cutsajack's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This is a solid book on Greek and Roman mythology. I was expecting it to explain the various gods and goddesses in a textbook fashion but it read like a narrative as it includes the various individual stories.

There were some great gems in this one and some lesser known stories which I appreciated.

Happy reading, everybody!

caitlinann's review

Go to review page

adventurous hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

andyn5's review

Go to review page

3.0

A nice collection of 30 classical mythology tales, beautifully illustrated.

The book includes well known Roman and Greek myths and a different interpretation of their symbols and moral. The tone of the book is a bit old-fashioned for me, I would definitely go for something with a more modern approach and language. Still, the illustration made it worthwhile!

It's a good book for someone who is a beginner or a newly fan of Greek and Roman mythology. It's a good introduction to the topic and gives a sort of base to go from the old to the new interpretations.

This is a pretty old fashioned, but interesting collection of classical myth, told via stories, poetry, and art. Each tale is very much a product of its time- those looking for punchy or more accessibly modern versions will need to look elsewhere- but they are still an enjoyable read and include some of the best known Greek and Roman myths.

nikkisbooknook's review

Go to review page

3.0

Nothing new under the sun here. Pretty standard collection of various myths and legends. There are no major revelations on the background or genesis of the myths.

The greatest selling point are the images. They are stunning, and this from a non arty person! But they do lend some interest to an otherwise standard book. It may be more enjoyable to someone who is new to the genre, my degree is in classical history so maybe I'm just a bit over exposed to them!

cate_ninetails's review

Go to review page

3.0

As an introduction to basic mythology, this is a good collection. The stories are straightforward and easy to read, if a little dated. I think that a more modern, engaging narrative might have better served than such a dry delivery. Also, because so many tales are included in this volume, the stories are woefully short, almost clinically so. Something of the rich tapestry that draws us to myths and legends is lost here, but if passing familiarity is all you need then look no further.

bookishtrina's review

Go to review page

4.0

Classical Mythology is an educational book on classical mythology which included lesser known mythological stories. Good content and illustrations.

I received an advanced review copy (ARC) of this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Synopsis from Publisher/NetGalley.com
Travel back to a time when divine beings mixed with mortals, when heroes battled sorcerers, and nature was a mysterious realm ruled by beautiful and dangerous deities.

These gods of Classical antiquity were far from ideal role models, their jealous pride and vengeful egos wrought havoc on the world, reflecting very human passions - and making for some truly compelling stories.

From the legends of Hercules and the Titans, to tales of the underworld and the destruction of Troy, this elegant collection contains more than 40 fascinating tales retold by a variety of expert storytellers.

Beautifully illustrated with dramatic scenes from master artists of the 16th through to the 19th century, these enduring myths have formed a major part of Western culture for millennia and continue to capture our imaginations today.
More...