Numerous classes over my years at school covered the topic of Greek mythologyOpens in a new tab. Since then I’ve devoured books, watched docuseries, and read novels that spin the familiar characters on their heads. I don’t tire of learning about gods and goddesses and the (usually) unfortunate souls who cross their paths. And a new book from writer Liv Albert and illustrator Sara Richard brings those characters to the page in a fresh, engaging way. Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook is a who’s who telling the authentic stories of a variety of characters. Positively stunning art by Richard accompanies each entry, and Albert, who you may know from her Let’s Talk About Myths, Baby! podcastOpens in a new tab goes deep with the text.
Adams Media
The above cover indicates the style of the portraits throughout the book. Plus, you can see HadesOpens in a new tab and Persephone below. Gorgeous right? Treat yourself and go ahead and follow Sara Richard on InstagramOpens in a new tab now.
And then come back to the book. This guidebook makes Greek mythology digestible, explaining the basics about the characters in an entertaining way, as well as the stories of how we know them best. Albert spells out the connections between various figures, covering more than 50 characters.
Adams Media
It’s a straightforward primer that doesn’t gloss over some of the gods and goddesses being real tools. Because hey, that’s the truth. The text is informative, sharp, and educational. Besides the actual bios of the characters, Albert also illustrates how many elements of Greek mythology permeate pop culture.
Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes HandbookOpens in a new tab is available now from wherever you buy books.
Excerpted from Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook by Liv Albert. Illustrations by Sara Richard. Copyright © 2021 by Simon & Schuster, Inc. Used with permission of the publisher, Adams Media, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. All rights reserved.
Amy Ratcliffe is the Managing Editor for Nerdist and the author of A Kid’s Guide to Fandom, available for pre-order nowOpens in a new tab. Follow her on TwitterOpens in a new tab and InstagramOpens in a new tab.
