Greek Myths

From Publishers Weekly The heroes and heroines of ancient Greece--and their evil counterparts--come to life in this excellent introduction to mythology. The stories that examine human foibles and were originally designed to explain the mysteries of life and the course of nature have formidably weathered the test of time. Readers meet the curious Pandora, ultra-strong Heracles and the lovesick musician Apollo, among others, in these 16 exciting and mystical tales. McCaughrean's retellings feature modern language and simplified plot lines and genealogical information, while retaining much of the drama of the more classical adult versions. Chichester Clark's playful watercolors are a constant reminder that myths were meant to be shared as entertainment as well as instruction. Her wide-eyed portrayal of life in Greece amuses and informs and may encourage interested fans to visit a museum or check out nonfiction on the topic. This collaboration is solid preparation for the more intricate tellings, as well as a segue into interpretation and analytical skills. Ages 9-up. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. From Kirkus Reviews The much-honored McCaughrean (A Pack of Lies, 1989, Carnegie Medal) slyly telegraphs the philosophy behind these grand renditions in describing how Athene turns Arachne into a spider to punish the matchless weaver for her arrogance--yet Arachne's gloriously beautiful fabric depicts the gods doing ``silly things...squabbling, lazing about, and bragging. In fact she made them look just as foolish as ordinary folk.'' McCaughrean is as irreverent, and as delightfully artful, in these 17 stories and epics retold in a contemporary style enlivened with snappy dialogue, whimsical descriptions, dramatic vignettes, and ingenious embroideries and explanations (Heracles gets Atlas to take the sky back because ``These stars do prickle''; Polyphemus gobbled two of Odysseus's men, then ``spat out their belts and sandals''). Beginning with Prometheus's creation of man and concluding with his release, McCaughrean provides enough links to give a sense of complicated community. Important particulars are intact and given in some detail (King Midas's problem with donkey's ears as well as his tactile troubles), though without the more horrendous aftermaths (Jason and Medea simply ``lived together as man and wife''). A deliciously witty reminder that, as McCaughrean says, these myths ``are just too good to forget.'' Clark's lovely, lighthearted watercolors, depicting most of the characters as foolish but appealing innocents, are generously supplied on every page. A splendid offering. (Mythology. 8+) --