There’s something mesmerizing about Greek mythology, whether it be a modern retelling of one of Homer’s classics or a new spin on an old tale. Between the magical circumstances, powerful divine personalities and pure adventure, these are the six books you need to read if you love Greek mythology.
The Olympus Bound Trilogy by Jordanna Max Brodsky
In modern-day New York, a woman stalks after bad men to avenge their female victims and finds herself called back to ancient times, when her name was Artemis and she was invincible. In this trilogy, you have it all: adventure, feminism, danger, magic beyond explanation, love, self-realization and, of course, familial discord.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Miller’s first book shows Achilles like you’ve never seen him – vulnerable, confused and in love. Through elegant prose, you’ll journey through Achilles’s life, from childhood to adolescence, as he is forced to make decisions that not only seal his fate and the fate of his loyal soldiers, but also the fate of his one true friend, ally and lover.
The Amazons: Lives and Legends of Warrior Women across the Ancient World by Adrienne Mayor
This non-fiction exploration of the ancient women known as Amazons is a must-read for those who love mythology and strong women. Mayor leaves no stone unturned as she shares a lifetime of research in this book and answers the question: who were the real Amazons?
Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton
This is considered the definitive authority on Ancient Greek mythology. It provides a comprehensive view of all the myths and legends surrounding that tumultuous time, including Helen of Troy, Narcissus and the great warriors, like Hercules, all with the flair of an addictive bedtime story.
The Penelopiad: The Myth of Penelope and Odysseus by Margaret Atwood
Have you ever wondered what Penelope, the goddess of Spring, thought about her life circumstances? In this fictional retelling about Penelope, Atwood explores just what the kidnapped maiden would have felt about her life with Hades, her relationship with a devoted but overbearing mother, what happened in the Odyssey and more. Penelope is accompanied by a classic Greek chorus – the 12 maids who share their perception of the story and their hanging.
Circe by Madeline Miller
Circe isn’t a well-known or revered goddess, but she had a story worth telling. It’s a classic tale filled with unhappy families, the search for love and companionship and finding one’s power and owning it. Circe makes choices to protect those she loves and deals with the consequences no matter what might happen to her.
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