“Mythologica: An Encyclopedia of Gods, Monsters, and Mortals from Ancient Greece” (written by Stephen P. Kershaw, illustrations by Victoria Topping, ed. Wide Eyed Editions) is a very interesting example of a modern look on Greek mythology. The book was Amazon’s No. 1 Children’s Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2019.
The first thing to notice are very vivid, colorful and modern illustrations, reminding poster art or collage style. Some characters look like from the alternative rock scene!
We can find 50 different gods and goddesses, monsters, and mortals in “Mythologica” collection, for example Harpies, the Minotaur, the Muses, and well-known deities, such as Athena and Zeus. Their presentation often challenges the stereotypes about these characters and the traditional style of their portrayals.
Kershaw provides brief descriptions of each mythological character (or group) and writes about its/their roles, origins, attributes and traits. The author also highlights the presence of mythology in the contemporary world:
“Greek mythology is everywhere.
Superstar athletes have the Midas touch, fashion designers have their muses, we undertake Herculean tasks, we make personal odysseys, and we all have our Achilles heel. This book gives you a selection of some of the greatest mortals, immortals, and monsters in Greek mythology.”
Below you can watch the Flip Through Review of the book and see more from the inside:
Post written by Dorota Rejter
Our Mythical Childhood Blog 