The McElderry Book of Greek Myths

by Eric A. Kimmel, Pep Montserrat (Illustrator)

Overview

Walk among the gods and goddesses, men and monsters, in this enchanting volume of classic Greek myths! Here are twelve of the most beloved legends of Greek mythology, from Pandora and her dreaded box to Icarus with his wings of wax, and, of course, that greedy, gold-fingered King Midas. Vibrant art adds a fresh twist to this collection, giving today's readers their own version of these timeless tales.

Eric A. Kimmel brings these adventures to life with language that is colloquial and easy to read. Pep Monserrat breathes beautiful modern colors and style into his paintings, even as he reinvents images from classical antiquity. Together they've created a masterpiece of mythology, perfect for young readers.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781416915348
Publisher:	Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publication date:	02/05/2008
Series:	Margaret K. Mcelderry Book Ser.
Pages:	112
Sales rank:	365,315
Product dimensions:	9.50(w) x 10.50(h) x 0.60(d)
Age Range:	6 - 10 Years

About the Author

Eric A. Kimmel is the author of many picture books, including Hershel
and the Hanukkah Goblins, a Caldecott Honor Book illustrated by Trina Schart
Hyman. He was once a storyteller, and he loves classic tales. For more information
visit Eric's website at www.ericakimmel.com.

Pep Monserrat has illustrated picture book versions of such classics as The
Musicians of Bremen and Aladdin and the Magic Lamp. He is delighted
to have this opportunity to portray the archetypal heroes and heroines of ancient
Greece. For more information visit Pep's website at www.pepmonserrat.com

Editorial Reviews

In these 12 retellings, the Immortals come across as unusually benign. Dionysius at first suggests to King Midas that he give his excess wealth to the poor, for instance; the troubles that Pandora releases are originally imprisoned in the box by Prometheus's brother Epimetheus out of compassion for humankind; and it's Persephone herself who begs for a compromise that will allow her to stay with her beloved Hades for six months out of every year. Kimmel relates each tale in easy, natural-sounding language. And even though his Andromeda looks more Celtic than Ethiopian (as the oldest versions of the story have it), Montserrat's figures combine appropriate monumentality with an appealing expressiveness. The stories are all familiar and available in more comprehensive collections, but the colorful illustrations and spacious page design make this a good choice for shared reading. (foreword) (Nonfiction. 8-10)

Kirkus Reviews