The 10 Best Norse Mythology Books

• The 10 Best Books on the Vikings

• The 10 Best Celtic Mythology Books

• The 10 Best Egyptian Mythology Books

The Ultimate Online Guide to Norse Mythology and Religion

20 must-read Greek mythology books and retellings

In these 20 must-read Greek mythology books, classic Greek myths are reimagined and retold by the likes of Margaret Atwood, Madeline Miller, Stephen Fry, Ali Smith, Colm Tóibín and more. From Achilles and Odysseus to Penelope, Helen and Paris, these are the stories of gods, goddesses, and mortals as you've never heard them before.

More recommended reading

28 Riveting Greek Mythology Books

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Get your history lesson on with the best Greek mythology books to teach you more and transport you to a different place in time.

From retellings of Homer’s epic poems, The Illiad and The Odyssey , to some of the best books about Greek mythology, these stories are sure to inspire, teach, and enlighten – as long as you don’t tick off a vengeful and petty god.

Of course, many books with Greek mythology also depict times of war, focusing on long and, oftentimes, drawn-out battle scenes.

Not all of the players are admirable either – with questionable morals and lessons that may or may not get learned.

However, we especially appreciate books on Greek mythology that shed light on lesser-known characters – especially women – giving them agency and a voice.

Add in queer representation, and you have some of the best modern-day Greek mythology books to choose from.

Below, explore historical fiction, poems, short story collections, contemporary fiction, and LGBTQ+ books on Greek mythology for adults and teens.

Don’t forget to tell us your personal favorite Greek myths book in the comments. Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

28 Best Greek Mythology Books

By Dagney McKinney

Greek Mythology Books Set In Ancient Greece

The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

The story of the siege of Troy is possibly the most well-known ancient Greek story ever told. Through Homer’s Iliad , we know of the epic exploits of men like Achilles, Hector, Agamemnon, and Paris.

But with “heroic” feats also come barbaric acts and rampant misogyny, and these appalling events are seen no clearer than through the eyes of author Pat Barker’s main protagonist, Briseis.

Once a queen of one of Troy’s neighboring kingdoms, Briseis is taken as a “trophy” by Achilles, who destroyed her city and killed her family.

Now his concubine, Briseis is also desired by Agamemnon, leader of the Greek forces at Troy.

Caught between these two prominent figures, Briseis has a front-row seat to all the hours of conflict the Trojan war has to offer.

Shifting the focus away from the more commonly used patriarchal point of view, Barker’s novel is one of the best reimagined Greek mythology books.

The Silence of the Girls is, at times, raw and unflinching in its depictions of war, with a strong feminist message that, fortunately, never comes across as sanctimonious or preachy. Read The Silence of the Girls : Amazon | Goodreads

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

In the final act of The Odyssey , Odysseus returns to his kingdom in Ithaca after 20 years away to reclaim his throne, reunite with his wife Penelope, and cleanse his house of the 100 suitors who have been competing for her hand in marriage.

Using his legendary wits and cunning, Odysseus succeeds against the odds and kills the suitors … and also twelve of Penelope’s maids.

The suitors were invaders in Odysseus’ household, so it makes sense (at least in Greek mythology book terms) to dispose of them. But why kill the maids?

This is one of the questions that author Margaret Atwood attempts to answer in her intriguing novella The Penelopiad .

The other is equally compelling: just what was Penelope really up to during the long years her husband was away?

She managed to keep control of the kingdom, raise a child, and fend off a hundred men for two decades. Most good Greek mythology books don’t have as enticing and mysterious a premise as this one. Read The Penelopiad : Amazon | Goodreads

A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes

Natalie Haynes is responsible for some of the best Greek mythology books, and A Thousand Ships is a great place to dig into her back catalog.

The book is narrated by the muse, Calliope, and focuses on the Trojan War.

However, unlike the original stories, Calliope shares these well-tread tales from the point of view of the oft-overlooked female characters.

Although the Trojan War (and The Illiad ) is at the center of the story, other mythological Greek characters pop up (mostly from The Odyssey ), including Circe and Penelope.

Unlike traditional books on Greek mythology, Haynes always focuses on the women and ensures they finally have agency within their own stories.

For those that want a good feminist Greek myths book but don’t know where to start with all the new retellings, A Thousand Ships is the perfect option.

And if you love Hayne’s writing, you’ll have several more to dive into afterward. Read A Thousand Ships : Amazon | Goodreads

Circe by Madeline Miller

Born into a family of gods, the young Circe is not considered to be particularly godlike by the other deities. She doesn’t have the power of her titan father Helios or the glamor of her naiad mother Perse.

Sent to the realm of mortals, she discovers that the power she has is more subtle: she can use witchcraft to change people into other beings, sometimes gods, sometimes monsters.

Wary of this ability, Circe is banished by Zeus to live alone on the island of Aiaia, and during her exile, she encounters many figures from across Greek mythology.

But eventually, with various gods and men gradually working against her, Circe must find out whether she belongs amongst the mortals or the immortals.

In the original telling of The Odyssey , the character of Circe is merely an obstacle to Odysseus’ progress in the story and serves only as a way for the audience to learn more about Odysseus’ cunning.

Circe the novel fleshes out this “guest star” character, with author Madeline Miller giving a distinct and refreshing voice to one of the far-too-few female characters of Homer’s Odyssey .

This is one of the best Greek mythology books for those looking for a strong female lead character. Read Circe : Amazon | Goodreads

The King Must Die by Mary Renault

With The King Must Die, author Mary Renault takes the myths and legends of Theseus and retells them with the vigor and pacing of a thrilling adventure.

This coming-of-age narrative begins with the establishment of the young Theseus’ insecurities – his small stature and unknown father – that would direct his future actions.

From there we follow him from Trodden to Eleusis, Athens, Crete, and then to Naxos, as he evolves from a juvenile prankster into a budding hero and eventually the charismatic leader who would venture into the labyrinth and do battle with the Minotaur.

Rather than straight-up retell the stories of Theseus, through her research, Renault constructs an anthropologically plausible version of events from which the myths might have arisen.

This technique marks The King Must Die as one of the more inventive Greek mythology books on this list in terms of narrative technique, especially considering it was first published in the late 1950s. Read The King Must Die : Amazon | Goodreads

The Dark Wife by Sarah Diemer

Many people think they know the story of Hades and Persephone. But what if that story was a lie, told by an egotistical and vengeful god?

As a daughter of Zeus, king of the gods, Persephone’s life has the makings of being better than most.

But growing up on Earth under the ever-watching eyes of Mount Olympus, Persephone has never had true freedom.

When Hades – jokingly called “lord” of the dead by Zeus – makes an appearance and offers Persephone a refuge from her constant scrutiny, was it ever likely that she would refuse?

But down in the Underworld with the goddess Hades, Persephone finds the opportunity for more than just freedom; she may also find love, and maybe even find an unknown strength within herself.

Author Sarah Diemer’s sapphic retelling of the abduction of Persephone puts an entirely new spin on the story and makes The Dark Wife a must-read for anyone looking for more queer representation in their books on Greek mythology. Read The Dark Wife : Amazon | Goodreads

Wrath Goddess Sing by Maya Deane

In  Wrath Goddess Sing  we follow Achilles, a trans woman in hiding with her lover Damia after being shunned by her father.

When Odysseus and Diomedes come searching for her to join them in battle against the Hittites, she is reluctant to go.

She finally agrees after her mother, the goddess Athena, bestows upon her a much wished-for gift in exchange.

The Iliad  is one of the most retold stories from Greek mythology, which is a shame because it isn’t my favorite.

I tend not to like retellings set in Ancient Greece because of the focus on on-the-ground war tactics and battles.

However, despite all of that, I was buoyed to pick up  Wrath Goddess Sing  with Achilles as a trans woman and how that altered the story (it totally works, by the way).

Wrath Goddess Sing  isn’t my favorite retelling, but it is an engaging, high-octane story about identity and love. I also loved that the gods in this were shown to be manipulative, blood-thirsty, and cruel.

If you appreciate – and know –  The Iliad  much more than I do, you’ll enjoy this queer retelling.

And if there’s anything we can take away from this Greek myths book, it’s that you should stay away from dolphins and gods. Truly words to live by.

Please be aware, though, that while this is a unique retelling of The Iliad and has excellent trans rep and discussions of transphobia, many of the discussions around race and descriptions of race are deeply uncomfortable and problematic.

It’s possible they may have been somewhat accurate for the time the book is set (Ancient Greece), but it also impacted my enjoyment of the story and is something readers should be aware of going in. Read Wrath Goddess Sing : Amazon | Goodreads

Modern Retellings Of Greek Myths

An Orchestra of Minorities by Chigozie Obioma

An Orchestra of Minorities is heavily steeped in Igbo Cosmology and is a modern retelling of The Odyssey .

The book follows Chinonso, a struggling farmer, and is narrated by his chi, or guardian spirit. It is set partially in Umuahia, Nigeria, and partially in Northern Cyprus.

Chinonso’s life is turned upside down after he stops Ndali, a young woman from a wealthy family, from jumping to her death. The two fall in love, but Ndali’s family does not approve of Chinonso.

To win their approval, he sells all of his possessions to move to Cyprus and get a degree.

Unfortunately, this proves disastrous and sets Chinonso on an unwanted journey that takes him further and further away from the life he thought he wanted.

An Orchestra of Minorities is one of the best Greek mythology books because it not only successfully updates a classic tale but provides insight into a fascinating culture often overlooked in White media.

Read more fantastic books about Nigeria . Read An Orchestra of Minorities : Amazon | Goodreads

Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe

Persephone has not had a regular godlike upbringing. Having been raised in the mortal realm by her goddess mother Demeter, she knows nothing of the traditions, politics, or social graces of Olympus.

So when she finds herself brought to an Olympian party, she’s way out of her depth. But here she meets Hades, ruler of the Underworld, and she can’t deny that she feels a connection.

Little does she know that she’s about to find out exactly how the denizens of Olympus do things. If only she could work out her place in the world of gods and monsters.

Originally a webtoon but now available in print, author Rachel Smythe’s graphic novel does what some of the best books about Greek mythology do: namely, reimagining the stories for the modern era.

With highly stylized artwork and a distinct narrative voice, Lore Olympus is perfect for anyone looking for Greek myths books with a modern twist. Read Lore Olympus : Amazon | Goodreads

Country by Michael Hughes

If you love modern retellings of Greek mythology books and stories, Country is my favorite retelling of Homer’s classic The Illiad .

Country is set in Northern Ireland during the 1990s and centers on The Troubles.

The story follows a group of IRA members who are dissatisfied with the terms of the ceasefire agreement with the British and refuse to give up their weapons.

However, it is soon revealed that this group has an additional bone to pick with the English. Or, at least, one Englishman in particular as they believe he’s responsible for stealing away one of their wives, Nellie.

The Helen of this story (but with more agency), Nellie’s betrayal of Dog – the brother of the group’s leader – sets in motion the series of events within Country .

Soon the infighting within the group leads to a fallout between their leader, Pig, and their best triggerman, Achill, which leads to bloody consequences for them all.

It’s amazing how perfectly the story of The Illiad is transposed into modern Northern Ireland. However, prior knowledge about the IRA and The Troubles is essential.

This book is unapologetically Irish and does not hold your hand through the conflict; you are expected to know the basics going in.

Country is definitely one of the more violent Greek mythology books for adults, and like any story about war it does not always bring out the best in its characters.

But Country also humanizes people in a way The Illiad does not while still being a faithful adaptation.

Uncover more fantastic books about Ireland and Irish culture . Read Country : Amazon | Goodreads

Fifteen Dogs by André Alexis

Strange things happen when two gods get together for a drink.

While hanging out at the Wheat Sheaf Tavern in Toronto, Apollo and Hermes get into a debate about happiness and whether or not animals would be happier than humans if they could think and talk the same way.

Together, they decide to find out. Wagering a year of servitude on the outcome, they bestow human levels of consciousness on a group of fifteen dogs at a nearby veterinary clinic.

Endowed with their newfound abilities to speak and think in ways greater than they ever have before, the dogs easily let themselves out of the clinic, make their way to the city’s High Park, and form a society.

But with new awareness comes new priorities, and before long the dogs begin to break apart and follow their own individual dreams and impulses.

Fifteen Dogs is undeniably one of the most unique books on Greek mythology for adults on this list, with author André Alexis asking the big questions by holding up a canine mirror to ourselves.

Head here for some more of the best books about dogs . Read Fifteen Dogs : Amazon | Goodreads

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The Whispering Muse by Sjón, translated by Victoria Cribb

Caeneus, once an argonaut and Greek hero, now finds himself the second mate on a Danish merchant ship.

He spends his evenings regaling fellow shipmates about his exploits 3000 years ago in Ancient Greece.

However, Caeneus is not the hero of this Icelandic novella . Instead, we see the journey through the eyes of the twice-widowed 80-something Valdimar Haraldsson.

Invited on board by the captain of the ship, Haraldsson is obsessed with the history and etiquette of eating fish in Nordic culture. And he often bores his shipmates with his fascination.

Heavily rooted in Greek myth and Nordic seafaring tales, poet Sjón weaves a unique look at a modern(ish) Caeneus.

Those looking for lyrical books with Greek mythology will be swept away by Sjón’s prose. Read The Whispering Muse : Amazon | Goodreads

Back to Delphi by Ioanna Karystiani, translated by Konstantine Matsoukas

When her son Linus is granted a five-day furlough from his prison, his mother decides to take them on a trip to Delphi in the hopes that it might distract him from his everyday existence under life imprisonment.

She also hopes that they might bond a little more, seeing as their relationship is strained at best.

Unfortunately, that strain is about to increase because Linus’ mother has a secret that she has kept from Linus for years. Namely, that she was the one who led the police to him.

Back to Delphi follows in the footsteps of many Greek mythology books. Fiction featuring heavy themes such as forgiveness, guilt, and revenge often do, especially in familial relationship settings such as this. Read Back to Delphi : Amazon | Goodreads

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

Isma is 28, and she has waited years to strike out on her own. Isma’s life hasn’t been easy.

Six years prior, her mother and grandmother died unexpectedly within a year of each other, and she was left in charge of two confused and grieving 12-year-olds.

Her father, a jihadist, was captured in Afghanistan and disappeared to Guantanamo Bay where he died.

Now, finally, with her two siblings Anneka and Parvaiz old enough to care for themselves, she is pursuing her dream of studying in the USA.

But with her brother now inexplicably mixed up with ISIS and her sister determined to get him back, Isma’s dreams might be put on hold a little longer.

Home Fire is a modern retelling of Sophocles’s play Antigone with a British Muslim family at the center.

And like all good Greek mythology books, Home Fire tackles important and pertinent issues.

Rather than an Ancient Greece setting, this modern retelling is set predominantly in the US, the UK, and Syria with a few mentions of Afghanistan . Read Home Fire : Amazon | Goodreads

Girl Meets Boy by Ali Smith

Imogen and Anthea are sisters, though that’s the only thing they have in common. Working together at Pure – a creative agency in Inverness, Scotland – the two have very different roles and work ethics.

Bored with the office atmosphere, Anthea finds herself falling in love with a local environmental activist known as Iphisol, whose billboard-sized political attacks against the bottled water company that Pure is working for are a thorn in Imogen’s side.

When girl meets boy, anything can happen!

This witty and engaging novella is a retelling of one of Ovid’s stories of transformation from his epic poem The Metamorphoses .

Full of puns and reversals, doubles and double meanings, this fun Greek myths-inspired book is not to be missed. Read Girl Meets Boy : Amazon | Goodreads

Greek Mythology Poetry Books

Hold Your Own by Kae Tempest

I rarely read poetry, but Kae Tempest never fails to blow me away and crawl under my skin. This is the first collection of theirs that I ever read and it hooked me.

Based on the Greek myth of Tiresias, Hold Your Own is a poignant collection that explores aging, sex, love, gender, and power dynamics.

Tiresias was a blind prophet punished by the Goddess Hera and turned into a woman.

Using an aging Tiresias as inspiration, the collection is split into four sections (childhood, womanhood, manhood, and blind prophet).

Hold Your Own is an incredibly accessible collection that is perfect whether you’re familiar with poetry or are looking for a place to start. And if you love Greek mythology books, then even better!

If you love their work and want more Greek myths, check out Brand New Ancients .

Please note: Kae Tempest is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. However, many of their older works – including this collection – are often still published under their former name. Read Hold Your Own : Amazon | Goodreads

Nonfiction Books About Greek Mythology

Antigone Rising: The Subversive Power of the Ancient Myths by Helen Morales

Antigone Rising is a collection of feminist essays by classicist Helen Morales that is perfect for anyone looking for non-fiction Greek mythology books.

She uses problematic aspects of Greek and Roman myths to examine struggles still present in the modern-day.

This is a refreshing and insightful collection that covers a range of contemporary issues, including rape culture and the #MeToo movement, the toxicity of dieting culture, and LGBT+ rights. Read Antigone Rising : Amazon | Goodreads

YA Greek Mythology Books

Lore by Alexandra Bracken

Every nine years, the Agon begins again.

This punishment – part of the fallout from a previous rebellion – sees nine Olympian gods turned mortal and hunted across the Earth for seven days by descendants of Achilles, Perseus, and other legendary Greeks.

Having left the life of the Agon behind years ago, Lore Perseous is brought back into the conflict following the appearance of two key players: her friend Castor, long since presumed dead, and the badly wounded Athena.

By agreeing to help the goddess, Lore is sucked back into the divine conflict – a decision that may have deadly consequences, not just for the gods, but for the humans as well.

Lore has been described by some as Greek mythology meets The Hunger Games .

If that inspires you to read it, excellent. If you feel put off by that comparison, don’t be; the writing style will draw you in at a pleasant pace, and the characters are well-rounded and engaging.

Lore is definitely one of the more contemporary-literature-minded books with Greek mythology on this list. Read Lore : Amazon | Goodreads

Never Look Back by Lilliam Rivera

Young Pheus has spent his whole life in the Bronx, using his lyrical voice to charm members of the neighborhood with ease.

This summer, he plans on nothing more strenuous than singing and playing his guitar on the beach. But then he meets Eury.

Eury is in the Bronx visiting her cousin, and Pheus is entranced by her complexity and her beauty. He’s determined to put a smile on her face, and with his golden voice, he might just be able to do so.

For Eury is haunted by demons – quite literally, she believes.

Having lost her home to Hurricane Maria, Eury believes it was actually her fault, and that a being is following her wherever she goes, determined to bring her down into its realm at all costs.

As you might have guessed from the names, this Greek myths book is a modern retelling of the tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice.

By transporting the events to modern-day America and telling them with Afro-Latinx protagonists, author Lilliam Rivera gives her take on the story some grounded relatability, despite the supernatural proceedings. Read Never Look Back : Amazon | Goodreads

Bone Gap by Laura Ruby

In the small town of Bone Gap, people go missing. This is a known thing for the locals; the town is full of gaps, after all.

So when Finn and Sean O’Sullivan suddenly find themselves alone after the beautiful Roza disappears, it doesn’t exactly send the townsfolk into a frenzy.

It’s not the first time they’ve been abandoned; their mother ran off for a new life with a new man a few years ago. However, this time Finn knows it’s different.

Roza has been kidnapped, but despite his best efforts Finn cannot remember the face of the man who took her, and soon everyone stops believing him … even Sean.

Author Laura Ruby’s retelling of the story of Persephone is both mind-bending and surreal, which is perfect for the magical realism these Greek mythology books are capable of diving into. Read Bone Gap : Amazon | Goodreads

Lovely War by Julie Berry

While on Earth in 1942, the goddess Aphrodite is caught in an act of infidelity with the war god Ares by her husband Hephaestus.

Having committed one indiscretion too many, she is to be put on trial by her peers on Mount Olympus.

In order to avoid this fate, Hephaestus agrees instead to hear her tell a story of the transcendent power of love and romance.

As she spins her sweeping narrative, Aphrodite tells of four young mortals brought together by music during the First World War.

Through the saga of this quartet’s challenges, she attempts to answer the burning question: why are Love and War always drawn to each other?

Mixing wartime drama with the divine in a period setting, author Julie Berry has created one of the best modern Greek mythology books for anyone who enjoys tragic romance novels. Read Lovely War : Amazon | Goodreads

Quiver by Stephanie Spinner

Abandoned as a baby, Atalanta is rescued from almost-certain death by the goddess Artemis.

Taken in by a she-bear and a group of hunters, Atalanta grows up to become a fearsome archer – the swiftest in the land.

However, now sixteen and famous, Atalanta’s freedom is threatened by the revelation that her wayward father is none other than a king, and he demands that Atalanta marry and produce him an heir.

But as a true disciple of Artemis (with good reason, seeing as she saved her life), Atalanta has promised never to marry.

So she concocts a daring proposition: she will marry the first man who can beat her in a race, and all those who fail must die. Surely no one would be foolhardy enough to accept that challenge?

That may be so, but the gods are notoriously capricious and have a reputation for interfering.

This gripping novella deserves a place among the enjoyable Greek mythology books on your bookshelves. Read Quiver : Amazon | Goodreads

The Great God Pan by Donna Jo Napoli

One of the better-known gods of ancient Greece, the eponymous Pan leads a life of semi-chaotic frivolity.

Dancing about the forests, playing his pipes, and interacting with maenads, his demeanor displays nothing of the curse that was bestowed upon him at birth – namely, that he would never be loved.

Then one day he stumbles upon the princess Iphigenia, daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, and he is captivated.

But on the eve of the Trojan War, Iphigenia is to be sacrificed to the gods in order to obtain their favor.

Can the Great God Pan devise a plan clever enough to save Iphigenia’s life, even at the expense of his own?

This brief but hugely enjoyable novella tells a lesser-known tale and is a great choice for introducing some younger readers into the world of Greek mythology books. Read The Great God Pan : Amazon | Goodreads

Orpheus Girl by Brynne Rebele-Henry

When Raya and her girlfriend Sarah are caught fooling around together by their conservative parents, they’re sent to Friendly Saviors, a conversion therapy center.

As the name suggests, this is a retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth, with Friendly Saviors representing Hell and Raya taking the role of Orpheus.

Orpheus Girl is one of the short but brutal books with Greek mythology.

The novel is full of uncomfortable and triggering content, but sadly paints an accurate portrayal of life for LGBT+ kids trapped in conversion camps.

After this, you’ll need a palette cleanser with one of these uplifting LGBTQ+ books for teens . Read Orpheus Girl : Amazon | Goodreads

More Of The Best Books About Greek Mythology From Christine

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint

A 2021 new release , Jennifer Saint has proven herself worthy of writing some of the best Greek mythology books featuring strong women with Ariadne .

Princess of Crete, sister of the Minotaur, and daughter of Minos, Ariadne cannot escape toxic men.

When the striking Theseus comes to slay the Minotaur – constant living proof of her mother’s infidelity – she agrees to help him.

Unfortunately, like many characters in Greek mythology, Theseus is self-serving, and although he promises to wed Ariadne, he instead leaves her for dead on the island of Naxos.

Dionysus, the god of wine, rescues Ariadne. Yet, he’s a god with his own flaws, including the constant need for worship from a cult of women with disturbing rituals. Will Ariadne be OK?

Ariadne gives voice to a forgotten woman emblazoned in the stars, and if you enjoy stories set on islands and about sisterhood, this one is for you.

Read Ariadne : Amazon | Goodreads

The Maidens by Alex Michaelides

As a Greek myths book, Michaelides’ The Maidens promises a dark academia novel perfect for cult fiction lovers.

Set largely at Cambridge, Mariana is quite certain that Edward Fosca is a murderer.

It’s hard to convince anyone else, though, when he’s loved by his students – even if he has a cult of young women always by his side. Fosca even attempts to charm Mariana.

Yet, these undergrads are dying, and their murders mimic the Greek tragedies they are studying in class. Is Fosca responsible, and who can stop the murderer?

For riveting Greek mythology books for adults, this one will check all of the boxes for suspense lovers.

Read The Maidens : Amazon | Goodreads

Elektra by Jennifer Saint

One of the most captivating books on Greek mythology – released in 2022 – like Ariadne , Elektra promises a fiery women’s story – this time about Cassandra, Helen, and Clytemnestra.

Leading up to Homer’s Odyssey , we watch the beginnings of the Trojan War.

Paris abducts Helen, and they elope in Troy. Cassandra receives the gift (and curse) of prophecy from Apollo, but no one believes her. Agamemnon betrays Clytemnestra.

Not to mention that no one can break the curse on the House of Atreus, dooming the men and women of this vengeful Greek retelling.

We named Elektra as one of the best books of 2022 . Read Elektra : Amazon | Goodreads

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Although one of the most popular books on Greek mythology for elementary school-aged students, you will also find adults engrossed in Riordan’s Percy Jackson series.

When Percy’s teacher transforms into a deadly monster, and he learns that his best friend is a satyr, Percy’s mom shares a well-kept secret.

Come to find out, Percy is the half-blood son of an Olympian god, Poseidon. Sent to a camp for demigods, Percy’s mom just wants him safe. Of course, we know this is impossible.

The series follows Percy and his friends on a series of adventures, the first being a mission to stop a war amongst the gods.

The Lightning Thief is a great introduction to Greek mythology sure to get families interested in ancient history.

The Lightning Thief : Amazon | Goodreads

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Thank you to TUL contributor, Dagney McKinney

Dagney (pronouns: any) is a neurodivergent writer who loves all things macabre and weird. She likes outrageously spicy food, long walks through graveyards, and historical tangents. You’ll most likely find her wandering around somewhere quiet or underground, buying salt, or whispering to camels.

What are your favorite books on Greek Mythology?

If you could pick just one Greek myths book to read, which would it be? What are your favorite Greek mythology books for adults? For teens? For kids? Let us know in the comments.

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Dagney McKinney

Dagney (pronouns: any) is a neurodivergent writer and book nerd who is drawn to all things weird and macabre. She also loves anything to do with fast cars, unhinged anti-heroes, and salt. When she isn’t working or reading, you’re likely to find her eating Indian food, playing board games, or hiding out somewhere dark and quiet, stuck down an internet rabbit hole. The easiest way to win her over is through cats and camels.

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24 Gripping Greek Myths and Retellings

By: Author Jess Esa and Willow Heath

Posted on Last updated: 3rd April 2024

Pat Barker, whose books feature on this list of the best Greek mythology books, once said that history is about then, but myths are about now. If anything proves that statement to be true, it’s the books on this list.

What you’ll find here are two kinds of Greek mythology books: compendiums of Greek myths and legends by some of the most renowned authorities on classics writing today; and the best novels that make up the genre of “Greek myth retellings”

The Best Greek Mythology Books (Retellings & Collections)

Retellings of beloved Greek myths have become very popular amongst writers and readers alike over the past few years, beginning with The Song of Achilles , and for good reason!

Whether you’re looking for the best Greek mythology books that give you an overview of the gods, titans, heroes, and events of Greek mythology, or you’re looking for full novels that take Greek myths and legends, and breathe new life into them, you’ll find them both here!

Greek Myths: A New Retelling by Charlotte Higgins

The stories of Greek mythology — whether they be about gods, heroes, or monsters — have a nasty habit of focussing on the exploits of men.

Almost all the books on this list focus on correcting this. But the only book that is taking on this challenge in the form of a complete compendium, rather than a novelised single story, is Greek Myths by Charlotte Higgins . The gods and heroes of Greek mythology are all here; their stories are all retold beautifully by Higgins.

If you’re looking for the best Greek mythology books that cover everything from the creation myths, the titans, and the gods, all the way to the events of the Trojan War, this is the book you need. Greek Myths puts the women of Greek mythology at the front, using a framing device of tapestry weaving to tell its narratives.

Buy a copy of Greek Myths here!

Clytemnestra by Constanza Casati

Clytemnestra , the debut novel by Costanza Casati, is the new gold standard for Greek mythology retellings, pushing the genre even further forward.

This is a dark, angry, intimate, epic novel that follows the life of the titular Clytemnestra, a Spartan princess who is known for being the wife and murderer of Agamemnon, king of Mycenae.

Clytemnestra begins with our protagonist’s youth, growing up alongside her sister Helen, falling in love with a decent man, and eventually having his son.

But we know that, eventually, she will be married to the bloodthirsty tyrant king Agamemnon; her sister Helen will marry his brother and be stolen to Troy by Paris, thus beginning the Trojan War.

This masterpiece of a Greek retelling covers all of this and more, sparing none of the tragedy that befalls our protagonist. A tense, angry feminist masterpiece of a novel, Clytemnestra is a must-read for all fans of Greek mythology retellings.

Buy a copy of Clytemnestra here!

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Arguably the book that kicked off this entire genre of novels that retell Greek myths and legends, and the reason we’re talking about the best Greek mythology books at all!

The Song of Achilles rewrites the story of ancient Greece’s most treasured hero, reinjecting into it the queerness that academic history has gradually removed. This is the tragic story of Achilles and his lover, friend, and brother-in-arms Patroclus.

In the first half, we are told the story through the eyes of Patroclus. We see his childhood, his banishment, his teen years spent training with — and falling in love with — Achilles.

The second half retells the Trojan War from an intimate perspective, as Patroclus and Achilles speed to Troy, and to the fates we all know are waiting for them both.

This is a story many of us know, but Madeline Miller has made sure to put the romantic and fraternal relationship between Patroclus and Achilles at the forefront. A true modern masterpiece of queer literature and one of the best Greek mythology books out there.

Buy a copy of The Song of Achilles here!

An Arrow’s Flight by Mark Merlis

This award-winning novel masterfully blends the timeless epic of the Trojan War with the vibrant and gritty reality of 1970s gay culture. It tells the story of Pyrrhus, son of the legendary Achilles, who has traded his warrior’s armor for the life of a go-go dancer and hustler in the city.

An Arrow’s Flight is more than just an exciting retelling of a classic tale. It’s a profound exploration of gay identity, the dynamics of power, and the very essence of human liberation. The characters are richly developed, grappling with destiny, sexuality, and legacy in ways that resonate deeply with readers.

Merlis’s masterful interpretations of figures like Skyros, Lemnos, and Troy add depth and complexity to the narrative, while his vibrant portrayal of the 1970s gay scene provides a captivating historical context.

While the story touches upon the AIDS crisis, its impact isn’t solely somber. Instead, it celebrates resilience and the enduring beauty of love. The combination of humor, tragedy, and poignant social commentary makes An Arrow’s Flight an unforgettable reading experience.

It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking story that seamlessly blends historical fiction, mythology, and contemporary themes.

Buy a copy of An Arrow’s Flight here!

Circe by Madeline Miller

After the success of The Song of Achilles , Madeline Miller turned her attention away from heroes and instead to the Greek gods. This is, loosely, the story of The Odyssey with a feminist twist, and we are here for it.

Beginning on Mount Olympus, in the House of Helios the sun god, Circe is born a witch, not a goddess. As a result, she is banished to an island on Earth, alone, but fated to cross paths with recognisable gods and heroes of Greek mythology.

Circe has always been a minor god; a footnote in many stories of Greek myth. Here, Madeline Miller rights this wrong by telling Circe’s story in full, featuring her at the centre and making heroes like Odysseus the footnotes instead.

Buy a copy of Circe here!

The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

Published around the same time as Madeline Miller’s Circe , Pat Barker’s The Silence of the Girls takes a similarly feminist, but far more grounded, approach to Greek myths and legends, and the result is one of the best Greek mythology books ever written.

Also like Circe , which was inspired by The Odyssey , this novel focuses on retelling The Iliad from the perspective of ordinary people, not heroes. The Silence of the Girls retells the story of the Trojan War from the perspective of Briseis — queen turned captive turned prize for Achilles as a spoil of war.

Pat Barker has a knack for taking eras and stories that typically focus on the masculine and the heroic, and putting the focus instead on the tragedy of it all.

She did it with Regeneration and World War I, and she’s done it here with The Silence of the Girls . This is one of the most powerful books about Greek mythology you’re ever likely to read; a novel that highlights the darkest, most desperate, most deplorable acts of warfare. A feminist retelling of the highest caliber.

Buy a copy of The Silence of the Girls here!

Till We Have Faces by C.S Lewis

Till We Have Faces is not your typical retelling. It’s a raw and unflinching exploration of the human condition disguised as a retelling of the Eros and Psyche myth. The novel’s focus is Orual, Psyche’s older sister, whose envy, self-deception, and possessive love consume her life.

This book is a masterclass in character writing. Orual is so intricately drawn and full of flaws and contradictions that she becomes a mirror reflecting our hidden complexities. Witnessing her descent into self-pity and delusion is frustrating, yet strangely captivating. Lewis’s skill lies in his ability to capture the insidious nature of these emotions, making them feel painfully real.

As a retelling, Till We Have Faces remains largely faithful to the original myth, but with a crucial twist: the story is told entirely from Orual’s perspective. This shift gives us a unique insight into a character’s motivations often relegated to the shadows. We see her resentment fester, her self-deception deepen, and her capacity for love slowly wither away.

The book’s theological underpinnings are undeniable. Lewis, a devout Christian, uses Orual’s journey as a metaphor for the human struggle towards spiritual enlightenment. Orual’s journey is one of confronting her own darkness and ultimately finding redemption, a story that resonates with readers of all backgrounds.

While Orual may be the heart of the story, the supporting characters are no less compelling. Fox, Psyche, and Ungit each offer their own unique perspectives on love and sacrifice, adding depth and texture to the narrative. Lewis’s portrayal of Aphrodite is fascinating, highlighting the complex and often contradictory nature of love itself.

Till We Have Faces is a Greek mythology book that will stay with you long after you finish the last page, prompting you to question your own assumptions and reflect on the true meaning of love.

Buy a copy of Till We Have Faces Here

The Women of Troy by Pat Barker

Following on from her amazing success with The Silence of the Girls , Pat Barker kept her momentum up with The Women of Troy . The Greeks have won the war and Troy has fallen.

Now we see the aftermath of war from former queen Briseis’ perspective as she forges alliances in a desperate bid to survive a brittle landscape and an era of enraged gods.

Nobody writes war like Pat Barker does. Her depiction of Briseis is amongst the best of any done by authors of Greek myths retold. Pair this with The Silence of the Girls and you have some of the best Greek mythology books ever written.

Buy a copy of The Women of Troy here!

Read More: More books on Greek, Norse, and Japanese mythology

A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes

Natalie Haynes’ A Thousand Ships brilliantly places itself somewhere between the more fantastical and god-focussed Circe and the more grounded and raw The Silence of the Girls by once again focussing on the Trojan War but featuring the gods of Greek myth as well.

Most of the best Greek mythology books featured here focus on one solo protagonist: Patroclus, Circe, Briseis, etc. A Thousand Ships takes a more ensemble approach by giving space and voice to many different women during the Trojan War.

Like in Barker’s novels, Briseis is mentioned. The goddess Calliope also comes and goes. Then there’s Gaia herself, and the legendary Penelope, who writes letters to her darling Odysseus as he is off doing his exploits.

This is a fractured and broad exploration of the lives and experiences of the women of Greek Mythology. We get many different voices, both god and mortal alike, and A Thousand Ships is all the richer for it.

We wrote a full review of A Thousand Ships for BookBrowse, which you can read here!

Buy a copy of A Thousand Ships here!

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes

Stone Blind shows Natalie Haynes taking control of the narrative around monsters, and showing us how a monster is nothing more than what a man tells us it is.

This is the story of Medusa and her sisters, the gorgons. It is the story of her birth, abandonment, and the care with which her sisters raise her.

It is also the story of Perseus, the hapless and reckless boy who is sent on a quest to kill a gorgon, as well as that of the goddess Athena, who curses Medusa out of spite and jealousy and nothing more.

Stone Blind is an angry book written by someone at her wits end with the patriarchy and the narratives it spins around women and things that are not themselves patriarchal.

Multi-layered, written from various perspectives, and bubbling over with rage, Stone Blind is one of the best Greek Mythology books for fans of great retellings.

Buy a copy of Stone Blind here!

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint

Of all the best Greek mythology books on this list, Jennifer Saint’s Ariadne is one of the finest . It is another retelling of a specific Greek myth, but this one steers clear of the Trojan War and also manages to feature a nice selection of classic Greek myths in its telling.

Ariadne begins by retelling the origin story of the Minotaur: brother of the titular Ariadne, son of Crete’s king Minos, and locked away at the heart of a labyrinth built but genius inventor Daedalus, father of Icarus.

From here, we are introduced to Theseus, prince of Athens, and so the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur begins. And then it ends, but Ariadne’s story continues, with so much left to tell.

It reframes Theseus as an egomaniac, Minos as deluded and dangerous, and the god Dionysus as layered and broken. Ariadne is a playful, impactful, and beautiful novel that takes another fascinating woman of Greek mythology and puts her in the role of protagonist.

Buy a copy of Ariadne here!

Elektra by Jennifer Saint

Jennifer Saint’s second novel, Elektra , is another sharp and angry feminist retelling of a tale from Greek mythology.

Spanning an entire lifetime, and with a narrative shared by three women, Elektra is a tale of heredity, of curses, and of revenge. The titular Elektra was the daughter of Agamemnon, king of Mycenae, who waged war against Troy in order to return the beautiful Helen to his brother, Menelaus.

But Elektra is only one of our heroes; another is her mother, Clytemnestra, and the third is the cursed Trojan princess Cassandra. The lives of these women, governed by powerful men, are intertwined by blood and curses. We watch them grow, face tragedy, and become embittered while the men wage war against one another.

Buy a copy of Elektra here!

Atalanta by Jennifer Saint

Jennifer Saint only gets better. Her third novel, another Greek mythology retelling, is a sweeping epic adventure that moves at a breakneck pace, but never sacrifices emotional depth or breadth.

Atalanta tells the story of the titular heroine, abandoned on a hillside by her royal father, nurtured by a bear, and then saved and raised by Artemis herself — goddess of the hunt.

But this is only the beginning of Atalanta’s life. When she reaches adulthood, she is warned never to marry, and is then sent to join Jason and his band of Argonauts on the greatest adventure the ancient Greeks had ever seen.

A legendary runner and archer, Atalanta proves herself an invaluable Argonaut, and along her adventure we come to know and enjoy the company of heroes and icons like Heracles and Orpheus.

Atalanta is a true adventure story. Monsters are hunted, temptations overcome, beasts slain, kings conquered, and eventually the legendary Golden Fleece must be obtained.

This ancient tale, told from the perspective of a naive but admirable outcast — a survivor and a future heroine — is captivating from page one. A fantastical epic and an astonishing work of mythological retelling.

Buy a copy of Atalanta here!

Ithaca by Claire North

Renowned author of science fiction novels Claire North turned her attention to Greek mythology to bring us a feminist retelling with Penelope, wife of Odysseus, at its heart.

Odysseus has been absent for eighteen years. He sailed with an army to fight in the Trojan War, and while other leaders and warriors returned, he never has. And so, the suitors have come knocking. As she sits and weaves a funeral shroud, Penelope is inundated with suitors looking to marry her and take Odysseus’ place on the throne of Ithaca.

Her son, Telemachus — who never knew his father — insists that Odysseus will return, and raiders are threatening the delicate peace of Penelope’s kingdom. The story of Ithaca is told by the goddess Hera, and she provides us with a host of colourful, mostly female, characters, fleshing out the world of Ithaca and the life of Penelope.

Her narrative is snarky, charming, occasionally bloated, but largely entertaining.

Ithaca is an excellent piece of Greek mythology retold with a feminist twist; one of the finest Greek mythology books we have.

Buy a copy of Ithaca here!

Psyche and Eros by Luna McNamara

There is a lot of love and romance in Greek mythology books, and a lot of jealousy and betrayal, too. Psyche and Eros stands out, however, by being a love story first and foremost.

This is the story of a god and a human falling in love, against all likelihood. Psyche, princess of Mycenae, trained to fight and hunt by the argonaut Atalanta, is swept up in a romance with the god of love himself, Eros.

The novel’s opening chapters establish who our two protagonists are, and Eros’ chapters in particular paint a picture of how the gods came to be. The story of Gaia, Kronos, Zeus, and all the messiness they wrought.

When Aphrodite, who has forced Eros into her servitude, orders him to curse a beautiful human woman, the god of love makes a careless mistake and curses himself by mistake. That curse causes him to love Psyche.

Not just love her, but to have her wrenched from him if ever she looks at him. Psyche and Eros pits the cursed titular protagonists against an entire world of gods and humans.

Greece and Troy are on the brink of war; the gods are, as usual, committing cruelties our of jealousy and bitterness, and our lovers must wade through all of this while dealing with a curse that will destroy their love forever.

Buy a copy of Psyche and Eros here!

Daughters of Sparta by Claire Heywood

Helen and Klytemnestra, Agamemnon and Menelaos, Sparta and Troy. Most of us have read about these people and places in other stories but here, in Daughters of Sparta , Claire Heywood breathes new life into their myth.

Much like the other best Greek mythology books here, Daughters of Sparta puts a clean and clear focus on the women of legend, who suffered at the hands of men, women relegated to trophy status, and women known for their beauty.

After being married off to foreign kings, Helen and Klytemnestra are treated with bitterness and cruelty, and that’s when their own stories truly begin.

Buy a copy of Daughters of Sparta here!

Mythos by Stephen Fry

Like Charlotte Higgins’ Greek Myths , Stephen Fry’s Mythos is an excellent compendium of Greek myths, and one of the best Greek mythology books for children, specifically.

While anyone of any age can read Mythos and thoroughly enjoy it, it’s clear from the tone and language that Fry employs in this book of Greek myths that it is intended for younger readers.

There is a playful and sweet tone of voice here, and it encourages a wide-eyed fascination from its younger readers who are eager to become enthralled by the tales of Greek gods and titans.

It’s those gods and titans who take centre stage here. This is truly a book about impossible, magical people, not the heroes and humans of legend. This is about myths, monsters, gods, and their parents.

Buy a copy of Mythos here!

Heroes by Stephen Fry

Following on from the runaway success of Mythos , which, as mentioned, focussed on the gods and monsters of Greek mythology, Stephen Fry then brought us Heroes . As its name boldly states, this book is about Greek mythology heroes: Herakles, Achilles, Odysseus, Theseus (I could go on).

Much like its predecessor, this is a book geared more towards younger readers but remains educational and entertaining for all. While many of the best Greek mythology books on this list retell the stories of “heroes” from more feminist perspectives, Heroes refocusses us on those core hero tales.

Buy a copy of Heroes here!

Pandora’s Jar: Women in the Greek Myths by Natalie Haynes

Natalie Haynes saw huge success with her fractured novel A Thousand Ships , and rightly so. This led to the successful publication of a more traditional compendium style of book: Pandora’s Jar .

Much like Charlotte Higgins’ Greek Myths , Natalie Haynes’ Pandora’s Jar puts the focus on the women of Greek mythology (as its subtitle makes clear). As the tales of heroes got retold again and again, the women were left by the wayside.

This borderline chauvinistic, and sickeningly patriarchal, approach to Greek mythology is historically unfair. And so, Haynes fixes it by reminding us of the great tales of Greek myth that focus on its women, beginning with the titular Pandora.

Buy a copy of Pandora’s Jar here!

The Odyssey by Homer

Translated by Emily Wilson

Many of the best Greek mythology books recommended here are retellings by contemporary authors, and more than a few hone in on The Odyssey and The Iliad . But the originals already exist, and you can read them!

Translator Emily Wilson made a huge splash as the first woman to bring us a fresh translation of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey , and in keeping with the female focus of this list, it’s the version we recommend you read.

Buy a copy of The Odyssey here!

The Greek Myths: Stories of the Greek Gods and Heroes Vividly Retold by Robin Waterfield and Kathryn Waterfield

This was the first book on Greek mythology that I ever read. I remember picking it up at a little independent bookshop in London one day and almost missing my stop on the train after opening it later that afternoon.

This is an enthralling compendium of Greek mythology, from creation myths to the tales of gods, monsters, and heroes. It has everything you’re familiar with and far more besides. An essential read and one of the best Greek mythology books out there.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

If you are, or if you know, a young reader with their eye on Greek mythology, start with Stephen Fry’s Mythos but also point them to the children’s book sensation that is Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series.

This beloved series of books begins with Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief and, as a former school teacher, I can attest to its staggering popularity amongst young, voracious readers.

Buy a copy of Percy Jackson here!

The Wolf Den by Elodie Harper

While not set in Greece, but rather Italy, and not about mythology, The Wolf Den is still up the alley of everyone who enjoys retellings of Greek myth and legend.

When we think of Pompeii, most of us think of its destruction by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, but here in The Wolf Den , Elodie Harper presents us with the Pompeii that was.

Harper is also taking the Pat Barker approach to Greek mythology, legend, and history by focussing on the people on the ground, the ordinary and the overlooked.

Specifically, The Wolf Den tells the story of a brothel and a woman named Amara, sold after the death of her beloved father. This is a story of one woman’s survival; Amara uses her own wits, wiles, and strengths to live against the odds.

The Wolf Den is a staggeringly successful piece of historical fiction that explores the unique strengths of a woman, rather than painting her as strong by the archetypal male standards and frameworks.

Buy a copy of The Wolf Den here!

Pandora by Susan Stokes-Chapman

While this novel is actually a piece of British historical fiction, it is also (as you can tell by the title and cover) inspired by Greek mythology. Any fan of Greek mythology will likely enjoy and respect Pandora .

Set during the Georgian period, Pandora follows a protagonist of the same name. Daughter of two famous antiquarians who died at a dig site in Greece, Dora now lives with her poisonous uncle, who has just come into possession of a mysterious Greek jar (or pithos).

Dora is an aspiring jewellery artist, and she wishes to find inspiration for her jewellery in the world of Greek art. She also wishes to know what this jar is and how her uncle came to own it. To do so, she enlists the help of a young antiquarian named Edward Lawrence.

Buy a copy of Pandora here!

If you enjoyed this list of Greek myths and retellings, please consider sharing.

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The Best Fiction Books » Fairy Tales & Mythology

The best books on greek myths and mythology, recommended by lucy coats.

Atticus the Storyteller's 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats

Lucy Coats , author of one of the best books Greek myth books for children, recommends her own favourites. There's one for children, one for teenagers, one for scholars, one to read out loud and one that's very definitely adult in content...

Interview by Sophie Roell , Editor

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

Ithaka by Adele Geras

Tales from Ovid by Ted Hughes

The Children's Homer by Padraic Colum

1 The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

2 the greek myths by robert graves, 3 ithaka by adele geras, 4 tales from ovid by ted hughes, 5 the children's homer by padraic colum.

W hat is a Greek myth? What is it about Greek mythology that has attracted us down the ages?

How did you, personally, get interested in them?

I read two particular books, which I haven’t chosen because I think for modern readers they’re a bit too bowdlerised and preachy. One was The Heroes by Charles Kingsley and the other was A Wonder Book/Tanglewood Tales by Nathaniel Hawthorne, of Scarlet Letter fame. These two authors were telling the stories in completely different ways and taking different aspects of them. That was one reason they fascinated me, but they’re just damn good stories: it’s as simple as that.

You don’t think it hinders the narrative that the gods can always decide the outcome?

No, I don’t think it does affect the story, because, as I said, the gods do have all these human traits. They make mistakes, they show themselves not to be completely infallible. I think that’s part of the attraction.

Let’s go through the books you’ve chosen. I noticed that three of the five are about or related to the Trojan War …

Yes. In my opinion the  Iliad and the  Odyssey are two of the greatest tales ever told. Although the gods are involved, the stories are very much about humans and how humans react to certain situations. They’ve always fascinated me. I went to Troy when I was in my twenties and was completely blown away by the fact that it’s tiny. Going there helped me understand this extraordinary story about Achilles and Hector fighting their way around the walls of Troy seven times. You think a city is huge, but it wasn’t. Two fit young men, even dressed in armour, could quite well have run around the walls seven times, hacking at each other.

How much is left of Troy?

Let’s talk about the first book you’ve chosen, which is about the greatest Greek hero at Troy, Achilles, and his love affair with another Greek man, Patroclus. It’s called The Song of Achilles …

Yes, this is by Madeline Miller who is an American academic. It was her debut novel and it won the Orange Prize. For some reason I came across it when it first came out, before anyone else knew about it, and I absolutely loved it. I really appreciated the deft, spare beauty of the writing and I like the way it came at the story from Patroclus’s point of view.

Tell me about the story.

At the beginning Patroclus is the underdog. Then he makes friends with Achilles, this golden, god-like boy and they go off to the centaur Chiron and are educated by him. Then, of course, they go to the Trojan War. The book might shock people because there’s some quite graphic sex scenes in it. One of the reasons I loved it is that I’ve always thought of Achilles as a slightly spoiled brat but told through the eyes of Patroclus I understood him much better. I just loved the richness of the language, the descriptions. She really made me feel I was in ancient Greece — the smells, the whole environment. And, again, it’s just such a good story. I knew how it ended, of course. It’s like Othello, you always know how it’s going to end, but I still always hope that it’s going to end differently. I hope against hope that somehow it’s going to have a happy ending. Then of course it doesn’t and it’s almost a double blow…

I thought the relationship she depicted between Achilles and Patroclus was very beautiful. I was so sad at the end, I almost cried.

Oh I did cry. That whole tenderness of male friendship and love, it was very moving.

You mentioned in your email you thought it was one of the best retellings of the story you’d read in years. Was it also a very accurate retelling? The author teaches Greek and Latin, so I expect there was a lot of attention…

Let’s go on to your next choice, Robert Graves’s The Greek Myths: The Complete and Definitive Edition . Every single Greek myth is in this book, is that right?

As far as I know, every single myth and every single variation, every single little nugget of Greek myth that isn’t necessarily even complete, is in there. This is my Greek myth bible. Robert Graves was the most amazing ancient history scholar and a marvellous writer as well. One of my great sadnesses is that I don’t actually read ancient Greek , I was never taught at school and I’ve never learnt. So I’ve always had to rely on translations and, for me, he’s the best.

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In the book is he just translating ancient texts or is he telling the stories himself?

He’s read them in the original and then he tells them himself. So they are his tellings, but they’re not meant to be flowery or literary. They cram in absolutely everything. He has the most massive footnotes as well and references to where he found the actual myths: usually Hyginus or Diodorus Siculus or somebody that before I read Graves I’d never even heard of. In fact I now have my own copies of Apollodorus and Diodorus Siculus and Hyginus. The footnotes are just amazing. I learned so many different nuggets there, it’s almost worth reading just for them.

Is it very readable?

If you want to know all the Greek myths then definitely read it. You can’t say you really know about Greek myths until you have read it. But I wouldn’t say sit down and think you’re going to do it all in one go. Take it in chunks.

I absolutely loved Robert Graves’s historical novels, I, Claudius and Claudius the God . But I saw an interview with him and he said he just wrote them quickly to make a bit of money, they weren’t part of what he considered his serious work…

The third book you’ve chosen is Ithaka , by Adele Geras, which is aimed at young adults .

Yes, as I am a children’s writer, I thought it was nice to put something in of that nature. Adele is one of my favourite writers for children and teenagers. Ithaka is part of a loose trilogy based on the Odyssey , the Iliad and the Aeneid . She wrote one book called Troy , then there’s Ithaka and there’s Dido as well. That goes into the Aeneid : it’s about Dido and Aeneas, about the Trojan side, the ones who escaped.

So Ithaka is written from the point of view Penelope, who is waiting for her husband, Odysseus, to come back from the Trojan War?

Let’s go on to the Tales from Ovid: 24 Passages from the Metamorphoses by English poet Ted Hughes.

The Metamorphoses are wonderful transformation myths about the gods.

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What is a transformation myth?

Quite a lot of them are about the gods or allied creatures chasing after some nymph or other, and the nymph praying for release from this ghastly thing that is about to happen to her, and being changed into a tree or a reed or an animal, so that she can’t be got at. So you’ve got poor old Daphne, for instance, who is a lovely nymph and she didn’t wish to lose her virginity, so she prayed to the god of the river and became a laurel tree — which is why the Greek name for a laurel tree is daphne.

And these were then adapted and told by the Roman writer Ovid?

Yes, he took some of the key Greek myths and made them into these wonderful stories. I don’t know where he got them from, perhaps he got them himself from Greece, because a lot of the Romans had Greek slaves or Greek tutors. I don’t know when he first heard them. Anyway, he’s taken the stories and made them into this wonderful collection. I’ve got lots and lots of different copies of the Metamorphoses , I think they’re essential. I could have chosen a straight translation. But I love Hughes’s poetic voice, and the way he uses language.

Did Hughes translate Ovid’s stories himself?

Your last book is a children’s book about Troy again — The Children’s Homer , a retelling of the The Iliad and The Odyssey by Padraic Colum.

This was the most precious book I owned as a child, and it was my way into the  Odyssey and the  Iliad at a very early age. I’ve got the copy in my hand now – it was given to my father in April 1921 and he passed it on to me. It is quite old-fashioned in tone but it’s not preachy and the language is amazing. Like Ted Hughes, Padraic Colum was a poet. I think for me, the thing that links all these books, apart from the actual stories, is the way that language is used within them. In this one too, the way he uses language is wonderful. The illustrations too. They’re black-and-white, very art deco, very spare. It’s still how I imagine all those heroes, gods and goddesses to look.

I just read it and thought it was quite a nice way of getting the stories of both the  Iliad and the  Odyssey into my head. I read the other books you recommended afterwards and it all made sense because I already knew the basic outlines from this children’s book.

Yes, I think as an adult you can still read it and get pleasure from it.

The thing about Greek myths and Homer is that there are so many references to them in daily life, but it wasn’t until I read these books that I felt confident that I was a bit more on top of who everyone was.

Yes, because it’s quite complicated isn’t it — who is related to who? The gods, for instance, are always either married to their sister or their daughter. I had to skate over that quite a lot in Atticus . You’re right about the Greek myths coming into our everyday lives. Everybody wears Nike shoes, she was the Greek goddess of victory. Did you ever read Ambrosia creamed rice? That’s the food of the gods. Advertisers are using Greek myth references all the time, and people don’t even think about it. Then there’s your Achilles heel, your Achilles tendon.

Speaking of which, I was intrigued that that story –- about Achilles being dipped in the River Styx by his mother — didn’t appear in either The Children’s Homer or The Song of Achilles . Then I read Miller’s notes about it, and she said that it was a later myth, so she hadn’t included it.

I know. There are several different versions of that particular story.  I chose to include it when I wrote about it. I quite liked it.

Yes, and I should mention for anyone who has small children, that your book, Atticus the Storyteller’s 100 Greek Myths , is absolutely wonderful. My own are 6, 5 and 4 and they can’t get enough of it. I now give it as a present whenever any of their friends has a birthday.

That’s wonderful. The thing is that if they have them in their heads now, it will actually serve them for life. There are meant to be only x number of stories in the world, and these are pretty much templates for all of them…

Do you have a favourite Greek myth?

Everybody always asks me this. Yes I do, but it’s quite a strange one. I like the story of Nyx, and the fates. Nyx was the goddess of the night and her cloak covered the night sky. She had three daughters who were the fates. I love the story of the fates: Klotho, Atropos, and Lakhesis, who weave the tapestry of life. They’re the ones who decide what your fate is going to be, so they snip the thread if you’re going to die. I just love the mystery of it.

August 15, 2013

Five Books aims to keep its book recommendations and interviews up to date. If you are the interviewee and would like to update your choice of books (or even just what you say about them) please email us at [email protected]

Lucy Coats is a writer of children's books and the author of the fabulous Atticus the Storyteller's 100 Greek Myths.

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Best Greek Mythology Books

Delve into the epic and magical world of Greek mythology. From the epic poems of Homer to fictional worlds of modern writers inspired by Greek Mythology, this is a list of the best - or, more appropriately, our favorite - 20 Greek mythology books (for adults and kids). Books that we, as Greeks and mythology lovers, definitely recommend.

1. The Iliad, by Homer, translated by Robert Fagles (1998)

The Iliad, together with the Odyssey, is a great epic poem, not only of Greek but also of world’s literature, which was handed down to us in their entirety. Its date of writing is placed in the second half of the 8th century BC. The composition of the Iliad precedes that of the Odyssey and is placed around 750 BC. The Iliad is an epic journey of love, war, gods and heroes concerning the 10-year long Greco-Trojan war. It is about 3,500 verses larger than the Odyssey (15,693 verses) and is divided into 24 rhapsodies (like the Odyssey), as many as the letters of the Greek alphabet.

2. The Odyssey, by Homer, translated by Robert Fagles (1996)

This epic Homeric poem follows the events of the Iliad. Its writing dates back to the 8th-7th century BC. It is about the journey of war heroes taking the road of return to Greece and their home. The story follows the adventures of the great Odysseus (Ulysses); an adventurous journey that lasted ten years. At the same time, we see his eager anticipation to return to his wife and the countless years (20) of his wife waiting for his return while trying to ward off her suitors. Enjoy the adventures of the heroes whose stories are being passed down from generation to generation for more than 2500 years!

3. The Penelopiad, by Margaret Atwood (2005)

Myths are universal and timeless parables that reflect and shape our lives - they explore our desires and fears, and give us stories that remind us of the essence of the human condition. Αtwood writes a powerful, enjoyable, and rebellious myth challenging the patriarchy of Greek Mythology.

4. Circe, by Madeline Miller (2018)

This is one of our most favorite Greek Mythology books. The atmosphere it creates is truly unique and somewhat 'different'. Very often, women in ancient Greek mythology are classified into two categories: they are either murderous or virtuous and tragic pawns with a negligible effect. Circe is different. She is born in the house of a mighty titan, daughter of the God Son, Helios. She is one of the few women of antiquity who is allowed to have power and is not punished for it at the end of the story. It is neither malicious nor innocent, but complex. It represents the female power and this causes and frightens. She is the woman who has more power than society says she should have. Miller, with great lyricism and mastery, weaves the character of Circe transferring her mythical adventures to the present and proving how relevant her story remains.

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5. Gods behaving badly, by Marie Phillips (2013)

Being a Greek god is not easy anymore and it has nothing to do with being a god in ancient times. Artemis is a dog-walker, Apollo is a psychic on TV, Aphrodite is a phone sex operator, Dionysus is a DJ of all things! 12 gods cramped in a London apartment. Too many siblings, too many hormones and not enough hot water. Life is hard for an Olympian God in the 21st century! Philips writes a charming, satisfying novel while turning the literature world upside down.

6. The Complete World of Greek Mythology, by Richard Buxton (2004)

Greek mythοlogy fascinates from the very first millennium to date, and the myths have been repeated in an endless range of variations, interpretations and different versions. They have been made into movies, TV shows and video games. In this book, you will find a combination of Greek myths with an inclusive description of the world in which they were created - their themes, the Greek religion and society, and their relationship to the Greek landscape.

7. Theogony by Hesiod, translated by M.L. West (1999)

“At first there was Chaos…” Theogony is a poetic textbook of cosmology, in which we follow the fictional inspiration of the epic poet who sets up for the ancient greek world the genealogy of polytheism. This book nowadays serves as a reference to most of the myths and the original versions of Greek legends. In other words, this is THE Greek Mythology book! Enjoy the most epic story about the creation of the world.

8. Myth and Philosophy: A Contest of Truths, by Lawrence J. Hatab (1990)

Is there truth to myths? This book considers the historical alteration from myth to philosophy in ancient Greece. Explore the roles and the themes that played a key role in that transformation.

9.  The Greek plays: Sixteen plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, Edited by Mary Lefkovitz and James Romm (2016)

In the middle of the 6th century BC, in one of the Municipalities of Attica that surrounded Athens, the Greek Drama was born. This poetic genre that so lightly made its first appearance took decades to evolve and reach its final completion. The drama represented and brought to life an event that unfolded in front of the audience, as its name implies. This book contains a milestone anthology of the masterpieces of Greek drama, featuring very accessible translations of some of the world’s most favorite plays.

10. Minotaur, by Philip W. Simpson (2015)

The Minotaur shook his huge head and his eyes became like glass under the weight of thousand-year-old memories. Thus begins the story of Asterion, who describes his childhood in Crete, the abuse by his stepfather, King Minos, the adventures with his friend Theseus, his love for the beautiful Phaedra and what really happened in the labyrinth. Simpson gives another version of the Minotaur myth which claims that he was not the terrible man-eating monster described in the stories. It makes for a very intriguing reading!

11. Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold, by Stephen Fry (2017)

This is one of the best-known Greek Mythology books. Known for his exuberant personality, the author attempts to tell some stories of Greek mythology, "sprinkling" them with imaginary dialogues and it is absolutely delightful! It focuses on the gods of ancient Greece. Fry's book "Mythos" reminds us in its own way that the myths of antiquity reflected people and that the gods with their many mistakes were very human, despite the fact that they themselves were not in danger of suffering as much as their mortal idols.

Tip! This book is also available as an audiobook and you can listen to it for free with a free trial.

12. Alcestis, by Katharine Beutner (2010)

In Greek myth, Alcestis is known as the ideal figure of wife that she loved her husband so much that she was willing to die for him and take his place in the underworld. And so she did, but what’s her back story? In this book, Beutner gives a story, a purpose and a reason behind Alcestis’ sacrifice, making our heroin a major player in the Greek mythology realm.

13. Helen of Troy, by Margaret George (2006)

A story about, beauty, love and death. A beautiful Greek princess and a prince from another very powerful country fall in love and run away. The Trojan war compelling as ever. Inspired by Homer’s Iliad, this book focuses on the subjects that will be forever intriguing to humankind: love and war.

14. Hot as Hades, by Alisha Rai (2011)

A huge kingdom to run, immortal problems, dead people to order around and difficult siblings to deal with. It is definitely not easy being Hades. Some may also say that our dear god of the Underworld might have a heart when a beautiful lady lands on his kingdom. What will he do? Will he follow his undying heart? Rai gives us a delightful insight into how it is to be Hades, the god of the Underworld.

15. The Riddle of the Labyrinth: The Quest to Crack an Ancient Code, by Margalit Fox (2013)

A scholarly mystery about the unique Minoan Linear B. The tablets that were discovered and Arthur Evans, the archaeologist who discovered them, along with the Palace of Knossos, are the protagonists of this Greek mythology book. Discover the magic of linguistics in the mystifying kingdom of the Minoan Crete.

16. Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters, by Donna Jo Napoli (2011)

The stories of this impressive book never cease to amaze. The lyrical narratives take us to the land of myth, from the birth of the gods to the turbulent Trojan War, revealing the magical and occult lives of heroes who have captured the interest of the people since ancient times. With fascinating stories about gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters, and impressive, original illustrations, this book is a mythological epic that will enchant you. Bear witness to the might of Zeus, the king of the Olympians, the seducing powers of Aphrodite, the tricks of the Messenger God, Hermes, the labors of Hercules, and many more stories.

17. D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths, by Ingri d’Aulaire (1962)

D’Aulaire’s book of myths is a vibrant read. In this book, which is in print for more than 50 years, you can find all the greats of ancient Greek Mythology: gods, goddesses, heroes, monsters, legends, and all their stories as if they were alive today!

18. Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths, by Bernard Evslin (1966)

From the demigod Perseus and the dreadful Medusa to the mighty Zeus, whose thunderbolts can shake the earth to the ground, and to the great minotaur, a beast who was half-man and half-bull, this is a world of magic and exploration in the depths of Greek mythology!

19. Women and Power: A manifesto by Mary Beard (2017)

From Medusa to Philomela, and Hillary Clinton to Elizabeth Warren, the author draws parallels from mythology to compare our cultural assumptions on women’s relationship to power and how those powerful women are being portraited in ancient modern society. It provides a great example for all women out there who must resist attaching themselves to the male outline.

20. Percy Jackson & the Olympians, by Rick Riordan (2005)

Percy Jackson & the Olympians is a series of fantasy books that get inspiration from Greek mythology. The first book of the series is called Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. Troublemaker Percy Jackson has problems at school, but that's the least he should worry about. Although we are in the 21st century, the Gods of Olympus seem to have sprung from the books of mythology in real life. Percy learns that his real father is Poseidon, the god of the sea, which means that Percy is a demigod. At the same time, Ζeus accuses Percy of stealing his lightning, which is a weapon of mass destruction. A shocking adventure, which hides countless dangers, begins for Percy! Are you ready to join?

For all Percy Jackson fans out there, it is a dream to travel to Greece and follow in the footsteps of Percy Jackson . If you are also visiting Athens, do not miss the opportunity to join the Hero's Quest Inspired by Percy Jackson  or customize your own Percy Jackson mythology tour .

Related Tour

In the Footsteps of Percy Jackson: Mythology Trip to Greece

The above 20 titles are a good start for any mythology fan who wants to read and enjoy a good book on Greek mythology. Of course, there are many more excellent books on the subject and many more stories to be explored.

• 30 of the Most Famous Tales from Greek Mythology
• All Percy Jackson Tours in Greece with Practical Info

Greek Mythology Tours in Greece

About the author: Our team at Greek TravelTellers consists of academics and lovers of Greek culture. Our vision is to convey our knowledge and Greek values through unique tours and experiences. Through our blog, we hope to bring Greek history and culture closer to you. Feel free to learn more about us .

Other articles you may like...

It’s Time to Get Into Mythology

A chorus of Greek and Roman retellings have everything: heroes, villains, monsters, magic, sex. And they’re about to be everywhere.

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In other words, mythology is back, baby. It’s a testament to the popularity of The Song of Achilles that, when a content creator shares mere seconds of “wailing and yelling” about the book, tens of thousands of readers find it instantly, intimately relatable. Literary novels seldom amass online followings, but The Song of Achilles is different: it simultaneously racked up literary prizes and spawned a bona fide fandom, and it’s not even particularly new. In the years following its 2011 publication, the novel’s fans gathered on Tumblr to share their enthusiasm and publish fanfiction; now, this large and loving community has migrated to TikTok, where new fans are discovering the book every day. Chaudhary, who has fallen down the #SongOfAchilles rabbit hole for hours at a time, describes the fandom as “its own aesthetic, its own genre, its own community.”

Ecco Press The Song of Achilles

Don't think this is a Song of Achilles -specific phenomenon. In fact, it’s just one of many touchpoints in an exploding genre of fiction: the mythological retelling. In recent decades, classical mythology has been rightly criticized as too white, too male, too heteronormative, too inaccessible, too exclusionary, too played out. Now, a new wave of novels are reclaiming familiar stories and excavating unknown ones to reveal mythology like you’ve never seen it before: inclusive and accessible, capable of page-turning thrills and edge-of-your-seat surprise, even if the spoilers are thousands of years old. These retellings are challenging our assumptions about some of the world’s most well-worn narrative building blocks, inviting readers to ask centuries-old questions. At the heart of it: Who gets to tell mythological stories? Who is mythology even for?

It may seem counterintuitive that millennia-old stories can reduce readers to viral tears, but that’s the thing about mythology: these stories have survived the centuries because of their enduring appeal to something fundamental about our human nature. Claire Heywood, the author of Daughters of Sparta , a vivid reimagining of the Siege of Troy told through the eyes of the infamous Helen and her sister Klytemnestra, notes that neither the ancients nor the modern reader can resist a story with good bones. And what fantastic bones these stories have: monsters, magic, palm-sweating action sequences, flawed heroes, delicious villains, romances to root for, forbidden love, acts of god(s), fantastical landscapes. What’s not to like? The stories age, but the storytelling never gets old.

Daughters of Sparta

If an extended universe of heroes, villains, and magic sounds familiar, it’s because modern storytellers have taken the baton and run with it. You don’t have to look too far to see mythology’s fingerprints on some of our most popular and profitable entertainment franchises: consider the landscapes of fantasy and comics, where storytellers create their own pantheons and send them adventuring through a fantastical world. Julie Barer, a partner at The Book Group and agent to Miller, argues that mythological retellings can go toe-to-toe with Marvel, offering similar escapism and entertainment value, as well as “abnormal and attractive” world-building. Could these novels be poised to become a Marvel-style Mythology Cinematic Universe? We’ll soon find out when Circe , Miller’s celebrated 2018 reimagination of The Odyssey ’s misunderstood sorceress, becomes an eight episode HBOMax series. If HBOMax’s Circe succeeds, it may open the floodgates for more on-screen adaptations of mythological retellings, just like the novel opened doors in book publishing.

“When Circe sold like crazy, that was a signal to other writers,” said Gerald Howard, a retired publishing veteran who worked as an editor at Doubleday for over two decades.

Back Bay Books Circe

Like Marvel, which brought legions of comics fans to its on-screen crossover, HBOMax’s Circe will come with a sizable built-in audience. Meanwhile, the social media enthusiasm for The Song of Achilles has translated to a quantifiable spike in sales, with the book now selling around 10,000 copies weekly—roughly nine times what it sold when it won the prestigious Orange Prize in 2012.

But for most of recorded history, for the average reader, mythology was rarefied and inaccessible. For one thing, only scholars who could read Latin and Greek got to enjoy it. So for some, the very term “classics” smacks of privilege—the privilege of an expensive private education, available only to the white, the male, and the wealthy. Though mythological retellings are making headway in bringing these stories to the masses, the same problems still persist in academia—so much so that some academics are calling to do away with the term “classics” and rebrand the discipline entirely. As the world wrestles with a global reckoning surrounding how cultural narratives are shaped and gatekept, novelists are doing their part to jailbreak mythology out of the ivory tower.

“These stories belong to humanity,” Heywood said. “They're interesting, whoever you are, whether you know all the backstory or none of it. It doesn't matter whether you’ve read Euripedes and Homer. I hope people don't feel like it's a specialized collection of knowledge that they aren't allowed to access, because with the classics, it can feel like that. That’s why it’s important to create these more accessible routes into classics.”

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Today’s mythological retellings are for a broader audience. These novels are crafted with low barriers to entry, meaning that newcomers needn’t have a classics education or an encyclopedic knowledge of mythology to dive in. They are, in other words, for you.

“I wanted The Song of Achilles to be a novel with open arms,” Miller said. “It was a vital part of both my novels from the very beginning that they'd be welcoming for everyone, because there can be a lot of alienation in classics. I never wanted my novels to make people feel like they had to do homework first. No one is going to look down their nose at you if you don't know who the god of archery is. In doing that, I honestly feel like I'm going back to Homer. These were stories told in the oral tradition. They were for everybody.”

Liv Albert, the host of Let’s Talk About Myths, Baby , a popular mythology podcast, and the author of Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook , notes that today’s novelists have both a duty and an opportunity to dismantle a long inheritance of mythological whitewashing. Centuries of visual art have sought to erase the Blackness of some Greek mythological figures—like Andromeda, the Ethiopian princess rescued from ritual sacrifice by Perseus, and Memnon, the Ethiopian warrior king who fought in the Trojan War, only to be slain by Achilles. Whitewashing these myths, Albert argues, has kept them front and center in the Eurocentric cultural lexicon. The proof is in the pudding: centuries of whitewashing gave Andromeda enough notoriety to lend her name to a galaxy, while the story of Memnon, which was less frequently whitewashed and therefore less frequently depicted, remains something of a mythology lover’s deep cut.

Adams Media Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook

As centuries of adaptation whitewashed Greek mythology, so too did they sideline women—if not through malicious intent, then through gradual erosion. Classicist Natalie Haynes, the bestselling author of mythological retellings including The Amber Fury , The Children of Jocasta , and A Thousand Ships , sought to redress the imbalance of women’s stories in her most recent work of nonfiction, Pandora’s Jar .

But in some stories, women were sidelined from the very start. Haynes remembers her visceral reaction to reading Oedipus Rex as a schoolgirl, when she immediately felt that Jocasta, the doomed wife and mother of Oedipus, was underserved by the playwright Sophocles.

“I thought for a long time that the story was too focused on Oedipus,” Haynes said. “I thought, ‘But she's standing right there.’ We're told all the way through this play that he's really clever, but Jocasta works out what's happened way before he does. It just felt to me like these women were hiding in plain sight, hidden in the margins of these stories.”

The women characters who were permitted to remain in view cried out for a reckoning. Miller notes that even mythological women who took center stage, like the powerful sorceress Medea, received poor treatment from playwrights like Euripedes, who demonized his protagonist as a vengeful and murderous woman scorned. The stories of women like Medea are chewier and more nuanced than generations of retellings would suggest, inspiring today’s writers to flip the tired script.

Pandora's Jar: Women in the Greek Myths

“There’s an overwhelming feeling when you're looking back at the ancient world that female characters are often very flat or sidelined,” Miller said. “They don't get to have agency. When they do get the kind of attention that Medea gets from Euripides, they become villains who killed their children. I love that people are pushing back at the tradition, trying to expand it. I love that oftentimes people are looking at marginalized characters who were silenced, giving them voices, and trying to expand the field of vision.”

For Claire Andrews, the quest to challenge mythology’s misogynist undertones started young. When Andrews was in seventh grade, she fell in love with the myth of Daphne, the beautiful daughter of a river god, who rejected every suitor. When the lustful god Apollo chased Daphne relentlessly through the forest, she prayed for rescue, and was transformed forever into a laurel tree. Andrews found the myth “profoundly terrible,” and with the encouragement of her mother, set pen to paper on a retelling. Many years and countless revisions later, that retelling hit shelves as Daughter of Sparta , an empowering young adult novel that transforms Daphne not into a tree, but into a headstrong teenage warrior traveling through ancient Greece on a high-octane hero’s journey.

jimmy patterson Daughter of Sparta

In The Silence of the Girls and The Women of Troy , Pat Barker inhabits the psyches of familiar mythological women, like Achilles’ concubine Briseis and the Trojan queen Hecuba, while also pulling back the curtain on the thousands of anonymous women who were footnotes to legends of the Trojan War, from nurses to concubines to enslaved women. The fiercely centered interiority of these women characters, from the famed to the unknown, marks a new direction in the long history of mythological retellings.

Though these totemic tales are ancient, they can reverberate across centuries to ring depressingly true to the struggles women still face. In Ariadne , Jennifer Saint reimagines the life of the Cretan princess who aided Theseus in his quest to defeat the fabled Minotaur, only for Theseus to leave her for dead on a remote island, where she would later be rescued and married by the god Dionysus. Pairing Ariadne’s revealing journey with the ill-fated arranged marriage of her beloved sister Phaedra, Ariadne highlights how women all too often pay the price for the acts of gods and men, then and now.

"It's not just #MeToo now; it's #MeToo in the Bronze Age,” Saint said. “These attitudes, this particular brand of misogyny—you can see it three thousand years ago. Women were blamed for men’s actions. Women bore the consequences while men and gods got away scot-free. We retell the stories because they’re still so relevant to our lives.”

While the stories feel as searingly immediate as ever, the stories today’s writers are reimagining are perhaps not the stories that were handed down over ancient hearths. Some myths have been so sandblasted by thousands of retellings as to become probably unrecognizable to the ancients, while others, we’ve perhaps lost to time entirely.

The impulse to reimagine mythology is as old as the mythology itself. Though Mary Renault popularized the novel as a medium for fictionalizing the lives of mythological men, like Theseus and Alexander the Great, our new boom of retellings show an emergence of the novel as a polyphonic medium for the mythologically marginalized. But when the writers of mythological retellings take up their pens to reshape an ancient story, they face a dizzying surfeit of choices about adaptation. How close must they hew to the source material? When they make changes, what exactly should they change, and how much should they change it? Does “accuracy” or “faithfulness” matter?

Flatiron Books Ariadne

“Oftentimes in the world of classics, the word that gets used around adaptation is ‘faithful,’” Miller said. “That word reminds me of Penelope, who’s supposed to sit at home and wait for Odysseus. It’s as if our job is to serve the original material. But I think the original material has proven that it's just fine. It's lasted for thousands of years. So many people have worked with it and thought about it and changed it. What’s more important to me is being faithful to whatever your vision is.”

But no writer’s vision exists in a vacuum—it’s impossible to divorce one retelling from the generations of retellings before it. Strict traditionalists often argue that additions and changes to a myth’s basic architecture are a bridge too far. After all, mythology enthusiasts take their mythology seriously, harboring fiercely-held opinions that may or may not be rooted in scholarship. Albert has come to blows with some of these enthusiasts on Twitter, noting that men in particular are quick to anger when she exposes how their opinions are at odds with ancient scholarship. But it doesn’t have to get heated.

“I think there's no such thing as too far,” Miller said. “There are no rules and there should be no rules. I love to see really strongly different adaptations, as well as adaptations that are woven into a version of the story that we already know, but turning the story over like we do embroidery, to show you the back side. Both can be wildly successful. These are such kaleidoscopic characters that you can just keep turning and turning them.”

While there’s no creative limit to how much we can turn and turn these characters, there remain intransigent commercial limits. As fecund as the publishing environment may seem for mythological retellings, some familiar industry guardrails prevail, stifling retellings seen as too transgressive or difficult to categorize. Scarlett St. Clair, the author of the three-part Hades and Persephone saga—in which Persephone, a goddess disguised as a mortal journalist, enters into a lustful contract with Hades, God of the Dead and tycoon of a mortal gambling empire—as well as a separate three-part Hades saga, self-published her mythological retellings when traditional publishing deemed them unmarketable.

Bloom Books A Touch of Malice

“Often I've been told that I can’t write within the traditional publishing sphere because there's no market for fantasy romance,” St. Clair said. But A Touch of Malice , the third installment launched this May, already has thousands of Amazon reviews, with readers falling hard for St. Clair’s provocative brand of steamy supernatural romance.

Whether publishing writ large loosens up its genre restrictions now or later, The Great Democratization of mythology is already here. It doesn’t take a rarefied literary prizewinner to convert a new mythology enthusiast. No matter what your classics professor insisted, few people discover mythology through primary sources from the ancient world. Even video games can be a gateway to mythology, with games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey inspiring newfound fans of Greek mythology every day, and sequels like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla suggesting that other mythologies may be gunning for a literary breakout of their own. With popular entertainment serving as one of the most viable paths of discovery, mythological retellings are poised to keep leapfrogging to new mediums through new storytellers, as they’ve done since time immemorial.

“Novels”, of course, “are perfect stepping stones, because they show how fascinating and interesting and wild these stories can be,” Albert said. “Novels open the door to discovering so much more.”

“I hope we see Egyptian mythology,” Barer, Miller’s agent, said. “I hope we see Indigenous mythology. I would love to see an explosion from so many different cultures, countries, and histories. Everyone should get their opportunity, because it’s such a rich landscape.”

When Haynes satirizes and retells mythological stories on her BBC broadcast series, Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics , she sees this generative effect in real time. “When I do live shows and tours, or release an episode of my podcast, you can see a spike in the sales of whichever book I talk about,” Haynes said. “Everyone's going 'Quick, we've got to read Sappho!'

“I've said this before on stage, and I have meant it every single time: when somebody writes the story of Memnon, they're going to make a million dollars,” Haynes said. “We need more women and more racial diversity. People just have to find the story that sings to them and tell it accordingly.”

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The Best Greek Mythology Books – (Fiction & Non Fiction)

December 10, 2023

This guide presents the best Greek mythology books, catering to a wide range of preferences. Initially, I unveil my top five favorites, adding a personal flavor to the selection.

Following this, the article branches into nine distinct categories, covering everything from classical texts to graphic novels.

To enhance your reading experience, a table of contents is provided at the top, allowing for effortless navigation to your desired section. Each category is linked to a more detailed article, complete with extensive reviews and additional recommendations.

Whether you’re a mythology buff or just beginning your journey, this guide is your essential companion to the enthralling world of Greek mythology.

Table of Contents

My 5 favorite greek mythology books.

Welcome to my personal top 5 picks for the best books on Greek mythology! I’ve carefully chosen these books because they offer the most engaging and insightful journeys into the realm of gods, heroes, and timeless myths. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of mythology or just starting to explore these ancient tales, these books are sure to captivate and enlighten you.

The Hero With a Thousand Faces, Joseph Campbell

One of my personal favorite books is ‘ The Hero With a Thousand Faces’ by Joseph Campbell. This book is groundbreaking, blending modern psychoanalysis with the archetypes of world mythology. It is an indispensable guide in understanding myths’ structure and enduring nature.

Campbell’s analysis of these myths through the lens of modern psychology reveals common patterns and stages across various cultures’ mythological narratives. This exploration has deepened my understanding of Greek myths, shedding light on why they endure and how they continue to shape modern storytelling.

To me, Campbell’s idea that mythology is a projection of a culture’s dreams and aspirations is particularly compelling. The Hero With a Thousand Faces provides a broad analysis of the human experience in these mythological stories.

For anyone interested in mythology, whether you’re just starting or have been studying it for years, this book is an essential resource. It offers a unique perspective on myths, making it clear why these stories remain relevant and influential in our lives today.

The Iliad, Homer

Continuing from Joseph Campbell’s insights, it’s only natural to turn to the classics themselves, and there’s no better starting point than Homer’s “The Iliad.” If you’ve delved into Campbell’s work, reading or re-reading The Iliad is a must to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of these ancient narratives.

This epic poem brings to life the final weeks of the Trojan War, focusing on the conflict between Achilles and Agamemnon and vividly depicting the heroism, tragedy, and divine machinations that define this legendary conflict.

Reading The Iliad after understanding Campbell’s mythological structure analysis adds depth to the experience. You begin to see the patterns and archetypes Campbell describes playing out in the rich tapestry of Homer’s storytelling. The epic is a masterclass in the themes of honor, glory, and human fallibility, all set against the backdrop of divine intervention and fate.

It’s a narrative that, while mythical, provides insights into the historical and cultural context of the time. From Achilles to Odysseus, every character contributes to a complex narrative shaping how we understand storytelling today.

The Odyssey, Homer

Following The Iliad, Homer’s “The Odyssey,” a work I personally find more captivating as a pure story. Compared to The Iliad, The Odyssey strikes me as more accessible and readable, weaving a narrative rich in adventure, cunning, and the exploration of human resilience.

The Odyssey is an epic tale of Odysseus’ ten-year struggle to return home after the Trojan War. This story isn’t just about physical journeying; it’s a profound exploration of themes like perseverance, loyalty, and the ingenuity of the human spirit. Each trial and tribulation Odysseus faces, from outwitting the Cyclops to resisting the Sirens, adds depth to this incredible story.

The structure of The Odyssey also appeals to me more. It’s a series of adventures, each unique and filled with its own set of challenges and characters. This episodic nature makes the narrative dynamic and varied, offering a variety of experiences and lessons. As a reader, I find myself more drawn into Odysseus’s world, experiencing his trials and triumphs alongside him.

Furthermore, The Odyssey provides a different perspective on Greek society and the ancient world. Where The Iliad focuses on the honor and glory of war, The Odyssey explores themes of homecoming, family, and the quest for peace and stability.

The Best Greek Mythology Books For Beginners

This section highlights three exceptional books from our comprehensive list of the top ten beginner-friendly books on Greek mythology.

Bulfinch’s Mythology, Thomas Bulfinch

“Bulfinch’s Mythology” is our top pick for beginners in Greek mythology. This classic text, relevant for over a century, introduces a wide array of myths from Greek, Roman, Norse, and other traditions. It’s divided into three sections: Greek and Roman myths, tales of King Arthur and other knightly legends, and the Legends of Charlemagne.

Known for its engaging and readable style, Bulfinch’s work makes these stories accessible and enjoyable, covering everything from Mount Olympus to Norse legends.

It’s an essential guide for understanding mythology’s role in Western literature and culture, perfect for those starting their journey into these timeless tales.

Greek Myths, Robert Graves

Robert Graves’ “The Greek Myths” is a definitive collection offering a detailed retelling of ancient Greek myths. This comprehensive work encapsulates Graves’ poetic and erudite style, making these timeless stories engaging and accessible.

It showcases Graves’ expertise by covering well-known tales like Demeter and Persephone, Icarus, and Theseus and the Minotaur. Unique in its approach, the book also provides interpretations of each myth, giving readers deep insights into ancient Greek customs and beliefs. It’s an exceptional resource for anyone looking to explore Greek mythology’s depth and complexity.

Mythology, Edith Hamilton

“Edith Hamilton’s Mythology” is a celebrated classic that vividly introduces Greek, Roman, and Norse myths. Captivating millions, it brings ancient stories to life for modern readers, covering a broad spectrum from Olympian gods to Norse mythology and the Trojan War.

The book stands out for its in-depth exploration of the myths’ cultural and literary significance, showing their influence on art, literature, and psychology. Known for its clarity and authoritative approach, it’s an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the foundational tales of Western culture.

• See more of the best Greek mythology books for beginners

The Best Greek Mythology Books For Adults (Classical Sources)

Welcome to our picks of the best Greek mythology stories for adults! Here, we highlight three incredible tales packed with drama, intrigue, and timeless lessons.

These stories are just a taste of what Greek mythology has to offer. For more captivating myths and legends, be sure to check out our dedicated article full of great recommendations .

Theogony, works and days, Hesiod

Both “Theogony” and “Works and Days” are seminal texts for anyone interested in ancient Greek culture and mythology. They offer a comprehensive and intriguing look into the Greek worldview, though their appeal might vary based on individual interest in mythology, history, and practical wisdom of the ancient world.

These works are indispensable for those fascinated by Greek myths or ancient societal norms, though their dense and sometimes dry nature might not cater to all modern readers.

The Oresteia, Aeschylus

Aeschylus’ Oresteia , an ancient Greek trilogy, remains a cornerstone in the realm of classic literature. This trilogy, composed of “Agamemnon,” “The Libation Bearers,” and “The Eumenides,” unfolds the tragic tale of the House of Atreus, steeped in a cycle of violence and retribution. The narrative begins with King Agamemnon’s moral quandary, leading to his daughter Iphigenia’s sacrifice, and spirals into a saga of murder and vengeance within his family.

The trilogy’s deep exploration of familial duties, the balance of power, and the evolution of justice make it a profound and engaging read. Each play adds a layer to the complex narrative, culminating in a trial that symbolizes the dawn of a new societal order.

Though ancient, Oresteia’s themes of justice, familial loyalty, and societal progression resonate strongly today, making it an essential read for those intrigued by classic literature and human nature’s timeless aspects.

The Oedipus cycle, the Theban plays, Sophocles

Sophocles’ Theban Plays – “Antigone,” “Oedipus the King,” and “Oedipus at Colonus” – are masterpieces of ancient Greek drama, delving into the complexities of fate, morality, and human action. Sophocles, renowned for his profound character exploration and emotional depth, captures timeless themes in these plays that resonate strongly with modern audiences.

In Antigone, the conflict between personal conviction and state law is explored as Antigone defies King Creon’s edict, highlighting the enduring struggle between individual morality and societal rules. Oedipus the King masterfully portrays the tragic hero’s inevitable march towards a doomed destiny, illustrating the inescapability of fate and the irony of human blindness. The trilogy concludes with Oedipus at Colonus, offering a poignant narrative of redemption and the acceptance of one’s fate.

Sophocles’ Theban Plays are not only a cornerstone of classic literature but also a vibrant, accessible exploration of the human condition, making them a must-read for those seeking both literary brilliance and insightful reflections on life’s enduring questions.

• See more of the best Greek mythology stories for adults

The Best Greek Mythology Books For Kids

We’ve highlighted three exceptional selections from our detailed compilation of the best Greek mythology books for kids .

D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths, Edgar Parin d’Aulaire and Ingri Parin d’Aulaire

“D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths,” our top pick, is a celebrated classic for ages 8-12. It offers a vivid collection of Greek myths created by Caldecott winners Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire.

The book shines in making mythological tales accessible, with a relaxed, humorous tone that brings legendary figures like Zeus and Athena to life for young readers. Its full-page, detailed illustrations add to its visual appeal.

Praised by The Horn Book, The New York Times, and the Christian Science Monitor, it’s valued for reading aloud and independent reading, making it a timeless addition to any young mythology enthusiast’s library.

Echo Echo, Marilyn Singer

“Echo Echo” by Marilyn Singer is an innovative book for children aged 9-12, blending Greek mythology with poetry. Using “reverso poems,” it offers new perspectives on familiar myths like Pandora’s Box and King Midas.

This approach encourages critical thinking and a deeper understanding of myths. Beautiful illustrations enhance its appeal, making it an excellent resource for educators to introduce varied literary styles and viewpoints in upper elementary grades.

Encyclopedia Mythologica – Gods & Heroes, Matthew Reinhart & Robert Sabuda

“Encyclopedia Mythologica – Gods & Heroes” by Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda is an engaging book for children aged 8 and older, combining concise text and intricate pop-up art to explore various world mythologies.

It covers cultures from Ancient Egypt to the Norse gods and offers a comprehensive view of global myths. The book’s vivid pop-ups enhance learning, making mythology exploration interactive and fun.

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The Best Illustrated Greek Mythology Books

Whether you’re a newcomer to these legendary tales or a seasoned enthusiast, these illustrated gems provide a fresh and immersive experience into the timeless stories of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures.

Eager to learn more? Don’t miss out on the full experience – check out our detailed article for a broader exploration of the best in illustrated Greek mythological storytelling.

Mythology, The 75th-anniversary version, Edith Hamilton

Edith Hamilton’s 75th Anniversary Edition of “Mythology” is the top choice for an illustrated Greek mythology book. A classic since 1942, this edition stands out with its stunning illustrations, enriching the reader’s understanding of mythological stories.

It features an impressive design, including family trees and various versions of each myth, highlighting diverse sources like plays and poetry.

Hamilton’s comprehensive research, engaging storytelling, and beautiful illustrations make this book a captivating experience for newcomers and enthusiasts of mythology.

Black Ships Before Troy, Rosemary Sutcliff

“Black Ships Before Troy” brings Homer’s “The Iliad” to life with the captivating illustrations of Alan Lee. His artwork captures the Trojan War’s epic scope and intense emotion, complementing Sutcliff’s concise and gripping prose.

Lee’s portrayal of characters like Achilles is particularly striking, visually amplifying their presence and impact in the story. This award-winning book serves as an engaging introduction to the classic tale, making it accessible and memorable for both young readers and adults.

It’s a perfect blend of storytelling and art, ideal for those new to the story of Troy or preparing to explore Homer’s original epic.

Lore Olympus, Rachel Smythe

Rachel Smythe’s “Lore Olympus” reimagines the tale of Hades and Persephone with a modern twist. This Eisner-nominated graphic novel shines with its unique art style and contemporary storytelling.

It presents a world where Greek gods experience scandal and forbidden love, focusing on Persephone’s complex relationship with Hades. The narrative is rich, fast-paced, and full of relatable characters. Covering the first 25 episodes of the webcomic, “Lore Olympus” skillfully balances humor with deeper themes, offering a fresh perspective on the classic myth.

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The Best YA Greek Mythology Books

Welcome to our selection of the best young adult (YA) books about Greek mythology! Here, we highlight titles that skillfully bring ancient myths to life for younger readers.

For a more comprehensive exploration, be sure to check out our extended article, where we delve into a wider selection of Greek mythological tales for young adults.

The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan’s ‘The Lightning Thief’ tops our list of YA books on Greek mythology. In this engaging first installment of ‘Percy Jackson & the Olympians,’ we meet Percy Jackson, an average kid who discovers he’s a demigod, son of Poseidon. He’s sent to Camp Half-Blood, a haven for demigods like him.

The book shines in its modern twist on Greek mythology, blending humor and wit to make ancient tales appealing to young readers. Percy, with his relatable flaws and struggles like dyslexia and ADHD, is a character that resonates with the YA audience.

Supported by characters like the smart Annabeth and loyal satyr Grover, Percy’s quest to find Zeus’s lightning bolt is as much an action-filled adventure as a journey of self-discovery. The Lightning Thief offers a unique blend of mythology, magic, and real-life challenges, making it a compelling read for young adults exploring ancient myths.

Bull, David Elliott

David Elliott’s “Bull” is a unique retelling of the Theseus and Minotaur myth, presented in verse with a contemporary twist. This YA novel stands out for its dark humor and modern language, making Greek mythology accessible and engaging for young readers.

Elliott’s portrayal of characters like Poseidon adds depth and complexity, challenging traditional views of the myth. The novel skillfully balances humor with darker elements, offering a fresh and captivating perspective in YA literature.

Lovely War, Julie Berry

Julie Berry’s ‘Lovely War’ is a masterful blend of historical romance and mythology set during World War I. It intricately weaves the stories of two couples, Hazel and James, and Aubrey and Colette, highlighting their love, challenges, and the impact of war.

Uniquely narrated by Greek gods like Aphrodite, the novel brings a timeless dimension to the narrative, enriching the historical context with themes of fate, passion, and love’s resilience. Berry excels in capturing human emotions amidst the war’s chaos, with meticulous attention to historical detail.

Despite its multiple perspectives, Lovely War offers a well-rounded and sensitive portrayal of its era, making it a standout in historical YA fiction.

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The Best Adult Fiction Greek Mythology Books

This section highlights three captivating books from our comprehensive list of the best adult fiction inspired by Greek mythology.

These selected novels offer a glimpse into the imaginative reworkings of timeless myths, showcasing the depth and versatility of this genre.

For readers eager to explore more such enthralling tales, be sure to check out the full article, where we delve into a wider selection of adult fiction Greek mythology books.

Fifteen Dogs, Andre Alexis

André Alexis’s “Fifteen Dogs” stands out in adult fiction with its innovative blend of Greek mythology and philosophical exploration. The novel revolves around a bet between Apollo and Hermes, who grant human intelligence to fifteen dogs. The story delves into the lives of these canines, particularly focusing on Majnoun the poodle, Benjy the Beagle, and Prince, a poetic mutt, as they grapple with their newfound awareness.

Alexis skillfully navigates themes of freedom, conformity, and the nature of existence, presenting a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Fifteen Dogs is a remarkable read, offering a unique perspective on life’s fundamental questions through the eyes of its canine characters.

The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood’s “The Penelopiad” offers a compelling retelling of “The Odyssey” from Penelope’s viewpoint. In this novel, Penelope, depicted as sassy and intelligent, narrates from Hades, providing insights into her life and the injustices faced by her twelve maids.

Atwood skillfully challenges traditional narratives, presenting a fresh perspective on Odysseus’ journey and character, especially highlighting his double standards. This novel is a thought-provoking read that reexamines familiar myths through a modern lens, making it an intriguing companion to the classic epic.

Troy – Lord of the Silver Bow, David Gemmel

David Gemmell’s “Lord of the Silver Bow” offers a riveting new take on the Trojan War, centered around the Trojan hero Aeneas, known as Helikaon. This first book in a trilogy diverges from the traditional tales of Achilles and Hector, instead weaving a complex story of love, honor, and destiny.

Gemmell’s narrative is rich and engaging, filled with epic battles, deep-seated rivalries, and a fresh perspective on mythological events. The characters are well-crafted and dynamic, bringing new life to the legendary saga.

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The Best Greek Mythology Fantasy Books

This segment highlights three exceptional books handpicked from our comprehensive article dedicated to Greek mythology-inspired fantasy .

These novels stand out for their imaginative reworkings of timeless myths, offering readers a journey through worlds where ancient gods and heroes are interwoven with captivating storytelling.

Lore, Alexandra Bracken

Alexandra Bracken’s “Lore” masterfully combines Greek mythology with a modern survival game, reminiscent of “The Hunger Games.” Set in New York City, the novel revolves around the Agon, where mortalized Greek gods are hunted for their powers.

Lore Perseous, intent on leaving this brutal world, is drawn back by a wounded Athena and her old friend Castor. Bracken’s novel is a thrilling blend of action, myth, and intrigue, offering a fresh take on classical lore. Lore is an engaging read for those who enjoy a dynamic fusion of ancient myths and contemporary adventure.

The Ten Thousand, Paul Kearney

Paul Kearney’s ‘The Ten Thousand’ is a standout in Greek mythology-inspired fantasy, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of war. This novel, a reimagining of Xenophon’s Anabasis, explores the story of 10,000 Greek mercenaries in a fantasy setting populated by distinct races and devoid of overt magic.

The Macht, legendary warriors, are hired to overthrow a king, leading to an intense, militaristic narrative. Kearney’s writing is unflinchingly honest, capturing battle’s raw and visceral aspects.

The book is rich in detail, from the stench of the battlefield to the complexities of its characters, making it a must-read for fans of military fantasy looking for a deep and captivating story.”

The Lost Hero – The Heroes of Olympus, Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan’s “The Lost Hero,” the inaugural book of “The Heroes of Olympus” series, builds upon the world of “Percy Jackson & the Olympians.”

Introducing new characters like Jason, Piper, and Leo, this novel brings them to Camp Half-Blood, revealing their demigod status and launching them on a quest tied to an ancient prophecy.

The book excels in merging Greek and Roman mythology, enriching Riordan’s fictional universe. Known for its compelling plot and vivid character development, “The Lost Hero” offers a multi-perspective narrative that deepens the story’s richness.

Riordan’s humor and brisk storytelling make mythical tales engaging and relevant to young readers, weaving in themes of identity and friendship. This novel is a delightful expansion of Riordan’s mythological world, welcoming new and returning fans to a realm where ancient myths are vibrantly reimagined.

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The Best Greek Mythology Romance Books

This section delves into the mesmerizing world of Greek mythology romance books, offering a glimpse into tales where ancient myths meet modern love.

For those who find themselves enchanted by these timeless stories and want to explore further, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide, where we’ve curated a more extensive collection of must-read Greek mythology romance books .

Metamorphoses, Ovid

For romance enthusiasts and Greek mythology buffs, Ovid’s “Metamorphoses” is essential. This ancient masterpiece is an epic collection of stories, each rich in romance, transformation, and profound emotion.

The book explores love as a transformative power, with tales like Narcissus, Orpheus, and Eurydice highlighting love’s capacity to alter destinies. Ovid’s unique and engaging narrative style brings these age-old myths to life for contemporary readers, delving into the theme of change as a universal constant. “

Metamorphoses has significantly influenced Western culture, shaping the narrative of love and romance across various art forms.

The Song of Achilles, Madeline Miller

Madeline Miller’s “The Song of Achilles” is a touching retelling of the tale of Achilles and Patroclus, set during the Trojan War. This novel beautifully blends mythology with a deep, personal love story.

Achilles, famed for his battle skills and charm, and Patroclus, an exiled prince of great depth and strength, share a bond that grows from friendship to profound love, challenging the expectations of gods and men.

Miller’s lyrical writing vividly brings their relationship to life, making their love and the impending tragedy of war feel intensely real. This poignant story of love and fate is an unforgettable read, sure to leave a lasting impact.

Psyche and Eros, Luna McNamara

Luna McNamara’s “Psyche and Eros” offers a refreshing take on Greek mythology, weaving a tale of love and destiny. Ideal for fans of Madeline Miller and V.E. Schwab, this novel blends heroic adventure with romance.

It follows Psyche, Princess of Mycenae, as she defies societal norms and trains in combat, preparing to confront a monstrous fate. Her life changes drastically after angering Aphrodite, leading to a curse that intertwines her path with Eros, the god of desire.

Despite his reluctance, Eros is drawn to Psyche, sparking a romance amid divine challenges. The story captivates with steady pacing and vivid storytelling, exploring themes of trust, sacrifice, and heroism in a world where gods and mortals coexist.

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The Best Greek Mythology Graphic Novels

We’ve picked three exceptional graphic novels from our comprehensive list of the best Greek mythology graphic novels. These selections are part of a curated list of ten in the full article.

Eager to discover our top choice? Dive into the complete article to explore our number one pick among the best graphic novels inspired by Greek mythology.

Hellboy, Mike Mignola & John Byrne

“Hellboy, Vol. 1: Seed of Destruction” by Mike Mignola uniquely blends Greek mythology with a supernatural narrative. Featuring Hellboy, a demon raised among humans, it explores themes of destiny and the supernatural.

The graphic novel’s distinctive artwork, marked by stark, shadow-heavy visuals, perfectly complements its blend of action, mystery, and horror. A fresh take for Greek mythology enthusiasts, it stands out in the realm of mythologically-inspired graphic novels.

Kill the Minotaur, Chris Pasetto & Christian Cantamessa

“Kill the Minotaur #1” creatively reimagines the Greek myth of the Minotaur with a horror twist. It follows Theseus’ perilous journey through the eerie labyrinth of Crete to face the half-man, half-bull creature.

This adaptation adds a darker atmosphere to the classic tale, appealing to fans of Greek mythology and horror. The graphic novel’s artwork vividly captures the labyrinth’s claustrophobic environment, enhancing the story’s suspense and terror.

A Thousand Ships – Age of Bronze, Eric Shanower

“A Thousand Ships,” from the “Age of Bronze” series, offers a riveting portrayal of the Trojan War. The graphic novel begins with the abduction of Queen Helen, leading to the assembly of a Greek force under Agamemnon. It features mythological figures like Achilles and Odysseus, intricately exploring their stories.

The artwork’s detail vividly brings the ancient world to life, complementing the narrative. Celebrated for its quality, it has been featured in international exhibitions and nominated for Eisner Awards.

• See more of our favorite Greek Mythology Graphic Novels

The Best Greek Mythology Audiobooks

We’ve included a special section dedicated to audiobooks for those who love to immerse themselves in stories through listening. Here, we highlight three standout audiobooks that brilliantly bring Greek myths to life.

For a more extensive exploration of Greek mythology audiobooks , be sure to check out our full article devoted exclusively to this format, where we delve deeper into each selection and offer more options for your listening pleasure.

mythos, Stephen Fry

“Mythos,” narrated and written by Stephen Fry, stands out as our top choice in a list of enchanting audiobooks exploring Greek mythology.

Fry’s distinctive blend of humor and insightful storytelling brings a delightful freshness to these ancient tales, making them both accessible and engaging for modern audiences.

As the first in a trilogy narrated by Fry, Mythos serves as an ideal entry point into the rich world of Greek mythology, masterfully retold by a narrator renowned for his eloquence and passion for the subject.

irce, Madeline Miller

“Circe” by Madeline Miller , brought to life by narrator Perdita Weeks, is an enthralling retelling of the classic Greek myth. The novel, spanning over 12 hours, captivates listeners with its deep exploration of themes like independence, transformation, and the intricate dynamics between mortals and gods.

Centering on Circe, the daughter of the sun god Helios, it tracks her evolution from a scorned deity to a powerful witch exiled on the island of Aiaia. This book masterfully intertwines various Greek myths and characters, making it resonate like a true mythological tale.

Circe is widely acclaimed for its nuanced storytelling. The novel’s unique focus on Circe, a character often sidelined in traditional myths, provides a fresh and compelling perspective.

Till We Have Faces, C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis’s ‘Till We Have Faces,’ narrated by Wanda McCaddon, offers a captivating retelling of the Cupid and Psyche myth.

Set in the ancient realm of Glome, it focuses on the complex relationship between Psyche and her sister Orual, leading Orual on a journey of self-discovery.

Praised for its depth, the novel insightfully explores themes of love and human behavior, standing out from Lewis’s other works.

• See more Greek mythology audiobooks

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The Women of Greek Myths Are Finally Talking Back

Novels that take on the marginalized or vilified women in mythology are flooding bookstores and reigniting questions about who gets to tell these stories, and how.

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By Alexandra Alter

For centuries, the Greek Gorgon Medusa has been cast as a vicious monster, a beastly woman with writhing snakes for hair and a deadly gaze that turns living creatures to stone.

Several years ago, when Nataly Gruender was studying classics as an undergraduate at the University of Arizona, she started to wonder if there was more to Medusa’s story.

Scattered references in Greek and Roman works by Hesiod, Apollodorus and Ovid described her death at the hands of the hero Perseus, but also hinted at a fuller life. In Ovid’s telling, Medusa wasn’t born a monster, but was turned into one as punishment by the goddess Athena, after Medusa was raped by the sea-god Poseidon in Athena’s temple.

Drawing on the fragments she could find, and adding scenes to flesh out Medusa’s narrative, Gruender wrote her own version of the myth. “Often, you only really get to see her as a decapitated head in Perseus’ hand,” Gruender said. “I really wanted to give her a voice and tell the story from her perspective.”

She imagined a climactic moment in which Medusa confronts Athena and asks the goddess why she, the victim, was unjustly punished, and added a noncanonical love affair between Medusa and a female water nymph. “I’m queer, so I wanted to see that reflected in her,” Gruender said. “I was like, you know, she deserves one nice thing.”

Gruender’s debut novel, “Medusa,” which Grand Central will publish this August, is the latest fictional reworking of the Gorgon’s tale. The increasingly crowded sub-sub-genre includes novels like Natalie Haynes’s “Stone Blind, ” Hannah Lynn’s “ Athena’s Child ,” Lauren J.A. Bear’s “Medusa’s Sisters,” Katherine Marsh’s middle grade novel “Medusa,” Claire Heywood’s “The Shadow of Perseus” and Jessie Burton’s young adult novel “Medusa: The Girl Behind the Myth .”

And Medusa is just one of a legion of female mythological figures who are getting literary makeovers. Following in the wake of blockbusters like Madeline Miller’s “ Circe ,” which spotlighted the powerful witch from Homer’s “Odyssey” and sold more than 2.5 million copies, there’s been a flood of novels featuring women from Greek mythology who have often been overlooked, maligned or sidelined as pawns in male heroes’ journeys.

For the women writing these feminist revisions, and the millions of readers enthralled by the stories, placing women at the center of familiar, ancient myths feels like a necessary and overdue corrective.

For most of recorded history, Greek and Roman mythology has been dominated by men, from ancient bards and dramatists like Homer, Euripides and Aeschylus, to the translators and scholars who have interpreted those myths in the centuries since. Female characters have either been relegated to the fringes, or filtered through the male gaze, depicted as helpless victims, sexual objects and war prizes. If they had any agency at all, women in myth were often cast as supernatural monsters like Circe and Medusa, or murderous villains like Medea and Clytemnestra.

To Miller, it makes sense that women are excavating ancient stories and giving new life to female characters whose perspectives have been elided.

“Overwhelmingly, the voices we hear from the ancient world are male,” she said. “It’s not just that the women in these stories lead oppressed lives, it’s that we don’t get their vision of what their lives look like.”

At the same time, these ancient stories retain their potency, culturally and psychologically. As long as myths continue to resonate, writers will extract fresh meaning from them.

Along with Circe and Medusa, other female villains from Greek epics and tragedies are getting resurrected and redeemed in fiction. The murderous Queen Clytemnestra , who killed both her husband, the warrior Agamemnon, and his war concubine, the Trojan princess Cassandra, gets center stage in novels by Costanza Casati and Susan C. Wilson . Medea — one of the most reviled figures in myth, who takes vengeance on her deceitful husband, Jason, by murdering her own children — has inspired recent fictional retellings by Rosie Hewlett and Eilish Quin .

“There’s a huge appetite for these stories because they have a massively archetypal quality,” said Haynes, a classicist turned novelist who is working on her own novelization of Medea.

The trend shows no signs of slowing: This summer, publishers are releasing a fresh wave of feminist Greek mythological reboots.

Claire North’s “The Last Song of Penelope,” due out in June, reimagines the story of Odysseus’ homecoming after the Trojan War from the perspective of his clever wife, Penelope, as she schemes behind the scenes to keep her family safe from the carnage. Caro De Robertis’s new novel, “The Palace of Eros,” out in August, reinvents the myth of Eros, the god of desire, and Psyche, the beautiful mortal he falls in love with. In De Robertis’s version, Eros is a nonbinary deity who presents as female and can change genders, a plot twist that adds new layers to the original story’s themes of forbidden love and desire.

And in “Hera,” also out in August, the best-selling novelist Jennifer Saint recasts the goddess as a powerful, cunning deity in her own right, rather than just the petty, jealous wife of Zeus. In Saint’s version, Hera feels herself every bit Zeus’ equal, but she is forced to marry him after he tricks her by disguising himself as a small injured bird, then overpowering and raping her. From then on, she is bent on revenge against not only her unfaithful husband, but also the nymphs and goddesses he pursues.

“It was important to me to write a woman who is not likable, who is relentlessly ambitious and striving for power and control, and considers that to be her birthright as much as Zeus’,” said Saint, whose previous novels have reanimated female mythological figures like Ariadne, Elektra and Atalanta. “We see Hera through the worst misogynist stereotypes; so often she’s presented as spiteful and vindictive, as nagging Zeus and holding him back, and it’s so deeply unfair. Does Hera look different if we see her through a female lens?”

There’s a long literary tradition of revising and reimagining Greek myths. Romans like Virgil and Ovid adapted these stories. Ancient myths figure in the plays of Shakespeare, in poetry by Derek Walcott and Louise Glück, and in novels by Margaret Atwood, Ursula K. Le Guin, Ali Smith and Rick Riordan, whose Percy Jackson series has sold more than 100 million copies globally. The ancient Greeks and Romans themselves were prone to spinning new versions of their lore, which often morphed from storyteller to storyteller, leaving no fixed or final version.

Still, the recent rise of Greek mythological retellings with an overtly feminist lens stands out for the sheer volume of novels and the seemingly bottomless appetite for mythological fare among both readers and publishers.

Several factors are driving the genre’s explosion. Many of these novels have arrived in the wake of #MeToo, and may hold appeal because the narratives give voice and agency to female characters who are victims of sexual violence and assault.

Some writers are taking myths in which women are victimized, subjugated and objectified, and turning them into stories of romantic and sexual empowerment. The myth of Hades and Persephone — an unsettling story about how the god of the underworld abducted young Persephone, dragged her into the bowels of the earth and forced her to marry him — has been reimagined as a steamy love story in two best-selling series: the “Hades x Persephone Saga,” a spicy romantasy series by Scarlett St. Clair that has sold more than a million print copies, and Rachel Smythe’s graphic novel series “Lore Olympus,” a blockbuster that has more than 2.3 million copies in print.

Queer and gender-flipped versions of Greek myths are part of the new landscape too. Miller’s debut novel, “The Song of Achilles,” which came out more than a decade ago but more recently found a huge audience through TikTok, and went on to sell more than three million copies, centers on a romance between the warrior Achilles and his comrade-in-arms Patroclus. The young adult novelist and TikTok star Bea Fitzgerald’s forthcoming novel, “The End Crowns All,” due out in July from Penguin U.K., is a Sapphic young adult romance in which Helen and Cassandra come together and rewrite their fates to stop the fall of Troy.

Another addition to the canon, Elyse John’s new novel “Orphia and Eurydicius,” retells the story of the poet Orpheus’ journey to the underworld to rescue the woman he loves, Eurydice. In John’s version, Orphia is a female poet who travels to Hades’s realm to save her bisexual male lover, Eurydicius — a radical change that puts a woman in the hero’s role and scrambles gender stereotypes.

“By changing Orpheus into a woman, I could explore what it means to be a creator-heroine, a woman using storytelling to take on the gods,” John said.

Greek mythology has also seeped into other corners of pop culture, showing up in TV, comics, graphic novels and video games, making it feel more accessible and less like an elite, scholarly field.

For younger generations raised on superhero blockbusters and ever-expanding I.P.-derived cinematic universes with endless reboots and character spinoffs, novelizations of myths may hold a similar appeal: You’ve seen this character, but you’ve never gotten her side of the story.

New translations of classical texts by women are also helping to reshape the popular understanding of Western myths, and are in turn inspiring novelists.

In Stephanie McCarter’s 2022 translation of Ovid’s “Metamorphosis,” a Latin poem that recounts famous tales of transformation, love and violence, McCarter uses blunt language to describe the gods’ sexual pursuit of women, labeling assaults as rape, rather than resorting to the euphemisms often used in earlier translations, like “ravished” and “plundered.”

The classicist Emily Wilson ’s translations of Homer’s “ The Odyssey ” and “ The Iliad ” won acclaim, and stirred some controversy, for using plain language to describe the subjugation of women, and by avoiding sexist phrases used by male translators. Whereas some previous versions called the servant girls in Odysseus’ household who were seduced by Penelope’s suitors “sluts” or “whores” — words with sexist overtones that aren’t present in Homer’s original verses — Wilson calls them “slave women.”

Wilson said novelizations of Greek myths appeal to readers in part because they have the patina of high culture, but may feel less intimidating than translations of the originals.

“People are a little bit afraid of ancient literature,” said Wilson, who in addition to translating classics is also working on her own fictional version of Trojan War stories. “The ‘you go girl’ feminism thing — you may think she’s a victim but actually she’s a goddess — is a very relatable, inspiring thing to many young readers.”

Not everyone appreciates mythological makeovers. Some classical purists have taken to social media to criticize new translations and feminist revisions, arguing that these new works are distorting ancient stories by imposing a feminist agenda. A critique of the genre in The New Statesman by Finn McRedmond last year argued that feminist revisions tend to be one-note, and often misread the stories they attempt to unearth: “It is difficult to extract honest feminist parable from stories written in a world that wouldn’t recognize the concept,” she wrote.

Helen Morales, a professor of Hellenic studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, said that while some recent feminist versions have preserved the moral complexity of these myths, others may go too far in seeking to placate modern readers with uplifting stories of female empowerment.

“Part of the appeal of myth is that it’s complex and unpredictable,” said Morales, author of “ Antigone Rising ,” which explores how Greek and Roman myths have been reclaimed and reinterpreted to speak to contemporary concerns. “If it’s rendered in a way that makes readers complacent, or reaffirms what we know or what we want to hear, I don’t think that’s good for myth, and it’s not good for feminism either.”

Others complain that the genre has become oversaturated — like any popular cultural trend, the explosion of mythological retellings has yielded works that vary widely in quality, and in their fidelity to the originals.

Still, for ardent fans of these stories, and the writers producing them, Greek myths seem to offer endless possibilities for reinterpretation.

“There’s no final word on anything, because language is always changing, so there’s no definitive myth,” said Miller, who is currently working on a new novel about Persephone and Demeter, her mother. “These were fluid texts right from the beginning.”

And for now, readers continue to crave new vantage points on female characters — and the archives are still full of mythological women worthy of their own epics, Miller said.

“They could all have their own novels,” she said.

Alexandra Alter writes about books, publishing and the literary world for The Times. More about Alexandra Alter

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Grace Lapointe

Grace Lapointe’s fiction has been published in Kaleidoscope, Deaf Poets Society, Mobius: The Journal of Social Change, and is forthcoming in Corporeal Lit Mag. Her essays and poetry have been published in Wordgathering. Her stories and essays—including ones that she wrote as a college student—have been taught in college courses and cited in books and dissertations. More of her work is at https://gracelapointe.wordpress.com, Medium, and Ao3.

View All posts by Grace Lapointe

In a world where the children of the gods inherit their powers, a descendant of the Greek Fates must solve a series of impossible murders to save her sisters, her soulmate, and her city. Descendants of the Fates are always born in threes: one to weave, one to draw, and one to cut the threads that connect people to the things they love and to life itself. The Ora sisters are no exception. Io, the youngest, uses her Fate-born abilities as a private investigator. But her latest job leads her to a horrific discovery: somebody is abducting women, and setting the resulting wraiths loose in the city to kill.

Figures from Greek myths want to be remembered forever, cheat death, know the future, or see their (living or dead) loved ones again. These are deeply relatable desires. Fate, irony, arrogance, and courage are universal concepts, and ancient Greek literature explored them in ways that still resonate today.

Immortals who can become mortal and demigods (the children of gods and humans) still inspire today’s immortal fantasy characters. From Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Disney+ to myth-retelling novels for adults, it’s obvious stories from ancient Greek literature influence pop culture today. And re-imaginings make ancient stories more accessible to many readers.

Though ancient Greek epics, poetry, and drama have endured for millennia, of course, they originated from a specific culture. In 2023, for BR, Lyndsie Manusos interviewed several Greek authors on their opinions about Greek myth retellings. They all said diverse retellings are important, which should include renditions by modern Greek authors. Ancient Greek literature and history were central to 18 th and 19 th -century British and U.S. educations and still get co-opted by white supremacists. A culture is not a vibe or aesthetic.

If you love Greek mythology, these books below have elements that may also appeal to you. They’re not all strict retellings. Some are inspired by ancient Greek myths in subtler ways or use their names, themes, and figures in modern settings.

This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron

Helping out in her mom’s nursery, Briseis discovers she can make plants bloom. She inherits an estate from her aunt and uncovers even more secrets. The setting is Gothic and modern, but it also incorporates the elixir of immortality and other ideas and figures from Greek mythology. Briseis’ name originates from a prisoner of war in The Iliad . The original Briseis has no agency and is trafficked from one powerful man to another. So, it’s great to find such a powerful character with that name.

Lore by Alexandra Bracken

If you’ve ever imagined how gods might feel when they become mortal, or vice versa, you might love this book. It has a unique take on the demigods and generational curses of ancient Greek mythology. On a seven-year cycle, nine gods turn mortal, so descendants of human heroes, like Achilles, can hunt them. This is an urban fantasy set in modern NYC with vivid characters. The hunt, the Agon, is named after the main conflict in ancient Greek drama.

Spin by Rebecca Caprara

This YA fantasy-in-verse has a protagonist who’s often overlooked, even among retellings. Arachne’s mother teaches her to weave and tells her stories of the gods and goddesses. The book also mentions concepts from ancient Greek drama: hubris (arrogance) and hamartia (a character’s tragic flaw). These become relevant to Arachne’s story when she says her tapestries are better than Athena’s. The details are vivid, and the subject and structure of this book are unique. Maybe skip this one if you have a strong phobia of spiders, though!

Daughter of Sparta by Claire M. Andrews

Historians think Spartan women had more freedom than women from other ancient Greek city-states and were taught to handle weapons. This allows Daphne to replace her brother in a competition, though she’s still one of the mothakes (outsiders). The goddess Artemis needs Daphne’s help. This novel is partly inspired by the story of Daphne and Apollo. In Roman poet Ovid’s version of the myth, Daphne was turned into a laurel tree to avoid being raped by Apollo. Many ancient myths, like this one, have fascinating potential for YA and feminist retellings.

Icarus by K. Ancrum

This is a contemporary thriller inspired by the myth of Icarus and his inventor father, Daedalus. In the myth, Daedalus makes wax wings for Icarus, who flies too close to the sun. In this novel, Icarus’ father, Angus, is an art forger, and Icarus steals originals and replaces them with Angus’ imitations. As metaphors, the danger and arrogance of flying too near the sun fit the art heist premise perfectly. I also recommend Darling , Ancrum’s modern crime thriller that reimagines Peter Pan .

The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi

Maya, the raja’s daughter, is cursed, according to astrology. When one of her father’s wives dies, the other wives blame Maya. In this interview , the author explained that her Filipine and Indian heritage, as well as the ancient Greek myth of Hades and Persephone, inspired the book. Maya’s kingdom, Bharata, shares a name with a legendary emperor from Sanskrit texts, and characters can be reincarnated.

Never Look Back by Lilliam Rivera

This Pura Belpré Honor book is a retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth set in The Bronx in recent times. Eury moved to NYC from Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria in 2017. The novel has alternating chapters narrated by Pheus and Eury, whose names play on Orpheus and Eurydice. Pheus is a musician (a guitarist and songwriter), like the bard Orpheus with his lyre. Literally and figuratively, never looking back is important to the myth, and it fits the young protagonists’ journeys.

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig

This novel is a retelling of the fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses , which was recorded by the Brothers Grimm. Annaleigh’s sisters are cursed to dance every night past the point of exhaustion. This book blends genres: horror, mystery, portal fantasy, and more. The names and atmosphere draw from Edgar Allan Poe. Although it’s NOT a Greek myth retelling, the gods and world-building are reminiscent of ancient Greek mythology. Annaleigh’s family lives on an island and worships nautical gods. Their main god reminded me of Poseidon. Like the ancient Greek gods, their gods walk among humans, and they are often petty. Some are even half-human demigods.

More on Ancient Greek Myths:

In 2020, BR listed 50 must-read books on Greek myths , divided by genre and age category.

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Every Percy Jackson And The Olympians Book, Ranked By Readers

The year is 2005. A 12-year-old kid finds out that many of his closest friends and authority figures are secretly characters from Greek mythology, and that he himself is a demigod whose father is none other than Poseidon. Thus begin the adventures of Percy Jackson, who has to figure out a way to balance his ordinary life with the mythological monsters and deities who constantly seek him out — sometimes to hunt him, other times to recruit him for one quest or another. 

Rick Riordan's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" novels combine classic fantasy adventure with a hefty dose of mythology — and inclusivity, as evidenced by the protagonist's dyslexia and ADHD. The end result is a tasty literary stew that has captivated readers to the tune of six novels and over 190 million copies all over the world. It's a big series, and while fans have enjoyed all six books, they like some more than others. Let's find out how the readers rank the six books so far in the "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series. 

6. The Sea of Monsters

The second work of art is often the hardest to make. In literary circles, the phenomenon of the difficult sophomore effort has been called "the second novel syndrome," and it can be so overwhelming that many people simply call it quits after the first book. With that in mind, it may not be all that surprising that the second "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" book, "The Sea of Monsters," lands dead last in the comparison among the six novels in the series. 

That's not to say most readers think the book is bad, though. On the contrary, it has a very solid Goodreads rating of 4.21 stars out of 5. As such, Percy's quest to save Camp Half-Blood by finding the Golden Fleece is a quality story in its own right — it just falls a little bit short of the other installments in the series.

Of course, the place of "The Sea of Monsters" on this list may also have something to do with its film adaptation. Released in 2010, "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief" got a lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences, and 2013's "Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters" didn't do any better, effectively tanking the nascent movie franchise. Because of this, the movie version of "The Lightning Thief" is closely associated to the reason we never got a third "Percy Jackson" movie , which may potentially hurt the novel's standing in the fans' eyes, through no fault of the book itself.

5. The Lightning Thief

Yes, the book that started it all is somehow ranked this low. Don't take this to mean that it's bad, mind you. In fact, just like its successor, "The Lightning Thief" is well-liked among readers, as evidenced by its very respectable Goodreads rating of 4.31 out of 5. 

"The Lightning Thief" enthralls readers with a premise where a 12-year-old boy turns out to be a demigod of the Greek pantheon and has to find the person who stole Zeus' lightning in order to clear his own name. It combines a "Harry Potter"-style fantasy story with well-known Greek mythological elements and uses these building blocks to tell an interesting and exciting story. In other words, it's a worthy starting point for a fantasy series.  

In the grand scheme of things, "The Lightning Thief"'s rating may suffer from the simple fact that just like "The Sea of Monsters," it's associated with a lackluster movie adaptation. As the first book in the series, it also has to set up the entire "Percy Jackson" timeline and universe. While origin stories have their own charm, this also means "The Lightning Thief" has to go through certain formulaic story beats that later novels aren't beholden to. 

4. The Chalice of the Gods

Recency bias certainly isn't an issue for "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" fans, seeing as "The Chalice of the Gods" is ranked only fourth on this list. The sixth entry in the series dropped in September 2023 and may not have had the time to cement its place in the fandom's minds quite yet, as evidenced by it only having a fraction of the number of the older books' Goodreads reviews. Still, the people who have read the story of Percy trying to enjoy a normal high school senior year — before a mission to find Ganymede's chalice pulls him right back into the demigod business — have thoroughly enjoyed it, judging by the book's rating of 4.34 out of 5.

"The Chalice of the Gods" is the first "Olympians" book that ventures beyond the original story cycle, and also the first since "The Lightning Thief" to fully focus on the trio of Percy, fellow demigod Annabeth Chase, and Grover Underwood the satyr. Apart from the comparisons to the first novel this invites, "The Chalice of the Gods" also faces the daunting task of following the climactic fifth book in the series, "The Last Olympian." Fortunately, the sixth book does a good enough job to surpass "The Lightning Thief" and "The Sea of Monsters" in readers' eyes, and the context of future "Percy Jackson" stories might very well further increase its standing within the series.

3. The Titan's Curse

It really is a pity that we never got that third "Percy Jackson" movie, because "The Titan's Curse" is where the going gets very, very good. The book is arguably the purest example of globe-trotting-quest excitement the series has to offer, with Percy and his allies visiting places like the Smithsonian and the Hoover Dam, receiving help from some mythical creatures and fighting many others while attempting to save Annabeth Chase and the goddess Artemis from the villainous Titans. From the fearsome Dr. Thorn to the Hunters of Artemis and the di Angelo siblings, the story is packed with interesting characters from the beginning, and the scenes with entities like the Nemean Lion, the Erymanthian Boar, and the gigantic automaton Talos basically beg to be filmed. 

Whether this happens in the foreseeable future is anyone's guess, though. Even if Hollywood chose to take a chance on another series of "Percy Jackson" movies, it'd still have to adapt the first two books before "The Titan's Curse." Likewise, the ending of "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" Season 1 doesn't set up too many elements that explicitly tie to "The Titan's Curse," and Season 2 will likely focus entirely on "The Sea of Monsters." Hopefully, the Disney+ series will make it to Season 3 and adapt "The Titan's Curse" — but even if it doesn't, the fans can at least enjoy the book, which stands at 4.37 stars out of 5 on Goodreads.

2. The Battle of the Labyrinth

"The Battle of the Labyrinth" is the fourth book in the series, and it revolves almost entirely around the titular gigantic maze. The labyrinth of Minos is one of the best-known Greek legends and, as such, makes for a particularly juicy set piece for a "Percy Jackson" novel. While the series already plays the Minotaur card in "The Lightning Thief," this vast labyrinth still hides many secrets and dangers. The story also features certain exciting developments to set up the next novel's endgame. 

Readers have agreed that the labyrinth is an excellent place for Percy's adventures, which earns the book a very nice Goodreads rating of 4.42 out of 5. This is enough to make "The Battle of the Labyrinth" the fandom's second-favorite "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" book. As luck would have it, the massive showdown its ending teases doesn't disappoint either, since the only "Percy Jackson" book that surpasses this one is the immediate follow-up. 

1. The Last Olympian

Never let it be said that Rick Riordan doesn't know how to end a series on a high note. Published in 2009, "The Last Olympian" is the fifth and originally final "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" book, and judging by its Goodreads score of 4.55 out of 5, it's an easy favorite among the readers. The climactic battle between Percy's allies and Kronos' forces over the fate of Mount Olympus has by far the highest stakes in the series. It's full of prophecies, massive battles, tragic twists, a dramatic development in the relationship between Percy and Annabeth Chase, and everything fans of the series have come to expect — all turned up to 11.  

"There's just something different about The Last Olympian," Redditor u/baiqibeendeleted17x wrote about the book. "It was so good that it's almost difficult to put into words just how good it was, but that book was just magical. The entire series culminating in a gigantic badass battle for the fate of Olympus with heroism, heartbreaking sacrifice, and Percabeth getting together; it was perfect."

With a seventh book, "Wrath of the Triple Goddess," on its way in September 2024, "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" is not done yet, and there's no telling how the fandom's preferences among the books will develop over time. However, as it stands, there's no question that "The Last Olympian" is the one to beat.