Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Ten Greek myths unfold in abbreviated chapters that tell the stories of Pandora, Perseus, Medusa, Pegasus, and others. Clayton's renditions are told in clear, yet lyrical prose: "Orpheus followed a track between steep rocks, into a cave. He left daylight behind him and walked into darkness." Ray's illustrations combine classical, tapestry-like compositions with gold inlay, and feature motifs that borrow from folk art traditions. Pegasus's feathery wings resemble layered bits of quilting; quaint speckled villages and coifed shrubbery appear in many scenes. Clayton and Ray create an accessible path into Greek mythology, while closing notes provide insight into Greek culture, history, and the wisdom contained within the stories ("When you see a spider's web, remember that you can weave your own fate, and make something beautiful with your life"). Ages 8-11. (July) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 2-4-A British storyteller has pared down the language of 10 familiar Greek myths, making them accessible to younger children as read-alouds and suitable independent reading for older children. While her tellings are spare, she has not sacrificed any of the drama or excitement about Perseus and Medusa, Pegasus, Atalanta, and Orpheus and Eurydice. In addition to the tales themselves, information is provided about the places mentioned, such as the Temple of Delphi and Mount Chimera. End matter includes an index of gods and heroes as well as an extensive bibliography. Ray's full-page paintings are elegant and meticulously detailed, framed by a variety of borders. The artist's portrayal of Medusa is gloriously scary while her vision of Pegasus is quite beautiful. Ray knows how to work magic with her many shades of blue and green. This is a worthwhile addition for most collections.-Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
The fabled world of ancient Greece comes alive through these 10 myths that feature some of the most powerful gods, fearless heroes and amazing animals in literature. "The Creation" introduces Titans Kronos and Rhea, who spawned the twelve Olympians, led by Zeus, god of the sky, and the collection plunges along from there. Clayton's deft storytelling transitions readers easily from story to story, grounding them in a setting of mountainous islands dominated by the hot sun and cool blue sea. Readers meet Pandora, created at Zeus' behest as a tragically curious beauty bearing gifts for the giant Epimetheus. The competition for the city of Athens between Athena, goddess of wisdom, and Poseidon, god of the sea, is seen as a struggle decided by a democratic vote. The grotesqueness of Medusa is countered by the human bravery of Perseus; the remorse of King Midas redeems him from his greed. The enchanting flying horse, Pegasus, aids Bellerophon in his conquest of the three-headed, fire-breathing chimera. Arachne's transformation following her challenge of Athena brings the collection to a close. Each adventure or quest is followed by a very brief fact about Greece. Detailed and luminous, often diminutive watercolors and collage art illuminate each story's theme. A well-crafted, straightforward collection of the myths everyone needs to know. (map, notes, index of gods and heroes, sources) (Mythology. 7-9)]] Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
