Standout books on Greek Myth:
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller: a love story that humanizes the heroes of the Trojan War.
- Circe by Madeline Miller: feminist retelling that turns a mythical side character into a complex, empowered protagonist.
- The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan: A gateway into Greek myth for kids, blending humor, adventure, and ancient gods.
- The Greek Myths by Robert Graves: ideal for readers who want both the essential tales and scholarly insight.
- Bulfinch's Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch: an introduction to mythology well-suited for those who want an entertaining, classic read.
Greek mythology has origins that can be traced back to the oral traditions of the Mycenaean and Minoan civilizations, long before the usage of the written word. Early myths were passed down through the generations through storytellers, eventually evolving into the rich collection of tales that we know today.
Greek myths explained natural phenomena, human behavior, and the origins of our world. Intertwined with religion, ritual, and daily life, myths helped ancient Greeks to understand their place in the universe and continue to impact humans today - especially through books.
This article explores the top books inspired by Greek mythology. Ranging from ancient texts to modern reimaginings, these stories offer timeless insight into human nature, power, and destiny. Beginner students of Greek mythology and enthusiasts alike will find a title for every reading level and type of reader.
| Book Title | Author | Year | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Song of Achilles | Madeline Miller | 2011 | Fans of romance & tragedy |
| Circe | Madeline Miller | 2018 | Feminist reimaginings |
| The Greek Myths | Robert Graves | 1955 | Scholars and enthusiasts |
| Bulfinch's Mythology | Thomas Bulfinch | 1855 | Beginners |
| The Lightning Thief | Rick Riordan | 2005 | Kids and teens |
| D'Aulaires' Book of Myths | Ingri & Edgar Parin d’Aulaire | 1962 | Children and classrooms |
| The Library of Apollodorus | Apollodorus | ~1st c. AD | Researchers and mythology purists |
| The Argonautica | Apollonius of Rhodes | ~3rd c. BC | Classic literature lovers |
| Ariadne | Jennifer Saint | 2021 | Modern retellings fans |
| The Voyage Home | Pat Barker | 2021 | Feminist readers |
Classic Retellings of Greek Myths
The Greek Myths by Robert Graves, 1955 📘
This book is a 2-volume, comprehensive and scholarly collection of Greek mythological narratives paired with detailed interpretations and commentary. The Greek Myths retells the most major, well-known myths, including the creation of the world, the Twelve Olympians, the Trojan War, and the adventures of Heracles. Each myth is followed by by Graves' own analysis.
Drawing from ancient sources and Graves' own academic background in poetry and history, this title connects myths to ritual practices and pre-Hellenic religion. While his analyses should be read with a critical perspective, the book os a foundational reference for mythology.
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Bulfinch's Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch, 1855 📘
Don't let the publication date steer you away - this accessible collection has introduced Greek myths to countless readers over the 19th and 20th centuries. Combining stories with historical references, this book is great for students of myths.
Detailing stories from the Western tradition, this collection brings together The Age of Fable, The Age of Chivalry, and Legends of Charlemagne, presenting myths from classical antiquity and medieval Europe in accessible language. Bulfinch retells Greek and Roman myths alongside notes that link them to art, literature, and the 19th century popular culture.
While dated in style, the book remains an key text in mythology for English speakers, emphasizing moral lessons and classical education.
Bulfinch’s Mythology and The Greek Myths offers two distinct approaches to understanding ancient Greek mythology. Bulfinch’s Mythology is ideal for beginners or casual readers, presenting myths in clear, accessible prose with references to literature, art, and Western culture. Graves’ The Greek Myths is a more in-depth resource, with detailed retellings and historical and symbolic interpretations.
Modern Interpretations and Novels
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, 2011
This novel is a lyrical and rich re-telling of Homer's Iliad, told from the perspective of Patroclus - the exiled prince, companion, and lover of Achilles. Rather than focusing solely on war and heroism, Miller explores mythology as a source for exploring the bonds of love, loyalty, and fate between two men. Imagine a timeless epic through a personal and queer lens, giving voice to characters often forgotten in the genre.
Many Greek mythology TV shows, like Blood of Zeus, mix traditional myths with original plots for modern audiences.
Circe, by Madeline Miller, 2018 🌀
Another fantastic novel by Madeline Miller, this book reimagines Homer's Odyssey from the perspective of Circe, the enchantress. Giving voice to an oft-silenced character, Miller explores themes of identity, isolation and change.
The novel tells the story of Circe, born to the sun god Helios but scorned by her family and exiled to a remote island after she discovers her talent for witchcraft. There, she encounters legendary figures like Odysseus, Daedalus, and Hermes. Written in the first person, the novel traces Circe’s long life and evolving identity, re-centering female agency and weaving modern themes like feminism and autonomy into the myth.
Ariadne by Jennifer Saint, 2021 🌺
Saint's debut novel tells the story of Ariadne, who was known for helping Theseus defeat the Minotaur. Ariadne, the Cretan princess, defies her father King Minos to help Theseus escape the the Labyrinth. After being abandoned by Theseus, Ariadne finds strength on the island of Naxos, where she meets the god Dionysus.
The novel explores themes of betrayal, sisterhood, agency, and divine injustice. Saint reclaims the voice of a woman traditionally sidelined in myth, rendering Ariadne's story with complexity and weight.
Many Greek mythology video games blend historical settings with fantasy elements to create unique storytelling experiences.
Reading the Greek mythology–themed novels of Madeline Miller and Jennifer Saint will bring you a fresh perspective on ancient stories through the eyes of historically sidelined woman characters. Miller’s acclaimed novels, The Song of Achilles and Circe reimagine legendary figures with empathy and nuance. Similarly, Saint’s Ariadne brings the voice of a mythic heroine, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and empowerment.
Greek Mythology for Younger Readers
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, 2005 ⚡
This is the first volume in the the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, and does not disappoint. The novel introduces young readers to a modern world where Greek Gods and monsters exist, alongside the relatable Percy Jackson, a 12 year old kid with ADHD and dyslexia. Percy discovers that he is the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood for Training.
When Zeus’s lightning bolt is stolen, Percy embarks on a quest across America to recover it and prevent a war among the gods. Riordan’s novel blends myth with modernity, humor, and relatable characters, making ancient myths accessible and fun for a new generation.
Greek media like podcasts and TV shows help Canadian learners hear authentic dialogue and improve their listening skills.
🏺 D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire, 1962
A beloved title celebrated for its engaging storytelling and illustrations. Through full-page, richly colored drawings and stories, the d’Aulaires bring the stories of the gods, heroes, and monsters to life. From Zeus and Athena to Perseus and Theseus, the book presents the myths in clear and engaging ways while remaining age-appropriate. For many readers, it serves as the first gateway into the world of ancient myths.
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan and D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths make Greek mythology accessible, and easy to understand. The Lightning Thief introduces kids to ancient gods and monsters through the eyes of Percy Jackson, a modern-day tween who discovers he’s a demigod. It sparks interest in classical myths while teaching valuable lessons about bravery, friendship, and identity. D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths presents the original stories in beautifully illustrated, kid-friendly language, offering a solid foundation in Greek mythology.
Anthologies and Compendium
The Library of Apollodorus by Apollodorus, 1st-2nd century AD 📘
One of the most comprehensive surviving sources of Greek mythology, The Library covers the geneaologies of gods and heroes, the stories of Heracles, the Argonauts, and the Trojan War. Encyclopedic in style, this text was intended to be a reference guide rather than a piece of narrative literature.
Apollodorus' work is invaluable to scholars and enthusiasts for preserving the mythic tradition.
The Argonautica by Appolonius of Rhodes, 3rd century BC 📙
A Hellenistic epic poem that recounds the quest of Jason and the Argonauts in their quest for the golden fleece. Unlike Homer's epics, The Argonautica highlights psychological depth, internal conflict, and romance, especially in its portrayal of Medea.
The poem was written in Alexandrian Greek and had a strong influence on later Roman and medieval literature. It provides a more nuanced take on the epic journey, emphasizing the tension between duty and desire.
The Library of Apollodorus and The Argonautica gives readers a deeper understanding of Greek mythology from ancient sources. The Library offers a clear overview of the major myths, including genealogies of gods and heroes, making it a valuable reference for anyone studying mythology. The Argonautica by Apollonius of Rhodes presents the epic tale of Jason and the Argonauts in a more literary style, combining adventure, romance, and psychological depth.
Exploring Lesser-Known Myths
The God Beneath the Sea by Leon Garfield and Edward Blishen, 1970 🔥
The God Beneath the Sea is a powerful retelling of Greek myths framed through the perspective of Hephaestus, the god of fire and forge. Hephaestus becomes the lens through which readers encounter the myths of the Titans, the Olympian gods, and mortal heroes. Unlike other compilations, this novel weaves the myths into a continuous narrative, emphasizing themes of rejection, identity, and the human-like flaws of the gods.
The Voyage Home by Pat Barker, 2021 🧠
This novel is a sequel to The Silence of the Girls and The Women of Troy, and follows Barker's series of feminist reinterpretations of Homeric epics. Told from the perspective of Cassandra, the story follows Briseis and other Trojan women as they navigate the aftermath of war and the perilous return journey with the Greek fleet.
Barker delves in to themes of trauma and resilience throughout the book. Women's voices are centered in this powerful narrative of survival, memory, and heroism.
The Voyage Home by Pat Barker and The God Beneath the Sea by Leon Garfield and Edward Blishen offer unique, emotionally resonant perspectives on Greek mythology that go beyond retelling. The Voyage Home continues Barker’s powerful feminist reimagining of Homeric epics, giving voice to the women affected by war, trauma, and displacement in the aftermath of Troy. In contrast, The God Beneath the Sea presents a sweeping, unified narrative of Greek myths through the eyes of Hephaestus, emphasizing the emotional depth of ancient stories.
Read Greek Mythology Books
Greek mythology books will take you on a journey into the ancient world of gods, heroes, and epic adventures. These stories not only entertain with dramatic tales of love, betrayal, and heroism, but also provide valuable insights into the beliefs and values of ancient Greek society.
Whether you're exploring classic texts like The Iliad and The Odyssey, or modern retellings by authors like Madeline Miller, Greek mythology books offer timeless stories that continue to enchant readers of all ages.
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