Greek Myths: Tales of Passion, Heroism, and Betrayal

By Shoshanna Kirk

Here is the stuff legends are made of in 25 of the most beloved tales from Greek mythology, complemented with gorgeous illustrations by artist Tinou Le Joly Senoville. These classic, timeless stories have been crafted into a concise, intriguing, and very readable romp through the human condition. Arranged by emotional themecunning, vanity, vengeance, heroismeach exciting tale hones in on the frailties and strengths, desires and jealousies of gods who attempt to act like mortals and mortals who dare to be gods. Originally conceived to help early civilizations comprehend the emotions and culture of an ancient world, these myths remain as compelling today as they were thousands of years ago. From the miraculous birth of Athena in the heavens to Odysseus and his skillful slaying of the Cyclops on Earth to Persephone's abduction into the underworld, Greek Myths is a glorious introduction to the world of mythology.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0811843068
• ISBN13: 9780811843065
• Release Date: August 2005
• Publisher: Chronicle Books
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.8" x 6.8"
• Age Range: 13 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

Good summaries of world-famous myths

A very solid introduction for youngsters into the weird and wonderful world of ancient mythologies. Unlike some, I do not personally believe that the ancient mysteries were superior in any way to the love of Christ. I do enjoy the stories and morals of the stories though. Brett Pedersen

Engaging read - great classic stories

This is a great book. The myths contained reminded me of those learned at school - they are timeless stories and were engaging to read again. Some of them especially have a darker side to them, which adds to the intrigue. The 'exploring further' section gives further information on classical texts and information sources, which seemed helpful, and gave some indication of the thorough nature of the telling of the stories. There's also a great map, which helps you find your way around the ancient world. It's a quick read, in a light style; highly recommended.

The Small Book of Greek Myths

Shoshanna Kirk has put together 25 Greek myths and organized them by 12 themes, from "Cunning" and "Desire" to "Heroism". For instance, she puts the story of Narcissus and Echo in the "Vanity" theme which ends hauntingly with "Let us join, let us join, let us join ... Narcissus, captivated by his own gaze, died, diving into himself." This is a small book in many ways, it is short, and written in a small font. The introductory material is in such tiny print as to be barely readable. Tinou Le Joly Senoville provides fitting illustrations for each story and by themselves provide reason for looking at this book. It also has a useful, short, glossary, and a succinct essay on delving further into Greek mythology.