Greek Mythology Books 🔱

Greek mythology in essence is the body of ancient myths and teachings that belong to the ancient Greeks, concerning their gods, legends and heroes, their culture and their ritual practices. This body of ancient Greek myths and legends together form Greek Mythology literature. The genre includes books varying from non-fiction to fiction. However, there are two main kinds of Greek Mythology Books available for readers who enjoy this genre. Retellings of the ancient Greek Myths that have become modern classics and legends by some of the most renowned authorities on classic writing.

What are Ancient Greek Myths?

Ancient Greek Myths were basically a way of explaining the world to a more primitive people who did not have access to science and as a result didn’t understand the happenings of the world. The primitive people did not have any explanation for the sun rising, the moon changing its size, the natural disasters like earthquakes and floods. So it was easier for them to make up myths about these occurrences and blame them on God. These Greek myths give us fascinating insights into the beliefs and culture of ancient Greece.

What is most fascinating about Greek mythology and their literature however is how their perception of God is terribly human. For instance; Zeus cheats and lies and he is the most appalling serial adulterer. Another fascinating aspect about Greek Mythology is how their stories also tend to set out the ideal behaviour commandments and the consequences of certain actions. It is the same as the Ten Commandments—”Thou Shalt not…” or something terrible will happen. So, for instance, Ixion, who committed the murder, ends up in a fiery pit, tied to a wheel, forever revolving, as a punishment. 

Greek Myths therefore also serve as a guide to life as well as make interesting cultural tales. If you are the kind of reader that wants to immerse yourself into historic fiction that draws from the rich heritage, tales and legends of ancient Greece; here is a collection that you are going to love. In the collection below we have gathered the best of Greek Mythology books—from spellbinding myths retold that have become bestselling modern classics to mesmerising anthologies and mythical adventures for readers of all ages and preferences. 

Books2Door’s Greek Mythology Recommendations

Ancient Myths 16 Books Collection by McCaurhrean Ross - for children aged between 7-9 Sixteen highly rated Greek Mythology Books for kids, each dedicated to an ancient myth from Greece; this collection is all things Greek Mythology. From Zeus to Odysseus, from Icarus to Medusa; this collection set has everything you want to know about Greek literature.

Hopeless Heroes: The Greek God 10 Books Collection Set By Stella Tarakson - for children aged 7-9 is a fun-filled series about Greek mythology, adventure and what it means to be a hero. This ten book collection follows the adventures of Tim Baker as he travels back in time and meets legendary Greek Gods. Only, sometimes they make his life a little complicated. Perfect for young readers aged between 7+ Hopeless Heroes The Greek God collection is packed full of brilliant kids’ books that make familiar historical characters, modern-day heroes and whilst at it, also makes history fun to learn!

Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold by Stephen Fry is a romp through the lives of ancient Greek gods. Fry is at his story-telling best through the book; the gods will be pleased! No one loves and quarrels, desires and deceives as boldly or brilliantly as Greek gods and goddesses. In Stephen Fry's vivid retelling, we gaze in wonder as wise Athena is born from the cracking open of the great head of Zeus and follows doomed Persephone into the dark and lonely realm of the Underworld. We shiver in fear when Pandora opens her jar of evil torments and watch with joy as the legendary love affair between Eros and Psyche unfolds. Mythos captures these extraordinary myths for the modern age reader in all their dazzling and deeply human relevance. Perfect for the YA readers of today with a thing for historic Greek literature. 

Want some more great Greek mythology recommendations? We have plenty! From re-tellings of Medusa to Hecules we have it all, from romantic reads to action-packed books! Check out our blog post on Greek Mythology recommendations for young readers right here at Books2Door!