books about greek mythology

50 Must-Read Greek Mythology Books

Nikki VanRy

Nikki VanRy is a proud resident of Arizona, where she gets to indulge her love of tacos, desert storms, and tank tops. She also writes for the Tucson Festival of Books, loves anything sci-fi/fantasy/historical, drinks too much chai, and will spend all day in bed reading thankyouverymuch. Follow her on Instagram @nikki.vanry .

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My first bookish memories are of holing up in my closet (my favorite reading spot) and reading my illustrated ancient Greek mythologies for hours. My fascination with the soap opera–worthy cast of goddesses and gods, heart-breaking tragedies, and fantastical shifts from human to beast and back again has only grown stronger over the years. Greek mythology books (retellings, translations, and commentary) continue to be some of my favorite reads.

If you’re still fascinated with Greek mythology books, or looking for Percy Jackson or  Circe  read-alikes, you’ll find the best of them here for adults, teens, and kids alike.

Books are broken down by category: translations of the classics, fictional retellings, nonfiction commentary, as well as books for teens, middle graders, and kids. I’ve also only included one book per author to increase our scope here. All book descriptions come from Amazon.

One quick note before we jump into it: For an ancient culture that was queer AF and existing at a crossroads between multiple, diverse cultures, today’s conversations around Greek mythology are real white-washed. Frankly, they’re much less diverse than the cultures and heroes we’ll be reading about. It’s getting better overall, but I’d love to see more diverse voices being published today, both in the commentary and retellings of these myths.

Greek Mythology Collections and Translations

When it comes to Greek mythology, you can go back to the source.…kinda. Each new translator from the original Greek adds their own spin on the stories, highlighting certain sections and altering the words in profound ways.

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However, as a mythology rooted in oral traditions with its always-shifting truth, this seems right. Here’s some of my favorite translations and collections of Greek mythology.

1. Heroes: Mortals and Monsters, Quests and Adventures by Stephen Fry

There are Heroes – and then there are Greek Heroes.

Few mere mortals have ever embarked on such bold and heart-stirring adventures, overcome myriad monstrous perils, or outwitted scheming vengeful gods, quite as stylishly and triumphantly as Greek heroes.

Filled with white-knuckle chases and battles, impossible puzzles and riddles, acts of base cowardice and real bravery, not to mention murders and selfless sacrifices, Heroes is the story of what we mortals are truly capable of – at our worst and our very best.

2. The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

These are the greatest stories ever told – the labours of Hercules, the voyage of the Argonauts, Theseus and the minotaur, Midas and his golden touch, the Trojan War and Odysseus’s journey home – brought together into one epic and unforgettable story.

Ideal for the first time reader, it can be read as a single page-turning narrative, while full commentaries as well as a comprehensive index of names make it equally valuable for anyone seeking an authoritative and detailed account of the spectacular stories that make up the bedrock of Western literature. The Greek Myths is a classic among classics, a treasure trove of extraordinary tales and a masterful work of literature in its own right.

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

A landmark anthology of the masterpieces of Greek drama, featuring all-new, highly accessible translations of some of the world’s most beloved plays, including Agamemnon, Prometheus Bound, Bacchae, Electra, Medea, Antigone, and Oedipus the King, featuring translations by Emily Wilson, Frank Nisetich, Sarah Ruden, Rachel Kitzinger, Mary Lefkowitz, and James Romm.

The great plays of Ancient Greece are among the most enduring and important legacies of the Western world. Not only is the influence of Greek drama palpable in everything from Shakespeare to modern television, the insights contained in Greek tragedy have shaped our perceptions of the nature of human life. Poets, philosophers, and politicians have long borrowed and adapted the ideas and language of Greek drama to help them make sense of their own times.

4.  The Iliad   by Homer, translated by Caroline Alexander

Composed around 730 B.C., Homer’s Iliad recounts the events of a few momentous weeks in the protracted ten-year war between the invading Achaeans, or Greeks, and the Trojans in their besieged city of Ilion. From the explosive confrontation between Achilles, the greatest warrior at Troy, and Agamemnon, the inept leader of the Greeks, through to its tragic conclusion, The Iliad explores the abiding, blighting facts of war.

Soldier and civilian, victor and vanquished, hero and coward, men, women, young, old—The Iliad evokes in poignant, searing detail the fate of every life ravaged by the Trojan War. And, as told by Homer, this ancient tale of a particular Bronze Age conflict becomes a sublime and sweeping evocation of the destruction of war throughout the ages.

Carved close to the original Greek, acclaimed classicist Caroline Alexander’s new translation is swift and lean, with the driving cadence of its source—a translation epic in scale and yet devastating in its precision and power.

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

The only work of its kind to survive from classical antiquity, the Library of Apollodorus is a unique guide to Greek mythology, from the origins of the universe to the Trojan War.

Apollodorus’ Library has been used as a source book by classicists from the time of its compilation in the 1st-2nd century BC to the present, influencing writers from antiquity to Robert Graves. It provides a complete history of Greek myth, telling the story of each of the great families of heroic mythology, and the various adventures associated with the main heroes and heroines, from Jason and Perseus to Heracles and Helen of Troy. As a primary source for Greek myth, as a reference work, and as an indication of how the Greeks themselves viewed their mythical traditions, the Library is indispensable to anyone who has an interest in classical mythology.

6.  Metamorphoses   by Ovid, translated by Charles Martin

Ovid’s epic poem―whose theme of change has resonated throughout the ages―is one of the most important texts of Western imagination, an inspiration from Dante’s times to the present day, when writers such as Salman Rushdie and Italo Calvino have found a living source in Ovid’s work.

Charles Martin combines a close fidelity to Ovid’s text with verse that catches the speed and liveliness of the original. Martin’s Metamorphoses will be the translation of choice for contemporary readers in English. This volume also includes endnotes and a glossary of people, places, and personifications.

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

Edith Hamilton’s mythology succeeds like no other book in bringing to life for the modern reader the Greek, Roman and Norse myths that are the keystone of Western culture-the stories of gods and heroes that have inspired human creativity from antiquity to the present.

We follow the drama of the Trojan War and the wanderings of Odysseus. We hear the tales of Jason and the Golden Fleece, Cupid and Psyche, and mighty King Midas. We discover the origins of the names of the constellations. And we recognize reference points for countless works for art, literature and culture inquiry–from Freud’s Oedipus complex to Wagner’s Ring Cycle of operas to Eugene O’Neill’s Mourning Becomes Electra.

8. The Odyssey  by Homer, translated by Emily Wilson

This fresh, authoritative translation captures the beauty of this ancient poem as well as the drama of its narrative. Its characters are unforgettable, none more so than the “complicated” hero himself, a man of many disguises, many tricks, and many moods, who emerges in this version as a more fully rounded human being than ever before.

Written in iambic pentameter verse and a vivid, contemporary idiom, Emily Wilson’s Odyssey sings with a voice that echoes Homer’s music; matching the number of lines in the Greek original, the poem sails along at Homer’s swift, smooth pace.

A fascinating, informative introduction explores the Bronze Age milieu that produced the epic, the poem’s major themes, the controversies about its origins, and the unparalleled scope of its impact and influence. 

Fictional Greek Mythology Books and Retellings

Like all Greek myths, these fictionalized retellings contain love and sex, poetry and passion, and often buckets of blood. Among these, you’ll find close historical retellings as well as texts that read like spiritual descendants of the original myths in a completely new setting.

9.  A Thousand Ships   by Natalie Haynes

In the middle of the night, Creusa wakes to find her beloved Troy engulfed in flames. Ten seemingly endless years of brutal conflict between the Greeks and the Trojans are over, and the Greeks are victorious. Over the next few hours, the only life she has ever known will turn to ash.

The devastating consequences of the fall of Troy stretch from Mount Olympus to Mount Ida, from the citadel of Troy to the distant Greek islands, and across oceans and sky in between. These are the stories of the women embroiled in that legendary war and its terrible aftermath, as well as the feud and the fatal decisions that started it all.

Powerfully told from an all-female perspective, A Thousand Ships gives voices to the women, girls and goddesses who, for so long, have been silent.

10.  Alcestis   by Katharine Beutner

In Greek myth, Alcestis is known as the ideal wife; she loved her husband so much that she died and went to the underworld in his place.

In this vividly-imagined debut, Katharine Beutner gives voice to the woman behind the ideal and reveals the part of the story that’s never been told: What happened to Alcestis in the three days she spent in the underworld?

11. An Orchestra of Minorities  by  Chigozie Obioma

Set on the outskirts of Umuahia, Nigeria and narrated by a chi, or guardian spirit, AN ORCHESTRA OF MINORITIES tells the story of Chinonso, a young poultry farmer whose soul is ignited when he sees a woman attempting to jump from a highway bridge. Horrified by her recklessness, Chinonso joins her on the roadside and hurls two of his prized chickens into the water below to express the severity of such a fall. The woman, Ndali, is stopped her in her tracks.

Bonded by this night on the bridge, Chinonso and Ndali fall in love. But Ndali is from a wealthy family and struggles to imagine a future near a chicken coop. When her family objects to the union because he is uneducated, Chinonso sells most of his possessions to attend a college in Cyprus. But when he arrives he discovers there is no place at the school for him, and that he has been utterly duped by the young Nigerian who has made the arrangements.. Penniless, homeless, and furious at a world which continues to relegate him to the sidelines, Chinonso gets further away from his dream, from Ndali and the farm he called home.

Spanning continents, traversing the earth and cosmic spaces, and told by a narrator who has lived for hundreds of years, the novel is a contemporary twist of Homer’s Odyssey. Written in the mythic style of the Igbo literary tradition, Chigozie Obioma weaves a heart-wrenching epic about destiny and determination.

12.  Autobiography of Red   by Anne Carson

The award-winning poet reinvents a genre in a stunning work that is both a novel and a poem, both an unconventional re-creation of an ancient Greek myth and a wholly original coming-of-age story set in the present.

Geryon, a young boy who is also a winged red monster, reveals the volcanic terrain of his fragile, tormented soul in an autobiography he begins at the age of five. As he grows older, Geryon escapes his abusive brother and affectionate but ineffectual mother, finding solace behind the lens of his camera and in the arms of a young man named Herakles, a cavalier drifter who leaves him at the peak of infatuation.

When Herakles reappears years later, Geryon confronts again the pain of his desire and embarks on a journey that will unleash his creative imagination to its fullest extent. By turns whimsical and haunting, erudite and accessible, richly layered and deceptively simple, Autobiography of Red is a profoundly moving portrait of an artist coming to terms with the fantastic accident of who he is.

Circe by Madeline Miller

In the house of Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, a daughter is born. But Circe is a strange child–not powerful, like her father, nor viciously alluring like her mother. Turning to the world of mortals for companionship, she discovers that she does possess power–the power of witchcraft, which can transform rivals into monsters and menace the gods themselves.

Threatened, Zeus banishes her to a deserted island, where she hones her occult craft, tames wild beasts and crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology, including the Minotaur, Daedalus and his doomed son Icarus, the murderous Medea, and, of course, wily Odysseus.

But there is danger, too, for a woman who stands alone, and Circe unwittingly draws the wrath of both men and gods, ultimately finding herself pitted against one of the most terrifying and vengeful of the Olympians. To protect what she loves most, Circe must summon all her strength and choose, once and for all, whether she belongs with the gods she is born from, or the mortals she has come to love.

For more, read our earlier interview with Madeline Miller . 

14.  Fifteen Dogs by André Alexis

And so it begins: a bet between the gods Hermes and Apollo leads them to grant human consciousness and language to a group of dogs overnighting at a Toronto vet­erinary clinic. Suddenly capable of more complex thought, the pack is torn between those who resist the new ways of thinking, preferring the old ‘dog’ ways, and those who embrace the change. The gods watch from above as the dogs venture into their newly unfamiliar world, as they become divided among themselves, as each struggles with new thoughts and feelings. Wily Benjy moves from home to home, Prince becomes a poet, and Majnoun forges a relationship with a kind couple that stops even the Fates in their tracks.

André Alexis’s contemporary take on the apologue offers an utterly compelling and affecting look at the beauty and perils of human consciousness. By turns meditative and devastating, charming and strange,  Fifteen Dogs  shows you can teach an old genre new tricks.

15.  For Her Dark Skin   by Percival Everett

For Her Dark Skin is a tightly crafted exploration of the story of Jason and Medea weaving both traditional and contemporary fictional and thematic elements into a sharply ironic tale of revenge, ambition, passion and pride.

Desires and consequences lead the all-too-human characters through a piercing new interpretation of classic themes.

16.  For the Most Beautiful: A Novel of the Women of Troy   by Emily Hauser

Three thousand years ago a war took place where legends were born: Achilles, the greatest of the Greeks, and Hector, prince of Troy. Both men were made and destroyed by the war that shook the foundations of the ancient world.

But what if there was more to the tale of these heroes than we know? How would the Trojan War have looked as seen through the eyes of its women? Krisayis, the ambitious, determined daughter of the High Priest of Troy, and Briseis, loyal and passionate princess of Pedasus, interweave their tales alongside Homer’s classic story of the rage of Achilles and the gods of Olympus. What follows is a breathtaking tale of love and revenge, destiny and the determination, as these two brave women, the heroes of the Trojan War, and the gods themselves come face to face in an epic battle that will decide the fate of Troy.

17. Girl Meets Boy  by Ali Smith

Girl meets boy. It’s a story as old as time. But in Whitbread winner Ali Smith’s lyrical, funny, mash-up of Ovid’s most joyful gender-bending metamorphosis story, girl meets boy in so many more ways than one.

Imogen and Anthea, sisters that are opposites, work together at Pure, a creative agency attempting to “bottle imagination, politics, and nature” in the form of a new Scottish bottled-water business with global aspirations. Anthea, somewhat flighty and bored with the office environment, becomes enamored of an “interventionist protest artist” nicknamed Iphisol, whose billboard-size corporate slurs around town are the bane of Pure’s existence. And when Anthea and Iphisol meet, it’s a match made in heaven.

18.  Gods Behaving Badly   by Marie Phillips

Being a Greek god is not all it once was. Yes, the twelve gods of Olympus are alive and well in the twenty-first century, but they are crammed together in a London townhouse-and none too happy about it. And they’ve had to get day jobs: Artemis as a dog-walker, Apollo as a TV psychic, Aphrodite as a phone sex operator, Dionysus as a DJ.

Even more disturbingly, their powers are waning, and even turning mortals into trees–a favorite pastime of Apollo’s–is sapping their vital reserves of strength.

Soon, what begins as a minor squabble between Aphrodite and Apollo escalates into an epic battle of wills. Two perplexed humans, Alice and Neil, who are caught in the crossfire, must fear not only for their own lives, but for the survival of humankind. Nothing less than a true act of heroism is needed-but can these two decidedly ordinary people replicate the feats of the mythical heroes and save the world?

19.  Helen of Troy   by Margaret George

The Trojan War, fought nearly twelve hundred years before the birth of Christ, and recounted in Homer’s Iliad, continues to haunt us because of its origins: one woman’s beauty, a visiting prince’s passion, and a love that ended in tragedy.

Laden with doom, yet surprising in its moments of innocence and beauty, Helen of Troy is an exquisite page-turner with a cast of irresistible, legendary characters—Odysseus, Hector, Achilles, Menelaus, Priam, Clytemnestra, Agamemnon, as well as Helen and Paris themselves. With a wealth of material that reproduces the Age of Bronze in all its glory, it brings to life a war that we have all learned about but never before experienced.

20.  Hot As Hades   by Alisha Rai

It’s not easy being Hades. Constantly guarding his world against other meddling and ambitious deities is stressful work. So when a naked goddess falls directly into his lap, along with the news that he has to shelter her for the indefinite future, he is less than thrilled. Particularly since he can’t help but lust after the beautiful female.

The Underworld isn’t the first place Persephone would pick for a vacation—who in their right mind would choose a dark palace over sunshine and flowers? Yet from Hades’s first touch, the dark, sexy ruler fascinates her and has her thinking a fling might be just the thing to while away her confinement.

But trust each other? Not a chance. Until the day comes that Persephone must leave…and they realize that trusting each other is the only way they’ll ever meet again.

21.  House of Names   by Colm Toibin

“I have been acquainted with the smell of death.” So begins Clytemnestra’s tale of her own life in ancient Mycenae, the legendary Greek city from which her husband King Agamemnon left when he set sail with his army for Troy. Clytemnestra rules Mycenae now, along with her new lover Aegisthus, and together they plot the bloody murder of Agamemnon on the day of his return after nine years at war.

Judged, despised, cursed by gods she has long since lost faith in, Clytemnestra reveals the tragic saga that led to these bloody actions: how her husband deceived her eldest daughter Iphigeneia with a promise of marriage to Achilles, only to sacrifice her because that is what he was told would make the winds blow in his favor and take him to Troy; how she seduced and collaborated with the prisoner Aegisthus, who shared her bed in the dark and could kill; how Agamemnon came back with a lover himself; and how Clytemnestra finally achieved her vengeance for his stunning betrayal—his quest for victory, greater than his love for his child.

22.  The King Must Die   by Mary Renault

In this ambitious, ingenious narrative, celebrated historical novelist Mary Renault take legendary hero Theseus and spins his myth into a fast-paced and exciting story.

Renault starts with Theseus’ early years, showing how the mystery of his father’s identity and his small stature breed the insecurities that spur his youthful hijinx. As he moves on to Eleusis, Athens, and Crete, his playfulness and fondness for pranks matures into the courage to attempt singular heroic feats, the gallantry and leadership he was known for on the battlefield, and the bold-hearted ingenuity he shows in navigating the labyrinth and slaying the Minotaur. In what is perhaps the most inventive of all her novels of Ancient Greece, Renault casts Theseus in a surprisingly original pose; she teases the flawed human out of the bronze hero, and draws the plausible out of the fantastic.

23.  The Minotaur Takes a Cigarette Break   by Steven Sherrill

Five thousand years out of the labyrinth, the Minotaur finds himself in the American South, living in a trailer park and working as a line cook at a steakhouse. No longer a devourer of human flesh, the Minotaur is a socially inept, lonely creature with very human needs.

But over a two-week period, as his life dissolves into chaos, this broken and alienated immortal awakens to the possibility for happiness and to the capacity for love.

24.  The Penelopiad   by Margaret Atwood

In the introduction to The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood’s retelling of the Myth of Odysseus, she writes:

“I’ve chosen to give the telling of the story to Penelope and to the twelve hanged maids. The maids form a chanting and singing Chorus, which focuses on two questions that must pose themselves after any close reading of the Odyssey: What led to the hanging of the maids, and what was Penelope really up to? The story as told in the Odyssey doesn’t hold water: there are too many inconsistencies. I’ve always been haunted by the hanged maids and, in The Penelopiad, so is Penelope herself.”

With The Penelopiad, Atwood has written a fierce, funny, and subversive myth that challenges the patriarchal nature of Greek Mythology.

25. The Rose  by Tiffany Reisz

On the day of Lia’s university graduation party, her parents—wealthy art collectors with friends in high places—gift her a beautiful wine cup, a rare artifact decorated with roses. It’s a stunning gift, and one that August Bowman, a friend of her parents and a guest at Lia’s party, also has his eye on. The cup, August tells her, is known as the Rose Kylix, and it’s no ordinary cup. It was used in the temple ceremonies of Eros, Greek god of erotic love, and has the power to bring the most intimate sexual fantasies to life.

But Lia is skeptical of August’s claims of the cup’s mythology and magic—after all, he’s a collector himself, and she suspects he just wants to get his hands on this impressive piece of art. So he dares her to try it for herself, and when Lia drinks from the Rose Kylix she is suddenly immersed in an erotic myth so vivid it seems real—as though she’s living out the most sensual fantasy with August by her side…

Realizing the true power of this ancient and dangerous relic, Lia is even more wary of giving it up, though August insists it is only safe with him. He’s willing to pay the full value of the cup, but Lia has another type of trade in mind. One that finds them more tangled up in each other—and in fantasy—than either was prepared for.

26.  Salvage the Bones   by Jesmyn Ward

A hurricane is building over the Gulf of Mexico, threatening the coastal town of Bois Sauvage, Mississippi, and Esch’s father is growing concerned. A hard drinker, largely absent, he doesn’t show concern for much else. Esch and her three brothers are stocking food, but there isn’t much to save. Lately, Esch can’t keep down what food she gets; she’s fourteen and pregnant. Her brother Skeetah is sneaking scraps for his prized pitbull’s new litter, dying one by one in the dirt. Meanwhile, brothers Randall and Junior try to stake their claim in a family long on child’s play and short on parenting.

As the twelve days that make up the novel’s framework yield to their dramatic conclusion, this unforgettable family–motherless children sacrificing for one another as they can, protecting and nurturing where love is scarce–pulls itself up to face another day. A big-hearted novel about familial love and community against all odds, and a wrenching look at the lonesome, brutal, and restrictive realities of rural poverty, Salvage the Bones is muscled with poetry, revelatory, and real.

27. The Silence of the Girls   by Pat Barker

The ancient city of Troy has withstood a decade under siege of the powerful Greek army, who continue to wage bloody war over a stolen woman–Helen. In the Greek camp, another woman watches and waits for the war’s outcome: Briseis. She was queen of one of Troy’s neighboring kingdoms, until Achilles, Greece’s greatest warrior, sacked her city and murdered her husband and brothers. Briseis becomes Achilles’s concubine, a prize of battle, and must adjust quickly in order to survive a radically different life, as one of the many conquered women who serve the Greek army.

Briseis is just one among thousands of women living behind the scenes in this war–the slaves and prostitutes, the nurses, the women who lay out the dead–all of them erased by history. With breathtaking historical detail and luminous prose, Pat Barker brings the teeming world of the Greek camp to vivid life. She offers nuanced, complex portraits of characters and stories familiar from mythology, which, seen from Briseis’s perspective, are rife with newfound revelations. Barker’s latest builds on her decades-long study of war and its impact on individual lives–and it is nothing short of magnificent.

28.  Till We Have Faces   by C.S. Lewis

C. S. Lewis—the great British writer, scholar, lay theologian, broadcaster, Christian apologist, and bestselling author of Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Chronicles of Narnia, and many other beloved classics—brilliantly reimagines the story of Cupid and Psyche.

Told from the viewpoint of Psyche’s sister, Orual, Till We Have Faces is a brilliant examination of envy, betrayal, loss, blame, grief, guilt, and conversion. In this, his final—and most mature and masterful—novel, Lewis reminds us of our own fallibility and the role of a higher power in our lives.

29. xo Orpheus: Fifty New Myths by Kate Bernheimer

Fifty leading writers retell myths from around the world in this dazzling follow-up to the bestselling My Mother She Killed Me, My Father He Ate Me.

If “xo” signals a goodbye, then xo Orpheus is a goodbye to an old way of mythmaking. Featuring talkative goats, a cat lady, a bird woman, a beer-drinking ogre, a squid who falls in love with the sun, and a girl who gives birth to cubs, here are extravagantly imagined, bracingly contemporary stories, heralding a new beginning for one of the world’s oldest literary traditions.

Nonfiction Commentary and Books about Greek Mythology

The ancient Greeks continue to captivate us, with clues that lead us into mysteries that have yet to be solved. From the origins of the Labyrinth to the realities of the Trojan War and the role of women, these are some of the best nonfiction commentaries on Greek mythology.

30.  The Riddle of the Labyrinth: The Quest to Crack an Ancient Code   by Margalit Fox

When famed archaeologist Arthur Evans unearthed the ruins of a sophisticated Bronze Age civilization that flowered on Crete 1,000 years before Greece’s Classical Age, he discovered a cache of ancient tablets, Europe’s earliest written records. For half a century, the meaning of the inscriptions, and even the language in which they were written, would remain a mystery.

Award-winning New York Times journalist Margalit Fox’s riveting real-life intellectual detective story travels from the Bronze Age Aegean—the era of Odysseus, Agamemnon, and Helen—to the turn of the 20th century and the work of charismatic English archeologist Arthur Evans, to the colorful personal stories of the decipherers. These include Michael Ventris, the brilliant amateur who deciphered the script but met with a sudden, mysterious death that may have been a direct consequence of the deipherment; and Alice Kober, the unsung heroine of the story whose painstaking work allowed Ventris to crack the code.

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

The Trojan War is one of history’s most famous conflicts, a ten-year-long war waged over the beautiful Helen. For more than two thousand years this story has been a source of artistic inspiration. But is it true?

In The Trojan War historian and classicist Barry Strauss explores the myth and the reality behind the war, from Homer’s accounts in The Iliad and The Odyssey to Heinrich Schliemann’s discovery of ancient Troy in the late nineteenth century to more recent excavations that have yielded intriguing clues to the story behind the fabled city. The Trojans, it turns out, were not ethnic Greeks but an Anatolian people closely allied with the Hittite Empire to the east. At the time of the Trojan War the Greeks were great seafarers while Troy was a more settled civilization. And while the cause of the war may well have been the kidnapping of a queen—and, more significantly, the seizure of her royal dowry—the underlying cause was a conflict between the Trojans and the Greeks for control of the eastern Aegean Sea.

32.  The War That Killed Achilles: The True Story of Homer’s Iliad and the Trojan War by Caroline Alexander 

Written with the authority of a scholar and the vigor of a bestselling narrative historian, The War That Killed Achilles is a superb and utterly timely presentation of one of the timeless stories of Western civilization. As she did in The Endurance and The Bounty, New York Times bestselling author Caroline Alexander has taken apart a narrative we think we know and put it back together in a way that lets us see its true power.

In the process, she reveals the intended theme of Homer’s masterwork-the tragic lessons of war and its enduring devastation.

33.  Why Homer Matters: A History   by Adam Nicolson

Why Homer Matters is a magical journey of discovery across wide stretches of the past, sewn together by the Iliad and the Odyssey and their metaphors of life and trouble. Homer’s poems-transmitted orally across the generations, shaped and reshaped in a living, self-renewing tradition-occupy, as Adam Nicolson writes “a third space” in the way we relate to the past: not as memory, which lasts no more than three generations, nor as the objective accounts of history, but as epic, invented after memory but before history, poetry which aims “to bind the wounds that time inflicts.”

The poems, which ask the eternal questions about the individual and the community, honor and service, love and war, tell us how we became who we are.

34. Women & Power: A Manifesto by Mary Beard

At long last, Mary Beard addresses in one brave book the misogynists and trolls who mercilessly attack and demean women the world over, including, very often, Mary herself. In Women & Power, she traces the origins of this misogyny to its ancient roots, examining the pitfalls of gender and the ways that history has mistreated strong women since time immemorial.

As far back as Homer’s Odyssey, Beard shows, women have been prohibited from leadership roles in civic life, public speech being defined as inherently male.

From Medusa to Philomela (whose tongue was cut out), from Hillary Clinton to Elizabeth Warren (who was told to sit down), Beard draws illuminating parallels between our cultural assumptions about women’s relationship to power―and how powerful women provide a necessary example for all women who must resist being vacuumed into a male template. With personal reflections on her own online experiences with sexism, Beard asks: If women aren’t perceived to be within the structure of power, isn’t it power itself we need to redefine? And how many more centuries should we be expected to wait?

YA Greek Mythology Books

Greek mythology books appeal to readers of all ages, with some stunning retellings written for young adults. Check out even more mythology books for teens here.

35.  Abandon   by Meg Cabot

Though she tries returning to the life she knew before the accident, Pierce can’t help but feel at once a part of this world, and apart from it. Yet she’s never alone . . . because someone is always watching her. Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back.

But now she’s moved to a new town. Maybe at her new school, she can start fresh. Maybe she can stop feeling so afraid.

Only she can’t. Because even here, he finds her. That’s how desperately he wants her back. She knows he’s no guardian angel, and his dark world isn’t exactly heaven, yet she can’t stay away . . . especially since he always appears when she least expects it, but exactly when she needs him most.

But if she lets herself fall any further, she may just find herself back in the one place she most fears: the Underworld.

36.  About a Girl   by Sarah McCarry

Eighteen-year-old Tally is absolutely sure of everything: her genius, the love of her adoptive family, the loyalty of her best friend, Shane, and her future career as a Nobel prize-winning astronomer. There’s no room in her tidy world for heartbreak or uncertainty―or the charismatic, troubled mother who abandoned her soon after she was born. But when a sudden discovery upends her fiercely ordered world, Tally sets out on an unexpected quest to seek out the reclusive musician who may hold the key to her past―and instead finds Maddy, an enigmatic and beautiful girl who will unlock the door to her future.

The deeper she falls in love with Maddy, the more Tally begins to realize that the universe is bigger―and more complicated―than she ever imagined. Can Tally face the truth about her family―and find her way home in time to save herself from its consequences?

37.  Persephone: The Daughters Of Zeus   by Kaitlin Bevis

One day Persephone is an ordinary high school junior working at her mom’s flower shop in Athens, Georgia. The next she’s fighting off Boreas, the brutal god of Winter, and learning that she’s a bonafide goddess-a rare daughter of the now-dead Zeus. Her goddess mom whisks her off to the Underworld to hide until Spring.

There she finds herself under the protection of handsome Hades, the god of the dead, and she’s automatically married to him. It’s the only way he can keep her safe. Older, wiser, and far more powerful than she, Hades isn’t interested in becoming her lover, at least not anytime soon. But every time he rescues her from another of Boreas’ schemes, they fall in love a little more. Will Hades ever admit his feelings for her?

Can she escape the grasp of the god of Winter’s minions? The Underworld is a very nice place, but is it worth giving up her life in the realm of the living? Her goddess powers are developing some serious, kick-butt potential. She’s going to fight back.

38.  The Goddess Test by Aimée Carter

Every girl who has taken the test has died. Now it’s Kate Winters’s turn.

It’s always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate’s going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear that her mother won’t live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he’ll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he’s crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she’ll become Henry’s future bride, and a goddess.  But if she doesn’t…

39.  Love in the Time of Global Warming  by Francesca Lia Block

Seventeen-year-old Penelope (Pen) has lost everything―her home, her parents, and her ten-year-old brother. Like a female Odysseus in search of home, she navigates a dark world full of strange creatures, gathers companions and loses them, finds love and loses it, and faces her mortal enemy.

In her signature style, Francesca Lia Block has created a world that is beautiful in its destruction and as frightening as it is lovely. At the helm of Love in the Time of Global Warming is Pen, a strong heroine who holds hope and love in her hands and refuses to be defeated.

40. Orpheus Girl  by  Brynne Rebele-Henry

Abandoned by a single mother she never knew, 16-year-old Raya—obsessed with ancient myths—lives with her grandmother in a small conservative Texas town. For years Raya has been forced to hide her feelings for her best friend and true love, Sarah. When the two are outed, they are sent to Friendly Saviors: a re-education camp meant to “fix” them and make them heterosexual. Upon arrival, Raya vows to assume the mythic role of Orpheus to escape Friendly Saviors, and to return to the world of the living with her love—only becoming more determined after she, Sarah, and Friendly Saviors’ other teen residents are subjected to abusive “treatments” by the staff.

In a haunting voice reminiscent of Sylvia Plath, with the contemporary lyricism of David Levithan, Brynne Rebele-Henry weaves a powerful inversion of the Orpheus myth informed by the real-world truths of conversion therapy. Orpheus Girl is a mythic story of dysfunctional families, trauma, first love, heartbreak, and ultimately, the fierce adolescent resilience that has the power to triumph over darkness and ignorance.

41.  Promise of Shadows   by Justina Ireland

Zephyr Mourning has never been very good at being a Harpy. She’d rather watch reality TV than learn forty-seven ways to kill a man, and she pretty much sucks at wielding magic. Zephyr was ready for a future pretending to be a normal human instead of a half-god assassin. But all that changed when her sister was murdered—and Zephyr used a forbidden dark power to save herself from the same fate.

On the run from a punishment worse than death, an unexpected reunion with a childhood friend upends Zephyr’s world—and not only because her old friend has grown surprisingly, extremely hot. It seems that Zephyr might just be the Nyx, a dark goddess that is prophesied to shift the power balance: for hundreds of years the half-gods have lived in fear, and Zephyr is supposed to change that.

But how is she supposed to save everyone else when she can barely take care of herself?

42.  Starcrossed   by Josephine Angelini

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is – no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it’s getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she’s haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood… and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they’re destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.

As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together – and trying to tear them apart.

Greek Mythology Books for Kids & Middle Grade

Many of us began reading Greek myths as children, captivated by Pegasus, the trials of Hercules, and the never-ending bickering of the gods. What follows are some of the best options for toddlers to middle schoolers.

(And because his series is  the  entrance for most into the world of Greek myths, check out even more of our reading recommendations like Rick Riordan’s  Percy Jackson  series here. There’s also some great suggestions in this list of kid’s  fairytale retellings .)

43.  Athena the Brain   by  Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams

In Athena the Brain , Athena always knew she was smart and special, but she didn’t realize that she was a goddess! When she’s whisked away to Mount Olympus Academy, she worries about fitting in and dealing with her dad (Zeus). Luckily, she meets the Goddess Girls and finds the best friends she’s ever had.

44.  D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths   by Ingri d’Aulaire

Here are the immortals of Olympus—the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece—as freshly described as if they were alive today.

Mighty Zeus with his fistful of thunderbolts; mischievous little Hermes; grey-eyed Athena, godess of wisdom; Asclepius, the first physician; Orpheus and his beloved Euridice; Helios the sun, crossing the heavens in his fiery chariot. . . these and other equally fabulous figures are featured here with their heroic deeds and petty squabbles illuminated in full dimension.

45.  Legendary Ladies: 50 Goddesses to Empower and Inspire You by Ann Shen

Goddesses from our past are celebrated in this lushly illustrated book by Ann Shen, the author and artist who created Bad Girls Throughout History. Ann is an illustrator, letterer, and author based in Los Angeles who has created artwork for a number of publications, campaigns, products, and galleries.

46.  The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1)  by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson is a good kid, but he can’t seem to focus on his schoolwork or control his temper. And lately, being away at boarding school is only getting worse-Percy could have sworn his pre-algebra teacher turned into a monster and tried to kill him. When Percy’s mom finds out, she knows it’s time that he knew the truth about where he came from, and that he go to the one place he’ll be safe.

She sends Percy to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods (on Long Island), where he learns that the father he never knew is Poseidon, God of the Sea. Soon a mystery unfolds and together with his friends — one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena — Percy sets out on a quest across the United States to reach the gates of the Underworld (located in a recording studio in Hollywood) and prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.

47. Mini Myths: Make a Wish, Midas!  by Joan Holub and illustrated by Leslie Patricelli

Midas wants everything to be his favorite color—yellow! He chooses yellow clothes, eats yellow foods, and uses only the yellow paint at his easel. But when he impulsively paints his beloved green Dinoboo, Midas discovers that too much of a good thing is a big mess!

Joan Holub’s carefully crafted text is brought to life by Leslie Patricelli’s famously humorous illustrations. Includes a summary of the original Midas’s Wish myth at the end.

48.  Pegasus   by Marianna Mayer and illustrated by Kinuko Y. Craft

Condemned by a jealous king, Bellerophon must win the trust of the legendary winged horse Pegasus or face certain death. From the poignant meeting the growing bond of friendship between horse and man to the dramatic slaying of the fearsome fire-breathing Chimera, this is an unforgettable adventure that will stir the imagination of young and old alike. Featuring glorious paintings that readers will want to savor again and again, here is a magnificent edition of a timeless Greek classic.

49.  Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters   by Donna Jo Napoli and illustrated by Christina Balit

The new  National Geographic Treasury of Greek Mythology  offers timeless stories of Greek myths in a beautiful new volume.

Brought to life with lyrical text by award-winning author Donna Jo Napoli and stunning artwork by award-winning illustrator Christina Balit, the tales of gods and goddesses such as Zeus, Aphrodite, Apollo, and Athena and heroes and monsters such as Helen of Troy, Perseus, and Medusa will fascinate and engage children’s imaginations.

50.  Young Zeus   by G. Brian Karas

From acclaimed illustrator and author G. Brian Karas comes a witty tale about navigating family and finding one’s voice-based on Greek mythology!

This is the story of how young Zeus, with a little help from six monsters, five Greek gods, an enchanted she-goat, and his mother, became god of gods, master of lightning and thunder, and ruler over all. in doing so, he learned a lot about family. Who knew that having relatives could be so complicated, even for a god?

Want even more ancient mythology retellings and stories? Find suggestions in these posts:

• 50 Must-Read Classic Mythology Retellings
• Dallying With The Gods: 16 Books About Gods And Mythology 
• Middle Grade Fantasy Books About Indian Mythology
• 100 Must-Read Books About Ancient History
• 50 Of The Best Historical Fiction Books

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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.

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

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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.

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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..

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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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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What We Recommend

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

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!

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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.

• The Greek Gods: Full List and Background
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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 .

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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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History Hogs

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.

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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.

• See more adult fiction Greek mythology books

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.

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25 Books About and Inspired by Greek Mythology

From tales of romance to epic battles, here are some great books inspired by ancient Greek mythology.

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Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by BiblioLifestyle

There are so many great Greek mythology books and even more that are inspired by them.  Here are just a few of my favorites – ones that I think will capture your attention whether you’re already familiar with Greek mythology or not.  Plus, they make for some pretty good reading if you’re looking to escape into another world for a while.  So, from tales of romance to epic battles between good and evil, grab a copy and prepare to be enchanted!

The Odyssey by Homer  

The epic tale of Odysseus and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War forms one of the earliest and greatest works of Western literature. Confronted by natural and supernatural threats – shipwrecks, battles, monsters and the implacable enmity of the sea-god Poseidon – Odysseus must use his wit and native cunning if he is to reach his homeland safely and overcome the obstacles that, even there, await him.

The Iliad by Homer

The Iliad is the first and the greatest literary achievement of Greek civilization–the cornerstone of Western culture and an epic poem without rival in world literature. The story centers on the critical events in the last year of the Trojan War, which lead to Achilleus’s killing of Hektor and the fall of Troy. But Homer’s theme is not simply war or heroism. With compassion and humanity, he presents a universal and tragic view of the world: human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death set against a vast and largely unpitying divine background.

Metamorphoses by Ovid  

In Metamophoses , Ovid brings together a dazzling array of mythological tales, ingeniously linked by the idea of transformation–often as a result of love or lust–where men and women find themselves magically changed into new and sometimes extraordinary beings. Beginning with the creation of the world and ending with the deification of Augustus, Ovid interweaves many of the best-known myths and legends of ancient Greece and Rome, including Daedalus and Icarus, Pyramus and Thisbe, Pygmalion, Perseus and Andromeda, and the fall of Troy.

D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Edgar Parin d’Aulaire  

In print for over fifty years, D’Aulaires Book of Greek Myths  has introduced generations to Greek mythology—and continues to enthrall young readers. Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today.

Ulysses by James Joyce

Set entirely on one day, 16 June 1904, Ulysses follows Leopold Bloom and Stephen Daedalus as they go about their daily business in Dublin. From this starting point, James Joyce constructs a novel of extraordinary imaginative richness and depth. Unique in the history of literature, Ulysses is one of the most important and enjoyable works of the twentieth century.

Greek Myths by Charlotte Higgins, Illustrated by Chris Ofili  

A brilliantly original, landmark retelling of Greek myths, recounted as if they were actual scenes being woven into textiles by the women who feature prominently in them–including Athena, Helen, Circe and Penelope.

A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes 

Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction, a gorgeous retelling of the Trojan War from the perspectives of the many women involved in its causes and consequences–for fans of Madeline Miller.

Pandora’s Jar by Natalie Haynes

The national bestselling author of A Thousand Ships returns with a fascinating, eye-opening take on the remarkable women at the heart of classical stories Greek mythology from Helen of Troy to Pandora and the Amazons to Medea.

The Maidens by Alex Michaelides

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Silent Patient comes a spellbinding tale of psychological suspense, weaving together Greek mythology, murder, and obsession.

Daughter of Sparta by Claire Andrews

In this thrilling reimagining of ancient Greek mythology, a headstrong girl becomes the most powerful fighter her people have ever seen.

An Orchestra of Minorities by Chigozie Obioma  

Taking inspiration from the Odyssey, a heartbreaking story about a Nigerian poultry farmer who sacrifices everything to win the woman he loves.

Metamorphica by Zachary Mason  

In the tradition of his bestselling debut novel The Lost Books of the Odyssey , Zachary Mason’s Metamorphica transforms Ovid’s epic poem of endless transformation. It reimagines the stories of Narcissus, Pygmalion and Galatea, Midas and Atalanta, and strings them together like the stars in constellations–even Ovid becomes a story.

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

Antigone retelling in a suspenseful and heartbreaking story of an immigrant family driven to pit love against loyalty, with devastating consequences.

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint

Elektra by jennifer saint  .

A spellbinding reimagining of the story of Elektra, one of Greek mythology’s most infamous heroines, from Jennifer Saint, the author of the beloved international bestseller, Ariadne .

Ithaka by Adèle Geras  

Many years have passed since the end of the Trojan War, and Penelope is still waiting for her husband, Odysseus, to return home. The city of Ithaka is overrun with uncouth suitors from the surrounding islands who are vying to win Penelope’s hand in marriage, thereby gaining control of the land. When a naked, half-drowned man washes up on the beach, everything changes.

Mythos by Stephen Fry

Mythos is a modern collection of Greek myths, stylishly retold by legendary writer, actor, and comedian Stephen Fry. Fry transforms the adventures of Zeus and the Olympians into emotionally resonant and deeply funny stories, without losing any of their original wonder.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller 

A tale of gods, kings, immortal fame, and the human heart, The Song of Achilles is a dazzling literary feat that brilliantly reimagines Homer’s enduring masterwork, The Iliad . An action-packed adventure, an epic love story, a marvelously conceived and executed page-turner.

Circe by Madeline Miller

With unforgettably vivid characters, mesmerizing language, and page-turning suspense, Circe is a triumph of storytelling, an intoxicating epic of family rivalry, palace intrigue, love and loss, as well as a celebration of indomitable female strength in a man’s world.

Lore by Alexandra Bracken

Every seven years, the Agon begins. As punishment for a past rebellion, nine Greek gods are forced to walk the earth as mortals. They are hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines, all eager to kill a god and seize their divine power and immortality.

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

Penelope. Immortalised in legend and myth as the devoted wife of the glorious Odysseus, silently weaving and unpicking and weaving again as she waits for her husband’s return. Now Penelope wanders the underworld, spinning a different kind of thread: her own side of the story – a tale of lust, greed and murder.

The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

Here is the story of the Iliad as we’ve never heard it before: in the words of Briseis, Trojan queen and captive of Achilles. Given only a few words in Homer’s epic and largely erased by history, she is nonetheless a pivotal figure in the Trojan War. In these pages she comes fully to life: wry, watchful, forging connections among her fellow female prisoners even as she is caught between Greece’s two most powerful warriors.

The Women of Troy by Pat Barker

A daring and timely feminist retelling of The Iliad from the perspective of the women of Troy who endured it–an extraordinary follow up to The Silence of the Girls from the Booker Prize-winning author of The Regeneration Trilogy.

Girl Meets Boy by Ali Smith

Ali Smith’s remix of Ovid’s most joyful metamorphosis is a story about the kind of fluidity that can’t be bottled and sold. It is about girls and boys, girls and girls, love and transformation, a story of puns and doubles, reversals and revelations. Funny and fresh, poetic and political, here is a tale of change for the modern world.

Call Me Cassandra by Marcial Gala, translated by Anna Kushner  

Moving between Rauli’s childhood and adolescence, between the Angolan battlefield, the Cuban city of Cienfuegos, and the shores of ancient Troy, Marcial Gala’s Call Me Cassandra tells of the search for identity amid the collapse of Cuba’s utopian dreams. Burdened with knowledge of tragedies yet to come, Rauli nonetheless strives to know himself. Lyrical and gritty, heartbreaking and luminous, Rauli’s is the story of the inexorable pull of destiny.

What do you think about the Greek mythology books on this list?

Have you read any of these mythology books  are any of these books on your tbr  what books would you add to the list.

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Emily Wilson’s retelling of the Odyssey is excellent. Her translation has beautiful meter of poetry and an absolute dreamy quality that is mesmerizing.

Thanks for sharing Lauren. I love hearing about new translations that are beautiful!

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•   The best retellings of Greek myths

The best retellings of Greek myths

Our edit of the best books based on myths from ancient greece..

Ancient myths and legends have been passed down for thousands of years. These stories fascinate us with their compelling mix of epic adventure, intriguing mystery and lurking, sinister evil. 

In recent years, a number of books that tell the unheard stories of mythological characters have become huge bestsellers, adored by critics and readers alike. Read on for our edit of some of the best retellings of Greek mythology.

Stone Blind

By natalie haynes.

As the sole mortal in a family of gods, Medusa begins to realize that she is the only one who experiences change, the only one who can be hurt, and the only one who lives with an urgency that her family will never know. Then, when the sea god Poseidon commits an unforgivable act in the temple of Athene, the goddess takes her revenge where she can – and Medusa is changed forever. Writhing snakes replace her hair, and her gaze now turns any living creature to stone. Unable to control her new power, she is condemned to a life of shadows and darkness. Until Perseus embarks upon a quest . . .

At last, Medusa's story is told.

by Fran Ross

Oreo is a playful retelling of the legend of Theseus and the Minotaur with a feminist twist. In the epic legend, Theseus must make his way through the complex labyrinth to find and defeat the Minotaur, fulfilling his destiny. Fran Ross’s hero, who shares her name with the book’s title, is on a quest to find her father who vanished when she was just a baby, leaving behind a mysterious note. As Oreo searches for her father in the labyrinth of Manhatten, her journey becomes one of self-discovery and she is able to break free of the myths that have always constrained her.

by Madeline Miller

Circe, a powerful enchantress, is well known for her part in The Odyssey, the story of Odysseus and his long and difficult journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. But, in Madeleine Miller’s latest book,  Circe , the formidable Witch of Aiaia is no longer just a character in someone else’s story . . . The book takes us through Circe’s beginnings as an outcast teenager struggling with her powers, to her transformation into a strong and independent woman who must fight to protect herself and that which she holds dear.

A Thousand Ships

The Siege of Troy is perhaps the best known of the Greek myths. For ten long years, the Greeks waged a brutal war against the city of Troy as revenge for the kidnap of Helen, the beautiful wife of Menelaus, King of Sparta. This story has been told many times, but most often through the eyes of men. Natalie Haynes’s  A Thousand Ships  tells this story from an all-female perspective, giving a rich and layered voice to the many women, girls and even goddesses who have often been unheard.

The Penelopiad

By margaret atwood.

Margaret Atwood’s incredible novella,  The Penelopiad , follows the story of Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, who is left alone in Ithaca when he goes to war. In the book, Penelope finally gets the chance to tell her side of the story, revealing the truth behind some of Odysseus’s greatest heroic triumphs and the reality of her long wait for his return. In  The Penelopiad , Margaret Atwood expertly shows us the double standards between the genders and the importance of perspective.

The Children of Jocasta

In this book, Natalie Haynes reimagines another ancient myth - that of Oedipus and Antigone. Upon his birth, Oedipus is destined for a tragic fate: to murder his father and unknowingly marry his own mother, Jocasta. Their daughter, Antigone, is horrified upon discovering the truth and decides to take her own life.  The Children of Jocasta  is split between the voice of Jocasta and that of her other daughter Ismene, giving new perspective to the well-known myth.

The Silence of the Girls

By pat barker.

The critically-acclaimed  The Silence of the Girls  is a retelling of the Siege of Troy, told from the perspective of just one woman, Briseis, a Trojan Queen who is captured by the Greek army and forced to become a bed-slave to Achilles. In this story, Pat Barker focuses on the experience of women through the war, showing us the extent of their loss, the depth of their courage and bravery, and the strength of their connection to one another. 

Pandora's Jar

Until recently, most modern retellings of Greek myths have been written by men, with their focus firmly on male protagonists – from Zeus to Agamemnon and Oedipus to Jason. In her new book, bestselling novelist Natalie Haynes places women on equal footing with their male peers. Starting with the tale of Pandora, the first woman according to Greek Mythology, Haynes gives voice to characters who have, until now, primarily played a supporting role. Read the stories of Hera, Athena and Artemis, Jocasta, Eurydice and many more in this celebration of the females at the heart of these ancient stories. 

by Kae Tempest

Philoctetes lives in a cave on a desolate island: the wartime hero is now a wounded outcast. Stranded for ten years, he sees a chance of escape when a young soldier appears with tales of Philoctetes’ past glories. But with hope comes suspicion – and, as an old enemy emerges, he is faced with an even greater temptation: revenge. Kae Tempest is now widely acknowledged as a revolutionary force in contemporary British poetry, music and drama; they continue to expand the range of their work with a new version of Sophocles’ Philoctetes in a bold new translation. 

You might also like . . .

Divine might.

Reexamining the role of Greek goddesses, Natalie Haynes'  Divine Might  will change everything you thought you knew about our most ancient stories. Meet Athene, who sprang fully formed from her father’s head: goddess of war and wisdom, guardian of Athens. Run with Artemis, goddess of hunting and protector of young girls (apart from those she decides she wants as a sacrifice). Reappraise Aphrodite, goddess of sex and desire – there is no deity more determined and able to make you miserable if you annoy her. And bow down to Hera, Zeus’s long-suffering wife, whose jealousy of his dalliances with mortals, nymphs and goddesses lead her to wreak elaborate, vicious revenge on those who have wronged her.

Greek Myths: Heroes and Heroines

By jean menzies.

Find out what happened when King Midas was granted his wish, how Icarus flew too close to the sun, and relive the adventures of Jason and the Argonauts in these stories of love, betrayal, infatuation and punishment. Classicist and writer Jean Menzies has brought together fifteen retellings of famous myths from the likes of Andrew and Jean Lang, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Emilie Kip Baker, each chosen for its clarity and vivacity. The result? An enlightening and lively volume of stories and a treat for all fans of Greek mythology.

Greek Myths: Gods and Goddesses

The stories of the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece are sprawling, dramatic and wonderfully strange; their lives intertwine with mortals and their behaviours fluctuate wildly from benevolent to violent, from didactic to fickle, from loving to enraged. Jean Menzies captures the magic of Greek myths by drawing on a wide variety of vivid retellings from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Coupled with her own entertaining commentary, this is the perfect book for learning about the world of the Greek deities and a treat for all fans of Greek mythology.

The Odyssey

Of course, the reason many myths and legends have endured for centuries is our love of epic adventures, and Homer’s  The Odyssey  is perhaps the greatest adventure of them all. Here, in our Macmillan Collectors edition, discover the T. E. Lawrence translation of the text, credited as the first to be both faithful to the original and accessible for the modern reader.

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The best historical fiction books of 2024, and all time, natalie haynes on greek myths, ancient ruins and the children of jocasta, 50 best feminist books you should be reading.

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