Book Title: Mythological Creatures: A Classical Bestiary
Author & Illustrator: Lynn Curlee
Publisher: Atheneum Books
Copyright Date: 2008
Genre: Picturebook – Myth
Brief Annotation: Tales of strange beings, fabulous creatures, fearsome beasts, and hideous monsters from ancient Greek mythology… Curlee has created a nice, quick reference to some of Greek mythology’s most prominent gods, goddesses and creatures. From Chimera to Pegasus to Cyclops… you are transported into a world like no other.
Your Rating (1-5) and why: 4 – If someone is looking for a book with adequate, brief, introductions into various Greek mythological gods, goddesses, and creatures than this book fulfills that purpose. The words aren’t poetic or especially interesting in how the stories are told, and the illustrations are minimal in numbers – but it’s enough to peak your interest and help you decide if you want to seek out more information. I don’t remember ever being particularly interested in Greek Mythology when I had to read it in school (and therefore really don’t remember much about it), but I’ll say I found myself drawn into some of these stories. It’s really fascinating how these myths are so creative and imaginative. I was especially impressed by the account of why peacock feathers look the way they do.
Readers who will like this book: Children who tend to like more fantasy-based stories, are interested in learning about interesting explanations for things in the world and/or have a strong imagination would likely enjoy this book the most. Keep in mind for younger readers that some of the stories are pretty violent and there are some tricky words.
Question to ask about this book before a read aloud: What is a myth? Why do we read about Greek mythology?
Interest Level (age): 8-10
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