The Epics of Greek Mythology

Gr 6–8—This comprehensive overview of Greek mythology is perfect for students doing reports or for "Percy Jackson" (Hyperion) fans looking for more solid information. Blocks of text are laid out on colorful pages and paired with relevant paintings, photographs of sculptures or artifacts, or comic-book-style illustrations of important figures, so even with a lot of text, the books are not intimidating. Sidebars provide profiles of relevant figures. As told, the stories favor comprehensive information-sharing over drama, so kids looking for thrilling tales should look elsewhere. Those readers looking for facts won't be disappointed, though, as the reach of the books extends to the effect of mythology on things readers may already be familiar with, such as constellations, planets, and natural formations. Racier aspects of the myths—including drunkenness; mating between gods, mortals, and even animals; and violence—are included.—Heather Talty, formerly at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, New York City