Mythologica: An Encyclopedia of Gods, Monsters, and Mortals from Ancient Greece

In this oversize collection, 50 Greek gods and goddesses, monsters, and other characters are rendered in lavish, stylized collages, one spread for each entity. Scholar Kershaw provides a straightforward description of each character or group’s origins, traits, and their role within the tapestry of Greek mythology (“Gaia belonged to the first generation of divinities who came into existence out of Chaos”). Figures—from the Twelve Labors of Heracles, “The Odyssey,” the Trojan War, and the Argonauts—include the Harpies, the Minotaur, the Muses, and well-known deities. Debut illustrator Topping brings a wealth of energy and richness to each composition, infusing them with individuality and diversity; the spreads carry the graphic boldness of poster art. Rather than creating a comprehensive telling of the tales, Kershaw provides a veritable who’s who of the pantheon and a solid introduction to primary figures; the enigmatic art further captures the mystery, passion, and intrigue of Greek mythology. Ages 7–10. [em](Sept.) [/em]